5-Day Tokyo Itinerary: The Perfect First Trip

Tokyo packs an incredible amount into a compact destination — where ancient temples meet neon skyscrapers. Five days gives you enough time to hit the highlights, discover a few secret spots, and still leave room for spontaneous detours.

Here is a tried-and-tested 5-day itinerary that balances must-sees with off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Day 1: Arrival & First Impressions

Morning/Afternoon: Arrive and settle into your accommodation in Shinjuku — vibrant nightlife and entertainment hub. Take it easy — grab a coffee, orient yourself, and shake off the jet lag.

Late Afternoon: Head to Senso-ji Temple for your first taste of what makes Tokyo special. The late-afternoon light is ideal for photos and the crowds start to thin.

Evening: Dinner in the Shinjuku — vibrant nightlife and entertainment hub area. Try Ramen — rich broth noodle soup at cozy counter shops — it is the quintessential local dish and the perfect way to kick off your trip.

Day 2: The Iconic Highlights

Morning: Start early at Tokyo Skytree. Arriving before 9 AM means fewer tourists and better photo opportunities.

Afternoon: After lunch, make your way to Tsukiji Outer Market. Budget about 2–3 hours here to fully appreciate the experience.

Evening: Explore the Asakusa — traditional temples and old-town charm neighborhood on foot. Street food stalls serve excellent Tempura — lightly battered fried seafood and vegetables at a fraction of restaurant prices.

Day 3: Deep Dive into Culture

Morning: Visit Meiji Shrine — one of Tokyo's most culturally significant sites. Hire a local guide for about $15 to get the stories behind the sights.

Afternoon: Wander through the Roppongi — upscale dining and art museums district. This is where locals shop, eat, and socialize, so the vibe is refreshingly authentic.

Evening: Treat yourself to a mid-range dinner featuring Tonkatsu — crispy breaded pork cutlet with shredded cabbage. Expect to spend around $38 per person.

Day 4: Off the Beaten Path

Morning: Today is about discovery. Head to Yanaka district — preserved old Tokyo neighborhood with cat-themed streets — a spot most tourists overlook entirely.

Afternoon: Check out Todoroki Valley — serene ravine garden hidden in suburban Setagaya. The Akihabara — electronics and anime paradise area is great for a leisurely walk and a late lunch.

Evening: Experience Tokyo's nightlife scene — Golden Gai — tiny themed bars in Shinjuku alleyways.

Day 5: Final Gems & Departure

Morning: Use your last morning to visit Shimokitazawa — bohemian enclave with vintage shops and indie theaters or revisit a favorite spot from earlier in the trip.

Late Morning: Pick up souvenirs at Ginza — luxury flagship stores and department houses — support local artisans and avoid airport markup.

Afternoon: Head to the airport with memories (and a full camera roll) to last a lifetime.

Pro Tips

• Transport: Tokyo Metro and JR Yamanote Line cover most tourist areas
• Budget: A comfortable mid-range daily budget is about $150 per day including meals, transport, and activities.
• Packing: Bring a compact umbrella for sudden rain showers You will average 12,000–15,000 steps per day on this itinerary.
• Etiquette: Remove shoes when entering homes, temples, and some restaurants
• Safety: Tokyo is one of the safest major cities in the world

Budget Breakdown (Per Person)

Category	Budget	Mid-Range	Luxury
Daily Total	$50	$150	$400
5-Day Total	$250	$750	$2000

Final Thoughts

Five days in Tokyo is enough to fall in love with the place — and to start planning your return trip. This itinerary is a starting point; feel free to swap days around based on weather, energy levels, and serendipitous discoveries.

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