We will write a full guide on how to spend 2 days in Tokyo if you have a short visit in Japan.
Here’s a suggested 2-day itinerary to make the most of your time in Tokyo, covering some of the city’s highlights.
Read here Things to know before visiting Japan, 36 Hours in Tokyo and Narita airport to city center
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2 Days Tokyo Itinerary
Day 1 – Exploring Central Tokyo
Morning – Asakusa and Senso-ji Temple
Start your day with a visit to Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple located in the historic Asakusa district.
Explore Nakamise Shopping Street leading up to the temple, where you can find traditional snacks, souvenirs and crafts.
Mid-morning – Tokyo Skytree
Head to Tokyo Skytree, one of the tallest towers in the world, for panoramic views of the city skyline.
Consider visiting the Tokyo Solamachi shopping complex located at the base of the tower for shopping and dining options.
Lunch – Ueno Park
Enjoy a leisurely lunch in Ueno Park, one of Tokyo’s largest public parks known for its cherry blossoms, museums, and zoo.
Visit a nearby restaurant or grab some bento (boxed lunch) from a convenience store to enjoy a picnic in the park.
Afternoon – Akihabara
Explore Akihabara, Tokyo’s electric town famous for its anime, manga, and electronics shops.
Visit themed cafes, arcades, and specialty stores, and immerse yourself in the vibrant pop culture scene.
Evening – Shibuya Crossing and Hachiko Statue
Experience the iconic Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest pedestrian intersections in the world.
Take a photo with the Hachiko Statue, a symbol of loyalty and devotion, located near Shibuya Station.
Dinner in Shibuya
Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants in Shibuya, offering a diverse range of dining options from traditional Japanese cuisine to international fare.
Optional Evening Activity – Shinjuku Nightlife
Experience the bustling nightlife of Shinjuku, with its neon-lit streets, bars, izakayas, and entertainment districts like Golden Gai and Kabukicho.
Day 2 – Modern Tokyo and Cultural Experiences
Morning – Tsukiji Outer Market
Start your day with a visit to Tsukiji Outer Market, a bustling market known for its fresh seafood, produce, and street food stalls.
Enjoy breakfast sushi or sample local delicacies like tamagoyaki (Japanese omelet) and fresh seafood skewers.
Mid-morning – Imperial Palace and East Gardens
Take a stroll around the Imperial Palace East Gardens, the former site of Edo Castle and a tranquil oasis in the heart of Tokyo.
Explore the gardens, moats, and historic ruins, and admire the Nijubashi Bridge and views of the Imperial Palace.
Lunch – Ginza Shopping District
Head to Ginza, Tokyo’s upscale shopping district known for its luxury boutiques, department stores, and gourmet restaurants.
Enjoy lunch at a trendy cafe, sushi restaurant, or traditional teahouse.
Afternoon – Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park
Visit Meiji Shrine, a serene Shinto shrine nestled in a forested area near Harajuku. Take a leisurely walk through the tranquil grounds of Yoyogi Park, Tokyo’s largest city park, and relax amid nature.
Evening – Harajuku and Takeshita Street
Explore the vibrant streets of Harajuku, known for its quirky fashion, street art, and youth culture. Wander along Takeshita Street, lined with trendy shops, crepe stands, and colorful boutiques.
Optional Evening Activity – Tokyo Tower or Odaiba
Visit Tokyo Tower for nighttime views of the city illuminated against the skyline. Alternatively, explore Odaiba, a waterfront entertainment district with shopping malls, theme parks, and futuristic architecture.
Additional Tips For Visiting Tokyo
Transportation How to Move Around Tokyo
Use Tokyo’s efficient public transportation system, including Japan Rail Pass trains and subways, to navigate between attractions. Read Here the best way for transportation JR Pass vs Suica Pass
Early Start: Start your days early to beat the crowds and make the most of your time exploring Tokyo’s diverse neighborhoods and attractions.
Feel free to adjust the itinerary based on your interests, preferences, and any special events or exhibitions during your visit.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.