Tokyo 2 Day Itinerary

48 Hours in Tokyo: A Whirlwind Itinerary

This itinerary packs in some of the best experiences Tokyo has to offer for a short trip.

Day 1:

  • Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM):

    • Things to do:

      • Start your day at Tsukiji Outer Market, a vibrant marketplace with delicious food stalls and fresh seafood vendors. Explore the bustling atmosphere, grab some breakfast, and try your hand at traditional Japanese crafts like sushi-making or calligraphy.
      • Where to eat: Enjoy a fresh and affordable seafood breakfast (sushi, sashimi, seafood bowls) at one of the many restaurants in the market.

    • Transportation:

      • Take the subway to Tsukiji Outer Market.

  • Afternoon (12:00 PM - 6:00 PM):

    • Things to do:

      • Visit the Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest temple, and experience the vibrant Nakamise-dori shopping street with its traditional souvenirs and snacks.

      • Where to eat: Explore the street food options near Senso-ji for a unique and delicious lunch on the go.

    • Transportation: Use the subway or walk from Tsukiji to the temple.

  • Evening (6:00 PM - 10:00 PM):

    • Activities:
      • Explore Shibuya: Witness the famous “Shibuya Crossing,” enjoy the nightlife, and grab dinner in this bustling entertainment district.
      • Enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner: Try ramen at a local shop like Ichiran or try a themed cafe experience.

  • Where to eat: Immerse yourself in the unique world of themed cafes in Tokyo. These are a fun way to enjoy the city’s quirky side and indulge in some delicious food while you’re at it.

Day 2:

  • Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM):

    • Explore Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden: Enjoy the tranquility of this beautiful garden, a mix of traditional Japanese gardens and modern landscapes.

  • Where to eat: Have breakfast at one of the many cafes in the area, or pack a picnic to enjoy the serene atmosphere of the garden.

  • Afternoon (12:00 PM - 6:00 PM):

    • Visit the Ghibli Museum: Immerse yourself in the world of animation and explore the whimsical exhibits dedicated to the iconic Studio Ghibli films.

  • Transportation: The Tokyo Metro and JR lines are efficient ways to get around, but consider using a combination of public transportation and walking for a more immersive experience.

Things to do: * Explore the museum’s exhibits: Immerse yourself in the magic of animation by visiting the museum dedicated to exploring the world of anime and manga.

  • Where to eat: Enjoy a casual lunch at the museum cafe, or head to a nearby restaurant for something more substantial.

Things To Know:

  • Transportation:

    • Tokyo Metro & JR Lines: These are the most efficient ways to get around. Purchase a prepaid IC card (Suica/Pasmo) for easy access and travel.
    • Japan Rail Pass: If you’re planning on doing a lot of traveling outside of Tokyo, consider purchasing a Japan Rail Pass before arriving in Japan.

  • Language: While English signage is prevalent in major tourist areas, it’s helpful to learn some basic Japanese phrases like “hello” (konnichiwa), “thank you” (arigato gozaimasu), and “excuse me” (sumimasen).

  • Currency: The currency in Japan is the Japanese Yen (JPY). ATMs are readily available but often don’t accept foreign cards.

  • Travel:

    • JR Pass: A Japan Rail Pass can be a great value if you plan on traveling extensively by train.

  • Culture:

    • Shoes: Be prepared to remove your shoes in many places, including temples, traditional restaurants, and some homes. You’ll often see a designated area for removing shoes at the entrance.

  • Transportation:

  • Respect:

    • Japanese culture values politeness and respect. Remember to bow when greeting people, thanking them, or saying goodbye.

Things to do:

  • Daytime: Explore the bustling Akihabara district, a haven for electronics enthusiasts and anime fans.

  • Dinner: Enjoy a traditional Japanese meal at a restaurant in Shinjuku.

  • Transportation:

    • JR Yamanote Line: This loop line connects many of Tokyo’s popular destinations, making it ideal for exploring the city.

Tips:

  • Learn about “Kawaii” Culture: Explore the world of “kawaii” (cute) culture in Harajuku.

  • Cash is King: While credit cards are becoming more common, many smaller shops and restaurants in Japan still only accept cash. It’s best to have some Japanese Yen on hand.

  • Transportation:

    • Tokyo Metro:

Download the Tokyo Metro app for easy navigation of the subway system.

  • Pasmo/Suica Cards:

Purchase a Suica or Pasmo card for convenient travel in Tokyo and beyond.

  • IC Card Recharge:

Recharge your card at any major train station, convenience store, or through the ticket machines.

  • Japan Rail Pass:

  • Food:

    • Sushi: Try “sushi-go-round” restaurants in Shibuya for a fun and affordable way to experience this Japanese staple.

  • Transportation:

    • Carry Yen:

Use it for transportation:

  • Pocket Wifi: Consider renting a pocket wifi device to stay connected throughout your trip.

  • IC Card Recharge:

  • Japan Rail (JR) Lines:

Travelers with an interest in traveling by rail can use this to access various parts of Tokyo and beyond.

  • Navigate the City:

Purchase a JR Pass for travel outside the city.

  • Transportation:

  • Transportation:

  • Public Transportation: Use it for exploring different neighborhoods in Tokyo.

  • Food:

  • Suica & JR Pass: Use this for transportation:

Try a “Suica” (or “Pasmo”) card to use on the subway and local trains.

  • Travel:

  • IC Card:

Use the Japan Rail app to purchase tickets for non-JR lines.

  • Consider getting a Suica/PASMO card:

These prepaid IC cards are incredibly convenient for transportation in Tokyo, especially if you’re planning on using the subway or buses.

  • Purchase JR Tickets:

  • Transportation:

  • Enjoy “Kawaii” culture:

Try a “kawaii” monster cafe in Akihabara and experience the fun and quirky side of Japanese culture.

Day 1:

  • Morning: Explore the world of “kawaii” (cute) at a “kawaii” themed cafe, such as a “maid cafe” for a fun and unique experience.

  • Daytime:

    • Enjoy traditional Japanese cuisine with a twist: Try a “kaiseki” meal, which is a multi-course meal with beautifully presented dishes.

  • Transportation:

Consider using a combination of:

  • Walking tours: Explore the city on foot with a local guide and learn about its history and culture.

  • Train and Subway:

    • Explore different routes and lines in Akihabara, like the “Akihabara Station” and the “JR Yamanote Line” for a unique “kawaii” experience.
    • Explore the city’s many parks and gardens by bike or foot:

Consider these “kawaii” considerations:

Visit a local “kawaii” themed store in Akihabara to find cute accessories, figurines, and other merchandise.

  • Food:

  • Dining:

Enjoy the deliciousness of Shibuya:

Daytime Activities (Day 2):

  • Transportation:

  • Consider a “kawaii” themed restaurant in Akihabara for a fun and unique dining experience.

  • Culture:

Try the “maid cafe” experience:

Try out the popular “themed cafe” culture in Japan.

Enjoy a “kawaii” themed meal at a local restaurant. *

Learn about the history and “culture” of Japanese cuisine.

Other Transportation Options:

  • Transportation options:

  • Enjoy the cultural experience:

Consider visiting a “kawaii” themed cafe in Akibuya.

Enjoy the variety of Japanese food experiences offered:

  • Enjoy a traditional meal:

Try exploring the city’s vibrant culinary scene, starting with a “themed” restaurant experience. *

Possible Themed Cafe Experiences:

  • Shinjuku Ghibli Museum:

Enjoy the “kawaii” culture of Japan at a unique museum dedicated to the beloved animation studio.

For a “kawaii” twist on your dinner plans, try a themed restaurant in Akihabara, known for its love of all things cute and anime-inspired.

Let me know what kind of food you enjoy and I can suggest some specific spots for you to check out!