Planning my first trip to Japan honestly felt a little unhinged. My TikTok feed was full of “must-do” lists delivered with the same urgency, and the more I watched, the more stressed I got. Everything blurred together. Eventually, I stopped saving videos and started closing the app whenever Japan content popped up.
Then we landed in Tokyo, Japan, and that anxiety disappeared fast.
I spent 9 total days exploring Tokyo for the first time, and what surprised me most was how quickly the city started to make sense. Neighborhoods have flow. Even a massive city like Tokyo feels manageable on your first time.
For context, we did this Tokyo trip with friends. It was me, my husband Robin, my bestie Amy, and her partner Kyle. We spent multiple days exploring Tokyo together, sometimes as a group and sometimes splitting up, which gave us the freedom to follow curiosity instead of a rigid itinerary.
This is my Tokyo first timer guide, built from exactly what we did, ate, and learned in real time, plus what I wish I’d known before we went. If you’re visiting Tokyo for the first time and want clarity instead of overwhelm, this is the Tokyo Japan guide I’d send a friend.
What I Wish I’d Known Before Visiting Tokyo
We visited Tokyo in November right during peak fall foliage time. Here’s what I wish I knew first:
- Tokyo runs hot and cold at the same time so layers are a must
- Suica card is the metro card (like how London has Oyster card, etc)
- They really do use cash everywhere, with many spots only accepting cash
- Trash cans are rare so be prepared to carry trash (jackets with deep pockets help!)
- Don’t eat while walking
- Convenience stores are real food, and it’s real good
- Look up! Many buildings have 7+ floors of restaurants and bars
- Split your Tokyo trip into two parts and do your shopping on the second leg to avoid hauling your gifts around Japan
- Booking last minute tickets direct is often cheaper and easier compared to Klook
Short On Time? My Tokyo First-Timer Cheat Sheet
If you’re planning your first trip to Tokyo and feeling overwhelmed, start here.
- Where to stay: Shinjuku
- Best first-night meal: Torikizoku
- Must-do food experience: Tsukiji Outer Market
- Best city view: Shibuya Sky (book ahead)
- Most “Tokyo” night out: Golden Gai
- Best rainy-day activity: Sunshine City or teamLab Planets
- Biggest mistake to avoid: Not packing comfy sneakers
- Key tip: Tokyo is a night city. Don’t rush mornings
My 3 Biggest Tokyo Tips For First Timers
If you take one thing from this guide for first time visitors, take this: Tokyo gets easier once you stop trying to plan it perfectly.
Pick a few anchor reservations in your Japan itinerary, build in breathing room, and let the rest be walking, snack stops, and wandering. That approach completely changed our experience. The days we were rushing to restaurant reservations or timed entry tickets always felt forced. There’s not a lack of things to do in Tokyo, and overstuffing your day with every minute planned is not the vibe.
Also, Tokyo is a night city. If you try to force early mornings and nonstop sightseeing every day on your first Tokyo trip, you’ll burn out fast and will also encounter plenty of places still closed. Like for real, on our first day in Tokyo we were wandering Shinjuku at around 10:30am and most of the shops and cafes weren’t even open yet.
Lastly, cash is king in Tokyo. Don’t believe TikTok comments who slide into videos claiming they never had to use cash during this Tokyo trip. With many restaurants only accepting cash and with cash needed to top off physical Suica cards, we barely used our credit cards. Bring your debit card and plan on withdrawing from ATMs a few times.
Top Hotels: Where To Stay In Tokyo For First Timers (And Why It Matters)
For first-time visitors, where you stay in Tokyo shapes how easy the city feels. You’ll want to be in walking distance to major train stations and a konbini like 711 or Lawsons to make your days easier.
Shinjuku: The Best Area To Stay In Tokyo For First Timers
We stayed at Hotel Granbell Shinjuku, and for a Tokyo first time trip, Shinjuku is hands down the best base. The room was small, which is normal in Tokyo, but the location did all the heavy lifting. Plus, we scored a great deal at about $120 a night which is unheard of for Tokyo.
Why Shinjuku works so well for first timers:
- You’re steps from Shinjuku Station, one of the city’s biggest transit hubs
- Convenience stores are within a minute walk (our hotel had 3 within a block, making breakfast easy)
- Late-night food is everywhere, which helps with jet lag
- You can walk to Golden Gai for nightlife
If you’re deciding where to base your Tokyo itinerary, start with Shinjuku. I had a blast here and plan to kick off future Tokyo trips in this area.
Shiba Park Or Ueno: The Best Area To Stay Before Flying Home
We spent about 3 weeks in Japan, flying into Narita Airport and spending 6 days in Tokyo, before hopping to Fuji, Kyoto, Nara and Osaka, then ending in Tokyo again for 3 days before flying home.
I recommend a similar plan so you aren’t rushing back to the airport, plus it’s fun to basically get to do 2 Tokyo trips in one. On our second leg of Tokyo, I booked us a fancy room at The Prince Park Tower Tokyo which has epic views of the Tokyo Tower right from our room.
I also found a great deal on this room where we got access to the hotel’s reserve lounge, where we got free breakfast and cocktails at night (score!) After 3 weeks of running around Japan, we were tired so it made sense to upgrade our room and splurge on a space that we were ok relaxing in.
Another great spot to consider on your second leg is Ueno, this is the area where our friends Amy and Kyle stayed. Ueno Station has a direct train line to Narita Airport, making it easy to hop onto the Skyliner to fly home.
I also really love Ueno Park in general, the park is huge (with museums and the zoo!) and the location is nearby top restaurants and shopping. When we went, we also got to stop by the Ueno Christmas Market for mulled wine.
Arrival Day Travel Tip: Take The Private Cab
On arrival day, we booked a private cab from Narita Airport. It took about 1 hour and 45 minutes, door to door.
Our brains were dead. I’d do it again without hesitation. Your first day in Japan is not the time to prove you’re a transit expert.
Tokyo First Time Reality Check: Reservations Matter
Here’s something I didn’t fully understand until we were there: finding an impromptu table for four people is hard. Once we split into pairs, it got easier.
As a group, dinner reservations saved us stress but even those could be hard to find some evenings. If you’re a first timer traveling with friends or family, grabbing your dinner table reservation every morning is one of the most important Tokyo travel tips I can share.
My First Night In Tokyo: Torikizoku In Shinjuku
Our first dinner in Tokyo was Torikizoku, and it was the perfect landing-night meal. We made reservations before we fly out to make sure we had a table.
Why it worked:
- Underground location, which is very common in Tokyo
- Semi-private booths
- Tablet ordering when you’re exhausted
- Everything is a set price
- Locations all over the city
We ordered a ridiculous amount of food and drinks and paid about $26 total. It felt unreal. Reserve ahead if you can. It’s one of the easiest first-night wins in the city.
Convenience Stores Are Real Food In Japan
First timer Tokyo travel mistakes is assuming you can pop out for breakfast at 7am and find an open cafe. Our most consistent Tokyo routine was a konbini run in the morning… and late at night for snacks. Lawson, Family Mart and 711 are the most common stores you’ll find in Tokyo. Toss a yen coin and you’ll hit at least three of them. They’re everywhere.
What we actually ate:
- Yogurt drinks for breakfast
- Onigiri
- Pastries
- Egg sandwiches (get it with the fried chicken!)
- Boss Coffee Farm Black
- Frozen grapes with cider for a drink
- Mineral pouches
Also, 7-Eleven ATMs worked flawlessly for taking out yen. Take out cash once you arrive at a 711 ATM instead of the airport to save on fees. As we talked about, Japan is still very cash-friendly.
Best Things To Do In Tokyo For First Timers
These are the best places to visit in Tokyo for first-timers, based on what genuinely felt worth the time.
Hanazono Shrine
This was our first shrine visit and a calm introduction to traditional Japanese culture. Watching locals pray felt grounding, not performative. It’s in the middle of the hustle and bustle, which made it feel extra special.
It’s nearby Kabukicho Gate and Godzilla Road, so pop over there before the crowds get crazy. It’s a must for first timers in Tokyo to see and snap selfies with.
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Entry is 500 yen, cash only, and it became one of my favorite Tokyo experiences.
If you need a reset from the city, this park does the job. It gives slight New York City Central Park vibes. We picnicked on our 711 egg sandwiches in the park, walked slowly, and enjoyed the fall foliage. There’s a great little shop here where you can rent kimonos and take photos if that’s your thing.
Shibuya Crossing And Shibuya At Night
Seeing Shibuya Crossing in person lived up to the hype, but I found the area to be a lot like Times Square. You go, see it, and then leave.
Afterward, we stopped by the famous Hachikō statue (RIP a legend) and then wandered the side streets near Shibuya Station, which I enjoyed more than the crossing itself. We ended up at the Lost Bar for cocktails and a hot pot dinner at the famous Momo Paradise Shibuya Koendori Ten.
For panoramic views, Shibuya Sky is nearby. Check tickets cost in advance.
Tsukiji Fish Market
When traveling, I love finding the open air food stalls and markets; they’re always so fun to browse and stuff my face silly. The Tsukiji fish market is a must for Tokyo, and it’s best earlier in the day when they open at 10am to browse a bit before the crowds come.
Favorites included the most perfect tuna nigiri flights, egg on a stick, and croquettes, though I recommend you come in without a plan and just see what draws your eye. We spent about 3 hours here and only left since we were too full. Most stalls are cash-only. It felt like a food experience, not a tour but if you want a tour you can book a great food tour here.
- Sushi Zanmai: Reliable, approachable sushi if you want something easy near Tsukiji.
- Tsukiji Tamago Sando: Sweet egg omelet sandwich on a stick. Iconic.
- Kaneko Hannosuke: Tempura bowls with a runny egg. Deeply satisfying.
teamLab Planets
teamLab Planets is one of the most unique museum-style experiences in Tokyo. It’s immersive, barefoot, and unlike anything else. Robin and I opted to skip this but our friends Amy and Kyle loved their visit.
If you’ve done the Ice Cream it’s like that, but way more elaborate. Budget a few hours to experience this properly, so it makes a great activity if it’s raining in Tokyo or if it’s the dead of summer and very hot. There’s a few teamLABs around Tokyo, book here.
Tokyo Dome City And Wrestling
We went to a New Japan Pro Wrestling match at Tokyo Dome City and had an absolute blast. Catching a Sumo match like this dinner show is popular with tourists, but I think attending a pro match is one of the most unique things to do in Tokyo.
I loved rubbing elbows with locals and seeing something not many other tourists do. Plus, Robin was in heaven seeing some of his favorite stars like Hiroshi Tanahashi. If you’re curious about sumo wrestling, check the schedules when planning your trip.
PS when you do attend a show, have dinner beforehand at the Tokyo Dome Food Hall! We grabbed craft beer and dumplings here before our show and it was so tasty.
Sunshine City And Pokémon Centers
Our day at Sunshine City was pure joy. The Pokémon Center here is one of the best in Tokyo and Robin and I loved shopping for tons of Pokémon goodies (I got a Ditto-shaped jello mold!)
Go early on release days (or better yet, avoid release days since they get crazy). Sunshine City also has the 2D cafe, Bandai Namco Cross Store, and tons of other stores for nerds like us. Exploring the mall is one of the best rainy day activities in Tokyo (if your wallet can handle is, since we spent easily over $200 here on anime things alone).
For breakfast, I recommend you dine at Yellow for Omurice nearby and then do all your shopping in the mall.
Akihabara
Akihabara was retro game heaven. This neighborhood is packed with skyscrapers with video game stores and anime shops on every floor. We all loved Super Potato the best, a 5-floor building with an arcade and candy store on the top floor with the rest packed with vintage and retro games.
After wandering the shops, we stopped by SAKE MARKET Akihabaraten for 30 minutes of all-you-can-drink sake. This was one of my favorite happy hours of our entire trip. I’m a WSET2 wine expert so I was giddy to try sake ranging from matcha to ube. You can bring your own food in, and some folks bring a massive haul of sushi.
Instead, we had reservations at Sushiro across the street which hit the spot.
Golden Gai
Since our Shinjuku hotel was a 4 minute walk from Golden Gai, we ended the night in these tiny bars not once, but twice. Golden Gai feels like magic to me. It’s a series of about 6-7 tiny alleys filled with bars that can sit maybe 6 people if you’re lucky. They’re cash only and so small you’re forced to meet other tourists around you.
No matter what bar we wandered into, we met amazing travelers, everyone from a honeymooning couple from NYC to a woman who works in space law (yes, that’s a thing)! A night in Golden Gai a must for first timers, and a place we’ll be back to on all our future Tokyo trips.
Meiji Shrine And Harajuku
Meiji Shrine sits inside a massive park and felt peaceful despite being central. We started a morning off here walking around for a couple of hours soaking in the temples and fall colors. I loved the shrine, we caught the end of a wedding processional which felt extra special.
Make sure to bring coins so you can make offerings to the shrines to take part in traditions like writing your wish on pieces of paper (which require a coin offering).
Then, we walked out of the park to Harajuku which was chaotic but fun. Takeshita Street is a famous street packed with colorful stores and people. Here, we had reservations for CapyNeko, a capybara and cat cafe.
I had the chance to swim with Capybaras in Guyana earlier this year so I wanted my friends to get a chance to meet these amazing animals, too.
For lunch we popped by the famous Pizzeria Spontini, a pizza-by-the-slice place. After a few days of fried foods on sticks, we were all craving comfort foods like pizza. They make it all fresh with a giant woodfire oven and the cheese was out of this world.
Tokyo Tower Or Tokyo Skytree
You don’t need to go up both on your first trip.
- Tokyo Tower pairs beautifully with Shiba Park, easy if you’re staying at the Prince Tower hotel
- Tokyo Skytree is stunning at night and easy to combine with Asakusa, and in the day you can see Mount Fuji if it’s clear
Pick one based on location. You also don’t have to even go up these towers. When we went, we opted to save money and look at them from afar instead of seeing their view.
Senso-ji Temple
Aka Asakusa Kannon, this massive temple is the oldest temple in Tokyo and it’s beautiful. Robin and I brought some coins so we could take part in Omikuji, aka the fortune sticks. I got a bad fortune but Robin got a good one.
This temple is large, which a huge red lantern hanging in the front and an elevated view of the area. You’ll probably pass along Nakamise Street as you make your way to the temple. This street has many stalls for shopping and food, so it’s a good place to shop for gifts.
You can easily walk to the Skytree from here, but there’s also the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center which has a free observation deck of the street!
Best Places To Eat In Tokyo
Cafes And Coffee Spots In Tokyo
- Koffee Mameya
Coffee tasting experience where staff customizes beans and brew styles for you. Feels special without being pretentious. - Egg Baby Cafe
Famous for egg sandos done every possible way. Great breakfast or lunch stop. - Happy Pancake
Fluffy Japanese soufflé pancakes. Tourist-y but genuinely good. - ANAKUMA Cafe
Coffee served by a fuzzy bear paw through a wall. Pure novelty, very Tokyo. - Cafe Mocha
Stylish, well-run cat café. Reservation recommended.
Bars And Drinking Spots In Tokyo
- Sake Market
All-you-can-drink sake, shochu, and beer for a flat fee. You can bring your own food. Fast-paced and fun. - Golden Gai
Network of tiny bars with wildly different personalities. Expect cover charges at many spots. - Omoide Yokocho
Casual yakitori alley with beer, highballs, and tight quarters. Easy bar-hopping. - Nonbei Yokocho
Lantern-lit alley of small bars and izakayas. More local-feeling than Golden Gai. - Lost Bar (Shinjuku)
Hidden speakeasy-style bar with strong cocktails and moody vibes. - The Bellwood
Creative cocktails, excellent bartending, reservations encouraged. - New York Bar
Classic skyline views and jazz-bar energy. Best at sunset.
Top Restaurants In Tokyo
- Torikizoku
Affordable yakitori with everything at the same price point. Great for groups and jet lag nights. - Ichiran Ramen
Solo-booth ramen experience. Consistently solid and easy. - Kyushu Jangara
One of the most-loved ramen spots in Tokyo. Rich broth, tender pork, big flavor. - Gyukatsu Motomura
Breaded beef cutlet cooked at your table. Extremely popular and worth the wait. - Momo Paradise
Shabu shabu and sukiyaki with unlimited meat and vegetables. Come hungry. - Sushiro
Affordable, fast, and reliable conveyor belt sushi. - Yellow
Comforting omurice. The curry and pork versions stood out. - Tonkatsu Wako
Crispy pork cutlets in a calm, dependable setting. - Kaneko Hannosuke
Famous tempura rice bowls with a runny egg. Hearty and satisfying. - Sometaro
DIY okonomiyaki in a traditional space. Cozy, interactive, and memorable. - Tsukiji Outer Market Food Stalls
Tuna nigiri flights, tamago on a stick, croquettes, mochi. Snack crawl, not a sit-down meal.
Essentials To Pack For Tokyo
- Passport
- Phone + charger
- Portable power bank (you will use it daily)
- Apple/Google Wallet set up with digital Suica/PASMO
- Credit card + debit card
- Yen cash
- Prioritize smaller bills
- ATMs at 7-11 are the move
- Coin purse (non-negotiable, you’ll drown in coins)
- Travel insurance info
- STEP enrollment confirmation
- Visit Japan Web QR codes/screenshots
Clothing For Tokyo Weather And Style
Tokyo is a layers city, especially in fall.
- Lightweight jacket or coat with deep pockets to tuck trash
- Warm layer for mornings and nights
- Breathable tops for overheated trains and restaurants
- Comfortable pants or skirts you can walk miles in
- Dresses that work with tights or layers
- Socks you’re okay being seen in (you’ll remove shoes at times)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Easy slip-on shoes for the hotel (optional but helpful)
- Neutral, polished outfits as tokyo style leans clean and intentional
- Crossbody or backpack that zips shut
Toiletries And Personal Items
Most hotels provide toiletries, so don’t overpack basics like a toothbrush. Instead, I recommend the following:
- Skincare essentials in Cadence pods to save suitcase room
- Deodorant
- Minimal makeup
- Lip balm (air + walking dries you out)
- Hand sanitizer (lots!)
- Tissues
- Buy shampoo and conditioner there, Amy and I hated all the hair care products in most of our hotels
Items That Make Tokyo Easier
These came up repeatedly in your notes for a reason.
- Tissue pack as many bathrooms have no towels or dryers
- Small trash bags or zip-locks
- Compact umbrella
- Reusable water bottle
- Notebook for stamps, shrine goshuin, notes
- Comfortable day bag
- Foldable tote
- Sunglasses
- Portable fan (season dependent but clutch)
Tech And Apps To Set Up Before You Go
Do this before you leave the US.
- Google Maps (download offline areas)
- Google Translate (camera + conversation mode)
- Currency converter app
- Ubigi or other eSIM (if needed)
- Shinkansen SmartEX (for bullet train tickets)
- Tabelog (restaurant research and reservations)
- Set phone to 24-hour time (optional but helpful)
Shopping And Souvenir Prep
You will buy more than you expect. Trust me, I thought there was no way we would bring home that much but ended up almost having to buy another suitcase.
- Leave space in your suitcase
- Or pack a foldable duffel
- Bring passport daily for tax-free shopping
- Mentally budget for
- Don Quijote
- Stationery
- Snacks and Kit Kats
- Skincare
- Incenses
- Pokemon things
Best Time To Visit Tokyo For First Timers
Tokyo is a year-round city, but when you go really shapes your experience, especially on your first trip.
I visited Tokyo at the end of November, right as fall foliage peaked, and it was ideal. Days were crisp but comfortable, nights were cool without being freezing, and walking 20k+ steps didn’t feel brutal. Parks like Shinjuku Gyoen were glowing with fall colors, and the city felt busy without being overwhelming.
Spring (late March to early April) is the most famous time to visit Tokyo thanks to cherry blossoms. The sakura really are beautiful, especially in parks and along rivers, but this season comes with higher prices, heavier crowds, and harder-to-get reservations. If seeing cherry blossoms is a bucket-list priority, it’s worth it, just plan further ahead and expect congestion.
Summer (June through September) is the hardest season for first timers. Tokyo gets very hot, humid, and sticky, with frequent rain during early summer and intense heat later on. You’ll still have an amazing trip if that’s when you can go, but expect to rely more on indoor activities, taxis, and air-conditioned breaks. Walking all day in summer is no joke.
Fall (October to November) ended up being my favorite season for a first Tokyo trip. The weather was forgiving, crowds felt manageable, and the city was incredibly walkable.
If you want the sweet spot: late October through November, or early spring before peak cherry blossom crowds hit.
Tokyo Travel FAQ For First Timers
Is Tokyo hard to navigate for first-time visitors?
Honestly, no. Tokyo looks intimidating on maps, but once you’re there, it’s surprisingly intuitive. Trains are efficient, stations are well-labeled, and neighborhoods have distinct personalities. It gets easier fast.
How many days do you need in Tokyo for a first trip?
I recommend at least 4–6 days for your first time in Tokyo. We spent 9 days across two separate stays, which felt luxurious, but 4 solid days lets you see highlights without rushing.
Is Tokyo expensive?
Tokyo can be as expensive or as affordable as you want. Hotels and attractions vary widely, but food is where Tokyo shines. We had incredible meals for under $10, and convenience store food was genuinely good. The city rewards smart choices.
Do you really need cash in Tokyo?
Yes. While cards are accepted more than they used to be, cash is still common, especially at smaller restaurants, markets, and bars. Plan to withdraw yen once you arrive and carry cash daily.
Is Tokyo good for non-drinkers?
Absolutely. Tokyo nightlife isn’t just about alcohol. Late-night food, arcades, themed cafés, shopping districts, and illuminated neighborhoods make evenings just as fun without drinking.
Should you book attractions and restaurants in advance?
Some, yes. Popular experiences like teamLab Planets, skyline observation decks, and group dinners are easier with reservations. That said, don’t overbook every hour. Tokyo is at its best when you leave room to wander.
Is Tokyo safe for tourists?
Tokyo felt extremely safe to me, even at night. I walked around late in busy neighborhoods without issue. Like any major city, stay aware of your surroundings, but overall it’s one of the safest cities I’ve traveled to.
A Simple Tokyo Itinerary For First Timers
This Tokyo travel itinerary balances walking, food, and energy without burnout.
Day 1: Shinjuku
Konbini coffee, neighborhood wandering, Torikizoku dinner, Golden Gai drinks
Day 2: Park + Shibuya
Shinjuku Gyoen, easy lunch, Shibuya Crossing at night
Day 3: Food + Experience
Tsukiji fish market, rest or shopping, teamLab Planets
Day 4: Culture
Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, cafés
Final Japan Travel Tips
Tokyo felt easier than the internet made it seem. The magic wasn’t doing everything, it was noticing the small things.
If this is your first Tokyo trip, you don’t need perfection. You need a few strong anchors, a walkable plan, and space to wander. That’s what made this city click for me, not checking off boxes other Japan travel guides say I need to do.
And, knowing you can always come back. We didn’t hit everything on our Tokyo list but that’s ok. We’ll come back in a few years feeling more confident and with more time carved out to visit places we missed like the Imperial Palace or the Studio Ghibli Museum.
