Amazing Tokyo Adventure

My incredible 7-day journey through Tokyo was a perfect blend of ancient tradition and cutting-edge modernity. From serene temples to neon-lit streets, this city never failed to amaze me at every turn.

First Impressions

Tokyo hits you like a wave of organized chaos. The moment you step out of the airport, you’re greeted by a city that’s both overwhelming and incredibly efficient. The train system, which looks complicated at first, is actually the most punctual and well-organized I’ve ever experienced.

Cultural Highlights

What struck me most was how seamlessly Tokyo blends the ancient with the ultra-modern. One moment you’re walking through a 1,000-year-old temple, and the next you’re surrounded by skyscrapers and digital billboards. The Japanese respect for tradition is evident everywhere, from the meticulous temple gardens to the precise art of sushi making.

Food Paradise

Tokyo is a food lover’s dream come true. From the freshest sushi at Tsukiji Market to steaming bowls of ramen in tiny alleyways, every meal was an adventure. The attention to detail in Japanese cuisine is extraordinary - even a simple convenience store sandwich is crafted with care.

Getting Around

The Tokyo Metro system might look intimidating, but it’s incredibly efficient. I recommend getting a Suica card and downloading Google Maps for navigation. The trains are always on time, clean, and the station signs are in English, making it very tourist-friendly.

Final Thoughts

Tokyo is a city that rewards exploration. Every neighborhood has its own unique character, from the electric energy of Shibuya to the traditional charm of Asakusa. It’s a place where ancient customs and futuristic technology coexist in perfect harmony. I left with a camera full of photos, a stomach full of amazing food, and a heart full of memories.

Daily Itinerary

Day 1
3/15/2024

Arrival and Shinjuku Exploration

Activities

10:00 AM Arrive at Narita Airport
Activity photo 1
View
Activity photo 2
View
12:30 PM Check into Shinjuku Granbell Hotel
2:00 PM Explore Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Activity photo 1
View
Activity photo 2
View
5:00 PM Visit Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for city views
Activity photo 1
View
Activity photo 2
View
7:30 PM Dinner at Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane)
Activity photo 1
View

Meals

Lunch: Airport ramen
Dinner: Yakitori at Omoide Yokocho

Accommodation

Shinjuku Granbell Hotel

Photos (4)

Photo 1
View
Photo 2
View
Photo 3
View
Day 2
3/16/2024

Traditional Tokyo in Asakusa

Activities

9:00 AM Visit Senso-ji Temple
Activity photo 1
View
Activity photo 2
View
10:30 AM Walk through Nakamise Shopping Street
1:00 PM Sumida River cruise
Activity photo 1
View
3:00 PM Visit Tokyo Skytree
6:00 PM Experience traditional tea ceremony

Meals

Breakfast: Hotel buffet
Lunch: Tempura at Asakusa
Dinner: Sushi at Tsukiji Outer Market

Accommodation

Shinjuku Granbell Hotel

Photos (3)

Photo 1
View
Photo 2
View
Photo 3
View
Day 3
3/17/2024

Modern Tokyo and Pop Culture

Activities

Explore Harajuku and Takeshita Street
Visit Meiji Jingu Shrine
Walk through Shibuya Crossing
Visit Hachiko Statue
Evening in Shibuya nightlife

Meals

Breakfast: Cafe in Harajuku
Lunch: Crepes in Harajuku
Dinner: Japanese BBQ in Shibuya

Accommodation

Shinjuku Granbell Hotel

Day 4
3/18/2024

Tech and Gaming in Akihabara

Activities

Explore Akihabara Electric Town
Visit gaming arcades
Shop for electronics and anime merchandise
Visit Gachapon halls
Maid cafe experience

Meals

Breakfast: Convenience store onigiri
Lunch: Gundam Cafe
Dinner: Tonkatsu in Akihabara

Accommodation

Traditional Ryokan in Asakusa

Day 5
3/19/2024

Day Trip to Mount Fuji

Activities

Early morning train to Kawaguchiko
Lake Kawaguchiko cruise
Visit Fuji Q Highland (optional)
Chureito Pagoda views
Onsen experience

Meals

Breakfast: Ryokan traditional breakfast
Lunch: Hoto noodles near Fuji
Dinner: Kaiseki dinner at ryokan

Accommodation

Traditional Ryokan in Asakusa

Day 6
3/20/2024

Art and Culture

Activities

Visit teamLab Borderless digital art museum
Explore Roppongi Hills
Visit Mori Art Museum
Evening in Golden Gai, Shinjuku

Meals

Breakfast: Hotel breakfast
Lunch: Museum cafe
Dinner: Small bar in Golden Gai

Accommodation

Shinjuku Granbell Hotel

Day 7
3/21/2024

Last Day Shopping and Departure

Activities

Last-minute souvenir shopping
Visit Tokyo Station Character Street
Final Japanese meal
Transfer to Narita Airport

Meals

Breakfast: Hotel breakfast
Lunch: Final bowl of ramen

Accommodation

Departure

Budget Breakdown

$2,500 Total
Flights
$800 32%
Accommodation
$700 28%
Food
$500 20%
Activities
$400 16%
Other
$100 4%
Daily Average $357
Largest Expense Flights

Accommodation

Shinjuku Granbell Hotel
View Photos
Excellent

Shinjuku Granbell Hotel

★★★★☆ 4.5/5 Excellent
$120 per night

Modern hotel in the heart of Shinjuku with excellent access to transportation and nightlife.

Traditional Ryokan in Asakusa
View Photos
Excellent

Traditional Ryokan in Asakusa

★★★★☆ 4.8/5 Excellent
$180 per night

Authentic Japanese ryokan experience with traditional tatami rooms and onsen.

Travel Essentials

Recommended items to bring for your trip. Click to view on Shopee.

Travel Tips

  • Get a JR Pass for unlimited train travel
  • Download Google Translate app with Japanese offline
  • Carry cash as many places don't accept cards
  • Learn basic Japanese phrases - it goes a long way
  • Use convenience stores (7-Eleven, Family Mart) for cheap and good food
  • Purchase a Suica or Pasmo card for easy subway travel
  • Bow when greeting people - it's polite and appreciated
  • Remove shoes when entering homes and some restaurants

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Tokyo is during spring (March-May) for cherry blossoms or autumn (September-November) for pleasant weather and fall foliage. Avoid summer (June-August) due to heat and humidity, and Golden Week (late April/early May) due to crowds.