The Perfect 3 Days in Tokyo

We’d always recommend making an early start to visit Tsukiji fish market, which is at its most active in the early mornings. Although the famous tuna auctions have now moved to a modern, purpose-built complex nearby, you can still take in the hustle and bustle, and possibly call in to one of the many excellent sushi restaurants for a true breakfast of champions. 

We’d then move on to Asakusa, which at over 1,000 years old is one of the best-preserved shitamachi (old style) districts in the city. Here you’ll find the Senso-ji temple, the oldest and most significant place of worship in Tokyo. 

Continue to the Meiji Jingu Shrine, tucked away in a corner of modern Shibuya district. Dedicated to deified spirits of former Emperor Meiji (1852 – 1912) and his consort Empress Shoken, the shrine is surrounded by parkland and is especially beautiful in spring, backed by blossoming cherry trees. 

Head deeper into Shibuya – Tokyo’s busiest and most commercial district – to explore its endless shopping and entertainment. Tick off one of Tokyo’s major sites by passing through the famous ‘Shibuya Scramble’. A pro tip is to head up to one of the coffee shops which overlook the crossing, then sit back for some of the best people-watching you’ll ever do.

After a busy couple of days, today can be spent catching up on anything missed so far, or taking a more laidback day strolling through one of Tokyo’s lovely parks. 

Yoyogi Park is a hive of local life, and especially fun to visit over the weekend when the various sub-tribes of contemporary Japan – cosplayers, street dance crews, mimes, rockabillies – meet in the park to celebrate their weirdness.

Ueno Park, in the north of the city center, is a sprawling public space that is a great base for the day. In addition to the open park, you’ll find the Tokyo National Museum, Metropolitan Art Museum, Museum of Nature and Science, Royal Museum, and Ueno Zoo – plenty to keep anyone occupied for a day! 

As the sun starts to fall, head for the Tokyo Skytree in Sumida. A small entrance fee takes you to the top of this freestanding broadcasting tower from where you can enjoy 360-degree views of the city. Alternatively, if you’re looking to save pennies, head to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Tower in the heart of Shinjuku, which has a free observation deck on the 45th floor. On a clear day you can see the peak of Mount Fuji rising over the western outskirts of the city.