Tokyo travel view

A Verdict itinerary

Tokyo for a first trip

Start with the landmarks, neighbourhoods and meals that make the city clear. This is a first-trip shortlist, not a race to tick everything off.

Independent, never pay-to-rankGraded for your kind of tripHow we decide
The plan

10 places worth your time

Open any place for the full call, the tradeoffs and the practical details.

See every Tokyo itinerary
  1. Meiji Shrine01attractionMeiji ShrineThe calm Shinto counterpoint to Senso-ji, and right beside Harajuku for an easy pairing.Read the verdict
  2. Sensō-ji & Asakusa02attractionSensō-ji & AsakusaAn essential, legible first taste of traditional Tokyo that anchors the rest of the trip.Read the verdict
  3. Nikkō (day trip)03destinationNikkō (day trip)The best day trip if ornate shrines and forest scenery are a priority.Read the verdict
  4. Grand Sumo Tournament (Ryōgoku)04experienceGrand Sumo Tournament (Ryōgoku)A bucket-list cultural spectacle if your dates fall in a tournament month.Read the verdict
  5. Asakusa05neighborhoodAsakusaAn easy, atmospheric base for a first taste of traditional Tokyo around Senso-ji.Read the verdict
  6. Ueno Park & Zoo06attractionUeno Park & ZooEfficient one-stop for culture plus greenery, peaking in cherry season.Read the verdict
  7. Tokyo Skytree07attractionTokyo SkytreeThe tallest-tower bragging right is real, but only book it for a forecast clear day.Read the verdict
  8. Tokyo Metropolitan Gov't Building Observatory08attractionTokyo Metropolitan Gov't Building ObservatoryThe smart free alternative to a paid tower if the view is all you want.Read the verdict
  9. Shibuya Crossing09attractionShibuya CrossingA free, must-see icon best viewed from the Starbucks or Mag's Park overhead.Read the verdict
  10. Tokyo Subway Ticket (24/48/72h)10passTokyo Subway Ticket (24/48/72h)Worth it on dense sightseeing days, but pair it with an IC card for JR lines.Read the verdict