Tokyo Travelers Recommend

Japan's most iconic landmark, Mt Fuji is an extremely popular destination from Tokyo. Visit the UNESCO-listed mountain, see the countryside, and take in the area's scenic views on a single- or multi-day tour from the city—here are your options.

Full-Day Tours

Sample all that the Mt Fuji region has to offer with a convenient full-day visit. Sit back and relax as your train or bus whisks you from the Japanese capital to the mountain area, where you can take in highlights such as Lake Ashi, the Gotemba Outlets, and Mt. Fuji's famous 5th Station. A range of private and customizable trip options offer plenty of flexibility, and you can count on being back in Tokyo later that same day.

Multi-Day Tours

Multi-day tours offer the opportunity to deepen your Japan knowledge and see more of the country during your excursion. Enjoy roundtrip transport from Tokyo to Mt Fuji and a handful of other Japanese cities, such as Kyoto and Nara, plus included overnight accommodations. At the mountain, you'll have enough time to take part in boat rides, shopping, and onsen (hot spring) visits.

Things to Know

1. Mount Fuji is located about 80 miles (130 km) southwest of Tokyo, and trips by road take about two to three hours each way. Bullet trains from Tokyo reach nearby Shin-Fuji Station in about an hour.

2. Day trips typically last between 9 and 12 hours, so be sure to pack for a full day.

3. Bring comfortable shoes and a camera, plus appropriate cold-weather clothing and hiking shoes if you plan to ascend Mt Fuji.

4. Most tours include round-trip transport by train or bus, plus lunch and most entrance fees.

As Japan’s capital and major transportation hub, Tokyo makes an ideal base for exploring the nation by its excellent network of some of the world’s fastest trains. From Kyoto to Hiroshima, here are popular destinations you can visit by train.

Kyoto — 2 hours and 50 minutes from Tokyo

Those with limited time in Japan who don’t want to miss the sights of Kyoto can zoom there and back on a day trip by rail from Tokyo. This culturally rich city also serves as a first stop on many multi-day tours of the country, with high-speed trains departing from Kyoto Station to other points of interest.

Mt. Fuji — 2 hours and 20 minutes from Tokyo

While there’s no Shinkansen bullet train from Tokyo to Mt. Fuji, a number of nearby stops offer connections to various areas on the mountain via bus service. It’s possible to get off at stops along the Tokaido Shinkansen bullet train line to transfer to local buses that continue on to Mt. Fuji. Alternatively, some travelers head to the famous peak, along with Hakone, Lake Ashi and Mt. Komagatake, by coach and continue on to Kyoto via bullet train.

Hiroshima — 1 hour and 40 minutes from Kyoto

If you have a few days to spare outside of Tokyo, consider continuing your high-speed train journey from Kyoto on to Hiroshima. Touring this city offers sober insight into the aftermath of the Aug. 6, 1945, bombings.

Nara — 2 hours and 20 minutes from Kyoto

Nara, another destination often visited by bullet train from Tokyo by way of Kyoto, was Japan’s first permanent capital. It’s home to eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites and a wealth of pagodas, temples, and Buddhist shrines.

Nagano — 1.5 hours from Tokyo

Nagano, home of the famous snow monkeys, is also known for its natural hot springs, snow skiing in winter, and summer alpine hiking.

Geisha are one of the most misunderstood pieces of the Japanese cultural puzzle. These traditional Japanese entertainers are trained in various Japanese arts—dance, music, and the tea ceremony. Here’s what you need to know about geisha culture in Tokyo.

What is a Geisha?

The Japanese geisha tradition dates back to the 18th century, and modern-day geisha continue to undergo a rigorous apprenticeship in geisha houses that include lessons in song, historic dances, Japanese musical instruments, and the intricacies of the traditional tea ceremony. While there’s a common misconception in the West that geishas are prostitutes, this is not the case. A real geisha projects a sense of feminine perfection and are successful based on their talents at entertaining.

Ways to Experience Geisha Culture in Tokyo

Kyoto may be considered the most famous Japanese city for geisha districts, but you’ll find them in several areas of Tokyo as well. It’s common to see geisha strolling along the cobbled streets of Tokyo’s Kagurazaka neighborhood, and travelers looking for a taste of Japanese entertainment can book an authentic geisha performance over tea or a multi-course meal. For something a little different, opt for a private shopping tour with a geisha or sit down for a private lunch with one.

You’ll barely scratch the surface of Tokyo in one day, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have an enriching experience. Learn about Japan's unique religious traditions in historic neighborhoods, watch a robot cabaret, and shop for traditional souvenirs and futuristic fashion. Here’s how to spend a rewarding 24 hours in the city. 

Morning: Exploring Asakusa

A visit to the Asakusa neighborhood offers an idea of what all of Tokyo looked like before high-tech development took over, helping visitors understand how the city has changed over the years. Take an Asakusa walking tour to wander the district's narrow lanes, which have been a popular shopping destination for centuries, and visit the grand Sensoji Buddhist temple along with various other temples and Shinto shrines. Rickshaw tours are also a great way to get familiar with the area.

Afternoon: Window Shopping in Harajuku

Head to Harajuku to see young, hip, and sometimes simply weird fashion. Spend the afternoon enjoying the area’s vintage stores, cosplay shops, and colorful street art, whether you choose to shop or just browse the wacky collections. Be sure to stop at the Watari Museum of Contemporary Art, which features cutting-edge exhibitions, then head over to upmarket Omotesando or the peaceful Meiji Jingu shrine and Yoyogi Park for a change of pace. Short afternoon sightseeing tours allow you to check off a number of attractions even with limited time.

Night: Dinner with Entertainment

To relax and enjoy Tokyo's illuminated skyline after dark, opt for a dinner cruise on Tokyo Bay. Or, if you're looking for a jolt of energy in the form of a memorable, uniquely Japanese experience, book tickets for the Robot Restaurant cabaret show, an electrifying dance and laser performance with the option to include drinks and dinner. Finally, if you’re not too tired after a busy day, join a pub crawl tour to experience the best of Tokyo’s nightlife.

Tokyo is a city where old and new collide—a place where traditional ceremony and classical architecture meet modern technology and futuristic fantasy. You haven't really seen Tokyo until you've experienced both sides. See below for your options.

Old Tokyo

Japan has a rich culture of ceremony and tradition dating back centuries, and this heritage remains visible in Tokyo today. Take part in the intricate ritual of a tea ceremony, learn to make sushi the traditional way, or watch some sumo wrestling. The city's history comes alive in neighborhoods such as Ryogoku, a sumo wrestling hotspot, and Asakusa, one of the oldest areas in Tokyo and home of the seventh-century Sensoji Temple.

New Tokyo

While Asakusa feels like an ancient neighborhood frozen in time, Akihabara Electric Town looks right out of the future. This modern neighborhood—quintessentially New Tokyo—is also at the epicenter of Japan's cosplay, karaoke, video game, and comic book culture. The city's architecture speaks to its position as one of the world's greatest modern metropolises, and you can get some of the best views from the Tokyo Tower's 476-foot (145-meter) observation deck.

An ancient Japanese Shinto tradition, sumo wrestling combines ritual elements with the energy of full-contact wrestling. From attending the annual sumo tournaments to observing sumo stable training sessions, here's how to experience sumo in Tokyo.

When to Go

Six 15-day Grand Sumo tournaments are held each year in Japan. Most take place in Tokyo, with one held in January, another in May, and a third in September, while Fukuoka, Osaka, and Nagoya each host one tournament as well, in November, March, and July, respectively. Even if you don't happen to be in Japan during a Grand Sumo tournament, you can take a sumo-themed tour any time of year to gain insight into wrestlers’ training and eating habits while learning all about sumo culture.

Where to Go

Tokyo is the epicenter for most sumo activity, with the city's famous Ryogoku district's Ryogoku Kokugikan (Sumo Hall) hosting three annual tournaments. Most of the various sumo stables and sumo-themed tours are also based in Japanese capital.

How to Go

If you time your trip right, you can attend a sumo tournament to view a Dohyo-iri ring-entering ceremony and catch the action of a live match. Otherwise, combine visits to top Tokyo sites such as the Tsukiji Fish Market or the Asakusa area with a stop at one of the city's numerous sumo training stables to see where heavyweight combatants live and prepare for matches, an experience only available by tour. Other tours explore specific aspects of daily sumo rituals including wrestlers’ diets, which center around a calorically rich stew called chanko, or visit the Sumo Museum (Nihon Sumo Kyokai), which is attached to the Ryogoku Sumo Hall and features sumo artifacts, some dating back as far as 1600.

It can be hard to know how to spend your time during a short visit to Tokyo. But you can cover a lot of ground with a little planning, checking off the must-see sights, heading out into the nearby mountains, and eating your way around the city. Here’s how to see Tokyo in just three days.

Day 1: Get to Know Tokyo

By focusing on particular areas that interest you, you'll get to know Tokyo’s distinct culture and character in a short amount of time. Spend day one taking in the city's biggest attractions on a themed sightseeing tour by bus or on foot—you won't want to miss the Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines of the Asakusa district, the quirky youth culture in the Harajuku neighborhood, or the luxury shopping in Ginza and Shibuya. After a day of photo ops, settle in for the ever-entertaining Robot Restaurant cabaret show. Book tickets in advance to see a high-tech robot and laser performance with the option to also include dinner and drinks.

Day 2: Take a Day Trip to the Mountains

After exploring some of Tokyo’s busiest areas, head out of the city to see some nature. Easily accessible by Japan's famous bullet trains (shinkansen), Mount Fuji is a must-see that holds a special place in the hearts and minds of the Japanese. While the peak can occasionally be seen from Tokyo, nothing a beats a convenient guided tour to the mountain to learn about its significance. Alternatively, head north of Tokyo to Nikko National Park on a guided day trip. The area's 17th-century shrines are some of the most beautiful in Japan, and there are plenty of hiking trails and onsen baths to suit your interests.

Day 3: Focus on Food

Japanese food holds a lot of regional variation around the country. Learn about the cuisine’s variety—and how to cook some of its most iconic dishes—on a guided food tour. Start with an early morning Tsukiji fish market tour and continue on around the city to sample various bites. Choose a cooking class to learn the art of sushi-rolling or find out how to make the perfect ramen broth, or book a Japanese tea ceremony experience to gain insight into this high art. End your final day in Tokyo with a memorable dinner in a local izakaya pub or a revolving-sushi restaurant. If you’ve still got some energy afterward, head out on a Tokyo karaoke or bar crawl tour for some late-night fun.

One of the planet’s most exciting food destinations, Tokyo is hub for perfectionism on the plate. Chefs study specific techniques for years, even decades, taking pride in their mastery of a single dish. From noodles to sushi to tempura, here are some must-try dishes in Tokyo.

Ramen, Udon, and Soba

It's possible to spend an entire trip to Tokyo just eating noodles. There are ramen (noodles in broth), udon (thick noodles), and soba (thin buckwheat noodles) to choose from. Look for restaurants that specialize in a single type and dig in.

Yakitori

Walk just about anywhere in Tokyo for a whiff of chicken skewers grilling over a charcoal fire. Stop into an izakaya, or informal Japanese pub, and order a few skewers alongside a cold beer.

Sushi and Sashimi

Sushi and sashimi are an art in Tokyo, showcasing the skills and expertise of the chef. Sit at the sushi counter if possible and watch the master prepare your meal from slicing the fish to making the sushi.

Tempura

Tempura— battered and deep fried seafood and vegetables—is an art form in Tokyo. These bites are best enjoying piping hot, so eat them the moment they hit the table.

Gyoza

Japanese dumplings stuffed with pork and cabbage, gyoza are a popular dish across Tokyo. Compared to other styles of dumplings, gyoza have a notably thin outer skin.

Kaiseki

To witness the artistic side of Japanese cuisine, look out for kaiseki, a multi-course meal with beautifully plated dishes.

Tokyo is an enormous city with excellent public transit and small, walkable neighborhoods—you don’t need a car to get around. In fact, parking is a problem at many center-city destinations, so it’s best to avoid driving. Here are your options.

Train, Subway, and Bus

Tokyo’s above- and underground rail systems are extensive, efficient, clean, and quite comfortable (as long as you avoid rush hours). Most points of interest in the city are within easy walking distance of at least one station. Be aware that different companies run different lines, and not all tickets or transport passes are interchangeable. Buses are less popular with travelers, but they’re an option for reaching attractions that are farther afield. 

Walking Tours

Although Tokyo is big, its neighborhoods are compact and simple to navigate. Take a train to a neighborhood, then get around on foot. Walking tours are a fun way to get to know particular neighborhoods—you can even choose a theme, such as Shinjuku nightlife, architecture, or photography.  

Small-Vehicle Tours

For a different way to get a close-up look at a Tokyo neighborhood, get around by bicycle, traditional rickshaw, or boat. You can even join a go-kart tour. 

High-tech, high-rise, and ultramodern, Tokyo seems an unlikely setting for romance—at least at first look. But, whether you’re creating your own version of Lost in Translation or exploring with a longstanding love, the city has lots to offer. Here are a few ways to get romantic.

See the Cherry Blossoms

The few short weeks when the cherry blossoms (sakura) flower across Japan are magical. Experience them with your sweetheart on a nighttime stroll, a romantic picnic, or a private tour.

Craft a Love Token

Japan’s traditional arts make the ultimate romantic souvenir. Design a jade carving for each other and watch a craftsperson sculpt them. Have a calligrapher create and handwrite new Japanese names, full of private meaning. Or, make traditional omamori —scented love charms.

Savor a Private Ritual

The ancient rituals of Japanese culture are best shared between the two of you alone. Join your own personal master chef to discover the art of rolling sushi or sip matcha at a private tea ceremony.

Play Dress-Up

Be it samurai or ninja, geisha or courtesans, even Tokyo locals love to play dress-up on weekends. Don a colorful kimono and full geisha makeup—or the more muted tones of a Japanese noble—and pose for timeless photos in a Zen garden photo shoot.

With clear, crisp days ideal for viewing Mt. Fuji and soaking in hot springs, Tokyo in winter is chilly but charming. Travelers visiting the Japanese capital between December and February will enjoy fewer crowds and plenty of opportunities to check out culture, history, and beautiful snowy landscapes. Here are a few ways to do so.

• Discover Tokyo’s must-see landmarks and enjoy a cruise on Tokyo Bay on a full-day city bus and boat tour.

• Visit a training center in Tokyo to watch the morning sumo practice.

• See some of Tokyo most important temples, gardens, and shopping areas on a morning bus tour of the city’s top sights.

• Enjoy photo opportunities with a variety of sleepy-eyed night birds during a unique owl cafe experience.

• Day trip to Mt. Fuji and the surrounding area, including a visit to a hot spring resort.

• Feel the magic of Studio Ghibli on a tour of the Ghibli Museum and Edo-Tokyo Open-Air Architectural Museum.

• Play in the snow, savor a fresh seafood lunch, and visit a strawberry farm on a day trip to Tambara Snow Land.

• Hit the slopes on a day tour of Lake Kawaguchi and Fujiten Snow Resort.

• See snow monkeys and temples on a small-group day trip to Nagano by bullet train.

As colorful leaves create a beautiful backdrop and temperatures become more comfortable than in sweltering summer, autumn is an ideal time for exploring Tokyo. Visiting the Japanese capital between September and December yields myriad opportunities to experience the unparalleled culture, food, history, and scenery. Here are a few ways to do so.

• Explore Tokyo at your own pace and see only what you want to see on a private custom city tour.

• Eat and train like a sumo wrestler during a sumo demonstration and chanko nabe (hot pot) lunch.

• Thrill to the sights and sounds of an electric matinee performance at the Robot Restaurant.

• Explore theme-park magic with a 1-day passport and private transfer to Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea.

• Soak up views of Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi and pick seasonal fruits on a day trip to Fuji’s 5th Station.

• Explore the shrines, temples, and landscapes of Nikko National Park on a day tour of Nikko.

• See fall foliage just outside Tokyo on a d ay trip to the Yamanashi Prefecture, Arakurayama Sengen Park, and Lake Kawaguchi.

• Take a full-day tour to the Niigata prefecture to see its golden autumnal glory, and to ride the Naeba Dragondola and Tashiro Ropeway.

• Experience a kaleidoscope of color on a full-day Tokyo sightseeing tour during spectacular momiji (autumn leaves) season.

A visit to Tokyo is a feast for all the senses—thanks to everything from the sight of neon lights plastered onto soaring skyscrapers and sounds of idiosyncratic cultural festivals to the scent of tiny noodle stalls crammed into back alleys. All this stimulation can feel overwhelming at times, so you’ll want to plan ahead to ensure you make the most of your time here. See below for our top picks and experiences you can't miss in the Japanese capital, from exploring the city’s most important landmarks and watching sumo wrestlers practice to trying your hand at preparing sushi and experiencing an “only in Japan” glitzy robot restaurant cabaret show.

Japan’s tallest peak, Mt Fuji dominates central Japan’s landscape. Both visitors and locals flock to the area to enjoy the scenery and, during the summer months, climb to the summit. Here are your options for getting to this iconic sight from Tokyo.

Guided Day Trips

The benefit of a guided tour to Mt Fuji is that all transport logistics for your trip are taken care of for you. Depending on the excursion you choose, you may travel directly from your Tokyo hotel aboard a coach bus, or combine a bus trip to this famous mountain with a ride back to the city aboard one of Japan's famous bullet trains.

By Bullet Train

Japan's efficient train system offers one of the most flexible methods of reaching the Mt Fuji region from Tokyo. While there's no train service that travels directly to the mountain, a number of nearby stops offer connections to virtually all Fuji access points and mountain stations via bus service. Many visitors and tour groups get off at stops along the Tokaido Shinkansen (bullet train) line, such as Shin-Fuji or Mishima, where they transfer to local buses to complete their journey to the mountain.

By Car

Visitors can choose from a range of chartered car services, opt for a private day trip with a chauffeur, or even arrange to rent their own vehicle. Most car travelers arrive at the mountain via Japan's Tomei or Chuo expressways. Be sure to have cash for expressway tolls if you plan to drive yourself.

By Bus

A variety of coach bus trips depart from Tokyo for Mt. Fuji. In addition to guided bus tours, it's also possible to independently purchase tickets for the Keio express bus, which travels directly from Tokyo's Shinjuku area to the popular Kawaguchiko 5th Station. Book a tour with bus transport and independent exploration at the mountain for the best of both worlds.

Tokyo’s museum scene is comprehensive: from the history of the Edo period and samurais, to the best in animation and contemporary art, museums have Japanese culture and history covered. Here’s our guide the top museums in Tokyo.

National Museum of Tokyo

As well as being Japan’s oldest and largest museum, the National Museum of Tokyo is also the largest museum of Japanese art in the world, with a collection of more than 100,000 pieces. The museum’s five buildings are each dedicated to a separate theme, which range from samurai armor, swords, and kimonos to painting and scrolls. The museum also showcases art and artifacts from other Asian countries.

How to Visit: Visit independently or as part of an expert-led private tour. Admission to the museum is included in some multi-attraction Tokyo sightseeing passes.

Ghibli Museum

Learn more about the history of Studio Ghibliu2060—responsible for cult classics such as My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, and Princess Mononok eu2060—at the Ghibli Museum. Located inside Inokashira Park, visitors can browse original drawings, stills, and storyboards, and watch exclusive animation shorts. There’s also a rooftop garden, theme café, and bookstore.

How to Visit: Tickets must be booked in advance. For convenience, opt for a tour that includes round-trip transfers and a stop at Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architecture Museum.

Edo-Tokyo Museum

Learn about the history of Japan’s Edo period at the Edo-Tokyo Museum. Housed in a modern building, the museum showcases Edo-period replicas, models, artifacts, and dioramas. Highlights include a life-size wooden replica of the Nihonbashi Bridge, a model of Edo city, and live performances at the Nakamura Theater.

How to Visit: Visit as part of a private, custom tour of Tokyo, which saves you the stress of navigating the metro. Museum tours are available, but must be booked in advance.

Mori Art Museum

Located in the Mori Tower in Roppongi, Mori Art Museum showcases some of the biggest names in Japanese contemporary art. Unlike most museums, the Mori Art Museum doesn’t maintain a permanent collection, but instead offers an ever changing series of temporary exhibits.

How to Visit: Tickets can be booked ahead of time. Admission tickets to the museum also include access to Tokyo City Sky View, which offers panoramic city views.

Samurai Museum

Located in Shinjuku, the Samurai Museum displays authentic samurai artifacts, such as armor and weapons. Frequent tours offer deeper insight into samurai culture and history, while daily live shows showcase samurai martial arts. Visitors can also dress up in samurai outfits or kimonos for photos.

How to Visit: Prebook tickets to guarantee entry. Visitors can explore the museum on their own, or join a guided tour at the museum.

Tokyo has earned a reputation as one of the world's top dining destinations, thanks to its traditional cuisine, modern Japanese fare, and international flavors. The city's restaurants have more Michelin stars than Paris and New York combined, yet amazing meals can be found at street stalls and hole-in-the-wall joints too. Here are a few dishes and activities you won’t want to miss.

Must-Try Dishes

Local Tokyo specialties, often called Edo-mae, have become so globally popular that they're often synonymous with standard Japanese cuisine as a whole. Soba noodles, made from buckwheat, gained popularity during the Edo period and are now eaten across Japan, while nigiri, a popular type of sushi, started as a fast food dish in Tokyo before blasting into worldwide popularity.

A savory pancake made of chopped seafood, cabbage and a flour-and-water batter, monjaya ki has also made its mark—there’s even a street nicknamed after the dish in Tsukishima. Hot pots are popular in Tokyo too, with varieties including sukiyaki, shabu-shabu and chankonabe, a chicken-and-vegetable hot pot originally cooked for sumo wrestlers. One of Tokyo's most popular wagashi, or traditional sweets is a small, waffle-like cake filled with sweet red bean paste.

Must-Do Experiences

• Sit down next to a local salaryman after a long day of work for a drink and bar fare at a local izakaya bar.

• Eat your fill of yakitori skewers in the city's famed Yakitori Alley.

• Take in the Tsukiji Fish Market's rowdy tuna auctions and diverse offerings on a guided tour that can be combined with a sushi-making class, where you'll learn how to prepare nigiri from a master chef.

• Taste a variety of Tokyo's iconic dishes on a food walking tour that hops from street food vendor to traditional izakaya bar to restaurant.

• Sample some green tea or sake on a guided tasting.

Sponsored by the Tokyo Convention & Visitors Bureau

When the cherry trees bloom and fallen petals blanket the streets, Tokyo might be at its prettiest. But sakura is not the only reason to visit in spring. Temperatures are warm but not as hot as the humid summers, plus festivals, cultural celebrations, and strawberry picking abound. Here are a few ways to relish a Tokyo visit in spring.

• Pedal through the streets of Tokyo on a small-group bicycle tour.

• Explore gardens, temples, and shopping areas, and enjoy a cruise on Tokyo Bay on a full-day city tour.

• Visit the city’s top landmarks, watch a tea ceremony, enjoy skyline views from Tokyo Tower’s observation deck, and embark on a river cruise on a comprehensive day tour.

• Delve into the local culinary scene on an evening food tour.

• Thrill to the sights and sounds of the Tokyo Robot Restaurant evening cabaret show.

• Zoom to Kyoto on a bullet train and see the ancient capital’s top sights on a Kyoto rail tour.

• Explore Mt. Fuji, Lake Ashi, and the Mt. Komagatake Ropeway on a day trip by bullet train.

• Soak in the nature and history of Nikko National Park, the Toshogu Shrine, and Edo Wonderland on a day trip to Nikko.

• Pick strawberries and enjoy views of Mt. Fuji on a day trip to Lake Motosu.

Tokyo’s backstreets teem with local shops, traditional bars and restaurants, inconspicuous shrines and temples, and Tokyoites going about their daily lives—it’s a side of the city every visitor should experience. Here are some of the best places to do so.

Asakusa

Step back into old Japan with a stroll through the backstreets of Asakusa. This neighborhood on the banks of the Sumida-gawa is dotted with soba and tempura shops, Buddhist shrines, artisan boutiques, and Tokyo’s oldest temple, Senso-ji Temple. 

Harajuku

Famous for its extreme youth fashion, Harajuku’s back streets are filled with hidden gems. In these alleys, known as ura Harajuku or simply ura Hara for short, you’ll find quirky galleries, cozy cafes, vintage clothing shops, and even a tarot fortune teller.

Yanesen

The maze-like streets of the three neighborhoods collectively known as Yanesen (Yanaka, Nezu, and Sendagi) offer a glimpse of retro Tokyo, where highlights include a sweet shop dating back to 1912, a century-old bamboo shop, soba noodle stands, and small shops selling beckoning cat-related items.

Shinjuku

Best known as Tokyo’s red light entertainment district, Shinjuku is also home to one of the city’s best food-centric back alleys, Omoide Yokocho. Nicknamed Memory Lake or Piss Alley depending on who you ask, this narrow lane is lined with stalls selling yakitori skewers to wash down with sake and beer. It’s a lively nighttime destination for great food.

You don't have to climb Mt. Fuji to get a great view. Even from a distance, Japan's tallest mountain offers a backdrop that can’t be matched—so long as clouds don’t thwart the experience. For the best chance at a successful viewing, here are our tips.

Time of Year

To maximize your chances of catching Mt. Fuji on a clear day, try to book your trip so it falls between October and February, as colder weather means higher atmospheric visibility. Spring is also a good option, when the weather is still fairly cool. June and July are a risky time to visit, as the famed peak may only be visible for a handful of days each month.

It’s also important to remember that the mountain doesn’t stay snow-capped all year. For those looking to capture the classic image of Mt. Fuji—snow and all—winter wins. Alternatively, mid-spring cherry blossoms and colorful fall leaves can each create a stunning frame for the mountain.

Time of Day

Since cool weather means better visibility, the best time of day to see the mountain (regardless of season) is early morning. Travelers are more likely to see Mt. Fuji in full if planning a visit at 8am than if arriving in the afternoon, although the mountain is also a sight to see at sunset. Book a tour that includes a visit to the nearby Five Lakes region for the best panoramic views.

In just 48 hours, you can get a crash course in Tokyo’s unique culture. This 2-day itinerary allows you to explore the massive city’s many highlights, from touring ancient temples to seeing the city’s futuristic skyline at night. Here’s how to plan your days to make the most of your 48 hours in Tokyo.

Day 1: Food and Ancient Culture

**Morning:**Tokyo is home to the Tsukiji Fish Market, one of the largest fish markets in the world, and you can take an early morning tour to catch all the action and even enjoy a cooking class or meal afterward. If fish isn’t your thing, visit a morning practice session of champion sumo wrestlers instead.

**Afternoon:**Buddhism and Shintoism are essential to Japanese culture, and relevant temples and shrines can be found throughout the city. To make sightseeing manageable, choose a neighborhood walking tour and explore the religious sights within. Asakusa, Meiji Jingu, and Shiba Park are good places to start.

**Night:**Learn more about Japan’s distinct cuisine from a local tour guide on a food or nightlife tour that revolves around a specific area's restaurants and bars. If you’re up for a night out on the town, join an organized pub crawl.

Day 2: Get Active and Learn Something New

**Morning:**Tokyo is full of excellent museums perfect for discovering Japanese history and culture. The Ghibli Museum is a must-visit for anyone with an interest in Japanese animation, while Ueno Park houses the Tokyo National Museum and the Ueno Zoo. Spend your morning taking in the highlights at the cultural sight of your choice.

**Afternoon:**Bus tours visit several top attractions around the city, providing an efficient way to get around. Alternatively, active travelers can take a bike tour around Tokyo to get into some nooks and crannies that tourists often overlook. (Electric bike tours are available for travelers who need an extra boost.)

**Night:**After an active afternoon you may need a more restful evening. Hop on a Tokyo Bay cruise to enjoy nighttime views of the skyline, typically paired with onboard dinner and drinks. To keep the night going with more city views, head out for some after-dark exploration in the Odaiba area across the water from central Tokyo.

It isn’t known as a budget travel destination, but Tokyo is such a large, diverse city that it’s not hard to find inexpensive or even free things to see and do, if you know where to look. Here’s how to stretch a dollar (or yen) in the Japanese capital.

Buy a Transport Pass

Several different companies (e.g. Japan Rail, Tokyo Metro, and Toei Subway) offer transportation throughout the city. If you’ll be using lots of public transit, a pass is the cost-effective way to go. Options include the Tokyo Subway Ticket, the Toei and Tokyo Metro One-Day Economy Pass, and the Tokunai Pass, among others.

Pick Up a Grutto Pass for Museum Entry

Tokyo offers a huge range of museums, art galleries, zoos, and aquariums, but entry fees can really add up. Valid for two months, the Grutto Pass gives you access to more than 90 attractions. Not available for purchase in February or March.

Enjoy the Free Parks and Gardens

Although many temples and parks in Tokyo charge an admission fee, some don’t. For example, Meiji Jingu and the Imperial Palace East Gardens are two beautiful spots that won’t cost you a yen.

Shop at Markets

Chic, upscale shopping districts such as Ginza are great for window-shopping and people-watching, but if you’re on a budget, keep your wallet in your bag. Instead, head to local food and flea markets, such as Ueno’s Ameya-Yokocho or the Nogi Shrine Antique Flea Market. Harajuku has lots of vintage clothing stores, and you can pick up a secondhand kimono at Asakusa for a fraction of the cost of a new garment.

Get Free City Views

Replete with skyscrapers, Tokyo has plenty of viewing decks. If you’re pinching pennies, though, head to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. Take your pick of two 662-foot-high (202-meter-high) observation platforms—both free to access.

Seek Out All-You-Can-Eat/Drink Venues

Tabehodai (all-you-can-eat) and nomihodai (all-you-can-drink) venues are one of the most cost-effective ways of eating and drinking out in Tokyo. Usually for a set fee and a limited time (such as 90 minutes), all-you-can-eat establishments let you do exactly that. Nomihodai is a standard offering at karaoke bars in the wee hours—you won’t always be served the top-shelf liquor, however.

Tokugawa Ieyasu became Shogun in 1603, ushering a 200-year reign known as the Edo period—a time of peace and rapid economic growth known as the last period of traditional Japan. Here are some options for exploring this critically important period in Tokyo’s history.

Edo History in Tokyo

Tokyo started out as a fishing village called Edo. When Tokugawa Ieyasu moved the Shogunate here in 1603, the town began to thrive. During the 260-year Edo period, Tokyo enjoyed unprecedented economic and cultural growth, transforming into a city of more than a million people—one of the largest cities in the world—by the mid-18th century. It would later be renamed Tokyo and declared the capital of Japan.

Ways to Experience Edo Culture in Tokyo

Edo history and culture are on display throughout Tokyo if you know where to look.

• A good place to start is the Fukagawa Edo Museum, which offers an eloquent introduction to the rise and fall of the era.

• The historic Fukagawa neighborhood is home to the 300-year-old Fukagawa Fudoson Shrine and several workshops selling Edo glass and Edo-dyed cloth. Explore it on a walking or cycling tour.

• No visit to Tokyo would be complete without a stop at the Edo Castle, built in 1457 and occupied by the Tokugawa shoguns throughout their reign.

• A short day trip from Tokyo (and popular among families with kids), Edo Wonderland lets visitors become a citizen of Edo for the day. Walk through a recreated Edo-era town and interact with townspeople in period costume.

• Within a short distance of nearby Nikko National Park sits the Nikko Toshogo Shrine, a monumental mausoleum honoring the first Tokugawa shogun.

Because it’s Japan’s tallest mountain—and a worldwide icon—no trip to Tokyo would be complete without visiting snow-capped Mt. Fuji. But with so many sightseeing options available, it can be difficult to choose the one that best suits you. Here are our tips to help you decide which Mt. Fuji tour is right for you.

For First-Time Visitors

First-time visitors looking for a quintessential Mt. Fuji experience should consider a full-day package that includes a boat ride on Ashi Lake and a visit to Hakone and Mt. Fuji 5th Station—which offers sweeping views of Fuji Five Lakes and Hakone National Park. Most tours that depart from Tokyo include round-trip rides on the shinkansen (bullet train). Upgrade to include a soak in hot springs or an onsen.

For Outdoor Enthusiasts

If you want the full Mt. Fuji experience, then opt for a 2-day hiking tour, which comes with the reward of sunrise at the summit of Japan’s highest mountain. Tours typically include accommodation in a mountain lodge and a guide.

For Thrill Seekers

For travelers looking to raise their adrenaline levels, a tour that combines a visit to Mt. Fuji with time at Fuji-Q Highland theme park is a must. Day trips typically visit Mt. Fuji 5th Station in the morning and culminate with free time at the theme park, which boasts record-breaking roller coasters and views of Mt. Fuji.

For Families

If you’re traveling with kids in tow, opt for a private tour on which you’ll benefit from the undivided attention of a guide, as well as the flexibility to customize your itinerary. Tours can combine a pirate ship cruise on Lake Ashi and time to shop at Gotemba Outlet, home to 200 stores.

Given Tokyo’s enormity, the city has no shortage of galleries and museums where art lovers can get their fill of Japanese and international art. From galleries at the top of skyscrapers with spectacular city views to low-key venues displaying more-traditional art forms, here are a few of the best.

Mori Art Museum—Art with a View

The Mori Art Museum, on the 53rd floor of the Mori Tower in the Roppongi Hills development, displays contemporary Japanese and other Asian art. It’s attached to the Tokyo City View observation deck, and tickets include entry to both.

Ghibli Museum—For Anime Enthusiasts

The Ghibli Museum is one of the most popular attractions in Tokyo—it’s worth getting your tickets as far ahead as possible to make sure you don’t miss out. The museum displays the work of one of Japan’s most popular anime studios, Studio Ghibli. While fans of such animated films as Spirited Away and My Neighbor Totoro will likely enjoy the Ghibli Museum most, anyone interested in this aspect of contemporary Japanese culture will find this a fun destination.

Tokyo National Museum—Asian Art and Artifacts

One of the oldest and largest collections of art in Japan, the Tokyo National Museum displays a huge collection of Japanese and Asian art (mainly traditional) and artifacts, including archaeological finds. It’s located in the large Ueno Park, which also houses other attractions, such as the Ueno Zoo.

National Museum of Modern Art (MOMAT)—For Regular International Exhibits

MOMAT, located near the Imperial Palace, displays Japanese and Western artists mainly of the 20th century. It’s a particularly good place to go to see temporary exhibits from abroad, as many big-name artists and art movements from around the world are displayed here.

Matsuoka Museum of Art—Ancient Artifacts from Abroad

While the Matsuoka Museum of Art displays some modern art (such as Henry Moore sculptures), most people come to see the ancient art and artifacts, such as Indian Buddhist stone carvings and Chinese ceramics.