If you’re looking for the perfect 3-day itinerary for Tokyo, Japan, this is it! Whether it’s your first visit or you’re returning for more, this guide will help you make the most of your time in this vibrant city. Of course, I have to include my food recommendations and top coffee spots!
I had some expiring miles to burn and needed an easy (but fun!) travel destination that I knew I wouldn’t be bored with. Japan, a place I’ve visited a couple of times, never seems to lose its charm. Tokyo is incredibly solo-friendly, making it the perfect choice since no one else could join me on a whim – boo!
Whether you’re planning a solo trip or with friends and family, here’s my guide on how to spend 3 perfect days in Tokyo, along with some food recommendations, with a special highlight on Halal or Muslim-friendly spots!
Tokyo in Summer
I visited Tokyo at the end of June, where summer is just beginning, but it’s not too unbearably hot and humid yet. Summers in Japan are notoriously known to be the worst. When it rains, it rains the whole day with no breaks in between. When it’s not raining, it’s suffocatingly hot and humid.
If you went in summer like I did, make sure to bring a small umbrella with you. When it rains in Japan, it rains ALL DAY LONG. If you don’t own one, then get one in Japan! Japanese umbrellas are my absolute favourite because they’re super compact and light, yet sturdy enough to withstand some wind if you’re stuck in a rainstorm. They also offer high UV protection – you need this under the beating rays of intense sun!
How many days do you really need in Tokyo?
The answer to this varies! Personally, I think 3-4 days is perfect for a taste of Tokyo, though some might argue for a full week. If you’re not a fan of crowds though, even one day might be enough! Tokyo is one of the most densely populated cities in the world!
Day 1 – Shinjuku
Shinjuku is one of Tokyo’s most dynamic and vibrant districts, its core being Shinjuku station being the busiest train station in the world! In the day time, you’ll find a lot of good shopping and good food located in this area. I stayed in Shinjuku, so technically everyday is a Shinjuku day!
Don’t miss out on seeing Godzilla at Hotel Gracery and the 3D Cat billboard!
At night, the place transforms as the neon-lit Kabukicho area coming alive. Known as Tokyo’s entertainment (and red-light district – but just traces of it, your kids will be none the wiser!). Nearby, Golden Gai offers a nostalgic dive into Tokyo’s past with its narrow alleys packed with tiny, quirky bars. Omoide Yokocho, otherwise charmingly known as ‘Piss Alley’ is similar to Golden Gai, except perhaps more casual. Even if you don’t drink (like me!), it’s fun to walk the narrow alleys and explore.
You’d find most stores in Tokyo closes at 8pm, but in Shinjuku the major shops and restaurants closes slightly later; 9 to 10pm. You’ll find a couple of Don Quixotes here, GU, Uniqlo, ABC Mart, even a flagship Disney store. I always stock up on Japanese skincare at Don Quixote, so having one near the accommodation just means I’m not lugging back my purchases from elsewhere! There are also huge electronics megastores. The best part about most of the shops here is that most have tax refund.
There are plenty of good food options here as well! More places are open later as well so there’s no need to rush for meals. Even if restaurants are closed, there are plenty of izakayas around, so you can still eat, albeit tapas bites!
One of my highlights was at Sushizanmai, for fresh fatty tuna sushi! Sushizanmai originated at Tsukiji, and it has turned into somewhat of a chain restaurant scattered around Tokyo. I don’t mind this at all – the quality is still good and fresh, and I like a reliable spot to have my fatty tunas. I didn’t have to queue for a seat anymore, so that’s also a point awarded! I had Halal wagyu ramen for the first time as well – I highly recommend the wagyu sushi, the wagyu was tender buttery soft!
If shopping is not your thing, then head to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for a breathtaking view of Tokyo at the observation deck. Best of all, it’s free. On exceptionally clear days, you can even spot Mt Fuji.
I chose Shinjuku as my Tokyo base this time round for a number of reasons, but the most importantly: it’s SO easy to travel to anywhere (in or out of Tokyo!) from Shinjuku Station! This is the BUSIEST station in Tokyo, so a lot of connections start here. There is no need to hunt down connections too much.
Overall, there’s a lot to see in Shinjuku. If you’re a photographer you’re going to have a great time here. Nighttime Shinjuku is not to be missed; so if you’d like to squeeze in more things in the daytime, pair this with Asakusa in the daytime (read further on for this!)
TLDR; Highlights in Shinjuku
- Godzilla and 3D Shinjuku Cat Billboard
- Kabukicho
- Golden Gai and Omoide Yokocho ‘Piss Alley’
- Free aerial view of Tokyo at Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
- Good shopping and good food!
What to Eat
- Sushi Zanmai: A popular sushi and sashimi spot in Tsukiji, branched out in other spots in Tokyo!
- Tsukijisushiko: Sushi and sashimi
- Uogashi Nihon-Ichi Standing Sushi Bar: If you want a true Tokyo sushi experience on a budget, visit standing sushi bars! As its name suggests, there are NO SEATS here – stand at the counter facing the sushi chef and order your sushi. I enjoyed my time at Uogashi Nihon-ichi, very foreigner-friendly with ultra friendly chefs, and no compromise on quality.
- Sushi Bar Nigirite: Sushi and sashimi
- Shin Udon: This is a popular handmade udon shop, be prepared to queue.
- Watanabe Soba: Handmade soba noodles
- Kameya: A fast-moving soba shop with cheap eats
- Gyukatsu Motomura: Beef katsu cutlets
- Gyukatsu Kyoto: Beef katsu cutlets
- Kyoto Saryo-suisen: Warabimochi dessert
- Kori Obake: Kakigori / shaved ice desserts
Halal/Muslim Friendly Options
- Halal Wagyu Ramen
- Honolu Ramen
- Genki Taisho Wagyu
Coffee Spots
- Sarutahiko Coffee
- Verve Coffee
- Blue Bottle Coffee
Day 2 – Shibuya / Omotesando / Harajuku
I started my day at Shibuya station, and made my way towards the infamous Shibuya Crossing! This crossing is iconic, but the more time you spend in Tokyo, the more you realise smaller scale versions of this crossing are everywhere. Regardless, a fun ‘touristy’ thing to do whilst in Shibuya.
I walked further on to make my way to Kiwamiya, a hamburg steak specialty eatery at Shibuya Parco. I arrive around 12 noon, just in time for lunch, but that also meant I had to queue! The line moves relatively fast though; I waited 30 minutes before I got a seat (and yes, 30 minutes is considered fast for any popular restaurants in Tokyo). Kiwamiya has a Halal menu, so of course I had to try it.
I enjoyed my meal so much – this is possibly my favourite meal on this trip. Tender wagyu mince that they freshly slap into a hamburg ball, and lightly grilled. They leave it up to you to pluck off pieces of hamburg and continue to cook it to your preference on the grill. I tried this all ways – medium rare, medium, done to a crisp – and they were all delicious.
After my satisfying meal, I went right across Parco Shibuya to Caffe Excelsior for Cremia Ice Cream! Creamia ice cream is – and I don’t say this lightly – the best ice cream I’ve ever had! It’s made of Hokkaido milk, so it’s thick. It’s almost buttery, but in the best way possible. Paired with the signature cookie cone… perfection.
If you’ve never tried Cremia ice cream, please seek it out when you’re in Japan! I first had it in Hokkaido at freezing temperatures. In Tokyo’s summer though, it melted super quickly, so make sure to enjoy it as fast as possible!
To work off my meal I made my way to Omotesando. I took the subway over (just a quick stop over) but if it’s not summer, it would have been a comfortable walk. There’s a Blue Bottle cafe near the stop, so I got myself an iced latte.
Omotesando is a lovely area with a lot of flagship luxury shops, boutique labels and high-end vintage shops. If you’re looking for the best vintage Hermes, Chanel or Dior, this area is your best bet. Some notable shops include Amore Vintage and Qoo. The vintage goods here are very high-quality, good as new, so you’re going to find the best ones in this little area.
If you’re not interested to shop, there’s also plenty of cute cafes and boutique shops in this charming neighbourhood.
My day ended here, but you can walk further to Harajuku. I would say Harajuku is best visited on weekends; this is when the full force of Japanese sub-cultures come out to show off their outfits and therefore the best time to people watch – kawaii, goth kids, gyaru! All things Kawaii lives in Harajuku, so that might be a fun place to be.
Once you’re over the crowd and cacophony of colours, make your way to Yoyogi Park and visit the iconic Meiji Shrine. Against the chaos of Harajuku, this park is pure peace. Even when there’s a lot of people, it somehow still maintains some quiet and peace. If you visit Meiji Shrine on a weekend, there’s a high chance you can witness a traditional Japanese wedding!
Do note of Meiji Shrine’s opening hours! To not rush, you can work this itinerary in reverse, so start with:
- Yoyogi Park & Meiji Shrine
- Harajuku
- Omotesando
- Shibuya
TLDR; Highlights in Shibuya:
- Shibuya Crossing
- Kiwamiya Hamburg for lunch and Cremia Ice Cream for dessert
- Vintage shopping and exploring cafes in Omotesando
- People watching and indulging in kawaii treats in Harajuku
- Enjoy peace in Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park
Where to Eat
- Menchirashi: Udon Noodles
- bills: For delicious ricotta pancakes!
Halal/Muslim Friendly Options
- Kiwamiya: Hamburg steak teppanyaki
- Gyumon: Yakiniku
Coffee Spots
- Blue Bottle Coffee
- Sarutahiko Coffee The Bridge
- KOFFEE MAMEYA
- Streamer Coffee
- The Roastery by Nozy
Day 3 – Tsukiji / Ginza
Day 3 starts bright and early to get to Tsukiji Outer Market! Tsukiji used to be where the is a touristy place now, and it has received some flak for not being ‘authentic’ anymore. The atmosphere is bustling and teeming with tourists, but doesn’t mean it’s not FUN! Doesn’t matter how often I’ve been to Tsukiji, I can still enjoy my time there.
The food options here will astound you – typically you would want to have a sushi or sashimi breakfast at any one of the eateries there, but to be honest since the Tsukiji Fish Market is not located there anymore, you will find the same quality and freshness at any other good sushi restaurants in Tokyo. Doesn’t mean it’s not good and fresh though! The quality here is excellent, though you may need to queue to score a seat.
I chose to skip the sushi and sashimi bowls this time round, and instead fill up on the many other snacks in the market:
- Tamagoyaki: Definite must-try! These eggy skewers are savoury sweet goodness, with a custardy, jiggly insides. YUM!
- Grilled Seafood: Lots of grilled crab legs, scallops, oysters.
- Giant Seafood Crackers: If there’s an IT-girl in the form of a cracker, it’s probably these giant seafood crackers freshly made to order. Fun to watch it being made, fun to eat… but only for a while. Only get this to share!
- Fresh Fruits: Japanese fruits are legendary, and strawberries are popular in Tsukiji. I’m not feeling the strawberries (they’re not in season anyway) so I was so happy to find Melon instead! I don’t know if they were in season, but they were so sweet!
- Croquettes
While I did just fine with my credit card in other parts of Tokyo, Tsukiji is a cash-only location – so keep that in mind!
Once you’ve had your breakfast/brunch fill at Tsukiji, walk further towards Ginza.
In between, grab yourself an amazing cup of coffee at either one of two of my favourite coffee joints in Tokyo:
- Turret Coffee
- Bongen Coffee
You know you’ve arrived in Ginza when you’re surrounded by luxury boutiques! Ginza is where the concentration of high-end brands are located, but there’s also mid-range brands for the rest of us peasants such as Uniqlo, GU and Zara. If you’re looking for Onitsuka Tiger sneakers, there’s an outlet here with ‘Made in Japan’ only shoes.
Shopping is not on my Ginza agenda, but food is! For dinner, I went to Itsuki Tendon for a tempura bowl! I arrived about 15 minutes earlier before they opened for dinner service, and I was glad I decided to pop by earlier. Just 5 minutes later a LONG queue formed behind me.
Super light and crispy battered tempura prawns and vegetables with a delicious sauce. This was so satisfying! The chawanmushi, or egg custard, took me by surprise. It was undoubtedly one of the best chawanmushi I’ve had in my life… and I’ve had plenty!
TLDR; Highlights in Tsukiji / Ginza
- Foodie adventure at Tsukiji Outer Market
- Enjoy the best coffee in Tokyo at Turret and Bongen Coffee
- Shop at Ginza
Other Highlights Near or Around Tsukiji / Ginza
- Imperial Palace
- See Tokyo from above at Tokyo Tower
- Nightlife at Roppongi
Where to Eat
Halal/Muslim Friendly Options
- Kiwamiya: Hamburg steak teppanyaki at Tokyo Station
- Tendon Itsuki: Amazing tempura bowls!
- Gonpachi (Roponggi)
Coffee Spots
- Turret Coffee
- Bongen Coffee
BONUS DAY – Asakusa
I didn’t make it to Asakusa this time round, but if it’s your first time in Tokyo, then you have to make your way there. Asakusa is one of Tokyo’s most iconic districts, retaining a lot of Japan’s traditional charm – a nice respite from the city’s modernities!
Once you arrive into Asakusa, make your way towards Senso-ji Temple, unmistakable from afar with its massive, Kaminarimon Gate and its giant red lantern. Senso-ji Temple is Tokyo’s oldest and most significant Buddhist temple, dating back to the 7th century. As you walk towards Senso-ji Temple, you’ll likely pass through the huge and bustling Nakamise Shopping Street, filled with stalls selling all sorts of traditional snacks and souvenirs. Yes, it’s going to be crowded, but which place in Tokyo that’s worth visiting isn’t?
If you’re planning to get snacks (you should!) make sure to bring cash. Like Tsukiji, Asakusa street vendors still operate on a cash-only basis.
Some snacks you should get:
- Melon pan
- Warabimochi
- Matcha Gelato: Plenty of matcha gelatos in Asakusa; the most famous is Suzukien, which comes with 7 levels of matcha strength!
- Menchikatsu: There is the famous Asakusa menchi which does a combination of pork and beef, so I’ve never tried it. I purchased menchikatsu from Meijiya, called Otona, which is made from 100% beef wagyu. Truly delectable with a richness from the beef. I highly recommend!
- Traditional Snacks: There’s a lot of traditional snacks along the streets of Asakusa that I highly recommend you try such as freshly made senbeis or rice crackers, or ningyo-yaki or doll-shaped cakes – which I’ve not seen anywhere else outside of Asakusa.
I found that I could spend my day very easily just in the Senso-ji area, but if you ventured out, it’s a nice exploration amongst traditional, historic buildings.
If you’re into quality Japanese kitchenware, make your way to Kappabashi Kitchen Town. If you’re ever on the hunt for Japanese knives (which are the best ever), this is where you want to be. Even if you don’t need any kitchen tools, it’s nice to simply roam around and check out lovely Japanese ceramics and fun realistic wax food samples used as displays at restaurants!
Where to Eat
Halal/Muslim-Friendly Options
- Asakusa Sushiken
- Honolu Ramen
- Ayam-Ya
- Gyumon Halal Ramen
- Wagyu Yakiniku Panga: I visited this recently and LOVED my experience. Extremely quality Kyushu wagyu that simply melts in the mouth. I highly recommend!
- Gonpachi Asakusa Azumabashi
BONUS DAY – Day Trips
If you have an extra day in Tokyo, you might want to take a daytrip! If you’re located in Shinjuku, you can easily make these day trips by bus or train. I prefer trains over buses because they’re a lot more comfortable with not much of a price difference, unless the bus option is a direct route. With trains you may need to make a few transfers before reaching the destination; it might not be worth the trouble!
- Nikko
Especially for nature lovers! If you need a break from the concrete jungle of Tokyo, head over to Nikko, an easy day trip away. I did an easy hike when I was there, and appreciated the breath of fresh air. Japan nature is truly beautiful.
- Mt Fuji / Fujikawaguchiko / Lake Kawaguchiko
When anyone mentions a daytip to Mt Fuji, they don’t mean literally Mt Fuji! Likely it’s to Lake Kawaguchiko and the surrounding town where you get amazing views of Mt Fuji! The first time I did the daytrip , it was in time for the Shibazakura Flower Festival. Be sure to give a quick google search of any flower festivals happening when you’re making your way to see Fujisan. Otherwise, the town itself is cute to explore.
- Gotemba Premium Outlets
This is the day trip I did on this trip! Gotemba Premium Outlet has the added benefit of having a view of Mt Fuji – so you’re not feeling too sheepish like you JUST went there to shop. “No, I’m here for the view of Mt Fuji too…”
I especially wanted to make this trip because I wanted to get myself a Le Creuset! The deals were amazing, plus with the depreciating yen at the moment, Le Creuset at Gotemba outlets are one of the best value you can score for yourself at this time. Let me just say I went with the intention to get just ONE dutch oven, and I left with 3 Le Creusets pots.
Another benefit was that Staub cast iron pots were also stocked right next door at Zwilling! So if you’re considering between a Le Creuset or Staub, this is probably the best place for you to make your comparisons. The Staub collection was impressive by the way, so this was not an easy choice for me to make!
Tips & Tricks
Dining
- Try to have your meals earlier or later – basically on non-standard meal times – to avoid long queues. Weekends are fair game though; there are reportedly snaking queues at anywhere popular!
- Apparently Tabelog is the go-to local app for food recommendations, therefore you’re supposed to get authentic locations that are not touristy. I’ve only tried to use the app once, and it’s not user-friendly for a non-Japanese like me, so I abandoned it. Give it a go and let know how it fared for you!
Shopping
- Bring your passport along with you if shopping for instant tax refunds.
- Most convenience stores or small stalls won’t provide bags – or at least not for a fee. Bring along a compact foldable grocery bag!
Essential Apps
- Use Google Maps to get anywhere AND save food locations.
- Speaking of Google, make sure to download Google Translate on your phone.
- The public transportation is efficient and well-linked, but if you need to grab a cab, I recommend downloading Uber. Uber is about 20% cheaper than the local Japanese taxis. A bonus point is that communication is easier since you pin your location within the app itself. With cabbies I always find it to be a bit of a struggle to explain the location – trust me, pointing it out on your Google Maps does not help – if it’s not a common drop-off point.
Getting Around
- To pay for transportation I use the Suica card. I have an Apple phone, so I download Suica straight to my Apple Wallet. It’s the best ever and SO convenient to recharge using Apple Pay. Otherwise you can also easily purchase a physical Suica card at most convenience stores or train stations, but you would need to recharge each time the value runs out. Besides on trains, buses and taxis, you can also use your Suica card at convenience stores! If you have some balance in your card at the end of your trip, use it at the airport to get snacks. There are also multi-day passes you can get that gives you unlimited rides in the city if you don’t want to have the hassle of recharging your card.
- Stay near train stations for easy access to anywhere! Sure it may not be as “peaceful”, but if you don’t have a lot of time in Tokyo, do you really want to be wasting time traveling?
- Avoid the rush hour timings between 8 to 9am and 6 to 7pm to avoid getting squished on trains. That said, if you have to travel in those times, just squeeze. It’s not that bad; no one’s physically touching you! The crowd thins out at larger transit stations.
So there you have it—my whirlwind three days in Tokyo! If this guide helped you out or if you’ve braved a Tokyo summer recently, let me know in the comments below, drop me an email or dm me on IG! Whether it’s a cozy ramen joint, quirky izakaya, or some secret Tokyo food, I’m all ears for your Tokyo tips. Let’s swap stories and eats!
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