Start with these decisions
Start with three things: your hotel area, the route from the airport, and the sights you care about most. Shinjuku keeps daily transfers manageable for a first trip.
When to go
March to May and October to November are the windows this guide covers. Check event calendars, hotel availability, and any timed-entry rules before you set your dates.
Budget planning
A mid-range trip in Tokyo runs about JPY 12,000-22,000 per day, not including flights. What you actually spend depends on your hotel, transport, and how many ticketed attractions you visit in a single day.
Compare stay areas
Look at Shinjuku, Shibuya, Asakusa, and Ginza. Match each area to your airport route, the sights you want to see, where you plan to eat in the evening, and the hotel price.
Frequently asked questions
How many days do I need in Tokyo?
Four to seven days is the practical range. With a shorter trip, stay near Shinjuku. With more time, consider a quieter neighbourhood or a day trip outside the city.
Where should first-timers start looking in Tokyo?
Start with Shinjuku, then confirm that your hotel works with your airport route and the sights you plan to visit each day.
Sources
- Japan National Tourism Organization
Destination and seasonal travel facts; Locator: Tokyo destination overview and travel planning pages. Verified 2026-08-11.
- JR East
Rail fares and airport train information; Locator: Narita and Haneda airport train pages. Verified 2026-08-11.
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan
Visa and entry policy reference; Locator: visa exemption and entry requirements pages. Verified 2026-08-11.
- Tokyo Metro
Tokyo rail and route information; Locator: route maps and fare pages. Verified 2026-08-11.