3 Days in Tokyo: Ultimate First-Time Visitor Itinerary

The Imperial Palace is the primary residence of the Imperial Family and it's located in the heart of Tokyo. The marvelous palace is surrounded by large stone walls and moats, and it's also home to the beautiful East Gardens and the Imperial Palace Plaza. The palace grounds are open to the public, but the palace itself is off-limits, visitors can only see it on a guided tour. The palace has a rich history, it was built on the site of the Edo Castle, which was the residence of the Tokugawa shogun who ruled Japan from 1603 to 1867.

The Tokyo International Forum is a large conference and exhibition center located in the Marunouchi district. It is known for its unique architecture and its large glass façade. It is composed of several halls and exhibition spaces, and it hosts events such as concerts, conventions, and trade shows. The building was designed by the famous Japanese architect Rafael Viñoly and was opened in 1996.

Ginza is an upscale shopping district located in the heart of Tokyo, known for its high-end stores, restaurants, and department stores. The area is also home to several art galleries, theaters, and other cultural institutions. The district is also known for the famous Wako clock tower, a landmark of the area. It's a great place to shop, dine and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

The Tsukiji Outer Market is a collection of small shops and vendors located outside of the Tsukiji Fish Market, one of the world's largest fish markets. The market is known for its variety of seafood and other food items, as well as its lively atmosphere. Visitors can find a variety of seafood, fruits, vegetables, and also traditional Japanese sweets and kitchenware.

Hamarikyu Gardens (or Hama-Rikyu) offers a tranquil escape where Edo-period landscaping meets Tokyo’s modern skyline. Once a feudal lord’s retreat, the garden features tidal ponds, seasonal blossoms, and a charming teahouse for matcha overlooking the water. Its blend of history and serenity makes it a perfect stop between urban exploration, with striking contrasts of glass towers rising beyond lush greenery.

A timeless city icon, Tokyo Tower stands at 333 meters with panoramic observation decks revealing both urban sprawl and Mount Fuji on clear days. Its lattice design glows warmly at night, adding romance to the skyline. Beyond the views, the tower houses cultural exhibits, shops, and cafés, making it more than just a photo opportunity but a vibrant experience.

Tokyo Skytree rises 634 meters, redefining the city’s skyline as the world’s tallest tower. Its observation decks deliver breathtaking panoramas by day and dazzling illuminations by night. Beyond the views, Skytree hosts an aquarium, planetarium, and Tokyo Solamachi shopping complex with 300 stores and restaurants. Combining cutting-edge engineering and entertainment, it’s an unmissable centerpiece of modern Tokyo.

Asakusa Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the Asakusa district of Tokyo. It is dedicated to the three men who are said to have founded Senso-ji temple, the famous Buddhist temple in Asakusa. The shrine is known for its traditional architecture, including its large gate and its red and black wooden structure. It's a peaceful place to visit, and it's also wonderful for seeing traditional Japanese architecture.

Sensō-ji is an ancient Buddhist temple located in Asakusa. It is the oldest temple in Tokyo and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city. The temple is dedicated to the bodhisattva Kannon, and it's said to have been founded in the 7th century. The temple complex includes several buildings and gates, including the impressive Hōzōmon Gate, and it's also home to several statues and carvings.

The Hōzōmon Gate is a large gate that is the entrance to Senso-ji temple in Asakusa. It's known for its large and impressive wooden structure, and its large red paper lanterns, which are said to weigh 1 ton. The gate is also home to several large statues and carvings, including a large dragon sculpture.

Nakamise Shopping Street (Nakamise-dori Street) is located in front of Senso-ji temple in Asakusa, one of Tokyo's most famous tourist destinations. The street is lined with shops selling traditional Japanese goods such as souvenirs, traditional snacks, and kimonos.

Akihabara is Tokyo’s electric playground of anime, gaming, and cutting-edge electronics. Towering arcades, themed cafés, and specialty shops line the buzzing streets, offering endless discoveries for fans of pop culture and tech. From retro gaming consoles to the latest gadgets, Akihabara thrives on innovation and creativity, making it a must-visit district for experiencing Japan’s vibrant otaku culture firsthand.

Nakameguro is a trendy neighborhood located in the Meguro district of Tokyo. It's known for its stylish boutiques, cafes, and restaurants, as well as its winsome cherry blossom trees along the Meguro River. During the cherry blossom season, the river is lined with food stands and vendors selling cherry blossom-themed goods.

The Hachiko Statue in Shibuya, Japan is a famous meeting spot and a tribute to a loyal dog who waited for his owner every day. A must-see for animal lovers.

Harajuku is Tokyo’s epicenter of street fashion and youth culture, where bold creativity thrives. Stroll down Takeshita Street for vibrant boutiques, eclectic sweets, and eye-catching style, then explore Omotesando’s tree-lined avenue of architectural gems and luxury stores. Harajuku captures the spirit of individuality and trendsetting energy, offering an endlessly photogenic and dynamic slice of modern Tokyo culture.

Nestled in a forest of 100,000 trees, Meiji Jingu offers spiritual calm in the heart of Tokyo. Dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, this Shinto shrine blends solemn rituals with natural beauty. Visitors pass through towering torii gates before reaching the main hall, where traditions such as ema votive plaques and wedding processions reveal Japan’s enduring cultural heritage.

Yoyogi Park is a large public park located in the Shibuya district of Tokyo. The park is known for its large lawns, gardens, and cherry blossom trees. It's a popular spot for picnics, and also for sports and other outdoor activities. The park is also home to the Meiji Shrine, which is dedicated to the spirits of Emperor Meiji and his consort, Empress Shoken. It's a great place to relax and enjoy nature in the middle of the city.