Vacation in Tokyo: my tips and info Attractions, Tours & Vacation Tips

The bright, colorful, huge metropolis of Tokyo is hardly comparable to any other place in the world. Dive into a maze of bustling streets, cosplayers, delicious noodle restaurants, and hyper-modern technology.

Getting to Tokyo

You do not need a visa to enter Japan, only a valid passport – provided you stay in the country for less than 90 days. We have compiled all the entry details for you:

You can either fly from international destinations or take the train from other Japanese cities, such as Kyoto, to Tokyo.

When Should I Travel to Tokyo?

The most beautiful and also the most temperate times to visit Tokyo are in the spring and autumn. Summer brings sweltering hot, unbearable temperatures, and in winter it can get unpleasantly cold. However, beware: Try to avoid Japan’s official holidays if possible – during these times, all attractions are very crowded, and accommodation prices increase. We have created an extensive guide for you here:

How Long Should I Stay in Tokyo?

Of course, this depends on how large your vacation budget is! Tokyo is a huge city with an incredible number of attractions, and you could easily spend a month with exciting activities. However, for a first trip, four days to a week is sufficient.

What Should I Do in Tokyo?

There is, of course, an incredible amount to do and see – but one of the highlights of your Tokyo trip is guaranteed if you simply take the time to absorb the city and let yourself drift for a while. Sit in a cafe and watch life pass you by. Of course, we have also gathered the best attractions for you.

Attractions

Tokyo Skytree

This TV tower is the second tallest building in the world. Don’t miss the view from above the city and take a memorable photo from one of the two observation decks.

Tokyo Tower

This is one of Tokyo’s most iconic landmarks – and it is an exact copy of the Eiffel Tower in Paris! You can also go up this tower.

Tsukiji Fish Market

Tokyo’s fish market is the largest fish market in the world. Every morning, a fish auction takes place here, where huge tuna are sold.

Shibuya

This district is known for its shopping streets – and for one of the most famous intersections in the world: the massive Shibuya Crossing.

Harajuku

This is Tokyo’s fashion center! Here you will see wildly styled cosplayers, can shop in chic clothing stores, and have a beer in cool bars.

Robot Restaurant

You may have already heard of the world-famous Robot Restaurant. It is not a traditional restaurant, but more of a show – and quite a unique one! However, the tickets are not exactly cheap.

Ueno Park

This beautiful park is especially worth a visit during cherry blossom season. But even outside the blooming season, the park is worth seeing with its two shrines. Tip: Plan your visit during the week – then the park is significantly less crowded.

Food & Drink

Of course, there are an incredible number of restaurants serving delicious Japanese specialties. What you must eat in Tokyo are ramen noodles – they are particularly good in the Japanese capital. They are available almost everywhere: from fancy star-rated restaurants to cheap snack bars. We have also selected five restaurants that you absolutely should visit.

Sushi No Midori

This is one of the most popular sushi restaurant chains in Tokyo. There are several different outlets, including in Shibuya and Ginza.

Tsuta

Here you get the famous ramen of excellent quality: This ramen bar even has a Michelin star.

Nakiryu

This is also a ramen bar – and it also has a Michelin star. By the way: At both restaurants, the ramen is ordered at the machine and then picked up in the restaurant.

Kudan Otsuka

Authentic and extremely delicious are the traditional Japanese dishes here. The menu changes constantly, and you have probably never eaten some of the ingredients before!

Kondo

Tempura tastes especially delicious here: The fried vegetable pieces and seafood are incredibly light and wonderfully crispy.

Nightlife

There is something to do around the clock in Tokyo! So take it a bit easier with sightseeing to have energy in the evenings!

Shinjuku

This district is perfect for an evening out in Tokyo. Here you will find three highlights:

• Omoide Yokocho: This nostalgic alley is full of traditional pubs – called Izakayas
• Golden Gai: A colorful collection of small bars and venues
• Kabukicho: Tokyo’s red-light district. However, there are also countless clubs, bars, and gaming establishments here

Ginza

Here you will find elegant bars and exclusive clubs. Caution: Many of them reserve entry for members only.

Shibuya

Tokyo’s hip residents gather in this district at night. There are many bars with live music and clubs for every music genre.

Clubs

Especially in Shibuya and Roppongi, there are some very famous nightclubs.

Karaoke

This is one of the favorite leisure activities of the Japanese – and one of the indispensable aspects of Japanese culture! You can find karaoke venues in Japan on every corner.

Hotels / Hostels / Airbnbs in Tokyo

There are accommodation options in Tokyo for every budget. You can choose between hotels, hostels, and Airbnbs. We tell you what to look for when booking – and we also have some Airbnb tips for you.

Hotels

Let’s start with hotels. Hotels are normally equipped with beds, have access to a bathroom, and are relatively comfortable, just like in the "Western world." Depending on how much money you want to spend, your room in Tokyo can be quite small or very spacious. In Japan, especially in Tokyo, there is chronic space shortage in living accommodations. Be sure to look at photos in advance if you are specifically looking for a slightly more spacious room.

By the way: We cooperate with the most popular hotel booking portal, booking.com . This means that if you book a hotel through us on Booking.com, we receive a commission, which naturally helps us a lot. However, it does not cost you anything extra! And of course, we don’t only select expensive hotels to earn more commission – we offer you alternatives for every budget! The final choice of whether you book a hotel or not is, of course, up to you :) #Transparency :)

Cheap Hotels

You would prefer to spend your vacation budget on other things than your hotel? Then this category is for you! However, with around €50 - €100, hotels in Tokyo are still not really cheap. A tip: If you can stay slightly outside the city, it is usually a bit cheaper. In the city, unfortunately, you will hardly find cheaper hotels. It’s best to look at all the photos and read the reviews carefully to avoid negative surprises.

What Should I Look for in Cheap Hotels in Tokyo?

There are many hotels that are actually not hotels at all. This means that although you have your own room, other rooms like the shower, toilet, etc., are shared. If you want to have a room and bathroom to yourself, look at the description very carefully!

The location is also very important! Tokyo is very large. If you want to spend too much time on the train, you should look for hotels near train stations. But even here: Look in advance how long you will be traveling by train to attractions.

Search for Cheap Hotels in Tokyo* 

Henn na Hotel Asakusa Tawaramachi

"Henn na Hotel Tokyo Asakusa Tawaramachi is located in Tokyo, 300 m from Honpo-ji Temple and offers concierge service, non-smoking rooms, a restaurant, free Wi-Fi throughout the building, and a bar. There are family rooms and a terrace. The accommodation is near popular attractions such as the grave of Hokusai Katsushika." - Source: Booking.com

 Book on Booking.com *

Sotetsu Fresa Inn Tokyo Kanda

"Henn na Hotel Tokyo Asakusa Tawaramachi is located in Tokyo, 300 m from Honpo-ji Temple and offers concierge service, non-smoking rooms, a restaurant, free Wi-Fi throughout the building, and a bar. There are family rooms and a terrace. The accommodation is near popular attractions such as the grave of Hokusai Katsushika." - Source: Booking.com

Book on Booking.com *

Mid-Range Hotel

By this, we mean hotels in the price range between €100 - €150  per night per person. However, prices can vary greatly. Depending on how well-equipped the hotel is, it can quickly become more expensive.

With "normal" hotels, you can already expect a lot. A private bathroom should be included at least with the price. The location should also be relatively central. After all, you are not paying more money for nothing!

What Should I Look for in Mid-Range Hotels in Tokyo?

Since you are paying a bit more, you can also expect a bit more. Think about what your priorities are and choose your hotel accordingly.

If you want a good view, you should definitely look for hotels that are in relatively tall buildings. But also check whether you only have a good view from one side!

You can also consider the food. If you prefer to dine at the hotel, you should choose one whose restaurant is well-rated. This also contributes to the higher price.

Search for Hotels in Tokyo* 

Shinagawa Prince Hotel

"The Prince Hotel offers you 15 dining and drinking venues, 2 pools, and its own aquarium. The accommodation is located directly next to Shinagawa JR Station, from which Tokyo-Haneda Airport can be reached by train in just 25 minutes. The 39-story hotel has a beautiful view of Tokyo and free Wi-Fi throughout the building." - Source: Booking.com

Book on Booking.com *

Shinagawa Prince Hotel East Tower

"Shinagawa Prince Hotel East Tower welcomes you with city views of Tokyo, located 3.7 km from Tokyo Tower. This 4-star hotel features a bar and air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi, each equipped with its own bathroom. The accommodation has a restaurant and the Happoen Garden is 1.9 km away." - Source: Booking.com

Book on Booking.com * 

Good Hotels

We classify everything that costs over €200 as good hotels. Perfect for people who want to stay well in Japan.

What Should I Look for in Expensive Hotels in Tokyo?

If you don’t have to worry about your budget, you can primarily go by what you like! There are extremely stylish hotels in Tokyo – so you are guaranteed to find a real highlight!

 Search for Good Hotels in Tokyo* 

Mitsui Garden Hotel

"With views of the city and Tokyo Bay, the Mitsui Garden Hotel Ginza Premier, renovated in March 2013, awaits you. Enjoy elegant, stylish rooms. Within a 4-minute walk, you reach Shimbashi Station, and within a 10-minute walk, the Ginza district. You can use the free Wi-Fi in all areas of the accommodation." - Source: Booking.com

"The Prince Hotel offers you 15 dining and drinking venues, 2 pools, and its own aquarium. The accommodation is located directly next to Shinagawa JR Station, from which Tokyo-Haneda Airport can be reached by train in just 25 minutes. The 39-story hotel has a beautiful view of Tokyo and free Wi-Fi throughout the building." - Source: Booking.com

Book on Booking.com * 

Hostels

Hostels are significantly simpler than hotels but are perfect if you are either traveling alone or like to meet other travelers. Most often, bathrooms and common rooms are shared with other travelers. Very popular in Japan are Capsule Hotels, where the beds are separated. This way, you have hostel flair and still comparatively a lot of privacy.

Buena Àrte Hostel

"In Tokyo, 300 m from Yokoamicho Park, Buena Àrte Hostel offers air-conditioned accommodations and a bar. The accommodation features a restaurant, a 24-hour reception, and a common lounge, as well as free Wi-Fi throughout the property." - Source: Booking.com

Book on Booking.com * 

Mustard Hotel Shibuya

"Mustard Hotel Shibuya offers you air-conditioned accommodations in Tokyo, 600 m from Kin Hachimangu Shrine. The accommodation features a bar. Other facilities include a restaurant, a 24-hour reception, and a shared kitchen." - Source: Booking.com

Book on Booking.com * 

Samurai Hostel Asakusa

"Samurai Hostel Asakusa opened in May 2016 and awaits you in the Taito district of Tokyo, just a 3-minute walk from Asakusa Subway Station. Sensoji Temple is just a 1-minute walk away, and Tokyo Skytree can be reached after a 3-minute train ride. Enjoy free Wi-Fi in all areas and an on-site bar." - Source: Booking.com

Book on Booking.com *

Airbnb

Airbnbs are an extremely practical alternative to hotels and hostels. However, since June 2018, new laws have greatly restricted Airbnbs in Japan. There are now very strict rules for hosts. Additionally, you should make sure that the hosts speak at least some English – this is not quite a given in Japan. Here we have selected three Airbnbs for you:

• Cheap: Seidokan Private Room
• Mid-Range: Gallery Stay Denchi
• Expensive: Yuuntei Asakusa

Flight to Tokyo (NRT / HND)

The flight from Germany to Japan takes about 11 hours. These can be either direct or with a layover. There are two airports near Tokyo: Narita International Airport (located about 60 kilometers east of Tokyo) and Haneda Airport Tokyo (about 14 kilometers south of the city). There are straightforward train connections from both airports into the city.

Flight to Narita (NRT)

Narita Airport is Japan’s second most important airport. It is served by most international airlines. Low-cost carriers like Jetstar also land here. From Narita International Airport, there are two trains that will take you to the center of Tokyo.

Flight to Haneda (HND)

This airport is located only 14 kilometers south of Tokyo. You land here if you have departed from an airport in Japan. Occasionally, it is also served by international airlines. It is significantly cheaper to travel from Haneda Airport to the center of Japan.

Tips for Your Tokyo / Japan Trip

• Get a rechargeable ticket for public transportation. This works for all trains and buses in Tokyo

• Rent a portable Wi-Fi router. Here we have compiled all the details for you

• Inform yourself about the do’s and don’ts in Japanese culture before your trip. If you’re not sure how to behave, follow the locals around you

• Don’t give tips – this is not part of Japanese culture!

• Eat Soba noodles when you’re hungry quickly – you can find soba places on every street corner and even at subway stations.