2-Day Solo Adventure: Tokyo's Hidden Gems and Nightlife

Tokyo, Japan

2 days

Sensoji-ji, Temple in Asakusa
City skyline on the Sumida River
Akihabara game district
Panoramic view of the city
Sakura or cherry blossoms spring Meguro River

About Tokyo, Japan

Experience the vibrant culture and modern marvels of Tokyo, Japan's bustling capital. Marvel at the city's iconic landmarks like the Tokyo Tower, Meiji Shrine, and the historic Imperial Palace. Explore the world-renowned Tsukiji Fish Market and savor authentic sushi. Wander through the neon-lit streets of Shibuya and Shinjuku, and immerse yourself in the unique pop culture of Harajuku. Visit Akihabara for cutting-edge electronics and anime goods. Experience tranquility in the midst of urban chaos at Ueno Park and its zoo. Enjoy a panoramic view of the city from the Tokyo Skytree. Tokyo seamlessly blends tradition and innovation, offering a rich cultural experience, from traditional tea ceremonies to high-tech robot restaurants. Whether you're a foodie, a history buff, or a shopaholic, Tokyo has something for everyone.

2-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring Tokyo's Vibrant Neighborhoods and Nightlife

Morning

Start your day with a visit to a local fish market in Tokyo. Experience the hustle and bustle of the morning trade and try some of the freshest seafood in the city. Don't forget to try the sushi, it's a must!

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch in a local Izakaya. These casual dining spots are perfect for solo travelers, offering a variety of dishes and a friendly atmosphere.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the backstreets of Tokyo. Discover hidden gems and unique shops in the city's most vibrant neighborhoods. Don't miss the chance to visit a local artisan's workshop.

Dinner

Have dinner at a local Ramen Shop. Tokyo is famous for its ramen, and there's no better place to try this delicious dish than in a small, family-run shop.

Evening

Experience Tokyo's nightlife in one of the city's most popular entertainment districts. Enjoy live music, karaoke, and a variety of bars and clubs.

Morning

Start your second day with a visit to a traditional Japanese garden. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful scenery, and take the opportunity to learn about Japanese culture and history.

Lunch

Have lunch in a local sushi restaurant. Try different types of sushi and enjoy the fresh, high-quality ingredients.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring Tokyo's art scene. Visit a Contemporary Art Museum and discover the works of local and international artists.

Dinner

Enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner in a local restaurant. Try dishes like tempura, sashimi, and sake.

Evening

End your trip with a visit to a local jazz club. Enjoy live performances and experience the vibrant nightlife of Tokyo.

Attractions in Itinerary (7)

Izakaya

1
Izakaya

An izakaya is a type of informal Japanese pub. They are casual places for after-work drinking and eating. Izakayas are a staple of Japanese food culture and a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the culinary scene in Tokyo.

Food and Drink
Ramen Shop

2
Ramen Shop

Ramen shops are ubiquitous in Tokyo, offering a variety of regional and innovative styles of this beloved noodle soup.

Food and Drink
Contemporary Art Museum

3
Contemporary Art Museum

Tokyo's contemporary art museums showcase a diverse range of modern and contemporary art from Japan and around the world.

Museums
Hamarikyu Gardens

4
Hamarikyu Gardens

Hamarikyu Gardens is a large and beautiful public park in Tokyo. It features seawater ponds, a teahouse, and a stunning array of flowers and trees.

Parks
Gardens
Roppongi Entertainment District

5
Roppongi Entertainment District

Roppongi is a district famous for its vibrant nightlife. It's packed with bars, clubs, and restaurants, and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

Entertainment
Neighborhoods
Shimokitazawa

6
Shimokitazawa

Known as Tokyo's bohemian district, Shimokitazawa is a trendy neighborhood filled with unique vintage shops, indie music venues, and hip cafes.

Neighborhoods
Tsukiji Fish Market

7
Tsukiji Fish Market

One of the largest wholesale fish markets in the world, offering a unique insight into the seafood industry.

Attractions
Food and Drink
Shopping

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Sushi

Sushi

A world-renowned Japanese dish, sushi is a must-try when in Tokyo. It consists of vinegared rice combined with various ingredients, such as raw or cooked seafood, and vegetables.

Ramen

Ramen

Ramen is a popular noodle soup dish in Japan. It comes in various flavors like soy sauce, pork bone, and miso. A must-try comfort food when visiting Tokyo.

Sashimi

Sashimi

Sashimi is a traditional Japanese delicacy consisting of fresh raw fish or seafood sliced into thin pieces. It's a must-try for seafood lovers visiting Tokyo.

Tempura

Tempura

Tempura is a Japanese dish usually consisting of seafood or vegetables that have been battered and deep-fried. It's a popular dish in Tokyo.

Yakitori

Yakitori

Yakitori is a Japanese type of skewered chicken. It's a popular street food in Tokyo and a must-try for meat lovers.

Okonomiyaki

Okonomiyaki

Okonomiyaki is a Japanese savory pancake containing a variety of ingredients. It's a popular comfort food in Tokyo.

Udon

Udon

Udon is a type of thick wheat noodle often served hot as a noodle soup in a mildly flavored broth. It's a popular dish in Tokyo.

Matcha

Matcha

Matcha is a type of powdered green tea. It's a traditional drink in Japan and a must-try when visiting Tokyo.

Sake

Sake

Sake is a Japanese rice wine made by fermenting rice. It's a popular alcoholic beverage in Tokyo.

Shabu Shabu

Shabu Shabu

Shabu Shabu is a Japanese hotpot dish of thinly sliced meat and vegetables boiled in water. It's a popular dish in Tokyo.

Takoyaki

Takoyaki

Takoyaki is a ball-shaped Japanese snack made of a wheat flour-based batter and cooked in a special molded pan. It's filled with minced or diced octopus, tempura scraps, pickled ginger, and green onion. A popular street food in Tokyo.

Yakisoba

Yakisoba

Yakisoba is a classic Japanese stir fry noodles dish with pork and vegetables, and it’s seasoned with a sweet & savory sauce similar to Worcestershire sauce. It's a popular street food in Tokyo.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Tokyo, Japan is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these periods, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, and you can enjoy the beautiful cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant autumn leaves in fall. These seasons also offer a variety of festivals and events. However, it's worth noting that these are also peak tourist seasons, so popular attractions may be crowded. If you prefer a quieter trip, consider visiting in the winter months, when the city is less crowded and you can enjoy winter illuminations and hot springs.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 8

Mon

Coming of Age Day

February 11

Sun

National Foundation Day

February 12

Mon

National Foundation Day observed

February 23

Fri

Emperor's Birthday

March 20

Wed

Spring Equinox

April 29

Mon

Shōwa Day

May 3

Fri

Constitution Memorial Day

May 4

Sat

Greenery Day

May 5

Sun

Children's Day

May 6

Mon

Children's Day observed

July 15

Mon

Sea Day

August 11

Sun

Mountain Day

August 12

Mon

Day off for Mountain Day

September 16

Mon

Respect for the Aged Day

September 22

Sun

Autumn Equinox

September 23

Mon

Autumn Equinox observed

October 14

Mon

Sports Day

November 3

Sun

Culture Day

November 4

Mon

Culture Day observed

November 23

Sat

Labor Thanksgiving Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

This is a railway loop line in Tokyo, operated by East Japan Railway Company (JR East). It is one of Tokyo's busiest and most important lines, connecting most of Tokyo's major stations and urban centres.

Tokyo Metro is a rapid transit system in Tokyo. It is extensive and efficient, covering most of the city's main areas. It operates from early morning till late at night.

Operated by the Tokyo Metropolitan Bureau of Transportation, it complements the Tokyo Metro by providing service to areas not covered by the Metro.

This monorail system connects Haneda Airport with Hamamatsucho Station in central Tokyo.

Buses in Tokyo are a supplementary means of transport, often used for short distances or to reach destinations not covered by the train network.

Taxis are widely available throughout Tokyo. They are convenient but can be expensive for long distances.

Ridesharing services like Uber are available in Tokyo. However, they operate in a limited capacity, offering only premium black car services.

Tokyo is a bike-friendly city with numerous cycling paths and bike rental services. It's a great way to explore the city at your own pace.

Walking can be an enjoyable way to get around in Tokyo, especially in areas with heavy pedestrian traffic like Shibuya and Ginza.

Water buses operate on several routes along the Sumida River and Tokyo Bay, offering a different perspective of the city.

Renting a car is not recommended for getting around Tokyo due to heavy traffic, expensive tolls, and scarce parking.

The Shinkansen, or bullet train, is not used for travel within Tokyo but is an important mode of transport for reaching other cities in Japan from Tokyo.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency¥ JPY

Time zoneUTC+9

Driving sideLeft

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 119; Fire: 119; Police: 110

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type APower socket type B

Voltage100 V

Things to know about Tokyo, Japan as a first time visitor

1

Tokyo is a cash-based society. While credit cards are accepted in many places, it's a good idea to always carry some cash with you.

2

The city is known for its cleanliness. Littering is frowned upon, and you may struggle to find public trash cans.

3

Tokyo's public transportation system is efficient and punctual. Make sure to be on time for your train or bus, as they rarely run late.

4

Tipping is not customary in Japan. In fact, it can sometimes be seen as rude or confusing.

5

Japanese people are generally polite and reserved. Loud or boisterous behavior is often considered disrespectful.

6

Many Tokyo residents do not speak fluent English, so it may be helpful to learn a few basic Japanese phrases.

7

Smoking is not allowed on the streets in many areas of Tokyo. Look for designated smoking areas instead.

8

Tokyo is generally safe, but like any large city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.

9

The city is very pedestrian-friendly, with well-maintained sidewalks and crosswalks. However, be aware that traffic drives on the left in Japan.

10

Tokyo's tap water is safe to drink, and you'll often be served tap water for free at restaurants.

11

Convenience stores in Tokyo are truly convenient, offering a wide range of services from food and drinks to ATMs and postage.

12

Tokyo can be quite crowded, especially during rush hour. Be prepared for crowded trains and busy streets.

13

The weather in Tokyo can be quite variable. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching 86°F (30°C), while winters can be cold, with temperatures dropping to around 36°F (2°C).

14

Public restrooms are readily available and generally very clean. However, some may not provide toilet paper, so it's a good idea to carry some with you.

15

Many restaurants and shops in Tokyo do not open until 10 or 11 am, and many stay open late into the evening.

16

Tokyo is a city of high-tech and tradition. Don't be surprised to see a centuries-old shrine next to a skyscraper.

17

If you're planning to use public transportation frequently, consider getting a prepaid Suica or Pasmo card to make travel more convenient.

18

In Japan, it's customary to bow when greeting someone. The deeper the bow, the more respect is shown.

19

Tokyo is known for its high cost of living. However, there are plenty of affordable dining and shopping options if you know where to look.

20

If you're visiting in spring, don't miss the cherry blossoms. Tokyo has numerous parks and gardens where you can enjoy this beautiful spectacle.

Basic Japanese to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

こんにちは

Kon-ni-chi-wa

Greeting someone

Goodbye

さようなら

Sa-yo-u-na-ra

Leaving or saying goodbye

Thank you

ありがとう

A-ri-ga-to-u

Expressing gratitude

Please

お願いします

O-ne-gai-shi-masu

Making a request

Excuse me

すみません

Su-mi-ma-sen

Getting attention or apologizing

Yes

はい

Hai

Affirming or agreeing

No

いいえ

Ii-e

Denying or disagreeing

I don't understand

わかりません

Wa-ka-ri-ma-sen

When you don't understand something

Do you speak English?

英語を話せますか?

Ei-go o ha-na-se-ma-su ka?

Asking if someone speaks English

I'm sorry

ごめんなさい

Go-men-na-sai

Apologizing

Where is the bathroom?

トイレはどこですか?

To-i-re wa do-ko de-su ka?

Asking for the location of the bathroom

How much?

いくらですか?

I-ku-ra de-su ka?

Asking the price of something

Help!

助けて!

Ta-su-ke-te!

In an emergency or when in need of help

I'm lost

迷子です

Ma-i-go de-su

When you are lost

Can I have the menu, please?

メニューをください

Me-nyu- o ku-da-sai

Asking for the menu in a restaurant

Water, please

水をください

Mi-zu o ku-da-sai

Asking for water

Check, please

勘定お願いします

Kan-jo-u o-ne-gai-shi-masu

Asking for the bill in a restaurant

Good night

おやすみなさい

O-ya-su-mi-na-sai

Saying goodnight

Where is...?

...はどこですか?

...wa do-ko de-su ka?

Asking for a location

I would like...

...が欲しいです

...ga ho-shi-i de-su

Expressing a desire for something

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Underwear

  • Socks

  • T-shirts

  • Pants/Jeans

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Sweater or jacket (depending on the season)

  • Pajamas

  • Swimwear (if your hotel has a pool)

  • Raincoat or umbrella (if the forecast predicts rain)

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Hairbrush or comb

  • Makeup and makeup remover

  • Sunscreen

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Travel-sized first aid kit

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or other ID

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash (in local currency)

  • Hotel reservation confirmations

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Emergency contacts and important addresses

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Headphones

  • Camera

  • Charger for camera

  • Universal power adapter

  • Portable power bank

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Snacks

  • Bottled water

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Books or e-reader for the flight

  • Travel guide for Tokyo

  • Japanese phrasebook or language app

  • Reusable shopping bag

  • Gifts or souvenirs for hosts (if visiting friends or family)

Weather Conditions

When planning a trip to Tokyo, Japan, it's important to consider the city's climate to ensure you pack appropriately and plan your activities accordingly. Tokyo experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Spring (March to May) is a beautiful time to visit Tokyo, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C). This is also the season of cherry blossoms, a must-see spectacle. However, it can be quite crowded due to the influx of tourists, so be prepared for that. Summer (June to August) can be quite hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 80°F (27°C). This is also the season of the rainy period known as Tsuyu, which usually occurs in early summer. So, if you're visiting during this time, don't forget to pack a good quality umbrella and breathable clothing. Autumn (September to November) is another great time to visit Tokyo. The temperatures are comfortable, ranging from 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C), and the city is adorned with beautiful fall foliage. Winter (December to February) in Tokyo is relatively mild compared to other regions of Japan, with temperatures ranging from 35°F to 50°F (2°C to 10°C). Snowfall is rare but possible. If you're visiting during this time, be sure to pack warm clothing. Regardless of the season, it's always a good idea to check the weather forecast before your trip to make any necessary adjustments to your packing list. Also, keep in mind that Tokyo is a bustling city with lots of walking, so comfortable footwear is a must, regardless of the weather. Lastly, remember that the weather can change quickly, so it's always a good idea to carry a light jacket or umbrella, even if the day starts out sunny. Enjoy your trip to Tokyo!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

10° / 0°

January is the coldest month in Tokyo, with occasional snowfall. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy winter scenery and less crowded tourist spots.

February

11° / 1°

February is still quite cold, but the snowfall is less frequent. The plum blossoms start to bloom towards the end of the month, offering beautiful scenery.

March

14° / 4°

March sees the start of spring, with temperatures gradually rising. The cherry blossoms start to bloom, making it a popular time for tourists.

April

19° / 9°

April is a pleasant month with mild temperatures. The cherry blossoms are in full bloom, creating a picturesque landscape.

May

24° / 14°

May is warm and comfortable, with plenty of sunshine. It's a great time to explore the city and its parks.

June

28° / 18°

June is the start of the rainy season, with high humidity. Despite the rain, it's a good time to visit indoor attractions like museums and shopping centers.

July

32° / 22°

July is hot and humid, with frequent rain showers. It's a great time to visit the beaches and enjoy the summer festivals.

August

34° / 24°

August is the hottest month, with high humidity. Despite the heat, it's a popular time for traditional summer festivals and fireworks.

September

30° / 20°

September is still quite warm, but the humidity starts to decrease. It's a great time to visit as the autumn leaves start to change color.

October

24° / 14°

October offers comfortable temperatures and beautiful autumn foliage. It's a great time to explore the city and its parks.

November

18° / 8°

November is a cool and comfortable month. The autumn leaves are in full bloom, making it a popular time for tourists.

December

13° / 3°

December is a cool month with less rainfall. It's a great time to enjoy the winter illuminations and end-of-year festivities.

Did you know?

Did you know that Tokyo is the most populous metropolitan area in the world, with over 37 million residents?

1 of 10

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