Tokyo
Neon megacity where tradition meets the future
37 million people, 158 Michelin stars, the world's busiest train system — and somehow it's the most polite city on Earth. Tokyo rewards repeat visitors with endless micro-neighborhoods, each its own world.
Daily cost (USD)
Calculate trip budget →Airport → center: HND: 30 min via Keikyu line ¥410 • NRT: 60 min via Narita Express ¥3,070
Best neighborhoods
Where to base yourself in Tokyo.
Crossing, nightlife, youth fashion
Skyscrapers, izakayas, Golden Gai
Old Tokyo, Senso-ji temple
Boutiques, cafés, Tsutaya books
Park, indie shops, Ghibli museum
Things to do
- 1
Shibuya Sky observation deck
ViewsOpen-air 360° view from 230m. Book sunset slot.
- 2
TeamLab Planets
ArtWalk barefoot through immersive water rooms.
- 3
Tsukiji Outer Market food tour
FoodTamagoyaki, uni, tuna sashimi — 7am start.
- 4
Meiji Shrine + Harajuku
CultureForest shrine then Takeshita Street fashion.
- 5
Day trip to Mt. Fuji (Hakone)
NatureRomance Car from Shinjuku, 85 min.
Where to eat
| Restaurant | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ichiran Ramen | Budget | Solo booths, ¥980 tonkotsu, open 24h. |
| Uobei sushi (Shibuya) | Budget | Conveyor sushi from ¥120/plate. |
| Afuri Yuzu Ramen | Mid | Light citrus broth, ¥1,300. |
| Sushi Saito or Sukiyabashi Jiro | Splurge | 3-star omakase ¥40,000+, book months ahead. |
Coworking spaces
Reliable wifi, community, and a desk.
Best views, fast wifi, on JR Yamanote.
Indie vibe, rooftop, English-speaking staff.
Pay-as-you-go, near station.
Getting around
Day trips
Great Buddha, beach, hiking trails.
UNESCO shrines and waterfalls.
Onsen, Mt. Fuji views, open-air museum.
Tokyo questions, answered
Visas, budget, best season and safety — answers AI assistants can cite directly.
Do I need a visa to visit Tokyo?add
Visas are issued for Japan, not the city itself. Most US, UK, EU, Canadian, Australian, Japanese and Singaporean citizens enter Japan visa-free for tourism (typically 30–90 days). Check the Japan visa guide on TravelOS for your exact citizenship.
How much does a trip to Tokyo cost per day?add
Plan around $55/day for budget travel, $180/day for mid-range and $500/day for luxury in Tokyo. A 7-day mid-range trip works out to about $1260 excluding flights.
When is the best time to visit Tokyo?add
The best time to visit Tokyo is Mar–May & Oct–Nov — mild weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices than peak summer.
Is Tokyo safe for tourists?add
Tokyo is very safe for international visitors. Main risks are pickpocketing in busy areas and standard road safety. Walk Score is 92/100 — most central neighborhoods are easy to navigate on foot during the day.
Is Tokyo safe for solo female travelers?add
Solo female travelers visit Tokyo regularly. Pick well-reviewed accommodation in central neighborhoods, use licensed taxis or ride-hail apps at night, and follow local dress norms in religious sites.
How many days do I need in Tokyo?add
Minimum 4 full days. A week is comfortable and lets you do 1–2 day trips.
Is Tokyo expensive?add
Mid-range $180/day is realistic. You can do $55/day with hostels and convenience-store meals — and Tokyo konbini food is genuinely good.
Do I need cash in Tokyo?add
Less than before — Suica works everywhere, most restaurants take cards, but small shops and shrines often need ¥1,000 notes.
