Tokyo Travel Guide

Before you go

Arriving in Tokyo, plan extra time to reach your accommodation during peak hours. Use the airport transfer option that best matches your schedule and budget.

Reserve key attractions in Tokyo ahead of time if you travel in high season, and keep a digital copy of your tickets.

Full travel guide

This guide summarizes the key decisions travelers make before visiting Tokyo.

Best time to visit: March to May or October to November. Use this as the baseline for weather and crowd levels.

Arrival and first steps: Arriving in Tokyo, plan extra time to reach your accommodation during peak hours. Use the airport transfer option that best matches your schedule and budget. Reserve key attractions in Tokyo ahead of time if you travel in high season, and keep a digital copy of your tickets.

Getting around: Metro and JR lines are reliable. Public transport in Tokyo is the easiest way to move between neighborhoods. A day pass often saves money if you take multiple rides.

Where to stay: For first-time visitors, staying near Shinjuku keeps attractions and transit close. Neighborhoods to consider include Shinjuku, Shibuya, Asakusa.

Budget reality: expect $90-120 for budget travel and $150-220 for mid-range. Meals are typically $8-15 casual and lodging is $120-200 mid-range.

Clothing by season: Winter ? Warm coat, scarf, comfortable shoes. Spring ? Layers, light jacket, umbrella. Summer ? Breathable clothes, sun protection. Autumn ? Light jacket, layers..

Money and connectivity: Cards are widely accepted in Tokyo, but carry small cash for markets, taxis, or tips. A local SIM/eSIM keeps navigation reliable in Tokyo; download offline maps as backup. Tipping: Tipping customs vary; check local norms and note that service may be included.

Safety: Use standard big-city precautions in Tokyo: keep valuables secure and avoid poorly lit areas late at night.

If you only have two days, follow the itinerary above and keep attractions clustered by area to reduce transit time.