How to See the Best of Tokyo in 4 Days

Experience a city of contrasts with this 4-day Tokyo itinerary

With stunning skyscrapers, modern museums, traditional alleys, and tempting street snacks, Japan's capital offers so much to explore and experience. This is true whether you are traveling with family or friends, or solo. From the bustling center all the way out to the western mountains, this four-day Tokyo itinerary ensures you can make the most of your trip.

Day 1: Shinjuku

The shopping and entertainment hub of Shinjuku has countless sights to keep you busy. Take a stroll in Shinjuku Gyoen, a beautifully landscaped garden where you can picnic, sip coffee, and admire greenery against a backdrop of towering skyscrapers.

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Management Office

For some family fun, head to the Ninja Trick House in Tokyo. Here, a ninja will introduce ninja history while guiding you through the house and uncovering its sneaky secrets. There are also hands-on activities, like throwing shuriken! Visitor numbers for each time slot are limited, so it is worth booking in advance.

With your mind and body warmed up, try tackling Tokyo's "theme park of mystery"—Mystery Circus. Here, choose between several immersive games, including Real Escape Game and Real Stealth Game.
As dusk falls, head to the free observatory in the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building and watch the city transform into a sea of lights. Enjoy dinner in the area; several restaurants offer dazzling nightscape views.

Day 2: Tama Area

Set off for the great Tokyo outdoors! Head to Tokyo's scenic Tama area, where the Tamagawa River winds through a leafy valley, surrounded by mountains that turn a glorious orange-red in autumn. Up to 2 hours by train from Shinjuku Station, it's a great choice for escaping city crowds.
Those craving outdoor activities in Tokyo will be spoilt for choice. There are plenty of gentle hiking trails for all the family, and the popular Mt. Takao even has a cable car to the top. More advanced hikers will enjoy tackling various other peaks, like Mt. Mito and Mt. Kumotori, which offer spectacular views of Mt. Fuji on a clear day. In the summer, beat the heat by enjoying some rafting, canyoning, or packrafting in a single-seater raft boat at Canyons Okutama. After your outdoor activities, take a break at the cafe, where you can enjoy a delicious meal of wild game.

Tama area is home to several of the onsen in Tokyo. Soaking in a hot spring is the perfect way to refresh after an active day. Try Keio Takaosan Onsen Gokurakuyu, which has seven different types of baths, including outdoors ones.

Day 3: Kichijoji

Kichijoji effortlessly blends the old and new, and its laid-back vibe makes it a great place for family outings.
Begin your day by heading to Inokashira Park. You'll pass by charming cafes and shops on the way. At the park, ride in swan boats on the central Inokashira Pond, a visit Inokashira Park Zoo. The park itself is a great place to walk, and it's a popular spot for viewing cherry blossoms and autumn leaves.

Back in town, you can shop for traditional items and maybe try street food, such as menchikatsu—a breaded and deep-fried patty made from wagyu beef mince. Right outside the station are the narrow alleyways of Harmonica Yokocho, offering an eclectic mix of shops. Here, cozy restaurants and standing bars come alive at night, seemingly by magic.

Day 4: Odaiba

With stunning views of Tokyo Bay and Rainbow Bridge, the ultramodern island of Odaiba offers oceanside entertainment, shopping, and more.
With stunning views of Tokyo Bay and Rainbow Bridge, the ultramodern island of Odaiba offers oceanside entertainment, shopping, and more. From Odaiba Marine Park, you can see the Odaiba Statue of Liberty, Tokyo Tower, and the Tokyo skyline. There's a sandy beach, where you can play in the water, or take part in marine sports. For shopping, try Aqua City Odaiba.

For more family fun, head to Tokyo Joypolis, a large indoor amusement park, and ride rollercoasters, battle zombies, and more. Or pay a visit to Small Worlds, an indoor miniature theme park in Tokyo, which is actually the largest of its kind in the world!