There aren’t many cities in the world that quite span the size of Tokyo. Due to it’s sheer scale, uncovering Japan’s largest city may seem like a daunting task – but it doesn’t have to be with my detailed Tokyo itinerary to help you out! With its vibrant and bustling city streets, tranquil green parks, stunning vistas and remarkable history, spending 6 days in Tokyo should be at the top of your itinerary for a visit to Japan. Whether you’re staying for the first time or you’re a regular visitor there are loads of incredible attractions in Japan’s capital city so you’ll never be lost for things to see and do.

1. How to spend 6 days in Tokyo on a mid range budget

To really be an Invisible Tourist on any trip, staying in a centrally located hotel is of utmost importance if you want to maximise your travel experience.

In Tokyo it means you’ll spend less time getting around and more time exploring the different neighbourhoods, UNESCO World Heritage sites, wandering the energetic streets and savouring the culinary delights that make Tokyo world-famous. The hotel I’ve recommended below is for travellers with a mid range budget, in a central location (Shibuya) and only a few moments walk to train stations.

Make use of Shinkansen – Japanese Bullet Trains. They are the most efficient way to get to and from Tokyo. I’ll discuss these in more detail at the conclusion of this itinerary. As Japan has become such a popular destination for tourists in recent years, it also helps if you are aware of the issues that this influx of tourists has had on local communities. Learn what you can do to not look like a tourist and avoid contributing to Japan’s overtourism issues. You may also wish to consider venturing out to some destinations in Japan off the beaten path.
img1

Bullet Trains in Japan

Make use of Shinkansen – Japanese Bullet Trains. They are the most efficient way to get to and from Tokyo. Contrary to popular belief, you DO NOT need to buy a Japan Railpass before you visit, especially if you’re travelling with a mid range budget! The Shinkansen, colloquially known in English as the bullet train, is a network of high-speed railway lines in Japan. Initially, it was built to connect distant Japanese regions with Tokyo, the capital, to aid economic growth and development. Running at speeds of up to 320 km/h, the shinkansen is known for punctuality (most trains depart on time to the second), comfort (relatively silent cars with spacious, always forward facing seats), safety (no fatal accidents in its history) and efficiency. The Tokaido shinkansen is the only profitable high speed rail route in the world. It's expensive because it's the best way to travel between cities. It's competition is airplanes.

"The purpose was to connect regional areas to Tokyo, And that led to the current situation of a national Shinkansen network, which completely changed the face of Japan. Travel times were shortened and vibration was alleviated, making it possible for more convenient business and pleasure trips, but I have to say that the project just made all the [connecting] cities part of Tokyo."

2. Where to stay in Tokyo

I’ve personally stayed in four hotels in Tokyo now and I can I highly recommend each for different reasons:

Shibuya: My favourite is Dormy Inn Premium, Shibuya ドーミーイン PREMIUM 渋谷神宮前. If you’ve been looking at Dormy Inn, I highly recommend you lock it in! The hotel is in such a great location: Tucked away into a quiet street but still in the centre of all the action, strategically placed near two main Metro arteries which makes getting around the city a breeze. It’s About 5min walk to JR Harajuku station and about 8min walk to JR Shibuya station.
Countless shops and restaurants are within walking distance. I stayed on the 3rd floor, on train line side (as per my request based on room tips on TripAdvisor). My window was literally next to the train line but train noise was never an issue, didn’t even notice them go by!
Room was very clean, a little small but that’s to be expected for Tokyo. Pillows were a bit firm for my liking but they’re easy to get used to. English-speaking staff were very helpful. Wifi was fast. Despite other reviews, I thought the breakfast was more than adequate, with both Japanese and Western-style hot breakfasts cooked on the spot to suit both sweet and savoury tastes.

Shinjuku : If you’re looking to stay in Shinjuku, I can recommend the IBIS Hotel Shinjuku. While my room was super tiny as expected, it had everything I needed, was clean and comfortable. It’s in a great location just a few minutes walk to Omoide Yokocho (Piss Alley), Godzilla Street and Shinjuku station is about a 10 minute’s walk. I also rate the café 3rd Burger beneath the hotel. Delicious and fresh burgers that are really cheap, too!

Minato: I can also highly recommend lovely Shiba Park Hotel. Located in a super convenient location near Hamamatsucho monorail station and Daimon metro stops makes it a breeze when travelling to and from Haneda airport and around Tokyo. The Tokyo Tower is just around the corner as is Zojo-ji Temple. Shiba Park Hotel is also in a handy spot to get the monorail over to Odaiba to see teamlab Borderless. The buffet breakfast is wonderful and there’s also a number of convenience stores a just few steps away if needed.

3. Things to do in Tokyo

One last thing before we jump into my day-by-day Tokyo neighbourhood guide below! Did you know there are some small, locally guided tours of each neighbourhood you can add to your Tokyo itinerary? These are a great way to meet people with similar interests during your trip and support local businesses along the way.

Do you enjoy being organised like me? It’s a good idea to book some activities in advance and add them to your Tokyo itinerary. Allow yourself to have an authentic Japanese experience by taking a small group tour with a Tokyo local guide from MagicalTrip! Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Sumo Morning Practice Tour :A must-do when in Tokyo. As the sumo tournament is only held 3 times per year in Tokyo, it’s easy to miss. Watching the sumo perform their morning training is a great way to see them up close if your trip doesn’t coincide with the tournament!

Shibuya Bar Hopping Tour : I have personally experienced this one, it’s so much fun (read my detailed review for what to expect in Shibuya at night)! Lock in this enjoyable tour to experience nightlife in this exciting area. Enjoy delicious local cuisine and drinks at hidden izakaya pubs you wouldn’t find on your own.

Shinjuku Night Foodie Tour: If you’re anything like me and can’t get enough of wagyu beef and sake, you won’t want to miss this experience! Eat your way through 3 foodie locations in Shinjuku and watch a professional sushi chef prepare fresh fish in front of you.

Harajuku Kawaii & Pop Culture Tour : Here’s one for the kawaii fans! Learn more about Japanese pop culture, dine in a monster café (yes, you read that correctly) and finish by taking a relaxing tour of Meiji Shrine

img1

Robot Restaurant

Let’s cut straight to the chase – the Robot Restaurant is probably one of the weirdest experiences in the world! Imagine 10-foot tall robots, sexy queens of the galaxy, explosions, space gorillas, 40-foot-long robotic snakes, and a ridiculous amount of laser beams! Take all that and multiply it by 100! Yes, it is the craziest bar/restaurant you’ll ever visit, but it’s also very impressive. Word is they spend millions on the production, so tickets admittedly don’t come cheap. Like most shows, prices vary depending on days and times, but you’ll usually be looking to pay between £40 and £70. It may sound pricey, but this bizarre experience is a lot of fun and something that you’ll never forget.

"It’s kind like made for the oversea tourist’s show. Full with Japanese style culture dance mixed with robots. Dancer is very professional and all in English. Had a very fun night there."

"This is an obvious tourist trap, but it was worth it. The price is a bit costly if bought there so buy it online prior to coming. There is a lobby area to gather at with a very relaxed environment for you to hang out at before heading into the room where the robot shot takes place."

4. Concluding what to do in Tokyo over 6 days

I’m not sure why some people choose to spend only 2 or 3 days in Tokyo when there are so many different neighbourhoods to explore and sights to see! Take the extra time, add another few days to your Tokyo itinerary and allow yourself to really experience this awe-inspiring city in the way it deserves. Why rush? You’ll thank yourself for it later!

As I’m sure you’ll agree, there was al LOT of walking in this Tokyo itinerary, but it’s handy to know that the city’s extensive public transportation options are always nearby if you wish.

Although it may look like my travel buddy and I crammed a lot into Tokyo, I can honestly say we never felt rushed. Because we were prepared it allowed us to leisurely stroll between many attractions and enjoy taking our time uncovering the wonders that make this beautiful city so unique. Travelling The Invisible Tourist way is about being efficient and making the best use of your travel time.

No need to stress about the language barrier. I detail exactly why in my complete Japan itinerary. And, if you’re feeling adventurous find out how I learnt Japanese fast for travelling. You’ll be saying “こんにちは” (konnichiwa) before you know it!

I hope you enjoyed my Japan itinerary and I hope you’ll join me on my next trip!

Thank you for reading!

Content

  1. How to spend 6 days on a mid range budget
  2. Where to stay
  3. Things to do
  4. Conclusion