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The vibrant, colorful, and enormous metropolis of Tokyo is unlike any other place in the world. Immerse yourself in a labyrinth of bustling streets, cosplayers, delicious noodle restaurants, and cutting-edge technology.
Getting to Tokyo
You do not need a visa to enter Japan, only a valid passport - provided you stay in the country for less than 90 days. We have compiled all the details for entering the country for you:
You can either travel to Tokyo by plane from international destinations or by train from other Japanese cities, such as Kyoto.
When should I travel to Tokyo?
Tokyo is most beautiful and pleasant in terms of temperature in spring and autumn. Summer is hot and humid and difficult to bear, and it can get uncomfortably cold in winter. But be careful: try to avoid Japan's official holidays as much as possible - all the attractions will be very crowded then, and the prices for accommodation will also increase. We have created a comprehensive guide for you here:
How long should I stay in Tokyo?
That depends on how big your holiday budget is! Tokyo is a huge city with an incredible number of sights, and you could easily spend a month filling it with exciting activities. But for a first trip, four days to a week is enough.
What should I do in Tokyo?
There is of course an incredible amount to do and see - but one of the highlights of your trip to Tokyo is guaranteed to be when you simply take the time to soak up the city and let yourself drift for a while. Sit down in a cafe and watch life go by. Of course, we've also collected the best sights for you.
Attractions
Tokyo Skytree
This TV tower is the second tallest building in the world. Don't miss the view from above the city and take a souvenir photo from one of the two observation platforms.
Tokyo Tower
This is one of the most striking landmarks in Tokyo - and it is an exact replica of the Eiffel Tower in Paris! You can also go up this tower.
Tsukiji Fish Market
Tokyo's fish market is the largest fish market in the world. Every morning a fish auction takes place here, where huge tuna are auctioned off.
Shibuya
This district is known for its shopping streets - and for one of the most famous intersections in the world: The huge Shibuya Crossing.
Harajuku
This is the fashion center of Tokyo! Here you can see crazy styled cosplayers, shop in chic clothing stores and have a beer in cool bars.
Robot Restaurant
You may have heard of the world-famous Robot Restaurant. This is not a classic restaurant, but rather a show - a rather unique one! However, the tickets for this are not exactly cheap.
Ueno Park
This beautiful park is definitely worth a visit, especially during cherry blossom season. But even outside of the flowering season, the park with its two shrines is worth seeing. Tip: Plan your visit during the week - the park is much less crowded then.
Food & Drink
Of course, there are countless restaurants that will serve you delicious Japanese specialties. What you should definitely eat in Tokyo are ramen noodles - they are particularly good in the Japanese capital. They are also available almost everywhere: from fancy Michelin-starred restaurants to cheap street food stalls. Here we have also collected five restaurants for you that you should definitely visit.
Sushi No Midori
This is one of the most popular sushi restaurant chains in Tokyo. There are several different outlets, including in Shibuya and Ginza.
Tsutsa
Here you get the famous ramen in excellent quality: This ramen bar even has a Michelin star.
Nakiryu
This is also a ramen bar - and it also has a Michelin star. By the way: Ramen are ordered from the vending machine at both restaurants and then picked up in the restaurant.
Kudan Otsuka
The traditional Japanese dishes here are authentic and exceptionally delicious. The menu changes constantly, and some of the ingredients you've probably never eaten before!
Kondo
The tempura here is particularly delicious: the fried vegetable pieces and seafood are incredibly light and wonderfully crispy.
Nightlife
There is something to do in Tokyo around the clock! So take it easy with the sightseeing so that you still have energy in the evenings!
Shinjuku
This district is perfect for a night out in Tokyo. There are three highlights here:
- Omoide Yokocho: This nostalgic alley is full of traditional pubs - called Izakayas
- Golden Gai: A colorful collection of small bars and pubs
- Kabukicho: The red light district of Tokyo. But there are also countless clubs, bars and gambling halls here
Ginza
Here you will find elegant bars and exclusive clubs. Note: Many of these are members-only.
Shibuya
The hip inhabitants of Tokyo gather in this district at night. There are many bars with live music and clubs for every musical taste.
Clubs
Especially in Shibuya and Roppongi there are some very famous nightclubs.
Karaoke
This is one of the Japanese people's favorite leisure activities - and one of the indispensable aspects of Japanese culture! Karaoke bars can be found in Japan on every corner.
Hotels / Hostels / Airbnbs in Tokyo
There are accommodation options in Tokyo for every budget. You have the choice between hotels, hostels and Airbnbs. We tell you what to look out for when booking - and we also have some Airbnb tips for you.
Hotels
Let's start with the hotels. Hotels are usually equipped with beds, like in the "Western world", have access to a bathroom and are relatively comfortable. Depending on how much money you want to spend, your room in Tokyo can be quite cramped or very spacious. There is a chronic shortage of living space in Japan and especially in Tokyo. So be sure to look at photos beforehand if you are looking for a room that is a bit more spacious.
By the way: We cooperate with the most popular hotel booking portal, booking.com . This means that if you book a hotel at Booking.com through us, we get a commission, which of course helps us a lot. But nothing gets more expensive for you! And of course we don't just pick out expensive hotels to get more commission - we offer you alternatives for every budget! The final decision on where you book a hotel, or even not, is of course up to you :) #Transparency :)
Budget Hotels
Would you rather spend your holiday budget on things other than your hotel? Then this category is for you! But with around €50 - €100, the hotels in Tokyo are still not really cheap. A tip: If you can stay outside the city, it usually gets a little cheaper. In the city you're probably not going to find cheaper hotels. It's best to look at all the photos and read the reviews carefully to avoid negative surprises.
What should I look out for with budget hotels in Tokyo?
There are many hotels that are not actually hotels. This means that you have your own room, but the other rooms like shower, toilet, etc. are shared. If you want a room and bathroom to yourself, look at the description very carefully!
Location is also very important! Tokyo is very large. If you want to spend too much time on the train, you should look for hotels that are close to train stations. But here too, look in advance at how long it will take you to get to the attractions by train.
Henn na Hotel Asakusa Tawaramachi
"The Henn na Hotel Tokyo Asakusa Tawaramachi is located in Tokyo, 300 meters from Honpo-ji Temple, and offers concierge service, non-smoking rooms, a restaurant, free Wi-Fi throughout the property, and a bar. Family rooms and a terrace are available. The property is located near popular attractions such as the grave of Hokusai Katsushika." - Source: Booking.com
Sotetsu Fresa Inn Tokyo Kanda
"The Henn na Hotel Tokyo Asakusa Tawaramachi is located in Tokyo, 300 meters from Honpo-ji Temple, and offers concierge service, non-smoking rooms, a restaurant, free Wi-Fi throughout the property, and a bar. Family rooms and a terrace are available. The property is located near popular attractions such as the grave of Hokusai Katsushika." - Source: Booking.com
Mid-range Hotel
By this we mean hotels in the price range between €100 - €150 per night and person. However, the prices can vary greatly. Depending on how well the hotel is equipped, it can quickly become more expensive.
With "normal" hotels you can already expect a lot. A private bathroom should be included in the price at the very least. The location should also be relatively central. You're not paying extra for nothing!
What should I look out for with mid-range hotels in Tokyo?
Since you are paying a bit more money, you can of course also expect a bit more. Think about what your priorities are and choose your hotel accordingly.
If you want a good view, then you should definitely look for hotels that are in a relatively tall building. But also pay attention to whether you only have a good view from one side!
You can also consider the food. If you prefer to eat in the hotel, you should choose one whose restaurant is well rated. This also contributes to the higher price.
Shinagawa Prince Hotel
"The Prince Hotel offers you 15 restaurants and bars, 2 swimming pools and its own aquarium. The property is located right next to Shinagawa JR Station, from where Tokyo Haneda Airport can be reached by train in just 25 minutes. The 39-storey hotel has stunning views of Tokyo and free Wi-Fi throughout the property." - Source: Booking.com
Shinagawa Prince Hotel East Tower
"The Shinagawa Prince Hotel East Tower offers city views of Tokyo, 3.7 km from Tokyo Tower. The 4-star hotel has a bar and air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi, each with a private bathroom. The property has a restaurant and Happoen Garden is 1.9 km away." - Source: Booking.com
Good Hotels
We classify everything over €200 as good hotels. Perfect for people who want to stay well in Japan.
What should I look out for with expensive hotels in Tokyo?
If you don't have to watch your budget, you can primarily focus on what you like! There are some incredibly chic hotels in Tokyo - so you're guaranteed to find a real highlight!
Mitsui Garden Hotel
"Overlooking the city and Tokyo Bay, the Mitsui Garden Hotel Ginza Premier was renovated in March 2013 and features elegant, stylish rooms. Shinbashi Station is a 4-minute walk away and Ginza is a 10-minute walk away. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property." - Source: Booking.com
"The Prince Hotel offers you 15 restaurants and bars, 2 swimming pools and its own aquarium. The property is located right next to Shinagawa JR Station, from where Tokyo Haneda Airport can be reached by train in just 25 minutes. The 39-storey hotel has stunning views of Tokyo and free Wi-Fi throughout the property." - Source: Booking.com
Hostels
Hostels are much simpler than hotels, but they are perfect if you are traveling alone or like to meet other travelers. Bathrooms and common areas are usually shared with other travelers. Very popular in Japan are capsule hotels, where the beds are separated. So you have a hostel flair and still relatively much privacy.
Buena Àrte Hostel
"Located in Tokyo, 300 meters from Yokoamicho Park, Buena Àrte Hostel offers air-conditioned accommodations and a bar. Among the facilities of this property are a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk and a shared lounge, along with free Wi-Fi throughout the property." - Source: Booking.com
Mustard Hotel Shibuya
"Mustard Hotel Shibuya offers air-conditioned accommodations in Tokyo, 600 meters from Kin Hachimangu Shrine. The property features a bar. Additional facilities at the property include a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk and a shared kitchen. " - Source: Booking.com
Samurai Hostel Asakusa
"Opened in May 2016, Samurai Hostel Asakusa is located in Taito Ward in Tokyo, just a 3-minute walk from Asakusa Subway Station. Sensoji Temple is only a 1-minute walk away, and Tokyo Skytree Tower can be reached by a 3-minute train ride. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property and there is an on-site bar." - Source: Booking.com
Airbnb
Airbnbs are a very practical alternative to hotels and hostels. However, there have been new laws since June 2018 that severely restrict Airbnbs in Japan. There are now very strict rules for hosts. You should also make sure that the hosts at least speak a little English - this is not a given in Japan. Here we have selected three Airbnbs for you:
- budget: Seidokan Private Room
- Mid-range: Gallery Stay Denchi
- expensive: Yuuntei Asakusa
Flight to Tokyo (NRT / HND)
The flight from Germany to Japan takes around 11 hours. This can be done either directly or with a stopover. There are two airports near Tokyo: Narita International Airport (which is about 60 kilometers east of Tokyo, and Haneda Airport Tokyo (about 14 kilometers south of the city). Both airports have straightforward train connections into the city.
Flight to Narita (NRT)
Narita Airport is the second busiest airport in Japan. It is served by most international airlines. Budget airlines such as Jetstar also land here. From Narita International Airport there are two trains that will take you to the center of Tokyo.
Flight to Haneda (HND)
This airport is only 14 kilometers south of Tokyo. You will land here if you have taken off from an airport in Japan. Occasionally, it is also served by international airlines. It is much cheaper to travel from Haneda Airport to the center of Japan.
Tips for your Tokyo / Japan trip
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Get a rechargeable ticket for public transport. This works on all trains and buses in Tokyo
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