Priyanka Borpujari

7 perfect days in Tokyo

Originally published in TripAdvisor on 7 November 2023

Tokyo conjures up so many contrasting images: the spiritual alongside the quirky, the quiet of the temples and the chaos of the subway, the neon and the nature.

With 23 municipalities and another 39 smaller towns within its borders—plus flowing rivers, expansive parks, and the highest number of Michelin-starred restaurants in the world—you could spend a decade exploring Tokyo and continue to find new things to love. But even within a span of seven days, you’re guaranteed to fill your suitcase with a lifetime of unforgettable experiences.

To help make the most of a week here, we’ve organized your days by location and theme. We also combed through Tripadvisor reviews and ratings to make sure that your trip is as memorable as the city itself.

DAY ONE

MORNING: Parks and culture

Start with a quiet breakfast at a Japanese kissaten (an old-school coffee house). Kissatens typically serve creamy egg sandwiches accompanied by warm soups—the perfect pick-me-up for your day ahead. At Kabaya Coffee in the Yanaka area, you’ll be seated on tatami mats. There might be a wait (attesting to its popularity), so a tip: Arrive early (it opens at 8am and is closed Mondays). Finish your meal with a subtly sweet, buttery cake and a cup of latte.

Next, head toward Ueno Park, which is the site of five major museums: Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum (modern art from Japan), Tokyo National Museum (the country’s oldest museum with the world’s most comprehensive collection of Japanese art), Ueno Royal Museum (collections from the royal family), the 150-year-old National Museum of Nature and Science (a treat for adults and kids alike), and the National Museum of Western Art (check out the pre-18th century paintings). But you’ll probably only have time for one, so my pick is the Tokyo National Museum: It’s huge, but you can take in the highlights in an hour and get a good overview of Japanese history, culture and religion.

AFTERNOON: The spiritual side of Tokyo

Continue the walk east toward Asakusa for lunch at Ramen Yoroiya (get it topped with a soft-boiled egg, which takes ramen to a whole new level). Next up is Tokyo’s oldest temple, Sensoji. The outer gate, Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate), is a symbol of the largesse of the Buddhist temple itself, which was built for the goddess Kannon. The stretch between Kaminarimon and the main temple is a shopping street where you can pick up affordable Japanese art and souvenirs or try on a yukata or kimono and get photographed by the main temple. Even though the temple and the courtyard are always filled with tourists and locals, it never feels crowded.

Continue the spiritual experience with a tea ceremony at Jidaiya, not far from Kaminarimon. Take the experience to the next level with a 50-minute session that includes dressing up in a kimono (reservations are a good idea).

Hop on the Tobu Skytree Line or Asakusa line of the subway, and get off one stop later—or walk a mile—to reach the Tokyo Skytree. Going all the way up to the top gives you a panoramic view of the city (book tickets in advance). There are also restaurants and cafes on various floors, including a post office, in case you want to send out a memorable postcard from the clouds.

  Asakusa Tour Options

  • On this family food tour of Asakusa, you’ll follow an expert guide through the hidden alleys and backstreets of this vibrant district. Stop for samples of Japanese delicacies like melon bread and matcha tea and cp off the culinary journey with a lunch of southern Japanese cuisine.
  • Experience Asakusa’s captivating blend of tradition and modernity on this Rickshaw Tour. Journey past cherry trees, skyscrapers, and cultural gems like Ushijima Shrine and immerse yourself in the neighborhood’s rich history.
  • Unearth Asakusa’s secrets on the half-day Asakusa Cultural Walk & Matcha Making Tour. Stroll along the bustling shopping street, ride in a rickshaw, savor traditional snacks, and learn to make okonomiyaki (a Japanese pancake) at a traditional restaurant.

EVENING: Cocktails in the clouds

Watch the sunset while enjoying exquisite Japanese whiskey at Top of Tree, which has stunning views of the skyline and Tokyo Skytree itself. Stroll back to Sensoji temple to get a glimpse of the majestic wooden structure in the quiet of the night. Finish your day at Yoshinoya with a donburi (rice bowl dish), the perfect comfort food. It’s served with a bowl of miso soup and green tea and comes in two flavors—pork and kimchi or beef and egg.

After dinner, head to Ninja Bar to sample a selection of sake or my favorite drink, umeshu (plum liquor), best had on-the-rocks. If you’re still hungry, you can order yakitori (grilled chicken on skewers) or karaage (fried chicken).

DAY TWO

MORNING: The quirky side of Tokyo

Start the day with a coffee and a toasted ham-and-cheese sandwich at the Shin Ochanomizu branch of Caffe Veloce, a local chain that’s the Starbucks of Japan. Walk east, for a little less than a mile, to get the best gear to document your travel moments at Yodobashi Camera in Akihabara (it’s also got tons of gaming and electronic gadgets). You could easily spend three hours exploring. If manga is your thing, then Mandarake is your mecca—it’s touted as the largest manga and anime store in the world. Here you can buy discounted and vintage items related to manga, anime, and gaming.

 Akihabara Tour Options

  • Akihabara, Tokyo’s “Electric Town,” beckons anime lovers, but newcomers may feel overwhelmed. The Akihabara Private Anime & Gaming Food Tour Tailored To Your Taste removes the guesswork, leading you to the best stores, cafés, and more.
  • Whether you’re an anime and gaming enthusiast or simply curious about Japanese pop culture, this three-hour guided walking tour is your ticket. You’ll visit retro video game stores, maid cafes, photo booths, and more.
  • Roam Akihabara like your favorite anime character on the Go-Kart Street Tour Adventure with Guide. With a guide leading the way, you’ll explore iconic sites, from Rainbow Bridge to the Imperial Palace.

AFTERNOON: Owls and art

For a bowl of ginger-flavored ramen with char-siu (stewed pork belly), it’s worth your time to line up at Aoshima Shokudo. You’ll find an even richer bowl at Gottsu Akihabara, where the soy sauce ramen is laden with pork back fat. (Vegetarians might prefer the miso ramen with a heavy dose of vegetables.)

Here’s a pick-me-up that’s not just caffeinated: Akiba Fukurou, where owls peer at you while you sip a latte (you’re welcome to gently pet them and take photos—just no flash). If you like cosplay, the nearby Mitsubado Cosplay Shop is not to be missed: You can find a wide variety of wigs, maid outfits, and Naruto costumes at low prices.

Head to Akihabara subway station and take either the Hibiya Line or Chiyoda Line to get to Roppongi, the neighborhood that’s classy, flashy, and surrounded with art. Spend the afternoon at the Mori Art Museum, which sits atop the 52nd and 53rd floors of the Roppongi Hills Mori Tower. The ticket opens the door to the latest in contemporary art—from Carmen Herrera to Ai Weiwei—alongside a breathtaking panoramic view of the city skyline.

EVENING: Dinner and glitz

Glizy Roppongi is the place for dinner. Savor falafel and crispy vegan karaage (fried chicken) with a Mediterranean twist at Falafel Brothers. It’s a guilt-free dinner at Zero Per Cent, where the food is gluten-free and vegan and the artisanal cocktails are alcohol-free (reservations are required). The slick R2 Supperclub has become the go-to hub for international expats looking for an evening with a DJ, cocktails, and impressive bar bites: fried scallops with lime, smoked salmon rolls. Or for a more adventurous experience, head to Tantra, which calls itself an “artistic lounge,” with a geisha performance, burlesque, fire shows, exotic dancing, and more. Tantra also offers couples’ plan, which includes a private performance and a bottle of free champagne.

DAY THREE

MORNING: The quiet before the cute

Start your day at the busiest subway station in the world: Shinjuku. This centrally-located hub connects to 13 different routes and has several entry and exit points (warning—a rendezvous with friends at any of these points is bound to cause chaos). Exit from the station’s eastern side, and head to Egg-Slut for fluffy eggs, brioche buns, and juicy meat patties.

A mile southeast is the city’s spiritual power spot: Meiji Jingu forest and shrine. As you enter through Meiji Jingu’s massive wooden torii (gate), the energy shifts and your pace slows down. The vast forested area, complete with wide walking paths and birdsong, leads to a huge stack of sake barrels gifted to the emperor. Locals often come here for traditional weddings or for a moment of quiet after work.

AFTERNOON: Youth culture in Harajuku

Harajuku’s main thoroughfare is Takeshita Street, and it is a loud contrast to the serenity of the forest. This youth-focused street is a mecca for the kawaii (cute) aesthetic. Check out the Purikura No Mecca selfie photo booths, complete with spaces to touch-up your makeup. If you’re not there with a group, it’s perfectly acceptable to snap photos with a gang of people you don’t know. Amp up the cuteness at Cat Cafe Mocha, where cats are the boss; for a small fee you get unlimited non-alcoholic drinks and can play with the kittens. For the ultimate splurge lunch, treat yourself to the famed wagyu beef at Gyukatsu Motomura Harajuku.

 Food Tour Options

EVENING: The new red light district

Kabukicho is Tokyo’s red-light district (and you can check out the host and hostess bars, if that’s your thing). Enjoy a steak bento box with the theatrics of an imagined future at the Robot Restaurant (make sure you buy tickets in advance). Or go on a pub crawl in Golden Gai Kabukicho, where tiny bars seating only about five or six people line a narrow alley called the yokocho. The best way to experience the Golden Gai is on a guided tour, but even if you don’t speak Japanese and go on your own, it’s a fun night out. Best photo op in the area: the massive Godzilla looming over Shinjuku’s billboards and neon lights.

DAY FOUR

MORNING: Imperial life

The Imperial Palace is where the Edo castle once stood: It became the permanent home of the imperial family in 1869, and continues to be their residence. While only the East Gardens are open to the public (except on Mondays), it is a breathtaking experience of landscaping and small ponds. Locals make the most of the nearly four-mile perimeter of the palace as a running route.

If you’re in Tokyo when the flowers of the spring sakura (cherry blossoms) are blooming, you’ll want to experience the royal waterway on the Chidori-ga-fuchi Moat, the northwest arc of the Imperial Palace. The boat ride is akin to floating through a tunnel of white and pink blooms; when the ephemeral sakura petals begin to fall, the moat resembles a carpet of pink.

AFTERNOON: Sushi, shopping, and zen

East of the Imperial Palace is the Tokyo Railway Station, and on its eastern side, you’ll find sushi restaurants suitable for all wallets. Go for kaisendon (a bowl of rice heaped with a mind-blowing variety of sashimi) at Sushi Aoyogi or try the dishes arriving at your table on a conveyor belt at Sushiro Yurakucho.

Adjoining the Yurackucho station is the Mitsuo Aida Museum, which is dedicated to the calligraphic and poetic works of Mitsuo Aida, a.k.a. the poet of Zen, and worth a peek (even if you don’t speak the language).

From there, head to Tokyo’s swankiest area: Ginza. Behind the glitzy main street are older streets where prominent people live. Do like the locals do with a session of Genbura (which translates as “loitering in Ginza”), checking out the storefronts, which are nothing short of an open-air art museum. Refuel with drip coffee at Flor de Cafe Ki No Hana, which gained fame when John Lennon and Yoko Ono visited back in 1979.

 Off-the-beaten Tour Options

  • Discover Tokyo’s tranquil old quarter on this Yanaka Walking Tour. Visit traditional wooden houses turned cafes, explore Nezu Shrine’s red Torii gates, and stroll through quaint backstreets and local markets.
  • You’ll learn about culture and history while uncovering a handful of secret izakayas on this Hidden Local Bar tour.

EVENING: Views and food

The Marunouchi Kitte Building across the street from Tokyo Station is a skyscraper with global offices, designer shopping, and some of the best restaurants in town. If you are in the mood for something other than Japanese food, head to Mucho Modern Mexicano and order the Cajun chicken and shrimp jambalaya. Cantinetta Buzz is a delicious bet for a fusion of Italian and Japanese dishes and a great wine collection. Following dinner, head back to the Imperial Palace for a quiet walk.

DAY FIVE

MORNING: Museum morning

Today’s the day to explore some of Tokyo’s quirky little museums. Start off in Sumida in northeast Tokyo with a baguette at Doutor Coffee, a chain where all the locals go. Train buffs will love the nearby Tobu Museum, which is dedicated to the railways (you can even “drive” a simulated subway). An 11-minute taxi ride away is the Sumida Hokusai Museum, which was created to memorialize the famed artist Katsushika Hokusai, best known for his woodblock piece, The Great Wave. The building itself is an architectural marvel, with walkways bisecting the space in two directions.

Next, take a detour a bit south of Sumida to the Bank of Japan Currency Museum in Nihonbashi. This fascinating museum dives deep into the history of Japanese currency—of all things—with displays of money dating back to the 8th century, including the oban, one of the world’s largest ever coins.

AFTERNOON: Italian eats and music

For lunch, check out the Sumida location of Saizeriya, one of the best Italian restaurants in Tokyo. Go for the doria, a heartwarming combo of rice and meat with a thick layer of cheese. Finish it off with a plate of tiramisu.

Nearby is the Miyamoto-Unosuke Drum Museum, located above a music shop. This small museum celebrates the taiko drum that is used during festivals and rocks to the beat of a drumming aficionado.

After, head to Kappabashi, a half-mile shopping street lined with wholesale kitchen goods stores. You’ll find a wide range of knives and those paper lanterns that hang outside every izakaya. But what you’re really here for are the kitschy plastic food displays that restaurants use to depict their dishes—they’re a fun souvenir.

 Cultural Tour Options

  • Immerse yourself in Japanese culture on this private tour in a local’s home in just four hours: Experience origami, calligraphy, udon-making, and more.
  • Dive into the enchanting world of Studio Ghibli with the Tokyo Studio Ghibli Museum and Ghibli Film Appreciation Tour. Learn its history on the journey to Mitaka, then explore the Ghibli Museum at your own pace. Skip long lines with included entrance fees and savor a delicious lunch as a bonus.
  • Dive into Japanese culture through the art of pottery with this class led by skilled sensei (teacher) right in the heart of Tokyo.

EVENING: Brazilian food and karaoke

Japan has a close relationship with Brazil, which you can experience at Que Bom!, a restaurant in Nishiasakusa (Western Asakusa) known for its BBQ and Brazilian music. Finish off the long day with some much-needed relaxing the Japanese way: at a karaoke bar like Big Echo, a 10-minute walk away.

DAY SIX

MORNING: Forest bathing

Shinrin-yoku (which literally translates as “forest bathing”) is a good way to soothe your senses in Tokyo. Take a hike up Mount Takao, which has trails to suit varying levels. Onigiri (a stuffed rice ball covered with a sheet of seaweed) is the perfect grab-and-go breakfast for a hiking day; have one at Togoshiya Shibuya Dogenzaka near Shibuya station or at Honnoriya Tokyo Honten within Tokyo Station. At both places, the onigiri comes with a bowl of miso soup, if you choose to sit down. If you want to eat like a local, hop inside any convenience store and grab a cheap onigiri to go. Just don’t eat while walking: It’s frowned upon in Japan.

To get to Mount Takao, head to Shinjuku and grab the Keio Line; a 50-minute ride brings you to Takaosanguchi station, which is the starting point of the hike. From here, you can choose between any of the six trails that take you to the top of the mountain; the shortest is trail number 1, which is 90 minutes to the summit. You can get there faster on the chairlift, which will take you halfway up. The views of the city are stunning, and if you’re here in autumn, the foliage is a real treat.

AFTERNOON: Temples and shrines

There are several temples along the hike up Mount Takao; on a clear day, Mount Fuji is visible from the summit. Treat yourself to pizza at Mt. Takao Beer Mount. There are also several mom-and-pop shops at the summit selling ramen and dango, a traditional sweet made of glutinous rice flour.

The hike down is just as fascinating—through a dense thicket of forest and indigenous trees with large canopies and winding roots. You can also visit one of the many shrines and temples along the way and make a wish with the offering of the five-yen coin. Mount Takao is a popular getaway for Tokyo locals, but it never gets overwhelming: The mountain has space for all.

  Natural Tour Options

  • On the Full Day Hiking Tour at Mt. Takao including Hot Spring, you’ll explore the Takao 599 Museum to uncover the mountain’s nature and wildlife, hike to the summit for a chance to spot Mt. Fuji, and descend to a rejuvenating onsen for a hot spring soak.
  • Handpick your favorite gardens and other iconic Tokyo sites for a tailored experience with the Tokyo Japanese Garden Lover’s Private Tour. Some highlights to choose from include the Imperial Palace, Shinjuku Gyoen, Meiji Jingu Shrine, Koishikawa Korakuen, Hama Rikyu Gardens, and Yoyogi Park.
  • Explore Tokyo’s natural side at a leisurely pace on the Small Group Cycling Tour in Tokyo. Visit landmarks like Meiji-Jingu Shrine and the Imperial Palace while your guide reveals the city’s rich history and culture.

EVENING: A nighttime soak

Before you head back to the city, have a big bowl of soba (buckwheat) noodles at Takahashiya at the bottom of Mount Takao, near Takaosanguchi station. On a hot day, go for the cold soba served with soy sauce, tempura, and a side of sauteed vegetables.

Here’s a refreshing way to end a sweaty and strenuous day: with an onsen session at Keio Takaosan Onsen Gokurakuyu near Takaosanguchi. Just be sure to follow the rules: Onsens like this have laws of decorum like covering up tattoos and scrubbing down before you get in the water. Don’t worry if you haven’t packed towels and soap; these are provided at the reception for a small fee. After your soak, grab a pint of beer and a plate of yakiniku (grilled meat) and enjoy it while lounging on a tatami mat.

DAY SEVEN

MORNING: France by way of Tokyo

Japan has fascination with France, which you can experience in Kagurazaka, the French quarter of Tokyo. Start with a pan au chocolat or one of the exquisite pastries at Aux Merveilleux de Fred Kagurazaka. Or head to Copain for the lightest and fluffiest cream puffs.

Walk a mile west—for a moment, you might even forget that you are in Tokyo—to reach the Kusama Yayoi Museum, which is as small and mighty as the artist herself. It is a psychedelic experience to be surrounded by a multitude of Yayoi’s dots.Ever heard of Japan’s foremost modern novelist, Natsume Sosek, whose satire “I Am Cat” was written at the beginning of the 20th century? If so, you’ll love the nearby Natsume Soseki Memorial Museum, which is dedicated to him. If not, stroll back to Kagurazaka’s main street and wander into the side alleys of this neighborhood that was once frequented by geishas.

AFTERNOON: A food neighborhood

The cobblestone alleyways of Kagurazaka are home to more than 250 restaurants and cafes; you’d never experience them all in a lifetime. Head to Kyorakutei, where you can eat—and get an education in—soba (buckwheat noodles). Another great option: Kagurazaka Oishimbo, which serves traditional Japanese dishes like grilled mackerel and seafood kaiseki

Complete the culinary experience at Rakuzan, where you can buy a variety of ceramic matcha sets. The shop assistants are more than happy to explain the different grades of hojicha (roasted green tea) and the way of stirring it with the bamboo whisks to brew the perfect cup of matcha. If you have time, check out the Printing Museum just a mile away, which is dedicated to the art of printing, with artifacts ranging from ancient Assyrian and Egyptian stamps and stone tablets, to wood carvings and copper plate engravings.

 Tour Options Beyond Tokyo

  • On the Mt Fuji and Hakone 1-Day Bus Tour return by Bullet Train, you’ll break free from Tokyo on a day filled with natural wonders. Explore Mt. Fuji’s 5th Station. Feel the power of volcanic activity at Owakudani Valley. Ride a sky gondola, cruise Lake Ashi, uncover the secrets of Ninja trick houses, and see the iconic Hakone Shrine, all before returning to Tokyo on the bullet train.
  • The UNESCO World Heritage Site at Nikko is an unmissable destination and you can check it out on this Full Day Bus Tour. Stops include the Toshogu Shrine complex, one of the best preserved (and most colorful) ancient shrines in Japan and the spectacular Kegon Falls.
  • With the Tokyo Countryside Tour, you’ll leave the city behind on a small-group tour to explore a forgotten, bucolic wonderland featuring mountains, waterfalls, temples, and shrines.

EVENING: The grand finale

As twilight makes its way through the slopes of Kagurazaka, head to the Akagi Shrine not far from Kagurazaka subway station. It is quite a sight to see the evening lamps illuminate the wooden facade, with the Tokyo skyline in the distance.

The perfect way to end a glorious journey through Tokyo? A sushi meal at Kagurazaka’s bustling Teshigoto Seigetsu, which serves fresh fish and sake sourced from different parts of Japan. For a calmer way to spend your last night, head to the open-air Canal Cafe down the hill from Kagurazaka’s main street and dine on wood-fired pizza and fresh tarts. As the Tokyo Metro Namboku Line glides into Iidabashi station, parallel to the canal, and the lights from skyscrapers shimmer on the water, it’s a lovely way to reflect on all things that make Tokyo such a global city.

Best time to visit

Tokyo has its charm in all seasons, but the best times to go are in spring (February and March) when the flowers of the plum and cherry blossoms are in various stages of bloom, and autumn (September and October) when the city turns golden under the shade of the yellowing ginkgo leaves. At both these times, the weather is pleasant with a cozy nip in the evening air. The winter has its own appeals, with snow-covered vistas.

Best days to visit

The best days to visit Tokyo are generally Tuesday through Thursday. These midweek days offer a perfect balance between smaller crowds and more accessible reservations at popular attractions and restaurants. In Tokyo, most museums and attractions are open throughout the week, including weekends. However, some smaller or specialized museums may have irregular closure days, often on Mondays or specific weekdays.

Business hours

In Tokyo, business hours vary, but a typical pattern is as follows: Shops usually open around 10 a.m. and close by 8 p.m. Restaurants are open for lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., and dinner service starts around 6 p.m. and goes until 10 p.m. Museums often open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., while bars and nightlife spots come alive after 8 p.m., staying open until the wee hours (just be careful to not miss the last subway or bus).

Where to stay

Shinjuku: This bustling district is home to luxury options like the Park Hyatt Tokyo, made famous by the movie Lost in Translation, offering stunning city views. The Keio Plaza Hotel is also a fantastic choice for its central location and family-friendly amenities.

Ginza: For a taste of high-end shopping and dining, consider The Tokyo Station Hotel, housed in the iconic Tokyo Station, or The Peninsula Tokyo for its elegant atmosphere, or the Muji hotel for a stylish budget stay.

Asakusa: Experience Tokyo’s traditional side at Ryokan Asakusa Shigetsu, offering authentic Japanese hospitality near Senso-ji Temple. The Gate Hotel Asakusa Kaminarimon combines contemporary comfort with easy access to cultural attractions.

Shibuya: The Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu provides modern luxury with stunning views of Shibuya Crossing, while the Trunk Hotel offers a prime location and a cool setting for exploring the trendy neighborhood.

Roppongi: Discover nightlife and entertainment at The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo, with panoramic city vistas. Roppongi Hotel S is another stylish option known for its art-inspired design.

Getting around

Public transportation: To make commuting much easier, buy a tourist Suica card that enables you to travel across Tokyo’s vast subway system. You can refill it at any of the stations. And if you miss the last subway train, fret not: head to a karaoke bar for a few hours, where you can get free access to the non-alcoholic drinks bar. Finish off the night with the Beatles’ “Hey Jude” and hop onto the first subway station as the sun slowly rises. A tip: Don’t forget to carry along a blank notebook when you travel by Toyo’s vast subway network. Most stations have a stamp by the ticket counter, so that you can fill your notebook—a fun souvenir.

By taxi: Getting around Tokyo by taxi is convenient but relatively more expensive than other options: For instance, a short one-mile ride costs an eye-watering $15. Taxis are widely available throughout the city. Simply hail one from the street. Taxis charge based on distance and wait time, with a base fare displayed on the meter. Communication may require basic Japanese or digital assistance. Another thing to know: The door will open automatically, so you don’t need to touch the handle. Always wear your seatbelt, and remember that tipping is not customary.

By rideshare: Uber and similar local ridesharing options are available in Tokyo. Download the respective app, set your pickup location, and a driver will arrive promptly. It’s a convenient alternative to taxis, especially when language barriers might be a concern.

Airport transfers: For hassle-free airport transfers in Tokyo, two main options are available. Narita International Airport connects to the city via Narita Express trains, reaching major stations. There is also a bus from the station that is far cheaper and takes you to the Tokyo station. Alternatively, Haneda Airport offers convenient access through Tokyo Monorail and Keikyu Line trains, ensuring a swift commute to the city center. Airport limousine buses provide another comfortable choice, with routes covering popular areas and hotels. You can also take a taxi.

Money matters

Many of Tokyo’s smaller restaurants do not accept digital money, so it is important to always carry cash. However, most ATMs are not operational at all hours, especially the ones outside the tourist hubs.

Other essential tips

Wifi: If you don’t want to pay for international roaming charges on your phone, be aware that public wifi is limited across Tokyo (though hotels and convenience stores like Family Mart, 7-11, and Lawsons usually offer free wifi). It’s also a good idea to buy a pocket wifi modem.

Communicating: Ensure that you have Google Translate app downloaded on your phone; it’s a great way to translate key phrases. One of the best words to know is “sumimasen,” which means “excuse me” and can be used to get someone’s attention—almost everyone in Tokyo is eager to help foreigners.