Japan · Sample trip, planned with Viala
Tokyo in 7 days A day-by-day plan
- days
- 7 days
- stops
- 22 stops
- Updated
- Updated August 2026
Seven days gives Tokyo room to breathe. The must-sees are all here, but so are the places that never make a three-day list: Shimokitazawa's vintage shops, the cool green cut of Todoroki Valley, a morning on Mount Takao. The plan starts gently on arrival day in Nihonbashi, then builds: Asakusa and Ueno, Shinjuku from the free observation deck down to the yakitori alleys, Harajuku and Roppongi, Shibuya until late. Day six leaves the city for the mountain and comes back for sushi in Ginza; the last day stays short. Expect a lot of trains and a lot of walking. A day pass and comfortable shoes matter more than any reservation, except at Kyubey.
Day 1
Arrival and Nihonbashi Exploration
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14:00 – 16:30 · 2 hours
Nihonbashi
City
The historic center of Edo (old Tokyo) and point of origin for all Japanese highways. It blends traditional department stores with modern urban redevelopment.
Transit · 9 min · 1.1 km
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17:30 – 20:00 · 1-2 hours
Marunouchi Naka-dori Street
City
A tree-lined, upscale street located between Tokyo Station and the Imperial Palace. Features luxury retail, outdoor sculpture, and elegant dining.
Day 2
Culture and Arts in Tokyo
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09:00 – 11:30 · 2 hours
Senso-ji
Culture
Tokyo's oldest temple, featuring the iconic Kaminarimon Gate and a bustling approach street lined with traditional snack shops. Explore the main hall, burn incense for good luck, and shop for souvenirs at Nakamise-dori.
Transit · 14 min · 1.9 km
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13:00 – 15:30 · 2-3 hours
Tokyo National Museum
Culture
The largest and oldest museum in Japan, housing a massive collection of ancient pottery, samurai armor, and traditional kimonos. Spend the day exploring Ueno Park while hopping between the various historical galleries.
Walk · 6 min · 0.5 km
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16:00 – 18:30 · 2-3 hours
Ueno Park
Nature
A massive public space containing several museums, a large pond, and lotus flowers that bloom in early September. It is a social hub for locals.
Day 3
Shinjuku Heights and Nightlife
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09:00 – 11:30 · 1-2 hours
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
City
Features free observation decks on the 45th floors of both towers. Offers sweeping panoramic views of the city skyline and occasionally Mount Fuji.
Taxi · 15 min · 3.2 km
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13:30 – 16:00 · 2-3 hours
Nakano Broadway
City
A multi-level shopping complex specializing in vintage collectibles, manga, and retro toys. Less polished than Akihabara, making it a favorite for collectors.
Transit · 19 min · 3.6 km
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19:00 – 21:30 · 2 hours
Omoide Yokocho
City
A narrow network of alleyways packed with tiny yakitori stalls and miniature bars. It preserves the Showa-era atmosphere of post-war Tokyo.
Walk · 7 min · 0.5 km
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21:30 – 23:59 · 3-4 hours
Golden Gai
Nightlife
A dense network of six narrow alleys in Shinjuku, home to over 200 tiny, themed bars. It is perfect for bar-hopping with friends and experiencing the intimate, retro atmosphere of Tokyo nightlife.
Day 4
Fashion, Art and Modern Tokyo
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09:00 – 11:30 · 1-2 hours
Meiji Jingu
Culture
A vast Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, surrounded by a dense, tranquil forest in the heart of the city. Walk the wide gravel paths to reach the main shrine complex for a moment of quiet reflection.
Transit · 8 min · 0.8 km
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13:00 – 15:30 · 2-3 hours
Takeshita Street
City
The epicenter of Harajuku youth culture and fashion. Explore colorful street food stalls, themed cafes, and eclectic boutiques.
Transit · 14 min · 2.0 km
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16:00 – 18:30 · 2-3 hours
The National Art Center, Tokyo
Culture
One of Japan’s largest exhibition spaces featuring undulating glass architecture and rotating high-profile art collections. It serves as a hub for artistic exchange.
Transit · 7 min · 0.6 km
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20:00 – 22:30 · 2-3 hours
Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu
Food
Famous as the inspiration for the 'Kill Bill' restaurant set, this lively spot serves up yakitori and tempura in a vibrant, high-energy atmosphere. It is large enough to comfortably accommodate a group of three for a memorable night out.
Day 5
Shopping and City Vibes
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10:00 – 12:30 · 2-3 hours
Shimokitazawa
City
Tokyo’s bohemian district known for its indie music venues, vintage clothing stores, and cozy cafes. It is highly walkable and very popular with locals.
Transit · 16 min · 2.7 km
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14:00 – 16:30 · 2 hours
Shibuya 109
Shopping
The iconic fashion hub of youth culture in Tokyo, filled with dozens of boutiques selling the latest trends. It is a must-visit for fashion-forward travelers wanting to see the heart of Japanese street style.
Walk · 5 min · 0.2 km
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18:00 – 20:30 · 1 hour
Shibuya Crossing
City
The world's busiest pedestrian intersection. Experience the synchronized chaos by walking across or watching from a nearby cafe.
Walk · 7 min · 0.5 km
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21:30 – 23:59 · 4 hours
Club Asia
Nightlife
Located in the heart of Shibuya, this versatile venue hosts everything from live band performances to club events. Its multi-floor layout provides various vibes to suit different group moods.
Day 6
Mount Takao and Ginza
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08:30 – 11:00 · 2-3 hours
Mount Takao
Nature
A popular mountain range with well-maintained hiking trails, a chairlift, and stunning views of the city. On clear September days, you can even spot Mount Fuji.
Transit · 1h 50min · 47.3 km
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13:30 – 16:00 · 2 hours
Ginza Six
City
A luxury shopping complex featuring an art installation in the atrium and a rooftop garden. It represents the sophisticated, modern face of Tokyo.
Walk · 5 min · 0.3 km
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17:00 – 19:30 · 2 hours
Kyubey
Food
A high-end sushi institution that offers a refined omakase experience where the chef crafts each piece with precision. This is the place to splurge on the best of Tokyo's sushi culture.
Day 7
Nature and Departure
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09:00 – 11:30 · 1-2 hours
Todoroki Valley
Nature
A hidden, lush ravine trail following a small river through Setagaya. It is significantly cooler than the city streets, providing natural air conditioning.
Transit · 46 min · 15.5 km
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13:00 – 15:30 · 2-3 hours
Akihabara Electric Town
City
The heart of anime, gaming, and electronics culture. Spend time visiting multi-story hobby shops like Radio Kaikan and arcades.
Before you go
- Review the import rules for your personal medication — some common over-the-counter drugs for colds or allergies at home are restricted in Japan and may require an import permit
- Set up your mobile data solution before flying — connecting to Japanese networks via home roaming can be costly, and securing a reliable eSIM or device beforehand avoids setup delays
- Prepare for extreme heat and typhoon-season rain — Japanese September is significantly hotter and more humid than a European early autumn, and sudden heavy rain is common
- Pack a Type A power adapter for your devices — Japan uses a flat two-pin plug configuration and lower voltage than most of Europe, making your existing power cables incompatible
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Viala plans are AI-generated and were verified by us in August 2026. Opening hours, prices and local rules change; check before you go. Viala is a planning and information tool, not a travel agent, tour operator or booking platform.
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