5 Days in Tokyo: From Neon Nights to Zen Mornings

I like to keep the first day low-key but fun. Start with sushi at Uobei, which is basically fast-food meets futuristic—sushi zipping around on conveyor belts always makes me smile. Wander Takeshita Street for kitschy shops (I once found the most over-the-top crepe there, covered in strawberries and whipped cream), then balance it with the more refined Omotesando Avenue. My favorite moment is always slipping into the forested paths of Meiji Shrine—you suddenly forget you’re in the middle of Tokyo. End the day with Ichiran Ramen (solo booths, perfect for zoning out) and then watch the madness of Shibuya Crossing before heading up to Shibuya Sky for one of the best night views of the city.

Tips

• Grab a Suica/Pasmo card right at the airport so you’re set for trains.

• If you’re tired, stick to walking outdoors—the fresh air helps fight jet lag.

• Google Maps works brilliantly here for trains—trust me, I’d be lost without it.

Today’s about contrasts. Start at Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa before the crowds—the smell of incense here is grounding. Walk through Nakamise Street and snack your way along (taiyaki fish-shaped cakes are my weakness). Lunch at Daikokuya Tempura is a treat—crispy tempura served over rice that’s worth the line. Spend your afternoon in Ueno Park (I once stumbled on street performers here who had the whole crowd laughing), and visit the Tokyo National Museum for a dose of history. Then wander the chaotic aisles of Ameyoko Market. In the evening, dive into Akihabara—it’s wild. Whether it’s retro gaming shops or quirky maid cafés, it’s sensory overload in the most Tokyo way possible.

Tips

• Bring coins for small temple donations.

• Mondays can mean museum closures—check ahead.

• Pick just one or two Akihabara stops or it gets overwhelming.

Tokyo’s incredible, but I always recommend a day trip to breathe a little.

Hakone is for art lovers and mountain views. Ride the ropeway, spot Mt. Fuji if she’s out, and wander through the Hakone Open-Air Museum—it’s one of my all-time favorites. I still remember seeing Picasso’s works framed by open sky and mountain peaks.

Kamakura is for a slower, seaside vibe. The Great Buddha is breathtaking, and wandering shrine paths shaded by cedar trees feels timeless. Grab soba noodles at a little café near the coast—simple but soul-soothing.

Tips

• Hakone: Leave early (by 8 am) so you’re not rushing. Bring a sweater—mountain air is cool.

• Kamakura: Wear good shoes. There are lots of stairs and forest trails.

• Carry small bills for temples, snacks, and trains.

This day is one of my favorites because it’s all about food and flair. Start at Tsukiji Outer Market—the seafood bowls here are unreal (I once had a scallop so fresh it melted like butter). Wander the luxe Ginza shopping district, even if it’s just window-shopping. Lunch on sushi in Ginza is always a splurge, but worth it. Book tickets to teamLab Planets well in advance—walking barefoot through digital art that reacts to you is surreal. Balance all that neon art with a quiet walk in the Imperial Palace Gardens before dressing up for a fine dinner in Ginza. End the night with a cocktail at a rooftop bar—Tokyo sparkling beneath you is unforgettable.

Tips

• Tsukiji is best between 8–9 am — things sell out fast.

• teamLab Planet tickets sell out, so book early.

• Pack something chic for Ginza—locals dress sharp.

Your last day is for tying up loose ends and squeezing in one more temple. I love Zojo-ji Temple for its quiet grounds and view of Tokyo Tower, or the playful Gotokuji Cat Temple, which always makes me smile. Lunch on tonkatsu at Maisen Aoyama—their pork cutlets are legendary. Spend the afternoon shopping in Shibuya or Ginza, or if you’re ambitious, swing by the Toyosu Fish Market for sushi. If you have time before your flight, a quick stroll along the Odaiba waterfront is a gentle way to say goodbye.

Tips

• Keep a little cash for last snacks and train rides.

• Pack the night before—you’ll thank yourself.

• If you’ve got a late flight, ask the hotel for luggage storage or late checkout.