City
Tokyo travel guide
Dense, punctual and endlessly layered, where the best meals are often in a basement or under a railway arch.
Tokyo at a glance
- Best time to visitMarch to May, October to November
- Daily budget90-180 USD per person, excluding flights
- Days to allow5-7 days
- RegionJapan
Why visit Tokyo
Dense, punctual and endlessly layered, where the best meals are often in a basement or under a railway arch.
Like anywhere popular, Tokyo rewards travellers who go slightly outside the obvious window. Arriving in march to may gives you the conditions people come for without the peak-season pricing, and if you can allow 7 days rather than rushing it in a weekend, the trip changes character entirely.
Practical tips for Tokyo
Small things that make a real difference on the ground.
- Get an IC card at the airport and stop thinking about fares
- Base yourself near a Yamanote line stop
- Leave one full day for a neighbourhood with no plan
- Confirm opening seasons before you travel; some operators close entirely in low season
- Carry some local cash even where cards are widely accepted
More city destinations
Other places in the same category, with the same practical detail.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Tokyo?
The best months are March to May, October to November. Outside that window you will usually find lower prices but less reliable conditions.
How many days should I spend in Tokyo?
Allow 5-7 days. That is enough to see the main sights without spending the whole trip in transit.
How much does Tokyo cost per day?
Budget roughly 90-180 USD per person per day excluding flights, covering accommodation, food and local transport.
Do I need to book anything in advance for Tokyo?
Book accommodation and any capacity-limited experience ahead in peak season. Get an IC card at the airport and stop thinking about fares.