Two-Day Tokyo Travel: Explore 7 Famous Areas In Japan's Capital

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Tokyo has countless iconic spots--this trip guide introduces a 2-day itinerary with 7 popular areas in Japan's largest metropolis. Travel efficiently around Tsukiji, Ginza, Shibuya, Harajuku, Shinjuku, Akihabara, and Asakusa and make the most of Tokyo on a short trip.

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MATCHA

This is the official account of MATCHA's editorial department. Our articles feature useful travel information for visitors to Japan, from how-to guides to recommended places to visit.

7エリアを2日で回る！東京の観光モデルプラン(浅草・新宿・渋谷・築地・秋葉原・原宿・銀座)

The Tokyo Station area. Photo by Pixta

Tokyo is one of the world’s most exciting cities. With prominent sightseeing places in almost every corner of Tokyo, it is smart to plan ahead for a fun and efficient trip. In this article, we suggest a two-day trip itinerary that will take you to the must-see spots of this wonderful metropolis.

A brief stay can include everything that makes Tokyo great, with sightseeing, entertainment, gourmet food, and shopping!

Morning, Day 1: Ginza

Picture from Kabuki Theater - Enjoy This Japanese Performing Art To The Fullest

Let's start our Tokyo trip in Ginza, one of the most prestigious shopping areas in Tokyo. Ginza is also home to Kabukiza, a theater where you can enjoy the Japanese performing art of Kabuki.

You can also walk to Ginza Chuo Dori Street, one of the most popular shopping streets in Tokyo, in about 5 minutes from JR Yurakucho Station, or just 1 minute from the Tokyo Metro Ginza Station!

Picture from Sophisticated Ginza - Urban Walking Route Along Chuo Dori Street

Did you know that strolling around Ginza is called ginbura in Japanese? It's been a beloved pastime for many years now. Try ginbura for yourself and experience this Tokyo tradition!

Ginza has a long history in Tokyo and boasts numerous well-established retail shops, such as Kyukyodo, a stationery store selling incense and washi (traditional paper), and Erizen, a traditional clothing store. Ginza Mitsukoshi, a prominent Japanese department store that was founded in the Edo period, is another popular destination.

While on your way, we suggest relaxing at Ginza Café Paulista, a café established in 1911, or at the Shiseido Parlour Ginza Main Store.

Afternoon, Day 1: Shibuya

Our next stop is Shibuya, which can be reached via the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line. It takes about 15 minutes to arrive. At Shibuya, you'll find many shops carrying the latest fashion items.

Start from the world-famous Shibuya scramble crossing, and head out for some great fashion hunting!

Picture courtesy of Shibuya Scramble Square
If you're looking for a bird's eye view of the Shibuya streets, or a convenient collection of shopping and dining spaces, check out the Shibuya Scramble Square! This new Tokyo landmark is the perfect place to experience the city's energy.

You can also find great Japanese souvenirs at Shibuya Hikarie and LOFT. If you’re searching for cutting-edge electronics, there are three Shibuya Bic Camera stores.

Finally, if you’re interested in shopping for anime, manga, and related goods, head to Mandarake.

After browsing and shopping, head to d47 Shokudo for a rest. This restaurant offers a spectacular view of Shibuya, and serves excellent dishes from all across Japan. Of course, you can also choose from many of other restaurants serving ramen, yakiniku, and other irresistible specialties.

Evening, Day 1: Harajuku

Harajuku is the birthplace of iconic subculture trends and styles like kawaii culture and Gothic Lolita fashion. Harajuku is just one station away from Shinjuku on the JR Line, and if you'd rather walk, it only takes about 20 minutes.

While you're in Harajuku, be sure to stop by Takeshita Street, KIDDY LAND, and Laforet Harajuku.

If you're a fan of Sanrio, add Pompompurin Café Harajuku Store to your must-visit list, too!

For dinner, we recommend Sakura-tei, a stylish restaurant where you can try making your own okonomiyaki (savory pancake).

Morning, Day 2: Akihabara

On our second day, let's head to Akihabara, a neighborhood filled with anime, manga, and character merchandise. We suggest going for brunch at a maid café, where the employees wear smiles and maid costumes, too.

@Home Café has English menus, so visitors from all around the globe can enjoy the ambiance to the fullest.

Next, you can go on a shopping spree at one of the many anime goods stores or electronics shops. Many of the stores in Akihabara offer a wide variety of goods for a bargain price, so this area is a fantastic place for both sightseeing and souvenir-hunting.

Noon, Day 2: Asakusa

Picture from Asakusa, SKYTREE, Odaiba All In A Day! An Introductory Guide To Tokyo

Take the Tsukuba Express from Akihabara Station, and in just 4 minutes you'll arrive at Asakusa Station, a piece of historical Japan in modern Tokyo. Walk down Nakamise Shopping Street to get to the Kaminarimon, one of Asakusa’s landmarks.

The bustling Nakamise Dori is packed with shops selling traditional crafts and accessories, so it's an ideal place to look for presents and souvenirs. It's also fun to browse through the wonderful handicrafts. Don’t forget to try the local delicacies, such as freshly-made agemanju.

Taken from Get The Perfect Shot Of Tokyo Skytree - Top 5 Photo Spots In Asakusa

While you're nearby, make sure to stop by the world's largest tower, Tokyo Skytree. The closest station to this iconic structure is Oshiage Station. You can reach it from Asakusa Station via Toei Asakusa Line in about 3 minutes. On foot, it takes about 20 minutes. Local spots like Azumabashi Bridge allow you to snap breathtakingly beautiful photos of the Sumida River, Tokyo Skytree, the Asahi Beer headquarters, and other scenic locations, so we recommend the walk.

If you opt to go on foot, and decide to take a rest, you'll find Tokyo Mizumachi just across the river from Asakusa Sation. This row of cafes and restaurants runs along the Sumida River towards Tokyo Skytree, and offers both plenty of spots to rest and spectacular views.

The dramatic view of the surrounding area from the top of the Tokyo Skytree is truly unforgettable, while the nearby Tokyo Skytree Town features atractions such as Tokyo Solamachi and Sumida Aquarium.

Evening, Day 2: Shinjuku

Finally, let's spend the evening in Shinjuku, one of Tokyo's largest entertainment districts! Getting rom Oshiage Station to Shinjuku takes about 30 minutes and requires one change of train.

Kabukicho is one of Japan’s largest shopping and districts. Popular both day and night, it's home to countless shopping facilities, restaurants, and cafes. Take a walk around and you're sure to feel the neighborhood's lively pace.

To cap off the trip, head to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building; one of its towers is home to an observatory that offers an unparalleled 360 degree view of Tokyo. You'll be able to take a new look at all of your favorite Tokyo spots!

Tokyo in the Palm of Your Hand!

Each neighborhood in Tokyo has its own unique atmosphere and charm. Tokyo is also very interconnected, making it convenient to navigate and use public transportation.

Use these tips as you explore the city, and you're sure to get the most out of your Tokyo trip.

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Originally written by: Nico

Main image by Pixta. *This is a rewritten version of an article published on August 15, 2016.

Written by

MATCHA

This is the official account of MATCHA's editorial department. Our articles feature useful travel information for visitors to Japan, from how-to guides to recommended places to visit.

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