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Asakusa, SKYTREE, and Odaiba In A Day! An Introductory Guide To Tokyo

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As the capital of Japan, Tokyo is a city with many sites you would want to check out. Here is a model plan for first timers in Tokyo to enjoy the best of the city in one day!

Written by

Miho Moriya

Tokyo,Japan

MATCHA editor and freelance writer. Born, raised, and currently living in Tokyo. Have visited over 30 countries and lived in four different prefectures. I have traveled to almost all 47 prefectures in Japan! I try to create articles that help convey the charms of a destination through words and pictures. I love forests, temples, and camels.
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When traveling to Japan, many first-time visitors choose Tokyo as their destination. Tokyo has countless tourist attractions, great food, and shopping all conveniently located. For those wondering what to do in Tokyo when they first arrive, here is a sample itinerary for touring the city!

9:00 Experience Retro Japan at Asakusa

浅草雷門

From: Asakusa Travel Guide: Savor The Past In The Historical Center Of Tokyo

Asakusa has been thriving since Japan's Edo period. You'll find many retro shopping streets, making this a great place to take in the traditional atmosphere of Japan.

There are several "Asakusa" stations, so be sure to check this article for tips on navigating around the cuty.

Walk Through Nakamise-dori From Kaminarimon

仲見世通り

From: 8 Souvenirs From Asakusa's Nakamise-Dori

Once you go through the Kaminarimon gates, you'll find a path with stores on each side. This street filled with shops, called Nakamise-dori, is considered one of Japan's oldest shopping streets. This is a perfect spot to purchase Japanese souvenirs such as senbei or traditional confections. Take a stroll and stop by the shops that interest you!

Pray at Sensoji Temple and Asakusa Shrine

浅草寺

From: Asakusa Guide: Sensoji Temple, Nakamise-dori, Tokyo Skytree and More!
At the end of Nakamise-dori you'll find Sensoji Temple, an impressive structure with a 1,300 year history. Around the temple, there are several places to receive an omikuji fortune. To get the most from a tour around Sensoji Temple, check out our guide.

This area is also home to Asakusa Shrine. It's said to be one of the most auspicious shrines in Japan, so why not stop by to experience this aspect of traditional Japanese culture?


11:00 Enjoy Tokyo From Above at Tokyo SKYTREE

東京スカイツリー

From: Go To The SKYTREE On The Singing Train, Keisei Express (Japanese)

From Asakusa Station, take the Asakusa Line to Oshiage Station, the closest station to the Tokyo SKYTREE. Alternatively, you can walk there from Asakusa in about 20 minutes. The areas around Asakusa Station have great spots from which to view Tokyo SKYTREE too, so you can take a stroll and take in the sights at the same time! From the top of Tokyo SKYTREE, the world's tallest tower, the city looks like a small diorama! For more information about this exhilarating experience, please refer to this article.

The Sumida Aquarium and Tokyo Solamachi shopping area are also nearby. This whole area, referred to as Tokyo SKYTREE town, is absolutely packed with destinations to explore!

If you're feeling hungry, head inside Tokyo Solamachi and check out the matcha green tea and Japanese tea cafe, nana's green tea. Not only can you enjoy delicious matcha green tea, but you can also fill up on savory rice bowls, udon and other Japanese dishes for around 1000 yen.


14:00 Entertainment Facilities and Beaches at Odaiba

お台場

From: An Entertainment City Overlooking the Sea - 7 Spots to Visit in Odaiba

To travel from Tokyo SKYTREE to Odaiba, taking a shuttle bus is the most convenient. There's also a water bus connecting Asakusa and Odaiba. If you have time, take a ride on the water bus to enjoy the ocean view! Both travel methods take about an hour, so it's best to head over to Odaiba around 13:00.

Latest Japanese Technology at The National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation

日本未来博物館の地球儀

Once you arrive at Odaiba, check out The National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation. Unlike the traditional side of Japan you'll see in Asakusa, here you can experience a vision of the future!
The nearby Venus Fort outlet is another popular destination, known for its wide variety of fun shops and restaurants.

After enjoying touring and shopping around Odaiba, be sure to visit teamLab's interactive art museum to enjoy this gorgeous collection of 3D art and light displays!


Written by

Miho Moriya

Tokyo,Japan

MATCHA editor and freelance writer. Born, raised, and currently living in Tokyo. Have visited over 30 countries and lived in four different prefectures. I have traveled to almost all 47 prefectures in Japan! I try to create articles that help convey the charms of a destination through words and pictures. I love forests, temples, and camels.
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