Tokyo Travel Guide 2026 — Things to Do, Best Time, Food & 4-Day Plan
Tokyo is a city of beautiful contradictions — neon-lit and serene, hyper-modern and deeply traditional, overwhelming yet astonishingly orderly. From ancient temples and tranquil gardens to robot-filled arcades and the world’s best food, Japan’s capital rewards every kind of traveler. With Japan now offering an eVisa to Indians, it’s more accessible than ever. This guide covers when to go, what to see, food, and how to get around.
Best time to visit
Late March–April for cherry blossoms (sakura) and October–November for autumn colours are the most beautiful seasons. Summers are hot and humid; winters are crisp and clear. Book well ahead for the blossom and autumn peaks.
Top things to do
- Senso-ji Temple (Asakusa): Tokyo’s oldest temple and the lively Nakamise shopping street.
- Shibuya Crossing & Shinjuku: The iconic scramble crossing and dazzling nightlife districts.
- Meiji Shrine & Harajuku: Forest calm beside youth-fashion chaos.
- teamLab digital art museums: Immersive, unforgettable light installations.
- Tokyo Skytree / Tokyo Tower: Sweeping skyline views.
- Day trips: Mt. Fuji/Hakone, Nikko, and Kamakura.
Food (and tips for Indians)
Sushi, ramen, tempura, and street food in Tsukiji and Ameyoko are unmissable. Vegetarians should watch for dashi (fish stock) — seek shojin-ryori (Buddhist veg), vegan ramen, and Indian restaurants. See our Japanese food guide for navigating it.
Getting around & visa
Tokyo’s metro and JR trains are world-class — get a Suica/Pasmo card. Indians need a visa; the eVisa makes it easy (see our Japan visa guide). Consider a JR Pass if you’ll travel beyond the city.
Suggested 4-day plan
- Day 1: Asakusa, Skytree, Ueno.
- Day 2: Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, Shibuya, Shinjuku at night.
- Day 3: teamLab, Odaiba, Ginza shopping.
- Day 4: Day trip to Hakone/Mt. Fuji or Kamakura.
FAQs
How many days for Tokyo? 4–5 days for the city plus a day trip; add more for wider Japan.
Is Tokyo expensive? Pricey for hotels, but cheap, excellent food and transport keep daily costs reasonable.
