Tokyo 2025 Travel Guide: Places to Visit & Things to Do • Itinerary & Expenses • Budget Japan Vlog

The ultimate Tokyo travel guide. Let's go! We ate insanely yummy sushi for only two bucks, got unlimited train rides around Tokyo for only six bucks, and strolled through some of the most beautiful gardens completely for free. This vlog proves you don't need a big budget to have a big adventure in Japan. In this video, we give you the best places to visit, the best things to do, and the best food to eat, all so that you could have the best Tokyo trip possible. So let's go! Hi guys, my name is Angelica Wanders and this is Aileen Wanders, and we create budget travel guides all around the world. On this channel, we show you our easy-to-follow itineraries and also our costs and expenses in every trip. So if you want to travel around the world in the easiest and most affordable way possible, then hit that like button and hit that subscribe button because we make videos just for you. Stick until the end of this video because we give you the ultimate seven-day budget itinerary and also a cost breakdown so you can get an idea of how much a Tokyo trip could cost. And without further ado, let's explore Tokyo, Japan. First off, let's talk about how to score cheap flights to Tokyo. Well, we usually check Skyscanner and Google Flights to compare airline prices across the entire month. You can filter them out by the cheapest flights to the fastest flights, but the trick is to not book directly through Skyscanner. Instead, I just find the cheapest airline and then book directly with the airline to avoid any third-party fees. Since we're based in the Philippines, we usually wait for PISO sales where you can grab round-trip tickets from Manila for as low as P5,000 to P6,000 per head. But you need to book three to six months in advance. And another tip would be to stalk your local airlines. Follow them on social media, subscribe to their email lists. Flash deals come and go, so be ready to hop onto any sale. Next up, when is the best time to visit Tokyo? Well, if you're chasing cherry blossoms and comfy weather, spring from late March to early April is perfect. But also super popular, so expect higher prices and heavy crowds. Here are the best places to find cherry blossoms within Tokyo. Feel free to screenshot. For autumn colors and crisp air, you can visit around late October to November. Both seasons are gorgeous, but can get very, very pricey and very packed. Now, if you're after fewer tourists, cheaper stays, and maybe even a snow day, winter from December to February is an option, especially if you're planning to ski or explore some pretty winter spots. Okay, so now that you've booked your flight and you've finally arrived in Narita, every tourist should do three things at the airport. Number one, stay connected. Before your trip to Tokyo, I highly recommend pre-booking a pocket Wi-Fi or an eSIM, so you have internet to navigate your way around Japan. For short-term trips, you can pre-book a pocket Wi-Fi, which costs as low as $3 per day. But for longer stays, you can book an eSIM with unlimited data for as low as $22 for seven days. Make sure to pre-book these in advance to get the best prices. We'll leave some links down below to some of the most reliable and affordable pocket Wi-Fis and eSIMs in Japan. Number two, the second thing to pick up at the airport is cash. From our own experience, we found that withdrawing money from ATMs abroad usually offer better exchange rates as compared to money changers. But don't worry about withdrawing too much, because throughout Tokyo, you can use your credit card for most transactions. However, if you plan to explore street food or buy from smaller local shops, this is when cash will be most needed. And number three, don't forget to pick up a transportation card. This is your key to getting around Tokyo on public transportation. There are five main transit cards to choose from, so here's a quick rundown to help you decide the best card for you. Let's begin. First up, the Suica and Pasmo cards. These two are by far the most popular ones. And honestly, they're nearly identical. Both work on trains, subways, and buses across the city. The only difference is that they're issued by different operators. You'll pay a 500 yen deposit for the card. Then you just load it up, tap to ride, and you're good to go. And don't worry, if you've got any leftover balance at the end of your trip, you can get a refund at their designated service counters. The third and fourth cards are the Welcome Suica card and Pasmo passport, which are made specifically for tourists. But they don't offer refunds. So if you're unsure about how much you'll spend in Japan, the regular Suica card or Pasmo might be the safer bet. Nonetheless, all these cards are widely accepted at shops, restaurants, and convenience stores all around Tokyo. So you can easily use up any leftover balance by shopping before you leave. And the fifth card is the Tokyo subway ticket, which gives you unlimited rides on the Tokyo Metro and Toei lines. You can choose from a 24-hour unlimited pass worth $6, a 48-hour pass worth $9, or a 72-hour pass worth $11. This card is perfect if you'll be exploring central Tokyo non-stop. But just a side note, this pass only includes the Metro lines and does not include the JR lines. So you'll need to use your regular Suica card for that one. All five cards are super easy to pick up at the airport. Just head to the train counters or ticket machines the moment you land. Okay, so now that you've got everything you need at Narita Airport, it's time to head to your hotel. Just a heads up, Tokyo is about an hour away from Narita Airport. So here are the three main ways to get into the city. Option one, you can take the train. There are three main trains from Narita Airport. First, there's the Narita Express, aka NX. It's super comfortable, it's got free Wi-Fi, and best of all, it's direct. No transfers needed. You'll get to Tokyo Station in about 53 minutes and tickets cost around $20 one-way. Now if you're on a tighter budget, the Keisei trains are a solid option. You've got two flavors here. The Keisei Skyliner is faster and comfier, getting you to Ueno Station in about 41 minutes for only $17 one-way. And the Keisei Access Express is cheaper but slower, with more stops along the way. It can take up to two hours to the city, but prices can go as low as $10 one-way. Now option two, let's talk buses. The airport limousine bus goes directly to major bus stops and stations across Tokyo, which is convenient if you've got heavy luggage and don't want to mess with train transfers. Travel time is usually 90 to 120 minutes and a one-way ticket costs $20 to $25. Honestly, I think this is one of the easiest ways to get into the city if you're staying near one of the bus stops. But just a heads up, the last bus from the airport usually departs before 11 p.m. So if you're arriving on a midnight flight, this leads us to option three. Take a taxi or book a private transfer. If you're feeling a little fancy and want to get to your hotel ASAP, a regular taxi or Uber from Narita Airport to Tokyo can cost around $170 to $220 one-way. But here's the good news. There's a more convenient and surprisingly cheaper option. You can pre-book a private transfer for around $120 one-way and it can even fit up to six passengers. These usually come with an English-speaking driver and a comfortable spacious ride, making it perfect if you're traveling with family or have a lot of luggage. As always, we'll drop links to the discounted train tickets, airport buses, and private transfers down in the description to help you save some cash. Okay, so now you're an expert on how to get to Tokyo, another important question is where is the best place to stay in Tokyo? Well, there are four main areas that I would recommend. So let me show you the differences between each one so it can help you choose the best area for you. First up, Shinjuku. This is Tokyo's ultimate all-rounder. Bright lights, big city, and that classic Tokyo energy. It's packed with shopping, skyscrapers, and nightlife with one of the biggest train hubs in the world, making it super convenient to get to anywhere around the city. You'll find everything from budget capsule hotels to luxury stays here. Whatever the budget, if you want non-stop action and easy access to everything, Shinjuku is your best bet. Next up, Asakusa. If you're into tradition, temples, and that old-school vibe, Asakusa is the place to be. It's home to the Sensuji Temple, one of Tokyo's oldest and most iconic landmarks. The vibe here is more laid-back, a beautiful blend of modern and traditional Japan. Think rickshaws, lantern-lit streets, and lively markets with just the right touch of modern flair. If you're after culture, history, and charm, Asakusa is calling your name. Next, we have Ginza. This is the city's high-end shopping district. Think of it as Tokyo's version of Fifth Avenue or Rodeo Drive. You'll find designer stores, luxury hotels, and upscale dining all around. This area offers a sleek and polished version of Tokyo, ideal for travelers who love a bit of glam. So if you're into the high life, Ginza will give you that taste of luxury. And finally, Shibuya. Trendy, youthful, and full of that Tokyo cool fabric, you've definitely seen Shibuya Crossing in a million photos. And yes, it's just as wild in person. This area is packed with edgy department stores, cute cafes, and street-style galore. It's the heart of Tokyo's youth culture, perfect for anyone into modern vibes and soaking up that fast-paced Tokyo energy. Of course, Tokyo has other great neighborhoods too, like Akihabara for tech and anime, or Ueno for museums and parks. But if it's your first time in Tokyo, these four areas will give you a great mix of everything the city has to offer. The city is super well-connected, so honestly, just booking a decent hotel near a train station will do. I'll include links in the description to some of the best affordable hotels near some transport hubs, so you can have easy access to all popular tourist spots with just a train ride away. And stick until the end of this video, where we'll share an ideal 7-day Tokyo itinerary, complete with a cost breakdown, so you can experience the best of the best of Tokyo in just one week. Okay, so now that you've booked your flights, booked your hotels, and got your transport cards, let's move on to the next question. What are the best things to do in Tokyo? And how much will I spend? Whether you're an anime fan, a foodie, or just here to soak in the electric vibes of the city, Tokyo has something special for everyone. So let's dive into the top 10 most popular things to do in Tokyo, and how much they'll cost. And wait until the end to hear our number one spot. So let's start off with number 10. Visit Tokyo's biggest amusement parks. Of course, the Disney classics. Tokyo Disneyland has all the magic we know and love. Castles, parades, and character meet and greets, with tickets starting at $60 per head. But DisneySea? It's a one-of-a-kind exclusive to Japan experience, with rides inspired by ocean myths and sea legends. While Disneyland is perfect for younger kids and families, DisneySea is especially popular with adults and older kids. Now if you're not a Disney person, you can check out Warner Bros Studio Tour, The Making of Harry Potter, for some wizarding fun at $37 a ticket. Or Sanrio Poro Land at $26 a ticket, if Hello Kitty is more of your vibe. Book early online so you can score some early bird discounts and skip the long ticket queues. Number nine. Witness Tokyo from the sky. For a 360-degree view of the city, make sure to check out Tokyo's three iconic towers. Start with Shibuya Sky, one of Tokyo's trendiest observatories, costing $20 a ticket. An open-air glass rooftop with a killer sunset view. Easily one of the most Instagrammable spots in the city. Or you can head to Tokyo Skytree, the tallest tower in Japan and the second tallest structure in the world. Standing tall at 634 meters, it has epic views that stretch all the way to Mount Fuji on a clear day. Tickets start at $15 per head. And don't forget the Tokyo Tower, the Eiffel Tower-inspired structure with a glass floor skywalk, if you're feeling brave. This is the most affordable one at $10 per ticket. I highly recommend visiting one tower during the day and another at night to witness two totally different vibes. Number eight. Experience art beyond the frame. Tokyo is home to some of the most mind-blowing immersive art spaces in the world. And at the top of the list are TeamLab Planets and TeamLab Borderless. These aren't your typical galleries. Think glowing orbs, water that responds to your movements, and digital flowers blooming all around you. There's even a room where you can draw your own sea creature and watch it come to life in a massive digital aquarium. Tickets usually range from $25 to $30 per head. Or you can head to the Art Aquarium Museum at $18 per ticket, where glowing jellyfish and goldfish meet modern art and traditional Japanese aesthetics. And for anime lovers, the Ghibli Museum is pure magic. Tickets are just $29 and the entire space was designed by Hayao Miyazaki himself. It feels like stepping right into a Studio Ghibli film with whimsical staircases, hidden corners, and plenty of Totoro. Almost all of them require reservations, so make sure to book in advance. As always, you'll find discount links in the description. And if you want to save even more, use the coupon code ANGELICAWANDERSKLUK upon checkout. Number seven. If there's one day trip you have to take, it's to see the legendary Mount Fuji. And getting there? Super easy. We booked a hassle-free day tour for just $55, which included transport to five different destinations, all entrance fees, and a super friendly tour guide showing us all the best photo spots. The adventure begins with a free pickup in Tokyo, whisking you away to the iconic Chureito Pagoda. Sure, you may have to climb 397 steps to reach the top, but the view from the top is totally worth it. Next stop, the Hikawa Clock Shop. It's a charming retro Japanese street with Fuji perfectly framed at the end like a picture-perfect postcard. Then we visited Oshino Hakai, a small village where Mount Fuji's melted snow turns into eight crystal-clear spring ponds. Next was the Lake Kawaguchi Oishi Park. Imagine colorful flowers with Mount Fuji standing tall in the background. And of course, for our last stop, we had to visit the Viral Lawson. It is a convenience store, but guys, just look at this view. Five stops, zero stress. With so many highlights packed into one day, this all-in-one tour saved us time, money, and hassle. This is hands down the easiest and most photogenic way to experience Mount Fuji. Number six, Scramble through Shibuya Crossing. Welcome to the busiest pedestrian crossing in the world. At peak times, up to 3,000 people cross from every direction all at once. It's pure chaos, strangely organized, and completely mesmerizing to watch. Plus, it's totally free. You can dive right into the crowd for that classic I was here moment or watch the scene unfold from above. Here are some of the nearby cafes and rooftop bars offering a good view of the Scramble. Feel free to screenshot this for future reference, whether you're part of the action down below or watching it from above. The Shibuya Crossing perfectly captures Tokyo's electric energy. Number five, witness Tokyo's pop culture playgrounds. Step into two of Tokyo's most iconic neighborhoods where youth culture, fashion, and fandom collide. Start with Harajuku, the birthplace of kawaii culture. Wander down Takeshita Street, a colorful alley packed with trendy boutiques, quirky accessories, and rainbow cotton candy. It's a magnet for fashion lovers, and even if you're not into dressing up, the people-watching alone is already worth the trip. Then afterwards, head to Akihabara, the mecca of all things anime, manga, and retro gaming. Think multi-floor arcades, anime merch, and rare collectibles. Together, these two districts are a deep dive into Tokyo's wild world of pop culture. Number four, visit Sensuji Temple in Asakusa. Experience the old soul of Tokyo at the city's oldest and most iconic Buddhist temple. Your journey begins at the Kaminarimon Gate, where a towering red lantern marks the entrance. And from there, stroll down Nakamise Street, a charming shopping lane filled with traditional snacks and souvenirs. As you reach the temple grounds, visit the incense burner, admire the five-story pagoda, and explore the beautifully designed main hall. Entrance is completely free. And for a more immersive experience, you can even rent a kimono and wander the temple grounds in style. Rentals start at $22 per kimono. Number three, escape into Tokyo's parks. If you need a breather from the city buzz, Tokyo's parks offer peaceful escapes right in the middle of the action. Ueno Park and Yoyogi Park are completely free to visit and are perfect for picnics, strolls, and cherry blossom viewing during the spring. Ueno also features national museums, a zoo, and a scenic paddle boating pond for a bit of adventure. For a more curated experience, the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden has a $3 entry and blends Japanese, French, and English garden styles into one beautifully maintained space. All three parks are family-friendly and great for slowing down. Just bring some snacks, roll out a picnic mat, and enjoy a quiet afternoon surrounded by nature. Number two, shop till you drop in Tokyo's trendiest neighborhoods. Tokyo is a shopper's paradise, whether you're after luxury labels or edgy streetwear. Start in Ginza, home to Ginza 6 and Mitsukoshi, where high-end fashion meets timeless Japanese luxury. For youth-driven style, hit up Shibuya 109, a mega department store packed with the trendiest Tokyo streetwear. For something more budget-friendly, don't miss Don Quijote, a chaotic multi-floor discount store with everything from snacks to souvenirs to beauty items. And if you're into character goods and collectibles, Sunshine City in Ikebukuro is a haven for Pokemon, Sanrio, and anime lovers. Just a tip, many malls offer tax-free shopping for tourists, so bring your passport to save big. And now for our number one ultimate favorite thing to do in Tokyo, that is sushi making. We can officially say we are sushi masters. Okay, maybe not quite, but this was our first time making sushi, and it was so much fun. We booked a sushi-making class for $94, and I know it might seem like a splurge, but honestly, it felt like booking a high-quality sushi lunch, except we made it ourselves. We learned how to make different types of sushi, like the nigiri sushi, which is the original style of sushi, and maki sushi, the one we all know and love, where the ingredients are rolled up in rice. And let me tell you, it wasn't just fun to make, it tasted amazing. The instructors were so fun and enthusiastic, guiding us through the process step by step. If you want to book this exact sushi-making class, again, discount links in the description. And of course, don't forget to use the coupon code ANGELICALWANDERSKLUK for all your activities. Now speaking of food, if you're on the hunt for the best of the best budget eats in Japan, we've got you covered. We tried 95 dishes around 30 must-visit food spots, from viral street snacks to melting-your-mouth wagyu, all to bring you the ultimate Japan food vlog. And when I say ultimate, I mean it. This epic food trip covers some of the highest-rated budget eats from Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe. And we didn't just taste them, we gave our honest reviews and broke down the prices per dish, so you can budget your own Japan food trip with your friends. If you want the full food list and price list, check out our Ultimate Japan Budget Food Guide, which is up on our YouTube channel. Trust us, this food vlog will help you save money on your next Japan food trip. Well, those were the top 10 most popular tours and activities in Tokyo, so you can choose which one best suits your lifestyle. Now with all these things to do, it's important to discuss our next topic, how to get around Tokyo DIY style. Number one, you can take the hop-on hop-off Tokyo City Bus Tour. This open double-decker bus offers a complete and flexible way to explore Tokyo's top attractions at your own pace. With three different routes to choose from, and 19 convenient bus stops, it's an easy and budget-friendly way to get around. A City Tour Bus Pass costs just $35 for one day or $50 for two days of unlimited rides. Simply hop on and off at any point on the route, with buses arriving every 30 to 60 minutes, making it stress-free without the need to plan routes. Number two, commute like a local. Tokyo's subway system might look intimidating, but it's actually the most affordable and efficient way to get around the city. To make things easier, you can use your reloadable Suica or PASMO card to tap in and out of stations easily. Navigation-wise, the Google Maps app works great in Japan and even shows you real-time train info and which platform numbers to hop on. Another helpful app is Japan Travel by NaviTime, which gives you a full railway map and even lets you create a custom itinerary. Just plug in the destinations you want to go and it whips up a DIY commute route for you. Again, if you're planning a full-pack day of sightseeing, consider getting the Tokyo Subway Ticket, which gives you unlimited rides on the Tokyo Metro and Toei lines. Here are the lines that the pass covers. Feel free to screenshot. And please do note that the Tokyo Subway Ticket does not include the JR lines. These are the lines that the subway pass does not cover. So for all of these, you'll need to tap in with your Suica or PASMO card. Number three. Another way to get around Tokyo is to simply book a taxi or an Uber. Taxis are widely available and very convenient. However, just be aware that not all drivers speak English. So it can be helpful to have your destination written in Japanese or use a translator app. Otherwise, you can book rides directly through the Uber app and simply pin your exact destination to avoid any miscommunication. And option four is to book a private car. This is hands down one of the best ways to explore Tokyo. And it can be surprisingly affordable if you're traveling with a group. With a private car charter, you'll get a dedicated driver, a 10-hour ride, and full control over your itinerary. You can mix and match tours, skip the spots you're not interested in, and just sit back and relax. And guess what? Fuel is already included in the cost. Prices can drop as low as $350, which is already good for six people. Imagine, that's under $60 per head. And let me repeat, including fuel. This is the ultimate budget hack if you're traveling with a group. Plus, you won't have to deal with Tokyo's complex train system, which means less time navigating the stations and more time enjoying your customized adventure. Now, if you're planning to venture beyond Tokyo, whether you're heading to Kyoto, Osaka, or even as far as Hokkaido or Fukuoka, the JR Pass gives you unlimited rides on the Shinkansen bullet trains. A fast and convenient way to travel across Japan. Here are the current JR Pass prices. And just a quick heads up, most JR Passes are not available to purchase in person. So make sure to buy yours online before your trip. If you're on an even tighter budget, consider taking an overnight bus from Tokyo to Osaka or Kyoto. The ride takes about eight hours, usually departing around 9 p.m. in the evening and arriving at 6 a.m. the next morning. So you can practically sleep your way throughout the journey. Prices start at roughly $70 to $80 one way, making it a cost-effective alternative to the Shinkansen bullet trains. Well, now that we've covered the best areas to stay, the best things to do, and the best food to eat, it's time for us to put it all together and form the ultimate seven-day budget itinerary and cost breakdown. Feel free to save this video for future reference. And please note that the prices are considering that you've traveled with a partner. So in some cases, you could split the costs. So let's talk pre-expenses. Before your trip begins, you generally book your piece-of-sale flight, your hotels, and your eSIMs in advance. Your pre-expenses would probably amount to around $338 per head. For day one, you've finally arrived in Narita Airport, and you can take the Keisei Skyliner for a fast transfer to the city. Get off at Ueno Station, then from there, switch to your Tokyo Unlimited subway pass to reach your hotel. After dropping off your bags, you can head out to one of Tokyo's immersive team lab museums. Or if you're into marine life, the Art Aquarium Museum is a good option. Then head over to either Shibuya Sky, Tokyo Tower, or Tokyo Skytree to end the day with a dynamic perspective of the city. Finish off with a dinner near your hotel, and then call it a night. The total estimated cost for day one would be $93 per head. Day two is all about reliving childhood magic. Take your pick between Tokyo Disneyland for that classic Disney fun, or DisneySea for that only-in-Japan experience. If you have a JR pass, getting to Disney is easy. Since the MyHama Station of Disneyland is on the JR line. But if you're using the Tokyo Unlimited subway pass, please take note that this ticket does not cover the JR trains. So you'll need to buy a separate ticket or tap in with your Suica card to ride the JR line to MyHama Station. And for your food, feel free to enjoy all your meals inside Disneyland. We've covered the best Disneyland eats in our Japan budget food vlog, so you can enjoy a Disney food trip without breaking the bank. And after a full day of magic, head back to your hotel and rest up for the next adventure. The total estimated cost for day two would be $89 per head. For day three, we can slow things down a bit. Start your morning with a stroll through Ueno Park to take in the seasonal blooms, serene lake views, and occasional street performers. Afterwards, visit Sensuji Temple in Asakusa, one of the city's most iconic landmarks. And for a deeper cultural experience, you have the option to rent out a kimono and feel like Japanese royalty for the day. Then after a peaceful day, find some dinner in Asakusa, head back to your hotel, and call it a night. The total estimated cost for day three would be $24 per head. Now day four is all about seeing Japan's most iconic peak. Join a budget-friendly day tour that picks you up in Tokyo and takes you to five scenic spots, each offering stunning views of Mount Fuji. This includes the Chureito Pagoda, the serene Lake Kawaguchi, and the charming village of Oshino Hakai, with transport to all five destinations and entrance fees included. This tour is a budget and hassle-free option for first-timers. Then after a full day of adventure, return to the city and wind down with a cozy dinner in Shinjuku. The total estimated cost for day four would be $90 per head. For day five, it's time to explore Tokyo's vibrant pop culture hubs. Start with a morning stroll through Harajuku's Takashita Street, packed with quirky shops and kawaii fashion. Then head to Akihabara, Tokyo's mecca for anime, manga, and electronics. Wrap up your day with the iconic Shibuya Crossing lit up at night. Walk through it for a varied Tokyo experience or grab a photo from above at a nearby cafe. The total estimated cost for day five would be $24 per head. Day six is all about free time and shopping. If you're into high-end brands, stroll through Ginza, home to Tokyo's most elegant boutiques and luxury department stores. For quirky souvenirs and affordable snacks, head to Don Quijote, the ultimate Japanese discount shop. No planned activities means you can go out on your own pace and pick up all your must-buy goodies. The total estimated cost for day six would be $24 per head, excluding your shopping budget. And now, day seven. On your final day, savor one last delicious breakfast, maybe some fluffy pancakes, then head to Oueno Station to take the KC Skyliner back to Narita Airport. Then at the airport terminal, make sure you refund your Suica or PASMO card if you have any leftover balance and you can also get your 500 yen deposit back as well. The total estimated cost for day seven would be $33 per head. And there you have it, the ultimate seven-day budget itinerary for first-timers. If you add all of it together, the total estimated cost for a seven-day six-night Tokyo adventure would be, drumroll please, $715 per head. This estimated cost covers everything. Flights, hotel, food, transport, tours, and activities. And just a quick disclaimer, this cost breakdown assumes you've scored a cheap flight, stayed in budget accommodations, joined budget tours, commuted using public transport, and kept your meals simple and low cost. Consider this itinerary perfect for budgetarians. Of course, you're free to upgrade. Take Ubers, stay in luxury hotels, or indulge in premium sashimi and wagyu every day. But this budget itinerary is meant as a practical guide for budget travelers who want to experience the very best of Tokyo without breaking the bank. On this channel, we teach you guys how to save money when traveling, how to book cheap flights, how to book cheap hotels, and just a whole lot of travel hacks. So if this travel guide helped you in any way, please hit that like button, hit that subscribe button, and comment down below if you have any questions about Tokyo. We do our best to reply to every single comment, so don't be afraid to ask. Well, that's it for today. We hope you guys enjoyed this travel guide and we hope you enjoy your trip to Tokyo. This is Angelica and Aileen Wanders, never stop wandering.