If you’re planning to spend 3 days in Tokyo Japan, get ready for the most fun, busy, and exciting trip ever! Tokyo is a huge, colorful city full of lights, yummy food, cute shops, and amazing places to visit. You can ride trains, eat sushi, see temples, and even find cafes where your coffee has a face on it! In this post, I’ll help you plan your perfect 3-day Tokyo trip so you don’t miss anything important. Whether you love anime, matcha lattes, or quiet gardens, Tokyo has something just for you.
In this full guide to 3 days in Tokyo Japan, I’ll share the best places I went to, how to move around easily, and tips I wish I knew before my trip. I’ll also show you where to eat super fluffy pancakes, how to find the coolest ramen shops, and which places to book early so you don’t miss out. I’ll keep everything simple, fun, and honest — just like talking to a friend. So let’s get started and plan your dream trip to Tokyo!
What to Know Before Visiting Tokyo for 3 Days
If this is your first time in Tokyo, Japan, don’t worry — it’s easier than you think! People are super kind, and many signs have English too. The trains are very clean and come right on time, so you can get around fast. It’s best to carry some cash because small shops and restaurants don’t always take cards. Also, bring a little bag for your trash, because there are not many bins outside. Japan is very safe, even at night, but always be polite and quiet on trains. Try learning a few Japanese words like “hello” (konnichiwa) and “thank you” (arigatou) — locals love it! Finally, plan ahead for popular places, because some spots need tickets or get busy fast. Tokyo is big, but if you plan well, you’ll see and do so much in just 3 days!
What to Pack for 3 Days in Tokyo Japan
Packing smart makes your Tokyo trip so much better! You’ll walk a lot, so bring comfy shoes. The weather can change, so pack a light jacket or umbrella just in case. You don’t need fancy clothes unless you’re going somewhere special like a fancy restaurant. Bring a power adapter for your phone charger because Japan’s plugs may be different. A small backpack is perfect for your camera, snacks, or a water bottle while exploring. You’ll also want tissues and hand sanitizer since not all public bathrooms have supplies. Don’t forget cash and your passport — you might need it to show at hotels or some stores. Also, pack any medicine you need, as it’s hard to find the same kind in Japan. Keep it light, simple, and ready for lots of fun walking and eating!
Where to Stay for 3 Days in Tokyo Japan
For your 3 days in Tokyo, where you stay really matters! If you love shopping and lights, stay in Shibuya or Shinjuku. These areas are full of shops, restaurants, and things to do late at night. If you like quiet and artsy places, try Asakusa or Ueno — they’re also cheaper. Want something cute and modern? Try a capsule hotel! They are small but fun and clean. You can also use apps like Booking.com or Airbnb to find a good deal. Try to book early, especially if it’s cherry blossom or holiday season. Many hotels in Tokyo are small, but very clean and safe. And guess what? Some even give you free pajamas or slippers! Choose a place near a train station so it’s easy to explore the city each day.
How to Get Around Tokyo Like a Local
Tokyo trains are amazing — fast, clean, and always on time. Get a Suica or Pasmo card to tap in and out of trains easily. It works on buses too! You can get one at the airport or big stations. Google Maps helps a lot with train routes, so use it to know where to go. If you’re going a lot, look into the Tokyo Subway Ticket — it’s cheaper for tourists. Taxis are safe but very pricey, so better to use trains. Don’t talk loudly or eat on the train, it’s not polite in Japan. If you’re lost, don’t worry — many signs are in English and people will help you. Trains stop at midnight, so plan your night out carefully. With just 3 days, knowing your way around will save you time!
3-Day Tokyo Itinerary at a Glance
Here’s a simple and fun plan for 3 days in Tokyo Japan. On Day 1, start in Shibuya to see the crossing and shop, then visit Harajuku for snacks and cafes. Go to Shinjuku at night for views and ramen. On Day 2, go to Asakusa to see temples and taste matcha lattes. After that, visit Ueno Park or a cool museum. Then explore Akihabara if you love anime or games! For Day 3, head to Tokyo Tower or Skytree for amazing city views. Walk around Ginza for shopping, then end your trip with sushi or omakase dinner. Keep your days simple with a few key spots so you don’t rush. You’ll enjoy Tokyo more if you slow down and take in the little things. Bring your camera — every day will have something cool to remember!
Best Breakfast Spots in Tokyo to Start Your Day
In Tokyo, breakfast can be sweet, fluffy, or full of eggs! If you want pancakes that feel like clouds, try Flipper’s or A Happy Pancake — they’re famous for Japanese soufflé pancakes. Love eggs? Head to Egg Baby Café for egg sandwiches and french toast. If you want a fast but yummy Japanese start, grab rice balls or sweet buns from a convenience store. Some bakeries open early too and sell soft, fresh bread with fillings like chocolate or cheese. It’s different from American breakfasts, but super fun to try. These places can get busy, so try going early. And if you’re near a hotel, check if breakfast is included — many offer Japanese-style meals that are tasty and healthy. Every morning is a chance to try something new in Tokyo!
Cutest Cafes in Tokyo You’ll Love
Tokyo has the most adorable and cool cafes ever! If you love coffee with art, visit Reissue Cafe in Harajuku — they make 3D latte art that looks like animals or cartoons. For matcha lovers, Hatoya Asakusa and The Matcha Tokyo serve green tea lattes and sweets like cake and donuts. Want something calm? Try Whitely Cafe in Shibuya, a quiet spot with great drinks. Some cafes are small, so you may need to wait or book ahead. Use Instagram to find new places because many cafes look like they’re from a fairytale! Take photos, relax, and enjoy a sweet break. These cafes are great stops when walking around the city. Whether you want something pretty or tasty, Tokyo’s cafe scene is the cutest in the world.
Where to Eat Ramen, Udon & Soba in Tokyo
Tokyo has so many yummy noodles — ramen, udon, and soba! For ramen, try Ichiran for a fun solo booth experience, or go to Fuunji for dipping noodles. Like thick noodles? Udon Shin and Tsuru Ton Tan make udon bowls with egg and butter or spicy toppings. If you want something light and healthy, try soba at Kameya or Ginza Sanada. Some noodle shops have vending machines outside — put your money in, choose your meal, and hand the ticket to the chef. It’s fun and easy! Most bowls are under $10 and come fast. Just sit, slurp, and smile. Don’t forget to drink the broth — it’s full of flavor! Tokyo is a noodle heaven, so try at least one new kind each day. Your taste buds will thank you.
Must-Try Sushi and Omakase in Tokyo
Eating sushi in Tokyo is a must! The fish is super fresh and the chefs are like artists. If you want the best sushi experience, book an omakase meal. That means the chef chooses everything for you — it’s fun and fancy! Try places like Sushi Takehan Wakatsuki or Yurakucho Kakida for amazing meals and great service. Some spots give you 10–20 pieces of sushi and tell you what each one is. It’s like a tasty story! If omakase is too pricey, visit Sushi Punch or sushi trains where you grab what you like from a moving belt. Always book early for the best sushi spots, because seats go fast. Whether you’re a big fan or trying sushi for the first time, Tokyo is the perfect place to fall in love with it.
Conclusion
And that’s it — your full guide to 3 days in Tokyo! I hope this post helps you plan the most fun and tasty trip ever. Tokyo is a mix of big city lights and quiet temples, and there’s something new around every corner. You’ll never forget the food, the people, or the cute little cafes.
So pack your bag, grab your camera, and go explore! Try a fluffy pancake, say hi to a robot, and don’t be afraid to get lost — sometimes that’s when the best memories happen. Tokyo is waiting for you with open arms and lots of ramen!
FAQs
Q: Do I need to speak Japanese in Tokyo?
A: No, but learning a few simple words like “hello” and “thank you” is helpful and kind.
Q: Is Tokyo safe for solo travelers?
A: Yes, Tokyo is one of the safest cities in the world, even at night.
Q: What’s the best way to travel in Tokyo?
A: Use the train! It’s cheap, fast, and easy with a Suica or Pasmo card.
Q: Can I use credit cards everywhere?
A: Not everywhere — bring some cash, especially for small shops and ramen spots.
Q: What food should I try in Tokyo?
A: Try ramen, sushi, matcha desserts, and fluffy pancakes! They’re all amazing.