Enjoy Tokyo in 10 days! Recommended sightseeing plan for beginners

Tokyo is a fascinating city where tradition and modernity intersect.

However, for first-time visitors, it may be difficult to enjoy the vast city efficiently.

In this article, we'll suggest a sightseeing plan where even first-time visitors can enjoy Tokyo to the fullest in 10 days with peace of mind.

Here's a course where you can enjoy Tokyo in a well-balanced manner, from historic sights to modern shopping spots.

What is the best 10-day Tokyo sightseeing plan?

10-day schedule overview

If you're going to visit Tokyo over 10 days, you need a plan that takes advantage of the characteristics of each area.

On the first day, we will check the city sightseeing base, and from the next day, we will visit the area according to the theme.

By alternately planning an area where you can feel history and culture and an area where you can enjoy shopping and gourmet food, you can experience a variety of experiences while keeping fatigue to a minimum.

Post-arrival procedures and transportation

Once you've arrived at Narita Airport or Haneda Airport, the first thing to do is secure a means of transportation within Tokyo.

There are convenient options such as limousine buses, Narita Express, and Tokyo Monorail.

Also, if you buy a Suica or PASMO as a means of transportation during your stay, you can use public transportation smoothly.

Recommended places to stay

It's a good idea to choose a place to stay with an emphasis on ease of access.

The area around Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Tokyo Station is not only convenient to travel to various places, but it is also close to tourist spots, so there are no problems with eating or shopping.

Asakusa, Ginza, and Ueno are also attractive options.

How to make an efficient tourist route

In order to efficiently proceed with sightseeing, it is important not to expand the range of activities per day too much.

For example, if you make a plan to visit nearby spots such as Tokyo Tower and Roppongi Hills all at once on the 1st day, then travel by train and explore another area on the 2nd day, you can enjoy it without difficulty.

How to customize tourist routes

It's a good idea to customize your sightseeing route according to the time of year you visit and your individual interests.

If there are seasonal events or special exhibitions, it is possible to have more fulfilling sightseeing by adjusting the route accordingly.

Also, if you check out recommended restaurants and cafes in each area, you can stop by in between trips.

How to use Tokyo Metro

An essential part of sightseeing in Tokyo is using the Tokyo Metro.

Most of the major tourist attractions can be reached by metro, making it easy to get around.

The trick is to check the route map beforehand and choose a route that requires fewer transfers.

Also, the key point when using an IC card is to pay attention to the charge amount.

Charge as appropriate according to the distance traveled between tourist spots.

Beauty experience in Tokyo

For beginners! How to enjoy your first day in Tokyo

Sightseeing spots around Tokyo Station

The recommended starting point for sightseeing in Tokyo is sightseeing around Tokyo Station.

First, let's enjoy historic buildings and museums in the Marunouchi area.

The red brick Tokyo station building is a photogenic spot, and Marunouchi Nakadori is lined with stylish cafes and shops.

Morning walk around the Imperial Palace

The Imperial Palace, which is within walking distance from Tokyo Station, is a spot where you can feel the history of Tokyo.

If you visit early in the morning, you can avoid the crowds and enjoy a walk in a quiet atmosphere.

We also recommend taking a walk through the vast grounds and admiring the beautiful gardens and remnants of the castle walls.

Tokyo Tower Observation Deck Experience

After enjoying the area around the Imperial Palace, head to Tokyo Tower.

The view from the observatory is amazing, and you can even see Mt. Fuji on a particularly clear day.

If you visit at a time when you can see the night view, you can enjoy a different atmosphere.

Concluding with a night view spot

At the end of the first day, let's enjoy the night view of Tokyo. We recommend watching the night view from the Roppongi Hills observation deck or taking a Tokyo Bay cruise.

You can spend a romantic moment and fully enjoy the charms of Tokyo at night.

The appeal of Sumida River Cruises

To enjoy the night view, we also recommend taking a Sumida River cruise.

The night view of Tokyo from the boat is exceptional, and the Skytree illuminations and the scenery of the Asakusa area are particularly fantastic.

If you board the boat during the evening to night hours, you can enjoy both day and night views.

Beauty experience in Tokyo

Gourmet food and shopping too! A tour of popular spots in Tokyo

High-End Shopping in Ginza

Ginza is an upscale shopping area representing Tokyo.

There are many brand shops, so you can fully enjoy window shopping alone.

Department stores such as Ginza Mitsukoshi and Matsuya Ginza have the latest fashion and accessories, and there are plenty of products perfect for souvenirs.

BRAND SHOPPING IN GINZA

Ginza is home to many world-class brand stores.

It's an irresistible spot for fashion lovers because you can actually pick up the items you've been longing for, such as Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Gucci.

Also, there are times when Japan-limited items are sold, so there's also a chance to get a special item.

Ginza Mitsukoshi sweets tour

What I want to enjoy in between shopping is Ginza Mitsukoshi sweets.

Sweets from famous stores collected from all over the country are lined up on the underground food floor.

In particular, there are plenty of Japanese and Western confectionaries, and there is no doubt that they will be appreciated as souvenirs.

Trendy food to enjoy in Shibuya and Harajuku

Shibuya and Harajuku are areas that symbolize Tokyo's youth culture.

There are many cafés and restaurants, and you can enjoy trendy cuisines.

Takeshita Street in Harajuku has plenty of popular sweets and gourmet food to eat while walking, and is popular among tourists.

Shibuya Scramble Crossing Photo Spot

When visiting Shibuya, be sure to stop by the Shibuya Scramble Crossing.

This world-famous intersection is a spectacular sight of countless people coming and going, and it's a place where you can truly feel the energy of Tokyo.

As a photo point, I recommend looking at Starbucks in front of Shibuya Station or from the upper floors of the adjacent building, as you can get a better overall picture.

Let's experience history and culture! Tokyo's hidden gems

Sensoji Temple and surroundings

If you want to experience Tokyo's history and culture, Sensoji Temple is a must.

Nakamise Street, which continues from Kaminarimon, is lined with traditional souvenir shops and food stalls that have continued since the Edo period, and you can feel the history of Japan just by walking.

After visiting Sensoji Temple, enjoy traditional Tokyo scenery while strolling around Asakusa.

Prayer at Sensoji Temple

Sensoji Temple is known as the oldest temple in Tokyo, and many worshipers visit in search of good fortune.

It is said that burning incense sticks in front of the main hall and bathing your body in the smoke will cure your illness, and it is a popular spot visited by many people.

Also, you can draw an omikuji to tell your fortune. After visiting the shrine, don't miss the gardens and treasure house around the main hall.

Walking around Asakusa Nakamise-dori

Nakamise-dori is lined with Japanese confectionary stores that have continued since the Edo period, and gourmet food such as rice crackers and deep-fried manju.

After visiting Sensoji Temple, enjoy traditional Japanese sweets while strolling along Nakamise Street.

In particular, lightning and puppet ware are famous specialties of Asakusa.

Cultural experiences in Ueno

Ueno is known as a cultural area where museums and art galleries gather.

Ueno Park is home to the Tokyo National Museum and Ueno Zoo, and there are plenty of places you can enjoy all day long.

If you are interested in history and art, be sure to visit.

Museum Tour at Ueno Park

Ueno Park is home to various museums and art galleries, including the Tokyo National Museum, the National Museum of Nature and the Ueno Royal Museum.

In particular, at the Tokyo National Museum, there are plenty of exhibits where you can learn more about Japanese history and culture, and many national treasure-class works of art are also on display.

Check each museum's exhibition schedule and make a plan to visit efficiently.

Special Exhibitions at the Tokyo National Museum

The Tokyo National Museum holds not only permanent exhibitions, but also seasonal special exhibitions.

At the special exhibition, masterpieces from Japan and abroad are collected, and you can appreciate valuable works that you can't usually see.

Please check out the special exhibitions you are interested in according to the time of year you visit.

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Recommended places for day trips in the Tokyo suburbs

Exploring history in Kamakura

Kamakura, which is about an hour away by train from Tokyo, is a beautiful city where history and nature are in harmony.

Historic sites such as the Great Buddha of Kamakura, Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, and Kenchoji Temple are scattered, making it the perfect spot for a day trip from Tokyo.

Sightseeing and photography at the Great Buddha of Kamakura

Kamakura Daibutsu is known as a tourist spot representing Kamakura.

The large Buddha, which is about 11 meters high, has been designated as a national treasure of Japan, and its huge appearance is impressive.

There are beautiful gardens and souvenir shops around the Great Buddha, so you can enjoy taking pictures while taking a leisurely stroll.

Looking for souvenirs on Kamakura Komachi Street

Komachi Street, located on the way from Kamakura Station to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, is a shopping street lined with trendy cafes, general stores, and traditional craft stores. It's the perfect place to look for Japanese sweets and other souvenirs unique to Kamakura.

Refresh yourself at Hakone Hot Springs

For those who love hot springs, Hakone Hot Springs is the perfect place to freshen up.

It can be reached in about 2 hours by train from Tokyo, so you can fully enjoy it even on a day trip.

Heal your fatigue in a hot spring surrounded by nature and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Hakone.

How to relax in Hakone's hot springs

Hakone Onsen is dotted with facilities where you can enjoy open-air baths and footbaths.

After relaxing in the hot springs, we recommend enjoying dishes made with local ingredients and taking a walk around the hot spring town.

In the Hakone-Yumoto and Gora areas, there are many hot spring inns where you can take a day trip bath, so you can easily visit them.

Visit power spots at Hakone Shrine

Hakone Shrine is a mysterious shrine nestled on the lakeside, and is also popular as a power spot.

The view of Lake Ashi and Mt. Fuji seen through the torii gate is spectacular, and many tourists visit.

After visiting the shrine, take a walk along the surrounding walking paths and enjoy the nature of Hakone.

There are many great photo spots in Tokyo.

In addition to standard tourist attractions such as Shibuya's Scramble Crossing, Tokyo Tower, and Sensoji Temple, we also recommend slightly secret spots such as along the Sumida River and Hamarikyu Gardens.

When taking photos, consider the time of day of your visit and the weather to capture the most beautiful moments.

Also, choosing souvenirs is one of the last pleasures of a trip.

Tokyo offers a wide range of choices, from traditional Japanese sweets and crafts to the latest fashion items.

When choosing a souvenir, choose one according to the other person's preferences and lifestyle, they will be delighted.

Also, when choosing food souvenirs, you should pay attention to expiration dates and storage methods.

Beauty experience in Tokyo

Q & A

Q: When is the best time to visit Tokyo?

A: I especially recommend spring and fall.

In spring, when cherry blossoms are in full bloom, and in autumn, when the autumn leaves are beautiful, the scenery in Tokyo is at its most beautiful.

Also, the climate is mild, making it an easy time to visit.

Q: Is it possible to visit all of Tokyo's major tourist sites in 10 days?

A: It's quite possible.

If you plan an efficient route and try to travel without waste, you can cover major tourist destinations.

The point is to use sightseeing buses and trains and not to overload the day's schedule.

Q: What foods do you recommend while sightseeing in Tokyo?

A: In Tokyo, you can enjoy a wide range of food cultures, from Japanese to Western food.

We recommend traditional Japanese dishes such as sushi, tempura, and ramen, as well as sweets and stylish cafe menus.

In particular, there are many popular cuisines in the Ginza, Shibuya, and Asakusa areas.

summary

The 10-day Tokyo sightseeing plan is designed so that even beginners can enjoy it, and it is designed so that you can fully experience the charms of Tokyo, such as history, culture, shopping, and gourmet food.

With a schedule that takes into account sightseeing routes and efficient means of transportation in each area, you can enjoy Tokyo without difficulty.

At the end of your trip, end your stay in Tokyo with beautiful night views and heartwarming memories.

If you leave notes that will lead to your next visit, you will be able to enjoy an even more fulfilling trip to Tokyo.

Here are some recommended salons that are popular in Tokyo

Beauty experiences such as massages in Tokyo are one of the experiences you can't miss.

Let's spend time to heal our daily fatigue and refresh our mind and body.

Beauty experience in Tokyo

Ginza/ “Mani Nail Care Ginza Store”

Open at 9 a.m.! A 5-minute walk from Ginza Station, this is a popular nail care salon where you can get rid of nail problems.

Hand and foot nails can be performed simultaneously. For those who are concerned about the burden of gel nails, we have prepared a number of “non-scraping” gel polishes, shellac, nail care, foot care, etc.

Recommended for those trying nail art for the first time, as well as those seeking special care. Men's care is also available, so it's also suitable for couples.

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Ginza/ “head CONCIERGE Ginza Store”

A head spa specialty store where a group of nationally qualified specialists lead to “ultimate sleep.”

It is a technique of pressing pressure points on the head called the deep muscle approach, which leads to ultimate sleep.

Various effects can be expected, such as “relieving insomnia,” “improving shoulder stiffness,” “recovering from eye strain,” and “anti-aging.”

Enjoy the ultimate head spa that goes beyond relaxation.

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Akihabara, Kanda, Awajicho/ “Esthetic & Relaxation WELLFIT” *Women Only

This salon is within walking distance of Kanda, Awaji, and Akihabara.

“Esthetic & Relaxation WELLFIT” is a talented salon attended by professional beauticians and therapists.

This treatment can also be used for pelvic correction, small face, beautiful skin, head spa, and maternity care.

It is a powerful salon that has been published in over 50 beauty magazines and specialty magazines. Please enjoy the industry's most advanced technology.

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Suitengum/ “limyu” ※women only

At this salon, there are over 400 types of rich and sophisticated designs that are popular.

We offer a total of 4 eyelash menus, including extensions and perms.

Please experience the attentive customer service and high level of technology that makes use of the rich experience of the staff.

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Monzen-nakacho (Ginza/Tokyo Station area)/“liberte” *women only

This salon is a 2-minute walk from Monzen-nakacho Station on the Tozai Line and Oedo Line.

It is easily accessible from Tokyo Station, Ginza Station, and Tsukiji Station.

As for the facial menu, we have prepared a menu that can be expected to lift up the face, dry it, and care for wrinkles.

Please spend a luxurious time with the high quality service of a skilled esthetician and an aromatic private space.

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Shinjuku/ Shinjuku Relaxation Salon “Sea the Night”

Despite being in a good location, a 2-minute walk from Nishi-Shinjuku Station and a 7-minute walk from Shinjuku Station, it is a salon where you can forget the hustle and bustle of the city and relax both mentally and physically.

A private salon where you can relax and unwind, based on the concept of “the best healing for both mind and body in a luxurious space.”

Skilled therapists provide a high level of technology.

We offer a menu to relieve painful stiffness throughout the body.

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Shinjuku/ “repos ami” ※women only

This salon, which is within walking distance from Shinjuku, offers a menu of full body oil massages, dry head spas without water, and facial massages.

The dry head spa treats the area around the scalp, neck, shoulders, and décolletage while lying on your back, so you can expect eye fatigue and face-reduction effects.

Oil massage uses oil with a high detox effect, and it has the function of excreting toxins accumulated in the body as sweat and urine, making it ideal for detox.

If you are suffering from disturbances in the autonomic nerves, general fatigue, body building that makes it easy to lose weight, tension, or facial distortion, be sure to try it out.

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Yotsuya/ “UREROBAS Yotsuya Store”

A dry head spa salon located about 10 minutes by train or taxi, close to Shinjuku.

At this dry head spa specialty store, you can experience a dry head spa where you can be healed by all five senses.

The head spa at this salon is characterized by preparing the body from the ground up, and you can expect not only to take care of your head and eye fatigue and concerns about sleep, but also to lift your face and tone up your skin.

Please spend a blissful time on your way home from shopping or sightseeing.

Details

Oshiage (Tokyo Skytree)/“Zipangu Esthetic Room Oshiage Store”

The salon is located just 10 minutes from Ueno, right next to Oshiage Station (Tokyo Skytree).

We have prepared a variety of facial menus with an emphasis on results, and we provide treatments tailored to each customer's skin concerns.

All of our estheticians have over 10 years of extensive experience.

This beauty salon is recommended for those who are concerned about repeated lift-ups, aging care, open pores, and rough skin.

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Iriya/“FURAHA” *Women only

A women-only salon located about 3 minutes on foot from “Iriya Station” next to Ueno station 1.

A hand massage using hot stones will relieve stubborn stiffness and swelling.

Let's heal both body and mind in a calm space and relieve fatigue.

Details

Oshiage (Tokyo Skytree)/“Hilot Tokyo” *Women only

This salon is located only about 10 minutes from Ueno and a 5-minute walk from Oshiage Station (Tokyo Skytree).

By using a bamboo stick, flushing the details, and massaging the bottom of the foot to the base of the thigh with cream, it becomes surprisingly light after the massage.

The Asian-style interior is a relaxing and relaxing space.

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Oshiage (TOKYO SKYTREE)/“Zipangu Head Office”

Just a short walk from TOKYO SKYTREE! Why don't you experience a slightly different head spa than usual to heal your tiredness?

Located right next to TOKYO SKYTREE (Oshiage), we have prepared an environment where guests can relax in a spacious and bright space.

This salon's special head spa promotes blood circulation in the scalp, leading to healthier, more vibrant hair.

Experience our signature head spa massage and shampoo course to relieve fatigue and enjoy a pleasant refreshment time.

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