12 Day "Maximum Culture" Japan Itinerary
Stays from
Stays from
Tokyo
Itinerary
Recommended Hotels
Stylish “business hotel for hipsters” vibe—compact rooms but a great location near transit and Tokyo Dome, making it a solid value base if you don’t need space.
Leans into the creative neighborhood vibe with a social, almost hostel-like feel—great if you want atmosphere over privacy.
Design-forward and very “Tokyo cool,” but you’re paying for the Shibuya address—worth it for location, less so if you’re strictly budget-focused.
Stylish “business hotel for hipsters” vibe—compact rooms but a great location near transit and Tokyo Dome, making it a solid value base if you don’t need space.
Leans into the creative neighborhood vibe with a social, almost hostel-like feel—great if you want atmosphere over privacy.
Design-forward and very “Tokyo cool,” but you’re paying for the Shibuya address—worth it for location, less so if you’re strictly budget-focused.
Tokyo
Day 1
Explore Shinjuku & Shibuya
You're here in Japan, so dive right into its more famous spots and get them ticked off the bucket list. From spotting Godzilla in Kabukicho to crossing Shibuya Scramble, let's jump in!
1. Kabukicho
Kabukicho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0021, Japan
Explore the sights and sounds of Shinjuku, and grab a shot of Godzilla towering high above street.
2. Shibuya Crossing
21 Udagawacho, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0042, Japan
Though cliche, it's high on many Japan travel lists for its amazing atmosphere.
3. Shibuya Sky
Japan, 〒150-6145 Tokyo, Shibuya, 2-chōme−24−１２ スクランブルスクエア 14階・45階 46階・屋上
Head up to Shibuya Sky for sunset to catch amazing views of the city. Make sure to book exactly 2 weeks in advance at midnight (Japan Time) to ensure tickets.
4. Shibuya Bar-Hopping Tour with an Expert Guide
Tokyo
Try to stave off any jet lag with this bar hopping experience. Enjoy Tokyo's nightlife and evening libations.
Tokyo
Day 2
Art & fun in Tokyo
Spend the next day immersing yourself in the sites, both inside and out. Find out just how creative this city can be and revel in its iconic landmarks.
5. teamLab Planets Tokyo Entry Ticket – Digital Art Museum
Tokyo
Head next to world's most visited museum. With its dazzling digital art displays and interactive exhibitions, teamLabs is fun no matter your age.
6. Imperial Palace
1-1 Chiyoda, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-8111, Japan
Stroll around Tokyo's Imperial Palace East Gardens, and even take a boat ride on the moat.
7. Tokyo Tower Main Deck & Bungee VR Experience Ticket
Tokyo
Head to Tokyo Tower and walk up to the main deck for fantastic views of the city from one of its most notable landmarks.
8. PST Higashi Azabu
1-chōme-24-6 Higashiazabu, Minato City, Tokyo 106-0044, Japan
Not far away from the tower is one of Japan's best pizzerias. Make sure to make a reservation here or, if you want to live on the fly, order takeout (much faster) and eat on the park benches opposite the restaurant for a view of the tower.
Tokyo
Day 3
A very Ghibli day
Head to Kichijoji, a fun and energetic city within Tokyo that is also home to the wonderful Ghibli Museum.
9. Ghibli Museum
1-chōme-1-83 Shimorenjaku, Mitaka, Tokyo 181-0013, Japan
We’re not going to lie, it’s hard to get Ghibli Museum tickets. But, that’s to be expected, it’s one of the most popular attractions in Tokyo after all. Find out more about purchasing tickets here: tokyocheapo.com/entertainment/museums-and-exhibitions/lose-your-way-at-the-ghibli-museum
10. Inokashira Park
1-chōme-18-31 Gotenyama, Musashino, Tokyo 180-0005, Japan
Wander around the beautiful Inokashira Park, grabbing a coffee and simply enjoying the atmosphere.
11. Tsukemen Enji Kichijoji Sohonten
Japan, 〒180-0003 Tokyo, Musashino, Kichijōji Minamichō, 1-chōme−1−１ 南陽ビル １Ｆ
A fabulous tsukemen restaurant (dipping ramen) right next to the station.