Tokyo Trip Itinerary and Expenses Breakdown for 2 Days
Tokyo, the bustling capital of Japan, is a popular destination for travellers around the globe. With its blend of modernity and tradition, the city offers a unique experience that is both culturally enriching and exhilarating. Here's a suggested 2-day itinerary to make the most of your layover in Tokyo.
Day 1: Shibuya and Surroundings
Begin your Tokyo adventure at the famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing, one of the city’s most iconic and busiest pedestrian crossings. From there, pay a visit to the Hachiko Statue, a symbol of loyalty and a popular meeting spot near Shibuya station.
Spend the afternoon exploring the vibrant neighbourhoods of Shibuya, Harajuku, and Omotesando. These areas are known for their trendy shops, cafes, and unique street fashion. Don't miss the pedestrian-only street, Takeshita Street, a hot spot for Tokyo’s youth culture, trends, cosplay, and fashion.
In the heart of the Shibuya neighbourhood, you'll find the Meiji Shrine, a peaceful Shinto shrine nestled in a large forested area. Admission is free, making it an ideal spot for a serene break from the city's hustle and bustle.
Day 2: Cultural and Modern Highlights
Start your second day with a visit to teamLab Planets, an immersive digital art museum showcasing Tokyo’s cutting-edge art scene. Tickets should be reserved in advance.
Later in the day, head to Asakusa to see Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest temple, and enjoy traditional shopping streets like Nakamise for souvenirs and snacks.
End your day in the upscale Ginza district for an evening of shopping and dining. If time permits, take a peek at the Tokyo Imperial Palace grounds nearby.
Additional Tips
- Using the JR Yamanote Line, a loop line around central Tokyo, makes it easy to move between popular neighbourhoods like Shibuya, Harajuku, Shinjuku, and Akihabara.
- Start your day early to maximise your time, as many tourist sites open around 9–10 AM and close by early evening.
- Focus on a mix of experiences—technology and modern culture (teamLab), historical and spiritual sites (Meiji Shrine), and energetic urban scenes (Shibuya).
This 2-day plan balances Tokyo’s signature urban energy with cultural insights and unique art experiences, all achievable without overpacking your schedule.
During your stay, don't forget to sample the local cuisine. The Tsukiji Outer Market is a major destination for tourists and locals, offering fresh seafood, sushi, wagyu beef, sake, and more. A visit to the market might include trying tamago on a stick, a sweet, fluffy omelette, or A5 Wagyu meat on a stick, both priced reasonably. For a more casual meal, local convenience stores offer good and affordable food and snacks any time of the day.
For those interested in technology, a beer served by a robot can be found at Haneda Airport's Sakura Lounge. And for art enthusiasts, grilled octopus and a beer can be enjoyed at the Tsukiji Outer Market.
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- Tokyo's Shibuya area is famed for its iconic Scramble Crossing, the Hachiko Statue, and its vibrant neighborhoods known for trendy shops, cafes, unique street fashion, and the pedestrian-only Takeshita Street.
- The Meiji Shrine, found in the heart of the Shibuya neighborhood, is a peaceful Shinto shrine nestled in a large forested area, offering a serene break from the city's hustle and bustle.
- On the second day, visit teamLab Planets in the morning to experience Tokyo's cutting-edge art scene, then head to Asakusa to see Senso-ji Temple and explore traditional shopping streets like Nakamise.
- In the upscale Ginza district, spend your evening shopping and dining, with the option to visit the Tokyo Imperial Palace grounds nearby.
- To get around central Tokyo, the JR Yamanote Line provides easy access to popular neighborhoods like Shibuya, Harajuku, Shinjuku, and Akihabara.
- Don't forget to sample local cuisine during your stay; the Tsukiji Outer Market offers fresh seafood, sushi, wagyu beef, sake, and more, with reasonable prices for tamago on a stick and A5 Wagyu meat on a stick. For a more casual meal, local convenience stores provide good and affordable food and snacks around the clock.
