Looking for Tokyo Travel Guide Blog for your trip to Japan this 2024? Here's a list of top things to do in Tokyo, tourist spots, sample itinerary and more to help you plan your trip!
If you're traveling to Tokyo for the first time, here's a budget travel guide blog that will help you in planning a memorable, exciting, and budget-friendly trip to Tokyo, Japan this 2024. It will provide you with useful information on visa requirements, how to get there, transportation, where to exchange currency, where to stay in Tokyo, top things to do, tourist spots and attractions, DIY itinerary, budget and expenses, and more.
More to that, this ultimate budget travel guide to Tokyo, Japan for Filipinos and first-time travelers to Japan will help you plan your trip and will provide useful tips on how to enjoy ”the Land of the Rising Sun” with a 10,000 pesos travel budget.
First Timer's Travel Guide to Tokyo, Japan 2024
Okay, let's get started...
Pre-flight Essentials
First, we should carefully plan our trip. Here are the important information on visa requirements, cheap flights to Tokyo, things you need, and travel essentials to book before your flight.
Book your Travel Essential and Activities
For activities, tours, and travel essentials such as airport transfers and internet connection, I usually book it using the Klook App (see links below). It's my trusted provider of discounted tickets, affordable tours, transport services, and internet service whenever I travel abroad. I've been using it for almost one year now and I am so happy with the great deals and discounts I get from them. Best of all, I get instant confirmation on my bookings! That is why, I always use the Klook App when booking my activities and tours on my travels abroad.
You can download the Klook App for free on Google Play for Android and at Apple App Store for iOs devices.
For ease and comfort of our trip to Tokyo, we booked the following travel essentials, tours, and activities:
- 4G Japan Unlimited Data SIM Card
- Tokyo Skyliner
- Tokyo Unlimited Subway Ticket
- Tokyo Disneyland Ticket
- Mount Fuji and Hakone Day Trip
Having all the essentials and tours planned and pre-booked, it made it easier for us to create our DIY Tokyo itinerary for 4 days and 3 nights. You may refer to our itinerary and expenses at the end of this post.
IMPORTANT TRAVEL TIP: Getting a travel insurance is highly-recommended when traveling abroad. Travel with confidence anytime, anywhere you go! Get a travel insurance with Covid-19 coverage for your peace of mind!
Visa Requirements
Philippine passport holders need to secure a visit visa to enter Japan. To apply for a Japan tourist visa in the Philippines, you may refer to this step-by-step guide on how to apply for a Japan Tourist Visa.
Visa application is quick and easy. Just be sure to submit all the requirements to an accredited travel agency and wait for about a week for the result of your visa application. Single entry visa is valid for 3 months from the day the visa was granted. Filipinos can stay for a maximum of 15 days upon arrival in Japan.
TRAVEL TIP: To avoid any inconvenience in passing through immigration, be sure to be ready with your essential travel documents, such as passport with at least 6 months validity, Japan visa, return/onward tickets, proof of hotel reservation/s, and activity/tour bookings in case the immigration officer asks for it. Also, always check you flight details and make sure that your departure date is within the maximum number of days allowed for you to stay in Japan.
How to get to Tokyo?
Tokyo is served by two airports, Narita International Airport and Haneda Airport. Narita is usually used for international flights. So, if you're coming from the Philippines or from other countries, your airline will most likely arrive at Narita International Airport. The other airport, Haneda is used mainly for domestic flights, and a few international flights. From the Philippines, Cebu Pacific Air, Philippine Airlines, Air Asia Philippines, and other international airlines have daily flights to Tokyo from Manila.
Cheap Flights to Tokyo
The cheapest flights from the Philippines or from other parts of Southeast Asia are offered by low-cost carriers. To search for cheap flights to Tokyo, I highly recommend booking via Traveloka.com - one of Southeast Asia's leading travel booking sites. I've been using it in my travels and I can assure you that you'll always get the best deals and promos on hotels and flights! And don't forget to use their weekly promo codes to get more discounts!
How to get to Tokyo from Narita Airport?
Narita International Airport is located 70 km away from Tokyo city center. But its accessibility is not a problem. To get to Tokyo city center, we took the Tokyo Skyliner, which is one of the fastest options to get to the city. It only took us about 40 minutes to arrive in Tokyo's Ueno Station from Narita Airport. It also stops at Nippori Station, which offers easy connections onto JR lines. Booking a Tokyo Skyliner, you have a guaranteed reserved seat and assurance that you don't need to wait for so long because it has 3 services running each hour. I highly recommend it because it's fast, affordable, and convenient.
OTHER OPTIONS:
- Tokyo Narita Airport Limousine Bus - Travel from Narita Airport to Downtown Tokyo easy and hassle free! Choose from a one-way ticket from Narita to downtown Tokyo (or vice versa) and roundtrip tickets depending on your travel needs.
- Narita International Airport Transfers (NRT) for Tokyo Private Car - Experience a hassle-free transfer in a spacious and comfortable car. Choose between a variety of car models and sizes to meet the needs of your group. This is ideal for families traveling with kids, or with senior citizens.
Where to Exchange Currency?
Japan currency is Japanese Yen (JPY) which is about 0.0094 US Dollar (USD) or 0.49 Philippine Peso (PHP). Upon arrival at Narita Aiport, you can change a small amount and change the rest of your money when you arrive in the city. You can exchange currency at the money changers, or at the money exchange machines (photo above) you can see in many places in Japan.
Alternatively, you can also withdraw Japanese Yen directly from ATMs in Japan. To avoid any inconvenience, just make sure that you have advised your bank before leaving your country that you will be withdrawing money from ATMs abroad. What we did is we changed our money to JPY here in the Philippines and when we ran out of cash, we withdrew JPY from the ATM using our local card.
How to Stay Connected in Japan?
4G POCKET WIFI
If you're traveling with a group, the most economical way to have internet connection is to rent a pocket WiFi. With a portable travel WiFi, you can enjoy 7GB Data Package of internet service (reduced to 3G after this is exceeded) anywhere in Japan, and you can share the internet connection up to 5 devices with your travel buddies. For only 243 pesos per day, it comes cheap because you can split the cost with your friends.
Travel pocket WiFis are very in-demand, so you have to make sure that you book it in advance. You can book it via Klook.com and just pick it up upon arrival at Narita International Airport. Also, it has services at all Japan International airports, so claiming and returning it is not a problem. You can pick up and drop off the WiFi device at different locations.
JAPAN 4G DATA SIM CARD
A cheaper option is to buy a Japan 4G Unlimited Data SIM Card. This is good if you're traveling alone. You can choose from 3 different packages for your data needs and budget: unlimited 4G data for 8 days, 3 GB of 4G data for 8 days or 1 GB of 4G data for 6 days. Just choose which package suits you - depending on your trip duration and usage, and just pick it up at the airport upon arrival. Installing and activating the SIM card is quick and easy. Just make sure to activate it upon claiming at the airport counter so the staff could assist you if there's any problems. Be sure to book it in advance via Klook.com, because it's cheaper to book it online.
Useful Japanese Words & Phrases for Tourists
Here are some basic Japanese words and phrases that you should learn before traveling to Japan.
- sumimasen - to say excuse me / call the staff in a restaurant or shop
- doko- where?
- wakarimasen- I don't understand
- ohayou gozaimasu- Good morning
- konnichiwa- hello
- konbanwa - Good evening
- arigatou gozaimasu- Thank you
- domo arigatou gozaimasu- Thank you very much
- ikura desuka?- How much is it?
- wi-fi arimasuka?- Do you have Wi-fi?
- dōzo- please
- gomennasai- sorry
- hai- yes / best translated "I'm satisfied"
Where to Stay in Tokyo?
The city of Tokyo is so huge and choosing where to stay could be hard. When looking for a place to stay in Tokyo, you may consider areas such as Shibuya, Shinjuku, Ueno, or Tokyo Station. What we did is look for a hotel that is cheap, affordable, and near a train station so it will be easy to go around.
Sakura Hotel Hatagaya
After searching and reading guest reviews online, we chose to stay at Sakura Hotel Hatagaya in Shibuya area. It costs around 3,500 pesos per night for a private room with toilet and bath good for 2 persons. We chose this for the following reasons:
- It's near a train station (Hatagaya Station)
- Free breakfast
- It's near convenience stores such as Family Mart and 7 Eleven
- Impressive online reviews
Address: 1-32-3 Hatagaya Shibuya-ku, Shibuya, Tokyo, Japan, 151-0072
Playsis East Tokyo
In our recent trip to Tokyo, we stayed at Playsis East Tokyo - one of the nicest and affordable hotels in Tokyo we stayed at. We booked a Semi-dormitory Japanese Style Room good for 3 people. It costs around 2,500 pesos per night per room with shared toilet and bath. We chose this for the following reasons:
- It's near a subway train station (Honjo Azumabashi Station)
- It's near convenience stores such as Family Mart and 7 Eleven
- Senso-ji Temple is just 10 minutes walk from the hostel
- It has a very nice rooftop with an amazing view of Tokyo Skytree Tower.
- Excellent online reviews
Address: 2-11-1Azumabash, Sumida-ku, Asakusa, Tokyo, Japan, 130-0001
OTHER HOTELS/HOSTELS IN TOKYO FOR 1,000 TO 2,000 PESOS PER NIGHT
SHIBUYA AREA
- commun SHIBUYA (Male Only) - Check room rates and room availability
UENO AREA
- Grids Tokyo Ueno Hotel & Hostel - Check room rates and room availability
- APA Hotel Keisei Ueno-Ekimae - Check room rates and room availability
- Tosei Hotel Cocone Ueno okachimachi - Check room rates and room availability
ASAKUSA AREA
- Hotel Tavinos Asakusa - Check room rates and room availability
- APA Hotel Asakusa Kaminarimon - Check room rates and room availability
- Hotel MONday Asakusa - Check room rates and room availability
- Hotel MyStays Asakusa - Check room rates and room availability
- Agora Place Tokyo Asakusa - Check room rates and room availability
- Asakusa Fukudaya - Check room rates and room availability
SHINJUKU AREA
- Shinjuku Kuyakusho-mae Capsule Hotel - Check room rates and room availability
- Tokyo Central Youth Hostel - Check room rates and room availability
- The Global Hotel Tokyo - Check room rates and room availability
- Imano Tokyo Hostel - Check room rates and room availability
- Hotel Rhodes - Check room rates and room availability
TOKYO STATION AREA
- Center Hotel Tokyo - Check room rates and room availability
- Hotel Livemax Tokyo Bakurocho - Check room rates and room availability
- Artsy Inn Higashinihonbashi - Check room rates and room availability
TRAVEL TIPS: If you're traveling alone, the best way to save on accommodation expense is to stay in a hostel. Japan is known for it's capsule hostels which are really cheap. But if you're traveling with a group, cheap budget hotels are your best options.
Note: Room rates are subject to change and depends on the dates booked.
SEARCH FOR MORE HOTELS IN JAPAN!
How to Get Around Tokyo?
Going around Tokyo, our best travel buddies are Hyperdia Website, Google Maps, Tokyo Subway App, and of course, our 4G Data SIM Card to access the internet. We use Hyperdia website (www.hyperdia.com) in checking for possible route on trains, how much it costs, travel time, and transfers needed to get to our desired destination. We use Google Maps when looking for the nearest train station to the tourist spot we want to go to, and for showing us the route when walking to our destination. In checking the route for subway trains using our Unlimited Tokyo Subway Ticket, we use the Tokyo Subway Navigation App which you can download for free in your android or iOs smartphones.
Now that we have all the necessary apps, website, and internet connection, getting around Tokyo is fast and easy by taking the trains. It is one of the most extensive I've seen. It's a bit complicated at first but if you get to plan your route ahead of time with the help of Hyperdia and some apps, it won't be as complicated as you may think.
TRAVEL TIPS: Before your flight, be sure to plan your itinerary. By using the Hyperdia Website, you can now lay out the routes, the train station to go, what train to take, travel time, and how much it costs. This could help you save on time and expenses so you can avoid taking the wrong train. Always remember, when in doubt, feel free to ask the staff at the train station so you will not get lost and waste time.
TOKYO SUBWAY UNLIMITED PASS
To save on transportation expenses, I highly recommend that you get a Tokyo Subway Unlimited Pass. Since you'll be taking the train most of the time, this card will give you unlimited rides on all Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway lines for 24, 48 or 72 hours. Because it's unlimited, it helped us save a lot on travel expenses.
SUICA IC CARD
If you're familiar with Hong Kong's Octopus Card, in Tokyo, they use Suica IC Card. This amazing and very useful prepaid card can used to ride JR East trains, the Metro subway lines, buses and the Tokyo Monorail that connects Haneda Airport with Tokyo. With this card, it will save you time and the hassle of lining up to purchase JR East, subway, and bus tickets. When you buy it in Klook, it is already pre-loaded JPY 1,500 so you could start using it. You can also use this card in purchasing at vendo machines, and some convenience stores and restaurants.
PRIVATE CAR CHARTER
For ultimate comfort and convenience, you may also opt to rent a private car in exploring Tokyo. With a Tokyo Private Car Charter, you can enjoy a comfortable private car charter going to and from your preferred attractions within Tokyo. This is an ideal choice for families traveling with children and senior citizens.
TRAVELING TO A DIFFERENT PREFECTURE?
USE A JR PASS!
Rail transport is the major transportation in Japan. Their trains are undeniably great and advanced in technology. The best example of it are their bullet trains also known as Shinkansen trains. The bullet trains offer passengers fast and unforgettable experience with speeds reaching up to 320 km/hr. Taking the bullet train is so expensive. But if you have a JR Pass, you can have unlimited train ride on the JR Line, which also includes the Shinkansen. The JR Pass is very useful and an economical way to travel around Japan. So, don't miss to have one, especially if you're traveling from one city to another.
Do you need a JR Pass?
If you're just traveling around Tokyo and surrounding areas, I do not suggest getting a JR Pass because you will not be able to maximize it. But if you plan to visit other cities or prefectures such as Hokkaido, Nagoya, Osaka, Hiroshima, Fukuoka, or even as far as Nagazaki, I highly recommend getting a whole Japan JR Pass. It will save you a lot on travel expenses. Just make sure to plot your itinerary very well for you to maximize the use of the JR Pass.
How to travel from Tokyo to Osaka or Kyoto by Shinkansen (Bullet) train?
If your itinerary is from Tokyo you'll be visiting Osaka and/or Kyoto and will fly out via Osaka, I recommend that you buy a one-way Shinkansen Bullet Train Ticket from Tokyo to Osaka or Kyoto. You don't need a JR Pass, just purchase a one-way ticket. You'll save a lot on travel expenses.
How to travel from Tokyo to Osaka or Kyoto by bus?
A cheaper alternative is to take a night highway bus from Tokyo to Osaka or Kyoto. You can also book it online in advance for as low as ₱ 2,957 per person. This is a cheaper option compared to the bullet trains, but travel time takes about 10 hours with few stops along the way. This is a good choice if you're not in a hurry and it will also save you one night on hotel expenses.
NOTE: If you're traveling from Osaka to Tokyo, you may also take the night bus. RESERVE A SEAT HERE!
Lockers at Train Stations
If you want to leave your bags and luggage, you can leave them in lockers found in most train stations. Just ask the staff where are the lockers. Prices are usually between 200 yen/day to 600 yen/day depending on the size of the locker.
Here's a sample. Locker Size in Tokyo station:
- Height 55 cm × Width 34 cm × Depth 57 cm : 400 yen/day
- Height 84 cm × Width 34cm × Depth 57cm : 500 yen/day
- Height 103cm × Width 34cm × Depth 57cm : 600 yen/day
Top Things to Do, Tourist Spots and Attractions in Tokyo
Here are some of the top things to do, tourist spots and attractions in Tokyo with some useful information, travel tips, and the nearest train station to get there.
TOKYO DISNEYLAND
Tokyo Disneyland in Disney Resort is a 115-acre theme park located at Tokyo Disney Resort in Urayasu, Chiba Prefecture, Japan. Disneyland is said to be "the happiest place on Earth." Why? Simply because they turn our childhood dreams into reality by giving lives to our favorite Fairy tales and Disney characters.
Address:1-1 Maihama, Urayasu, Chiba 279-0031, Japan
Opening hour: 09:00 am to 10:00 pm
Park operating hours depend on the season. Please check the official park operation calendar for updates.
How to get there? / Nearest Station: JR Maihama Station (Keiyo Line)
Travel Tip: You can skip the queue at the ticket booths and get discounted tickets by booking it online.
ALSO READ: Top 10 Things You Should Not Miss at TOKYO DISNEYLAND + Tipid Travel Tips
TEAMLAB BORDERLESS
A popular attraction in Odaiba, TeamLab Borderless is a huge museum jointly-operated by the Mori Building Company and teamLab art collective. Visiting this museum - which uses a magical mix of digital arts, lights, sounds, and music - will make you feel entering "a whole new world" with a immersive and interactive arts. It's filled with artworks that form one borderless world and make be part of it!
Considered as "the world's first digital art museum," it is suitable for kids and adults alike. It's very popular a among local and popular tourists, so be sure to purchase your tickets in advance to be sure you can get it.
ALSO CHECK OUT: teamLab Planets
OPENING HOURS:
Weekdays: 10:00am-7:00pm
Weekends and holidays: 10:00am-9:00pm
Last entry: 1 hour before closing time
How to get there? / Nearest Station: Aomi Station or Tokyo Teleport Station
TOKYO SKYTREE TOWER
The Tokyo Skytree is a broadcasting and observation tower located in Sumida Ward in Tokyo, Japan. It is considered as the "tallest tower in the world" with a height of 634.0 meters (2,080 ft) above the ground. The Tokyo Skytree was completed on February 29, 2012, with the tower opening to the public on May 22, 2012. Rising high above the city, it was built using the same principles as the Japanese pagoda. The Tokyo Skytree is also considered as the second tallest structure in the world after Dubai's Burj Khalifa.
Nearest Station: Tokyo Skytree Station
ALSO READ: TOKYO SKYTREE: Blog, How to Get There, Ticket Prices, Travel Tips and More!
For ease and convenience, I recommend the following if you want to see the city of Tokyo from above:
- TOKYO SKYTREE® & Sumida Aquarium Combo Ticket
- Roppongi Hills Observation Deck ”Tokyo City View“
- SHIBUYA SKY Observation Deck
UENO PARK
This is a public park located at Ueno district of Taitō, Tokyo, Japan. Built in 1873, the park grounds were originally part of Kaneiji Temple - founded in 1625 during the Kan'ei era by Tenkai. It is also home to a number of museums, and a place for celebrations in spring for its many cherry trees and for Hanami Festival.
How to get there? / Nearest Station: Ueno Station
Admission: FREE entrance in the park. But there is an admission fee if you want to visit the museums.
SENSŌ-JI TEMPLE
Sensō-ji is an ancient Buddhist temple located in Asakusa, and is known as the oldest temple in Tokyo, built in 645 AD.
How to get there? / Nearest Station: Asakusa Station
Admission: FREE
When in Asakusa, you might also want to experience:
TOKYO ASAKUSA RICKSHAW TOUR
Asakusa in downtown Tokyo is alive with a characteristic traditional ambience that removes you from the bustle of 21st century Tokyo. Swing by the famous Kaminari Gate, the entrance to the grand Sensoji Temple and have your rickshaw tour guide take pictures as you pose under the gate's giant red lantern before your departure. Explore the Nakamise Shopping Street or adjoining alleyways offering a wide variety of mouth-watering lunch options.
MEIJI SHRINE
Meiji is is Shinto shrine that is dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife.
How to get there? / Nearest Station: Harajuku (JR Yamanote Line)
Admission: FREE
YOYOGI PARK
Yoyogi is a huge park in Shibuya, Tokyo, Japan, located adjacent to Harajuku Station and Meiji Shrine. You can also find some cherry blossoms here during spring time.
How to get there? / Nearest Station: Harajuku
Admission Fee: FREE
SHIBUYA CROSSING
Considered by many as "one of the busiest intersection in the world." It's quite an interesting sight to see so many people crossing the intersection at a given time. Don't miss crossing it for the experience!
How to get there? / Nearest Station: Shibuya
Admission Fee: FREE
Travel Tip: To get a top view of Shibuya Crossing, you can go up to the Starbucks Coffee Shop Tsutaya and enjoy a cup of coffee while watching the scramble crossing from the windows of the coffee shop. If you don't want to spend for a coffee, you can also go up the mall next to the train station near Hachiko Memorial Statue.
SHIBUYA SKY
You may also experience the 360-degree panoramic view of SHIBUYA SKY, an observation area on top of Shibuya Scramble Square rising 229m above Shibuya. On the rooftop, observe Tokyo from the "Sky Edge," where you can look down at the cityscape without any obstruction. It is a great photo spot! Shibuya Sky is the only place in Tokyo where you can have a 360 panoramic view of all the major spots in Tokyo, such as Mt. Fuji, the national stadium, Tokyo Skytree, the scramble crossing, Roppongi Hills, etc.
HACHIKO MEMORIAL STATUE
Your visit to Shibuya is not complete without having a photo with Hachiko, the famous loyal Akita dog.
How to get there? / Nearest Station: Shibuya
Admission Fee: FREE
THE IMPERIAL PALACE
Located in the center of Tokyo, The Imperial Palace is the official residence of the Imperial Family of Japan. he palace is surrounded by a water-filled moat and tree-covered grounds - a refreshing taste of nature surrounded by towering buildings within the bustling metropolitan city. Online sources tell us that it is open until 5:00 PM, unfortunately when we went there it was closed. So, we were not able to get inside.
How to get there? / Nearest Stations: Tokyo Station (Marunouchi Central Exit), Otemachi Station (Exit D2), or Nijubashi-mae Station (Exit 6).
Travel Tip: There are only two occasions that the Emperor make a public appearance, January 2 and December 23. You might want to consider that when planning your visit.
AKIHABARA
Located at the Chiyoda ward of Tokyo, Japan, it is a popular destination for tourists and locals because of its many electronics shops and anime stores. You can also find here maid cafes, Gundam Cafe, and even sex shops!
How to get there? / Nearest Station: Akihabara
Travel Tip: If you're lucky, there are times when the streets are closed and you can walk around and have a photo like this above. This was taken on a Sunday afternoon.
HARAJUKU
Harajuku is considered as the epicenter of ‘kawaii culture’ and the fashion capital of Tokyo. Located between Shinjuku and Shibuya, “Harajuku” refers to the area surrounding Harajuku Station. This popular tourist destination in Tokyo is well-known for colorful street arts, youth fashion, cat cafes, and cosplay shops along Takeshita Street. As a popular shopping neighborhood in Tokyo, it’s a great place to go for shopping, and to experience one of the city's most iconic fashion hotspots.
How to get there? / Nearest Station: Harajuku
SHINJUKU
Shinjuku is the Tokyo I’ve imagined from the movies. It’s a huge entertainment, business and shopping area in Tokyo. It is popular for its many clubs and karaoke bars, towering skyscrapers, huge electronic stores, hotels, restaurants, noisy arcades, and shopping malls. It's an urban jungle at its best with constant stream of people, and probably a district of Tokyo that never sleeps.
How to get there? / Nearest Station: Shinjuku
ODAIBA
Odaiba (also called "Daiba"), is composed of man-made islands in Tokyo Bay, it reminds me of Singapore's Sentosa Island. It is Tokyo's greatest shopping and entertainment district and is home to a number of shopping malls, museums, restaurants, theme parks, onsens, high-end hotels, Fuji TV station, the Rainbow Bridge, a huge Gundam Statue, and many more. With a long list of different things to do in Odabai, it is definetely a must-visit district when traveling to Tokyo.How to get there? / Nearest Station: Daiba
Day Tours from Tokyo
If you want to explore other interesting sites outside the city, here are my suggestions.
MT. FUJI
As most people would recommend, if there is one landmark in Tokyo you shouldn't miss - that would definitely the Mount Fuji. Commonly called "Fuji-san," it is an active volcano located about 100 kilometers southwest of the city of Tokyo. Standing at 3,776 meters above sea level, it is considered as the tallest peak in Japan.
ALSO READ: Mt. Fuji and Hakone Day Tour from Tokyo
LAKE ASHI
Located in Hakone area of Kanagawa Prefecture in Honshū, Japan, this scenic lake is a crater lake that lies along the southwest wall of the caldera of Mount Hakone.
FUJI ISU HAKONE NATIONAL PARK
Located on the summit of Mt. Komagatake, Fuji Hakone Isu National Park offers a magnificent view of Mt. Fuji and Lash Ashi. To get to the top, you just need to take a 10-minute scenic ride via Komagatake Ropeway.
TRAVEL TIP:
To visit Mt. Fuji, Lake Ashi, and Fuji Hakone Isu National Park, I highly recommend that you book your Mt. Fuji and Hakone Day Tour via Klook.com. The packaged tour also includes transportation from Tokyo, lunch buffet, English-speaking guide, free unlimited WiFi onboard, and transportation back to Tokyo. With this packaged tour, all you need to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy your trip to Mt. Fuji and Hakone. You don't have to worry getting lost, how to get there, and where to eat - because everything is well-covered. Package inclusions and itinerary may change without prior notice.
OTHER OPTIONS: Mt. Fuji Tours
- Mount Fuji Classic Route Day Tour from Tokyo Budget-friendly option!
- Mt. Fuji Flower Festival Tour with Mt. Kachi Kachi Ropeway Experience from Tokyo
- Mt. Fuji and Bright Red Kochia with Matsutake Mushroom Gozen & Fruits Basket
- Mt Fuji, Five-storied Pagoda, The Illumination & Riding Kachi-kachi Ropeway
Other Popular Tokyo Experiences
Here are some popular and must-experience tours and activities in or near Tokyo from Klook. You may click on the photo to see more details and information about the tours or discounted ticket prices.
Sample 4 Days / 3 Nights Tokyo DIY Itinerary
Here's a sample 4-Days / 3-Nights Tokyo Japan DIY Itinerary. You can adjust it depending on your flights, the things you want to do, and the tourist spots you want to visit.
DAY 1 - ARRIVAL AND CITY TOUR PART 1
06:15 AM - Departure from Manila
11:35 AM - Arrival in Narita International Airport
12:00 NN - Travel to Tokyo City Center by Skyliner
12:40 PM - Arrival at Uneno Station, have lunch
02:00 PM - Check-in at the Hotel
03:00 PM - Explore Shibuya + Hachiko Statue
05:30 PM - Akihabara
08:00 PM - Dinner
09:00 PM - Back to the hotel and sleep
DAY 2 - MT. FUJI AND HAKONE DAY TOUR
06:00 AM - Breakfast at the hotel
07:00 AM - Travel to pick-up location (Hotel Grand Palace)
08:00 AM - Hotel pick-ups for the Mt. Fuji and Hakone tour
08:30 AM - Travel to Mt. Fuji 5th Station
11:00 AM - Arrival at Mt. Fuji 5th Station
12:00 NN - Go down
12:30 PM - Lunch
01:30 PM - Lake Ashi Cruise
02:30 PM - Mt. Komagatake Ropeway
03:00 PM - Fuji Hakone Isu National Park
04:00 PM - Go down
05:00 PM - 7:30 PM - Odawara Station (drop off location)
08:30 PM - Sukiyabashi Intersection in Ginza (drop off location)
09:00 PM - Dinner
10:00 PM - Back to the hotel and sleep
DAY 3 - TOKYO DISNEYLAND
05:30 AM - Breakfast at the hotel
06:30 AM - Travel to Tokyo Disneyland
08:00 AM - Arrive at Tokyo Disneyland
08:00 AM - 09:00 PM - Enjoy Tokyo Disneyland
10:30 PM - Back to the hotel and sleep
DAY 4 - TOKYO CITY TOUR PART 2 + DEPARTURE
06:00 AM - Breakfast at the hotel
07:00 AM - Check-out
07:30 AM - Travel to Asakusa
08:30 AM - Visit Sensō-ji Temple
09:30 AM - Travel to Ueno (Ueno Station is the best place to leave your bags at the locker)
10:30 AM - Visit Ueno Park
11:30 AM - Lunch
12:30 PM - Travel to Harajuku
01:30 PM - Meiji Shrine
02:30 PM - Yoyogi Park
03:30 PM - Travel to Ueno Station
04:30 PM - Take the Tokyo Skyliner to Narita Airport
05:10 PM - Arrival at Narita Airport
08:25 PM - Departure for Manila
Tokyo Trip Budget and Expenses
Tokyo is one of the most expensive cities that I've been to - next is Hong Kong and Singapore. IN this travel guide I will try to give you the best possible DIY Itinerary at the most affordable budget I could think of. Please adjust it depending on the number of day of your travel, the tourist spots you want to visit, and the things you want to do during your trip. Also, always have extra budget for emergencies and unexpected expenses.
Sample Tokyo Itinerary 4 days and 3 nights for 21,800 pesos
Below is a sample 4-days/3-nights Tokyo itinerary for PHP 21,800. This assumes the following:
- You will be staying in a private room at Hotel Sakura Hatagaya at PHP 3,500 per night.
- You are a group of two.
- Your maximum expense for food is 250 PHP or 500 JPY per meal per person.
- You'll be using a Tokyo Subway Unlimited Pass for 3 days.
PRE-TRAVEL EXPENSES
Activities were booked via Klook.com and hotel accommodations were booked via Agoda.com.
- Hotel for 3 nights - 10,500 / 2 = 5,250.00 per person
- 4G Japan Data SIM Card - 513.00 (1GB Data 6 Days Usage)
- Tokyo Skyliner - 2,138.00 (round-trip)
- Tokyo Subway Ticket - 744.00 (72 Hours)
- Tokyo Disneyland Ticket - 3,595.00 (one-day pass)
- Mount Fuji and Hakone Day Trip - 6,800.00 per person
DAY 1
Tokyo Skyliner Airport to Ueno - Pre-bookedLunch - 500 JPY
Train: Ueno-Hatagaya - 330 JPY
Train: Hatagaya-Shibuya - 160 JPY
Train: Shibuya-Akihabara - 200 JPY
Dinner - 500 JPY
Train: Akihabara-Hatagaya - 300 JPY
TOTAL - 1,990 JPY
DAY 2
Start using the Tokyo Subway Unlimited PassBreakfast - Complimentary from hotel
Train: Hatagaya-Shinjuku - 130 JPY
Train: Shinjuku-Kudanshita - Use the Tokyo Subway Ticket
Mount Fuji and Hakone Day Trip - Pre-booked (with lunch)
Train: Ginza-Shinjuku - Use the Tokyo Subway Ticket
Train: Shinjuku-Hatagaya - 130 JPY
Dinner - 500 JPY
TOTAL - 760 JPY
DAY 3
Breakfast - Complimentary from hotelTrain: Hatagaya-Shinjuku - 130 JPY
Train: Shinjuku-Tokyo Station - Use the Tokyo Subway Ticket
Train: Tokyo Station-Maihama - 220 JPY
Tokyo Disneyland Ticket - Pre-booked
Lunch and Dinner - 1,000 JPY
Train: Maihama-Tokyo Station - 220 JPY
Train: Tokyo Station-Shinjuku - Use the Tokyo Subway Ticket
Train: Shinjuku-Hatagaya - 130 JPY
TOTAL - 1,700 JPY
DAY 4
Breakfast - Complimentary from hotelTrain: Hatagaya-Shinjuku - 130 JPY
Train: Shinjuku-Asakusa - Use the Tokyo Subway Ticket
Sensō-ji Temple - Free Admission
Train: Asakusa-Ueno - Use the Tokyo Subway Ticket
Locker rental - 200 JPY
Ueno Park - Free Admission
Lunch - 500 JPY
Train: Ueno-Meiji-jingumae'Harakuju' - Use the Tokyo Subway Ticket
Meihi Shrine - Free Admission
Yoyogi Park - Free Admission
Train: Meiji-jingumae'Harakuju'-Ueno - Use the Tokyo Subway Ticket
Tokyo Skyliner to Narita Airport - Pre-booked
Dinner - 500 JPY
TOTAL - 1,330 JPY
SUMMARY
- DAY 1 - 1,990 JPY
- DAY 2 - 760 JPY
- DAY 3 - 1,700 JPY
- DAY 4 - 1,330 JPY
PRE-TRAVEL BOOKINGS - 19,040 per person
GRAND TOTAL - 21,853 PHP per person
Not included:
- Round trip airfare Manila-Tokyo-Manila
- NAIA terminal fee and travel tax
- Food expense for snacks
- Budget for pasalubong and souvenirs
Sample Tokyo DIY Itinerary for 15,000 Pesos Budget for 4 Days and 3 Nights
Majority of the budget went to the Mt. Fuji and Hakone Day Tour which costs 6,800 pesos per person. Alternatively, you can change it to a Mt. Fuji Classic Route Day Tour which only costs 2,992 Pesos. You can even save more and bring down the expenses if you stay in a hostel which usually costs around 1,000 Pesos per night. Here's a sample itinerary and breakdown of expenses for a 15,000 pesos DIY Itinerary.
DAY 1 - ARRIVAL AND CITY TOUR PART 1
06:15 AM - Departure from Manila
11:35 AM - Arrival in Narita International Airport
12:00 NN - Travel to Tokyo City Center by Skyliner
12:40 PM - Arrival at Uneno Station, have lunch
02:00 PM - Check-in at the Hostel
03:00 PM - Explore Shibuya + Hachiko Statue
05:30 PM - Akihabara
08:00 PM - Dinner
09:00 PM - Back to the hostel and sleep
DAY 2 - MT. FUJI CLASSIC ROUTE DAY TOUR
07:00 AM - Travel to pick-up location in Shinjuku
08:00 AM - Meet up at Shinjuku Prince Hotel counter, 1st floor
08:10 AM - Depart from hotel
10:30 AM - Arrive at Fujisan World Heritage Center North Hall or arrive at Mt Fuji 5th Station
12:00 PM - Arrive at Oshino Hakkai
01:30 PM - Matcha Experience led by Nihoncha Instructor
03:30 PM - Gotemba Premium Outlets (120-180 minutes of free time)
07:00 PM - End of tour at Takashimaya Shinjuku
09:00 PM - Dinner
10:00 PM - Back to the hostel and sleep
DAY 3 - TOKYO DISNEYLAND
06:30 AM - Travel to Tokyo Disneyland
08:00 AM - Arrive at Tokyo Disneyland
08:00 AM - 09:00 PM - Enjoy Tokyo Disneyland
10:30 PM - Back to the hostel and sleep
DAY 4 - TOKYO CITY TOUR PART 2 + DEPARTURE
07:00 AM - Check-out of the hostel
07:30 AM - Travel to Asakusa
08:30 AM - Visit Sensō-ji Temple
09:30 AM - Travel to Ueno (Ueno Station is the best place to leave your bags at the locker)
10:30 AM - Visit Ueno Park
11:30 AM - Lunch
12:30 PM - Travel to Harajuku
01:30 PM - Meiji Shrine
02:30 PM - Yoyogi Park
03:30 PM - Travel to Ueno Station
04:30 PM - Take the Tokyo Skyliner to Narita Airport
05:10 PM - Arrival at Narita Airport
08:25 PM - Departure for Manila
Breakdown of Expenses
PRE-TRAVEL EXPENSES
Activities were booked via Klook.com and hotel accommodations were booked via Agoda.com.
- Hostel for 3 nights (1,000 PHP/night) = 3,000.00 per person
- 4G Japan Data SIM Card - 513.00 (1GB Data 6 Days Usage)
- Tokyo Skyliner - 2,138.00 (round-trip)
- Tokyo Subway Ticket - 744.00 (72 Hours)
- Tokyo Disneyland Ticket - 3,595.00 (one-day pass)
- Mount Fuji Classic Route Day Trip - 2,992.00 per person
DAY 1
Tokyo Skyliner Airport to Ueno - Pre-bookedLunch - 500 JPY
Train: Ueno-Hatagaya - 330 JPY
Train: Hatagaya-Shibuya - 160 JPY
Train: Shibuya-Akihabara - 200 JPY
Dinner - 500 JPY
Train: Akihabara-Hatagaya - 300 JPY
TOTAL - 1,990 JPY
DAY 2
Start using the Tokyo Subway Unlimited PassTrain: Hatagaya-Shinjuku - 130 JPY
Mount Fuji Classic Route Day Trip - Pre-booked (with lunch)
Train: Shinjuku-Hatagaya - 130 JPY
Dinner - 500 JPY
TOTAL - 760 JPY
DAY 3
Train: Hatagaya-Shinjuku - 130 JPYTrain: Shinjuku-Tokyo Station - Use the Tokyo Subway Ticket
Train: Tokyo Station-Maihama - 220 JPY
Tokyo Disneyland Ticket - Pre-booked
Lunch and Dinner - 1,000 JPY
Train: Maihama-Tokyo Station - 220 JPY
Train: Tokyo Station-Shinjuku - Use the Tokyo Subway Ticket
Train: Shinjuku-Hatagaya - 130 JPY
TOTAL - 1,700 JPY
DAY 4
Train: Hatagaya-Shinjuku - 130 JPYTrain: Shinjuku-Asakusa - Use the Tokyo Subway Ticket
Sensō-ji Temple - Free Admission
Train: Asakusa-Ueno - Use the Tokyo Subway Ticket
Locker rental - 200 JPY
Ueno Park - Free Admission
Lunch - 500 JPY
Train: Ueno-Meiji-jingumae'Harakuju' - Use the Tokyo Subway Ticket
Meihi Shrine - Free Admission
Yoyogi Park - Free Admission
Train: Meiji-jingumae'Harakuju'-Ueno - Use the Tokyo Subway Ticket
Tokyo Skyliner to Narita Airport - Pre-booked
Dinner - 500 JPY
TOTAL - 1,330 JPY
SUMMARY
- DAY 1 - 1,990 JPY
- DAY 2 - 760 JPY
- DAY 3 - 1,700 JPY
- DAY 4 - 1,330 JPY
PRE-TRAVEL BOOKINGS - 12,982 per person
GRAND TOTAL - 15,795 PHP per person
Also not included:
- Round trip airfare Manila-Tokyo-Manila
- NAIA terminal fee and travel tax
- Food expense for snacks
- Budget for pasalubong and souvenirs
Sample Tokyo DIY Itinerary for 10,000 Pesos Budget for 3 Days and 2 Nights
If you're really on a tight budget, you can still enjoy and experience the top tourist spots and attractions in Tokyo with a budget of around 10,000 pesos for 3 days and 2 nights DIY Itinerary. This assumes that you will be staying in a hostel (which usually costs around 1,000 Pesos per night) in Ueno Area and you will be using a Tokyo Subway ticket for 72 hours. Here's a sample itinerary and breakdown of expenses for a 10,000 pesos DIY Itinerary.
DAY 1 - ARRIVAL AND CITY TOUR PART 1
06:15 AM - Departure from Manila
11:35 AM - Arrival in Narita International Airport
12:00 NN - Travel to Tokyo City Center by Skyliner
12:40 PM - Arrival at Uneno Station, have lunch
02:00 PM - Check-in at the Hostel in Ueno then travel to Shibuya
03:00 PM - Explore Shibuya + Hachiko Statue
04:30 PM - Travel to Akihabara
05:30 PM - Explore Akihabara
08:00 PM - Dinner
09:00 PM - Back to the hostel and sleep
DAY 2 - TOKYO DISNEYLAND
06:30 AM - Travel to Tokyo Disneyland (Ueno to Tokyo Station to Maihama)
08:00 AM - Arrive at Tokyo Disneyland
08:00 AM - 09:00 PM - Enjoy Tokyo Disneyland
10:00 PM - Travel back to Ueno (Maihama to Tokyo Station to Ueno)
11:30 PM - Back to the hostel and sleep
DAY 3 - TOKYO CITY TOUR PART 2 + DEPARTURE
07:00 AM - Check-out of the hostel (leave bags at the hostel)
07:30 AM - Visit Ueno Park
08:30 AM - Travel to Asakusa
09:30 AM - Visit Sensō-ji Temple
10:30 AM - Lunch
11:30 AM - Travel to Harajuku
12:30 PM - Visit Meiji Shrine
01:30 PM - Enjoy Yoyogi Park
02:30 PM - Travel back to Ueno Station and get bags at the hostel
03:30 PM - Take the Tokyo Skyliner to Narita Airport
05:10 PM - Arrival at Narita Airport, have dinner while waiting for your flight
08:25 PM - Departure for Manila
Breakdown of Expenses
PRE-TRAVEL EXPENSES
Activities were booked via Klook.com and hotel accommodations were booked via Agoda.com.
- Hostel for 2 nights (1,000 PHP/night) = 2,000.00 per person
- 4G Japan Data SIM Card - 513.00 (1GB Data 6 Days Usage)
- Tokyo Skyliner - 2,138.00 (round-trip Narita-Ueno-Narita)
- Tokyo Subway Ticket - 744.00 (72 Hours)
- Tokyo Disneyland Ticket - 3,595.00 (one-day pass)
DAY 1
Tokyo Skyliner Airport to Ueno - Pre-bookedLunch - 500 JPY
Hostel (1st night) - Pre-booked
Train: Ueno-Shibuya - (Use your Tokyo Subway ticket)
Train: Shibuya-Akihabara - Use your Tokyo Subway ticket)
Dinner - 500 JPY
Train: Akihabara-Ueno - (Use your Tokyo Subway ticket)
TOTAL - 1,000 JPY
DAY 2
Hostel (2nd night) - Pre-bookedTrain: Ueno-Tokyo Station - (Use your Tokyo Subway ticket)
Train: Tokyo Station-Maihama - 220 JPY
Tokyo Disneyland Ticket - Pre-booked
Lunch and Dinner - 1,000 JPY
Train: Maihama-Tokyo Station - 220 JPY
Train: Tokyo Station-Ueno - (Use your Tokyo Subway ticket)
TOTAL - 1,440 JPY
DAY 3
Ueno Park - Free AdmissionTrain: Ueno-Asakusa - (Use your Tokyo Subway ticket)
Sensō-ji Temple - Free Admission
Lunch - 500 JPY
Train: Ueno-Meiji-jingumae'Harakuju' - (Use your Tokyo Subway ticket)
Meiji Shrine - Free Admission
Yoyogi Park - Free Admission
Train: Meiji-jingumae'Harakuju'-Ueno - (Use your Tokyo Subway ticket)
Tokyo Skyliner to Narita Airport - Pre-booked
Dinner - 500 JPY
TOTAL - 1,000 JPY
SUMMARY
- DAY 1 - 1,000 JPY
- DAY 3 - 1,440 JPY
- DAY 4 - 1,000 JPY
PRE-TRAVEL BOOKINGS - 8,990 per person
GRAND TOTAL - 10,658 PHP per person
Also not included:
- Round trip airfare Manila-Tokyo-Manila
- NAIA terminal fee and travel tax
- Food expense for snacks
- Budget for pasalubong and souvenirs
Please note that exchange rates, ticket prices, airfare, hotel rates, and other expenses are subject to change without prior notice and depend on the date of your trip. You can adjust this budget depending on how many are you in the group, the tourist spots and activities you want to do in Tokyo, and how many days is your vacation.
I hope this FIRST TIMER'S TOKYO TRAVEL GUIDE BLOG with DIY itinerary, budget and breakdown of expenses help you in planning a memorable and exciting Tokyo Adventure soon! Enjoy and have fun!
YOU MIGHT ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
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- OSAKA AND KYOTO 4D/3N TRIP ITINERARY
- THINGS TO DO IN OSAKA TOURIST SPOTS & ITINERARY
- FUKUOKA JAPAN TRAVEL GUIDE
- HIROSHIMA JAPAN TRAVEL GUIDE
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This trip to Tokyo, Japan was made possible by Traveloka and Klook Travel. ARIGATŌ GOZAIMASU!
Hi, did you visit Japan during Spring? We're planning to visit on mid of February 2019 but I want to see cherry blossoms so bad. Are you aware if I will be able to see some or should I just forget my dream?
ReplyDeletehi, just want to ask, if i will be roaming around the city of tokyo (just the inner city) following your itineraries for the inner city, is the 3 day-unlimited subway pass worth it?
ReplyDeletei dont plan to go to the neighboring cities. just around tokyo.
usually tsukiji,ueno,asakusa,shinjuku odaiba and roponggi are the places i want to to go during my 4-day stay.
im torn between sticking to the ICOCA card(coz i'll be coming from osaka) and TOKYO Subway pass.
or should i only stick to the ICOCA card?
appreciate your advise :-)
very informative. thanks this is very useful. planning to visit japan in oct. !!!
ReplyDeletethanks for this tips. i love it!
ReplyDeleteQuestion lang, bakit kahit may Tokyo Subway Pass ka, nagbabayad ka pa rin sa ibang routes? Hindi ba kasama yun sa Tokyo Metro Pass?
ReplyDeleteHi, planning a trip to japan and crossing s.korea trip then of course back phils. Have you been tried this travel scheme?
ReplyDeleteLove the content! Big thanks to this! Keep it up!
ReplyDeleteHi Mervz,
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing this, our trip to tokyo is next week na! Weeeh!
-sherwin (qbe)
Hi! I need someone to talk to directly on msgr. regarding this DIY trip to Tokyo. Hope you colud help me. Big thanks in advance!
ReplyDeleteHi! Did you already book your accommodation here in PH or, when you are already in japan?
ReplyDeleteMahirap na maghanap nag hostel na tag P1,000 ngayon. Even capsule hotels, parang nasa P1,500/night. Also, if you arrive in Japan at 11:35am, most likely, your return flight leaves at around 12:30pm. So sa 3rd day, wala kana magagawa since you need to be at the airport 2 hours before flight, then travel time pa.
ReplyDelete