Tokyo Travel Guide: First-Timer's Planning Guide
How to plan a first trip to Tokyo: transport, neighbourhoods, cash and the details that trip people up.
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Table of contents
Tokyo is less overwhelming than it first appears — once you know how to use the trains and which neighbourhood fits your trip, the city opens up quickly.
Neighbourhoods at a glance
- Shinjuku — the classic Tokyo: neon, izakayas and incredible logistics
- Shibuya — the crossing, fashion and young energy
- Asakusa — temples, crafts and old-Tokyo atmosphere
- Ginza — department stores, galleries and high-end dining
Moving around
The JR Yamanote loop line connects nearly everything you'll want. An IC card (Suica or Pasmo) is the easiest way to pay — tap on and off, reloadable at any station.
Featured hotels in Tokyo
SHIBUYA HOTEL EN
****Tokyo, Japan
Best for: Mid-century design near Shibuya Station
$$$
Ryokan Tsubaki
****Tokyo, Japan
Best for: A classic ryokan stay in the city
$$$$
Ready to book?
Find tours around TokyoFrequently asked questions
Is cash or card better in Tokyo?+
How do I get from Narita to the city?+
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Riversmag may earn a commission when you book through the links on this page, at no extra cost to you. This helps keep our guides free. We only recommend products and services we genuinely believe in.
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