5 days in Tokyo: the guide for an unforgettable stay
Why is Tokyo a must-visit destination for your next trip?
Tokyo is like no other city. Nestled on the island of Honshu, at the heart of Japan, it brings together 14 million inhabitants in a constant ballet where every detail is thought out, each neighborhood tells a different story. Here is what makes a trip to Japan, and particularly a stay in Tokyo, so unique.
A metropolis suspended between tradition and modernity
The Asakusa district, with its Senso-ji Buddhist temple and its alleys lined with craft shops, is adjacent to the immersive digital installations of TeamLab Planets and the illuminated skyscrapers of Shinjuku. Japanese culture expresses itself at every street corner: in the architecture of Shinto shrines, in the precision of local craftsmen, in the tea ritual, and even in the elegance of everyday life. This cultural richness, rare and authentic, offers a range of experiences capable of satisfying all types of travelers.
What is the best season to visit Tokyo?
The choice of the period directly influences the quality of your stay in Tokyo. To guide you, here is an overview of the seasons:
| Period | Temperatures | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (March – May) | 10 to 20 °C | Cherry blossoms, Ueno Park, Yoyogi Park |
| Summer (June – August) | 25 to 35 °C, humid | Festivals, lively nightlife |
| Autumn (Sept. – Nov.) | 15 to 25 °C | Fiery foliage, stunning views of Mount Fuji |
| Winter (Dec. – Feb.) | 3 to 12 °C | Less crowded, calmer atmosphere |
Spring and autumn remain the most popular times. Autumn, in particular, offers particularly clear skies, ideal for admiring a sunset from the heights of the Tokyo Skytree with, on clear days, a silhouette of Mount Fuji in the background.
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What to see and do during your 5 days in Tokyo?
With a list of things to do that seems endless, organizing a trip to Tokyo can seem daunting. Structuring your days by neighborhood remains the best approach to minimize travel and afford some serenity between visits.
Eastern Tokyo, between temples and panoramas
The Asakusa district is the ideal gateway to traditional Tokyo. The Senso-ji temple, the oldest Buddhist temple in the capital, comes alive at dawn with its faithful and visitors. Nakamise Street leading up to it invites you to stroll among artisan souvenirs and sweet specialties. For views over the entire capital, the Tokyo Skytree rises to 634 meters and offers a striking perspective on the vastness of the city. The advice from our Travel Planners: book your slot in the late afternoon to watch Tokyo gradually light up at dusk.
Shibuya, Shinjuku - the vibrant heart of the capital
In the west, the energy changes radically. Shibuya and its famous crossing, traversed each day by millions of pedestrians, epitomize Tokyo's bustle. The Shibuya Sky, from its rooftop terrace, offers an exceptional panorama of the skyline. A few minutes away, Yoyogi Park provides a welcome green interlude before diving into the colorful atmosphere of Harajuku and its quirky fashion boutiques. Come nightfall, Shinjuku reveals another facet of the city: the intimate alleys of Golden Gai, its confidential bars and characteristic neon lights create an unforgettable atmosphere.
Hidden gems not to be missed
Some places are off the beaten track and deserve special attention. The Tsukiji Fish Market, always bustling in the morning, is the perfect spot to taste sushi of unparalleled freshness. The Imperial Palace and its gardens offer a contemplative break in the heart of the city. Yanaka Ginza Street, in the historic Yanaka district, transports you to an old Tokyo preserved from the hustle and bustle. For an immersive and contemporary experience, TeamLab Planets immerses visitors in a breathtaking digital art universe.
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How to smoothly prepare for your stay in Tokyo?
A successful stay also relies on careful preparation. From dining to administrative formalities, here are the key elements to know to approach your trip to Japan with confidence.
Tokyo's gastronomy, a journey within a journey
Tokyo is the city with the most Michelin stars in the world, but it's often the discreet eateries that leave the most lasting memories. Steaming ramen, delicately cut sushi, melt-in-your-mouth wagyu beef, or crispy tempura are appreciated just as much in restaurants tucked away in alleys as in the stalls of the fish market. A good tip: start the day with a visit to a konbini, those 24/7 grocery stores, for a typically Japanese breakfast at a sweet price.
Essential knowledge before you go
Tokyo is about a 12-hour flight from Paris, with a time difference of +8 hours in winter. The local currency is the yen; Japan remains largely attached to cash payments. For city travel, the rechargeable Suica card available at subway stations simplifies all public transport journeys. Regarding formalities, no visa is required for French nationals for stays of less than 90 days. Remember to bring comfortable footwear easy to remove for temple visits, and light layered clothing for the fall.
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