What are the best places to visit within 1 day in Tokyo?

Within one day in Tokyo, you should visit Sensoji Temple, TOKYO SKYTREE, Shinjuku, Harajuku, Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingu), and Shibuya.

Is one day enough for a Toyko visit?

Yes, to get a first impression of the city one day is enough.

Tokyo Itinerary for 1 Day - Tokyo Travel Guide

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Facts & Figures

The megacity of Tokyo is full of sightseeing spots and hidden gems. Of course, it would take far more than a single day to see them all :) But don’t worry, my handpicked list of the city’s highlights is a perfect starting point for first-time visitors with just 24 hours to spare. It offers a mix of historic temples and shrines, modern districts like Shinjuku, and the best panoramic views from the top of TOKYO SKYTREE.

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Overview of the Tokyo Itinerary for 1 Day:
1. Sensoji Temple - morning
2. TOKYO SKYTREE - morning
3. Shinjuku - lunch
4. Harajuku - afternoon
5. Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingu) - afternoon
6. Shibuya - evening

1. Sensoji Temple

Tokyo’s oldest temple, Senso-ji in Asakusa, is famous for its impressive Kaminarimon Gate and the lively Nakamise shopping street. The huge red main hall and giant lanterns make it one of the capital’s most photographed sights.

Address: 2-3-1 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo, 111-00321

2. TOKYO SKYTREE

TOKYO SKYTREE view from Asakusa in Tokyo

Rising 634 meters above the city, TOKYO SKYTREE is Tokyo’s tallest landmark and one of its most popular attractions. Two observation decks at 350 and 450 meters offer breathtaking panoramic views, and on clear days even Mt. Fuji can be seen. At night the tower glows with colorful LED lights, while endless shopping and dining options await at its base. Easily reached from Asakusa, it is a must-visit for first-time travelers to Tokyo.

Address: 1 Chome-1-2 Oshiage, Sumida City, 131-0045 Tokyo

3. Shinjuku

Shinjuku is one of Tokyo’s 23 special wards and a vibrant hub of business, shopping, and entertainment. It is home to the city’s tallest skyscrapers and Shinjuku Station, the world’s busiest railway hub with more than 3.6 million passengers each day. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building or relax in Shinjuku Gyoen, one of Tokyo’s most beautiful parks, especially stunning during cherry blossom season.

4. Harajuku

Harajuku is one of Tokyo’s most famous fashion hotspots, especially popular with teenagers. The area also includes major attractions such as Meiji Shrine, Yoyogi Park, Omotesando (Tokyo’s Champs-Elysees), and Takeshita Dori, a lively street lined with trendy shops and boutiques.

5. Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingu)

Torii at the Entrance to Meiji Shrine (Meiji-jingu) in Tokyo

Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingū) is one of Japan’s most important Shinto shrines and one of Tokyo’s top attractions. Dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, it is set within a vast forest of 120000 trees donated from across the country. Visitors enter through giant torii gates and walk along peaceful paths before reaching the shrine buildings, often witnessing traditional wedding processions. Located near Harajuku Station, the shrine is a must-see for anyone exploring central Tokyo.

Address: 1-1 Yoyogi, Kamizono-cho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 151-8557

6. Shibuya

Shibuya is one of Tokyo’s 23 special wards and a lively hub of fashion, shopping, and entertainment. Shibuya Station serves over 2.4 million passengers daily, making it one of Japan’s busiest transport hubs. The district is famous for its youth culture, endless stores, and the iconic Shibuya crossing, while also earning the nickname - Bit Valley - for its concentration of IT companies.