23 Best Tokyo Travel Tips and Advice: Your Essential Guide

Tokyo, a vibrant metropolis teeming with ancient traditions and modern marvels, offers an unforgettable experience for travelers from around the world. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey, it's essential to be well-prepared. In this article from TravelThru, we’ll provide you with 23 comprehensive Tokyo travel tips and advice, covering everything from the best time to visit to must-see Tokyo attractions, cultural etiquette, and more.

The Best Time to Travel to Tokyo 

1. Spring or Autumn are the Best Seasons to Visit Tokyo

The most popular times to visit Tokyo are spring and autumn. These periods offer the most pleasant weather, with comfortable temperatures and low humidity.

In the Spring, from March to May, visitors can witness the stunning cherry blossom season, when the city comes alive with the delicate pink hues of the sakura flowers. Temperatures range from a comfortable 15°C (59°F) to 22°C (72°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

In the Autumn, from September to November, the city's foliage transforms into a vibrant display of oranges, reds, and yellows, creating a serene and picturesque atmosphere. Temperatures during this season are mild, typically ranging from 12°C (54°F) to 20°C (68°F).

2. Summer in Tokyo is Hot and Humid

The summer months (June-August) can be uncomfortably hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching over 30°C (86°F). The intense heat and humidity can make sightseeing and outdoor activities challenging.

If you visit during the summer, a Tokyo local tip is to prepare with lightweight, breathable clothing and plenty of hydration.

3. Avoid The Golden Week is Tokyo Local Tip

The Golden Week in Japan falls on April 29th and May 3rd, 4th and 5th each year. During this time, the country celebrates several national holidays, and many people take the opportunity to travel or spend time with their families. As a result, Tokyo can become crowded, with longer queues at popular attractions and higher prices for accommodation and transportation.

If you prefer a more peaceful Tokyo itinerary, avoid visiting there during the crowded Golden Week holiday. Consider traveling before or after this busy period for a more relaxed stay.

>>> Read more: When is the best time to travel to Japan?

Tokyo Travel Tips About Must-See Attractions

4. Discover all of The Beauty of Tokyo

Tokyo is a vast and diverse city, with each neighborhood offering its unique charm and attractions. From the neon-lit streets of Shibuya and Shinjuku to the serene gardens of Imperial Palace and Meiji Shrine, there is something for everyone to discover in Tokyo.

To maximize your time, consider focusing on a few key areas or neighborhoods during your visit. This will allow you to delve deeper into the local culture and experience the city like a true Tokyoite.

>>> Discover more: The 19 Best Cities to Visit in Japan with Stunning Scenery

5. Spend at least 5 Days on The Tokyo Itinerary

Tokyo is a massive city with endless sights, sounds, and experiences to explore. While seeing the Tokyo attractions in a shorter time frame is possible, it’s amazing to dedicate at least 5 days to your Tokyo visit.

This will give you ample time to visit the must-see landmarks, immerse yourself in the local culture, and discover hidden gems off the beaten path.

Transportation Issues

6. Choosing Haneda Airport or Narita Airport

Two major international airports serve Tokyo: Haneda Airport and Narita Airport. 
Haneda Airport is just 20 kilometers from the city center, making it a more convenient option for travelers. However, its proximity to downtown Tokyo tends to be more expensive than Narita Airport.

 
On the other hand, Narita Airport is in Chiba, about 60km from the city, so it takes longer to reach the city center. Narita can be a more budget-friendly option for international travelers, as flights to and from this airport tend to be less expensive. Narita also serves a greater number of international destinations than Haneda.

Carefully evaluate your travel plans, budget, and personal preferences to determine which Tokyo airport best fits your needs.

7. Buy an IC transport card

An IC transport card, such as Pasmo or Suica, is one of the best Tokyo travel tips for navigating the public transportation system. These contactless prepaid cards allow you to easily board trains, subways, and even some buses without purchasing individual tickets.

The IC cards can be recharged at designated stations or convenience stores, making them a convenient and efficient way to move around the city. They also offer discounts on some transportation routes.

8. Avoid the Rush Hour for your Tokyo Itinerary

Tokyo's public transportation system can be extremely crowded during peak commuting hours, typically around 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Avoid traveling during these times if possible, as the trains and subways can become uncomfortably packed, making it challenging to move around or find a seat.

If your Tokyo itinerary lasts during rush hour, prepare for a more chaotic experience and allow extra time to reach your destination. Consider using alternative modes of transportation, such as taxis or ride-sharing services.

Tokyo Travel Tips in Choosing Accommodation

9. You Don't Have to Stay Directly in the Heart of Tokyo

When choosing your accommodation, consider areas outside the immediate city center, such as Ueno, Iidabashi, Ikebukuro, or Shinbashi, which offer a wider range of hotels and often more affordable prices.

These outlying neighborhoods are still well-connected to Tokyo attractions via the extensive public transportation network, making it easy to explore the city from your base.

10. Stay Near a Train Station

When selecting your accommodation in Tokyo, prioritize locations near a train or subway station. This will make it much easier to navigate the city and access the attractions and destinations you want to visit. Look for hotels that are within a short walking distance of a major transportation hub, as this will save you time and energy during your stay.

11. Business Hotels can be an Economical Choice

Business hotels in Tokyo can be a budget-friendly option for travelers. They cater to business needs but can also work well for tourists. The rooms may be smaller and have basic amenities, but business hotels provide a comfortable and convenient base for exploring the city, often near major transportation.

Best Tokyo Travel Tips to Navigate Tokyo's Cuisine

12. Try to Use Chopsticks

As you explore culinary delights, a  Tokyo local tip to immerse yourself in the culture is to use chopsticks. While it may take some practice, learning to use chopsticks is a fun and rewarding experience that will make your dining adventures in Tokyo even more authentic.

If you're new to using chopsticks, don't be afraid to ask your server for assistance or use a fork. The important thing is to embrace the experience and try your best to dine like a local.

13. Don't Be Afraid to Try Street Food

Tokyo is renowned for its incredible street food scene, offering various delicious and affordable snacks and dishes. The city's street vendors offer some of the most authentic and delectable culinary experiences, from savory yakisoba noodles and tasty takoyaki to sweet teriyaki fish-shaped cakes.

>>> Enjoy more here: 13 Must-Try Japanese Street Food on Your Next Trip

Embrace the opportunity to try new things and explore the diverse flavors that Tokyo has to offer. Just be sure to follow basic food safety practices, such as choosing stalls with high turnover and avoiding anything that looks questionable.

14. Most Cafes and Restaurants Don't Open Until After 11 am

One important thing to note about dining in Tokyo is that most cafes and restaurants don't open until after 11 am. This is because the city's residents typically have an early breakfast at home or at their workplace before heading out.

If you're an early riser, you may need help finding open eateries in the morning. Plan your day accordingly, and be prepared to start your dining experiences later.

Tokyo Local Tips to Become a Local in Tokyo

15. Remember that Tokyo is a Cash-Based Country

While Japan is a highly modern and technologically advanced country, it is still a cash-based society. Many businesses, especially smaller establishments and local vendors may not accept credit or debit cards. Therefore, it's essential to have Japanese yen on hand for daily activities and purchases.

Before arriving in Tokyo, consider exchanging some of your home currency for “Yen”. Alternatively, you can withdraw cash from ATMs at the airport or city center, but be mindful of any fees or exchange rates.

16. Don't Tip for Japanese Service

In fact, trying to tip in Japan may be seen as rude or offensive, as the country's service industry operates on the principle of providing excellent service as a matter of course, not for additional compensation.

Instead of tipping, express your gratitude and appreciation through polite behavior, such as saying "Arigatou gozaimasu" (thank you) or complimenting the service.

17. Know Some Basics of the Japanese Language

While it's not necessary to be fluent in Japanese to enjoy your time in Tokyo, learning a few essential phrases can enhance your experience and interactions with the locals. Some basic words and phrases to know include:

• "Ohayō gozaimasu" (Good morning)
• "Konnichiwa" (Hello)
• "Arigatō gozaimasu" (Thank you)
• "Sumimasen" (Excuse me)
• "Hai" (Yes)
• "Iie" (No)

Using these simple Japanese expressions will show your respect for the local culture and may even lead to more meaningful conversations.

18. Remove Your Shoes Before Entering a House

In Japan, it is customary to remove your shoes before entering any place. This practice helps maintain cleanliness and shows respect for the space and its occupants.

Slip your shoes off at a designated shoe removal area, place them neatly, and either wear the provided slippers or walk in your socks or stockings.

19. Public Bins are Scarce in Tokyo - Bring Your Own Bag

One of the surprising things about Tokyo is the scarcity of public trash bins. Despite being one of the cleanest cities in the world, the lack of public receptacles can be a bit puzzling for visitors.

A Tokyo local tip is to bring a small reusable bag or pouch with you. This will allow you to store any trash or recyclables until you can properly dispose of them at your hotel or a designated waste collection point.

20. Politeness and Silence are Highly Valued

In Japanese culture, politeness and respect are highly prized virtues. When exploring Tokyo, be mindful of your behavior and try to maintain a sense of quiet and composure, especially in public spaces.

Avoid loud conversations, boisterous behavior, or anything that may be seen as disruptive or disrespectful. Additionally, be mindful of your volume when using electronic devices, as speaking loudly on the phone or playing music without headphones can be considered rude.

21. Don't Eat or Drink While Walking on the Street

Eating or drinking while walking on the streets of Tokyo is generally frowned upon. The city is known for its cleanliness, and the local customs discourage consuming food or beverages in public areas, as it can be seen as untidy or disruptive.

If you need to enjoy food in Tokyo, a Tokyo travel tip is to find a designated seating area, such as a park or a cafe.

Staying Connected in Tokyo

22. Do Not Depend on Free Wi-Fi in Japan

Contrary to popular belief, free public Wi-Fi is relatively scarce in Japan, including in the bustling city of Tokyo. While some major tourist attractions, hotels, and transportation hubs may offer free wireless internet access, it should not be considered a reliable or widespread option.

23. Get a Pocket Wi-Fi or eSIM

Renting a pocket WiFi or purchasing an eSIM for your smartphone is a smart Tokyo travel tip to stay connected. These provide a reliable private internet connection for accessing maps, translation, and staying in touch. You can rent Pocket WiFi at the airport or from providers, while eSIMs can be purchased online or on arrival and easily activated on your device.

>>> If you want to purchase Esim without worries, TravelThru provides high-quality products and good connectivity for your trips. Click and get Esim!

With these 23 essential Tokyo travel tips and advice, you're now armed with the knowledge to plan and enjoy an unforgettable trip to this dynamic and captivating city. From navigating the best seasons to visiting Tokyo attractions to mastering the local customs, this guide has covered all the key aspects to help you make the most of your time in Tokyo. Embrace the city's rich culture, indulge in its culinary delights, and discover the hidden gems that make Tokyo one of the world's most fascinating travel destinations.

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