How to spend 24 hours in Tokyo

It’s impossible to experience the entirety of Tokyo in one day, but this itinerary will help you maximize your time – from culinary and cultural experiences to famous sights and activities.

Immerse in the hustle and bustle of Harajuku

 Make your way to Harajuku’s Takeshita Street for shopping and people-watching. Takeshita Street contains tonnes of quirky shops and trinket sellers. So whether you’re looking for offbeat souvenirs or unique pieces to add to your wardrobe, you’ll find them here. Harajuku’s unofficial specialty is crepes, so grab one before heading toward Omotesando.

👉 Takeshita Street 1-13-17 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, Japan

Stop by Meiji Shrine and try on traditional Japanese attire

Although they share the same grounds, you can’t access Meiji Shrine from inside Yoyogi Park, so exit at the southeast corner and head north; the shrine entrance is behind Harajuku Station. If you’ve ever wanted to try on a yukata or kimono, this is a good opportunity to do so. You can book a rental in advance at Sakaeya Kimono Shop and be guided through the shrine (though be sure to budget more time for this activity).

👉 Meiji Shrine 1-1 Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, Japan

Dine and shop along Omotesando

First, you might want to head straight to 76Cafe for a late lunch of taco rice, an Okinawan dish that combines classic taco ingredients with rice instead of tortillas. Then, along Omotesando, you’ll find luxury goods and some of the most impressive architecture in the world. Many of the best shops, including second-hand and vintage stores, can be found in the winding back alleys, so don’t be afraid to explore.

👉 76 Cafe 4-9-2 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, Japan

Check out the Shibuya Crossing and enjoy a ramen dinner

Head to Shibuya to check out the sights, including Hachiko, Shibuya Crossing, and the iconic Shibuya 109 mall. It also has endless options when it comes to food. Try ramen at a restaurant where vending machines take your order instead of people, find sushi go round joint where you order from a tablet, or check out Tengu Sakaba for izakaya fare and a friendly atmosphere.

👉 Shibuya Station 2 Dogenzaka, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, Japan

Read more: Street food in Tokyo, dishes that you should try once

Drop by Tokyo’s entertainment district, Kabukicho

If you’d like to make it an early night, head to Shinjuku to wander the alleys of Kabukicho, and grab a drink in the district’s famed Golden Gai. Otherwise, stay in Shibuya and spend the night at one of the many live music venues, clubs, or DJ bars in the area.

👉 Golden Gai, 1 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan

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