Weekend Getaway Guide: Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo is one of those cities that grabs you by the collar the moment you step off the plane — a dizzying, delicious collision of ancient temples, neon-lit alleyways, and some of the best food on the planet. Whether you have 48 hours or a long weekend to spare, Tokyo rewards every minute you give it. Here is everything you need to plan an unforgettable short trip to Japan's electric capital.
Overview
Tokyo is the world's most populous metropolitan area, home to roughly 14 million people in the city proper and over 37 million across greater Tokyo. Despite its scale, it is remarkably clean, safe, and easy to navigate. Visitors come for the contrasts — quiet Shinto shrines tucked between glass skyscrapers, centuries-old sushi counters next to futuristic convenience stores open 24 hours a day. Tokyo consistently ranks among the world's top travel destinations, and for good reason: there is simply nowhere else quite like it.
Key facts to know before you go:
- Currency: Japanese Yen (JPY). Approximately 150 JPY equals $1 USD at current rates.
- Language: Japanese. English signage is common in tourist areas and major train stations.
- Time zone: JST (UTC+9), 14 hours ahead of New York, 17 hours ahead of Los Angeles.
- Best time to visit: Spring (March–May) for cherry blossoms, or autumn (October–November) for cooler temperatures and stunning foliage.
Essential Information
Japan requires no visa for citizens of the United States, Canada, the UK, Australia, and most EU countries for stays of up to 90 days. However, as of 2024, Japan introduced a tourist tax at entry, so check current entry requirements before you travel. A valid passport is all most Western travellers need.
The Japanese Yen is still largely a cash society, particularly in smaller restaurants, markets, and local izakayas. Withdraw yen from 7-Eleven ATMs, which reliably accept foreign cards. For a weekend trip, budget roughly $150–$200 USD per day to cover accommodation, food, transport, and activities comfortably — though savvy travellers can get by on far less.
Practical Tips
A few insider tips will make your weekend run much smoother:
- Get a Suica or Pasmo card. These rechargeable IC cards work on virtually every train, subway, and bus in Tokyo. You can also use them to pay at convenience stores and vending machines. Load about $30–$40 USD for a weekend.
- Pick your neighbourhoods wisely. For first-timers, base yourself in Shinjuku or Shibuya for convenience. For a more atmospheric stay, try Asakusa for its old-town feel or Shimokitazawa for indie cafés and vintage shops.
- Eat where the locals eat. Ramen from a vending-machine ticket shop, conveyor-belt sushi, or a steaming bowl of tonkatsu from a basement restaurant will cost between $8–$15 USD and outperform almost anything in the tourist zones.
- Respect the rules. Do not eat while walking, keep your voice low on trains, and always carry a small bag for your rubbish — public bins are rare.
- Download Google Maps offline. Tokyo's train network can look intimidating, but with offline maps and the Hyperdia or Google Maps app for route planning, getting around becomes second nature within a few hours.
Getting There
Tokyo is served by two major international airports. Narita International Airport (NRT) handles the majority of long-haul international flights and is located about 40 miles east of the city centre. Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND) is closer to the city and increasingly popular with international carriers. For most travellers flying from North America or Europe, Narita will be the point of arrival.
Direct flights to NRT are available from major US hubs including Los Angeles (LAX), New York (JFK), San Francisco (SFO), and Chicago (ORD). Flight times range from approximately 11 hours from the West Coast to 14 hours from the East Coast. Round-trip fares typically start around $700–$900 USD from the US West Coast and $900–$1,200 USD from the East Coast, though booking 8–12 weeks in advance can yield significantly better prices. Airlines including Japan Airlines (JAL), All Nippon Airways (ANA), United, and Delta all operate regular direct routes.
From Narita, the Narita Express (N'EX) train connects directly to Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Tokyo Station in roughly 60–90 minutes for about $30 USD. The Keisei Skyliner to Ueno is a slightly cheaper alternative at around $20 USD.
Accommodation Options
Plan your trip to Tokyo
Tokyo has accommodation for every budget, and quality is generally excellent across the board.
- Budget ($40–$80/night): Capsule hotels are a quintessential Tokyo experience. Try 9 Hours in Shinjuku or Asakusa for clean, clever pods with solid amenities. Guesthouses in Asakusa also offer private rooms in this price range with genuine local character.
- Mid-range ($100–$200/night): Business hotels like Dormy Inn or the Tokyu Stay chain offer excellent value — think spotless rooms, in-house laundry, and great locations. The Sotetsu Fresa Inn in Shinjuku is a consistently praised option in this bracket.
- Luxury ($300+/night): The Park Hyatt Tokyo (made famous by Lost in Translation) and the Aman Tokyo offer world-class service and