The Ultimate Solo Travel Guide to Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo is traditional yet eccentric and bustling yet peaceful. From the serene shrines to the modern skyscrapers and the buzzing Shibuya Crossing to the sentinel Mt. Fuji – Tokyo is indeed a city of contrast entwined by a soulful symphony. To help you experience the Tokyo fusion, this 3-day itinerary solo travel guide uncovers everything – from understanding Tokyo to a customised solo travel itinerary.

Research & Learn to Execute Your Solo Travel to Tokyo Like a Pro

Before you travel to Tokyo, it is important to research and learn what Tokyo is like for a hassle-free journey. 

To give a brief idea, Tokyo is BIG. Home to happening neighbourhoods like Asakusa, Ginza, Shibuya, Shinjuku, Tsukiji, Roppongi, Omotesando, Akihabara, Ebisu and Odaiba – whether you want to indulge in world-class shopping or taste the freshest sushi and ramen, Tokyo never disappoints.

With the mental map of Tokyo’s neighbourhoods, knowledge of their cultural etiquette and local customs like being punctual, talking softly, respecting privacy, avoiding touching sakuras, etc. you are all set to travel Tokyo like a pro. 

How to Reach Tokyo

Getting to Tokyo has never been easier. You can reach Tokyo by plane, train, bus, or even ferry.

Direct Flights to Tokyo

If you are travelling internationally, board a flight to either Narita Airport or Haneda Airport (most preferable as per location).  From both airports, you can opt for the Tokyo Monorail or Limousine Bus to reach central Tokyo.  

Trains to Tokyo 

If you are already in Japan, the Shinkansen (bullet train) is the best option for reaching Tokyo from anywhere in the country.

Express Buses to Tokyo 

For budget travellers in Japan, express long-distance buses are a great way to travel between cities. Buses operate to and fro from Shinjuku Express Way Bus Terminal and Bus Terminal Tokyo Yaesu. 

Ferries to Tokyo

If you love slow travel and want to reach Tokyo in the most unique way possible, as opposed to other parts of Japan, ferries are the option. But then, customise your itinerary accordingly. 

How to Get Around Tokyo

Public Transport

The impeccable, efficient and punctual public transport of Tokyo deserves a bow. Whether you opt for the convenient JR lines in central Tokyo, subways, or buses – it is a walk in the park to reach your destination. 

Besides, you can purchase passes and tickets for extra convenience. IC cards like Suica/Pasmo are among the most recommended ones. 

Alternative Options

Public transports are hands down the saviour in Tokyo, but there are alternate options like taxis (remember – the Japanese taxis’ have automated doors), Uber, bicycles or car rentals (International Driving Permit is a must for rentals) to get around Tokyo. 

Must-Visit Places in Tokyo to Add to Your Itinerary 

Do you know what makes a solo travel Tokyo guide the ultimate one? When it comes to a mixed batch of both touristy and local must-see attractions of Tokyo: 

• Tokyo Sky Tree, at 634 metres, is an observation deck that literally takes your breath away with its 360° view. 
• Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple in Asakusa with a five-story pagoda and iconic Kaminarimon Gate, is full of history and culture. 
• Shibuya Scramble Crossing is the busiest crossing in the world. Filled with fast-paced energy, it gives you a taste of the daily rhythm of Tokyo. 
• Omoide Yokocho, a.k.a – ‘Memory Lane,’ is the best local hideout to experience the rustic and retro atmosphere of Tokyo while binging on delicious yakitori – skewed and grilled meat.  
• Ueno Park is home to the Tokyo National Museum and Ueno Zoo and is also known as the top hanami – cherry blossom view spot in central Tokyo.
• Ghibli Museum in western Tokyo takes you to the world of Hayao Miyazaki, the man behind the classic anime – “My Neighbor Totoro” and “Spirited Away”.
• Harajuku, bursting with flavours, fashion, and “kawaii” culture, is an easy stroll from Shibuya and the perfect place to live the hip vibe. 
• Tsukiji Market is right between the Sumida River and the shopping district of Tokyo – Ginza and is best known for fresh produce, especially sushi. 
• Akihabara – the “Electric Town” of Japan is all about electronic gadgets, otaku culture, arcades, and maid cafés. 

Where to Stay in Tokyo on Solo Travel

For a solo traveller, hostels in Tokyo are the most safest and budget-friendly option for stays. Here are some affordable hostels in Tokyo:

1. GrapeHouse Koenji
2. Tokyo Guest Nihonbashi
3. Asakusa Ryokan Toukaisou
4. Hostel Bedgasm
5. Citan Hostel 

If you are not into hostels, you can also opt for budget-friendly hotel chains like APA Hotels and Tokyu Stay, which you can find in almost every neighbourhood of Tokyo.

Solo Dining Experiences in Tokyo

Do you know what binds an entire trip together? It’s the traditional food of the place. So, there’s no way to miss the ultimate foods of Tokyo in this solo travel Tokyo guide: 

• Taste the juiciest and freshest sushi at Uoriki Kaisen Sushi and Uobei (for the conveyor belt experience).
• Slurp down a bowl of freshly prepared Udon noodles at Udon Shin.
• Savour grilled meat on a stick at the local place – Yakitori Ton Ton. 
• Try all types of ramen on Tokyo Ramen Street at Tokyo Station First Avenue. 
• Grab a matcha ice cream from Tsujiri at Gion.  

Pro-Tip: While eating noodles, don’t forget to make the slurp noise – it’s considered a compliment to the chef in Tokyo. 

Unique Activities in Tokyo That You Should Not Miss

• Sakurai Japanese tea experience is a way to indulge in the goodness of Japanese culture. 
• Learn the traditional art of Kintsugi – the Japanese art of repairing pottery with gold to celebrate imperfection. 
• Bathe in a local sento – a bathhouse to step into the everyday life of the Japanese to relax and socialize. 
• Watch a sumo wrestling event at the sumo town – Ryogoku. 
• Play with furry creatures at pet cafés. 
• Experience cosplay in Harajuku. 

Best Time to Visit Tokyo 

The best time to visit Tokyo is either in spring, i.e., between March and April, or in autumn, i.e., between September and November. However, if you want to avoid the crowd, summer and late winter are also good times to catch the capital off guard.

Recommended Tokyo Itinerary 

No solo travel Tokyo guide is complete without an all-inclusive itinerary. So, here you a go – a full three-day Tokyo itinerary that you can customise as per your schedule: 

Days	Morning	Afternoon	Evening/Night
Day 1	Senso-ji TempleNakamise StreetAsakusa	Ueno ParkTokyo National MuseumUeno Zoo	Omoide Yokocho
Day 2	Tokyo Sky TreeAkihabara	Harajuku Takeshita Street	Shibuya CrossingHachiko Statue
Day 3	Tsukiji Outer MarketKintsugiPublic Bathhouse	Ghibli MuseumTea Ceremony	Shopping at GinzaTokyo’s Nightlife

Now, with this solo travel Tokyo guide by your side, you don’t have to scroll endless web pages in the eleventh hour – just bookmark this solo travel Tokyo guide, and you’re sorted for your solo trip to the capital of Japan – Tokyo.