Tokyo is a city where tradition meets the future and every corner tells its own story. Alongside ancient temples and peaceful gardens, you will find vibrant neighborhoods filled with neon lights, state-of-the-art architecture, and places you know from movies and anime. This itinerary will guide you through not only iconic landmarks and cultural experiences but also filming locations, studios, and the behind-the-scenes world of Japanese cinema. It is designed for everyone who wants to discover Tokyo in all its diversity, from history and gastronomy to the world of film, animation, and pop culture.
After a long flight, you finally land in Tokyo. Thanks to Haneda Airport, you can reach the city center in no time, so your first day doesn't just have to be about heading to the hotel. If your time and fatigue levels allow, treat yourself to a quiet stroll around your accommodation or enjoy your first Japanese dinner. Take it easy—the best part starts tomorrow.
Haneda is the closest international airport to downtown Tokyo and most travelers consider it the most convenient gateway to Japan. It is located about 15 kilometers from the city center, and thanks to excellent connections, you can reach most districts in 30–45 minutes.
Upon arrival, I recommend:
- going through immigration control,
- picking up your luggage,
- picking up or activating your eSIM/SIM card,
- purchasing or activating a Suica or PASMO card, which you can use for transport or some purchases (also available in Apple Wallet),
- withdrawing cash from a 7-Eleven or Japan Post Bank ATM (it's handy to have a little bit on hand for small purchases),
- optionally sending your large suitcase to the hotel using the Yamato Transport service (Takkyubin) if you are planning multiple transfers.
Recommended route from the airport
Keikyu Airport Line → Asakusa Line
- Haneda Airport Terminal 3
- direct train Keikyu / Toei Asakusa Line
- get off at Takarachō or Higashi-ginza station
- approximately 8–10 minutes walk to the hotel
Travel time: 35–40 minutes
Price: approximately ¥620
Accommodation
After arrival, check in and take a moment to rest. If you arrive before 3 PM, most hotels will be happy to store your luggage until check-in time. An alternative is the Tokyo Monorail to Hamamatsucho followed by a transfer to the JR line, but the trip is slightly longer and less convenient.
Evening stroll
If you have any energy left after the journey, we recommend a short circular walk around the hotel area. All stops are within walking distance.
Tsukiji Hongan-ji
A modern Buddhist temple with unmistakable architecture inspired by India. It looks very photogenic in the evening lighting, and there are usually very few visitors there.
Free admission.
Kabuki-za Theatre
Just a few minutes from the hotel stands Tokyo's most famous kabuki theater. Even if you don't plan to attend a performance, the evening view of the illuminated building is definitely worth it.
An interesting fact is that kabuki appears in many Japanese films and television series as a symbol of Tokyo's traditional culture.
Ginza
Continue towards Ginza – one of Tokyo's most luxurious districts. Here you will find modern architecture, department stores, and a multitude of restaurants. In the evening, there is a pleasant atmosphere, and your first walk will allow you to get used to the rhythm of the city.
Straight to the heart of Tokyo. In a single day, you'll discover the history of Japanese cinema, stroll around the Imperial Palace, visit the biggest Pokémon Center in the city, and end your evening among Godzilla film sets and the legendary Studio Ghibli clock. With your stay at the LiVEMAX Higashi Ginza hotel, you can reach most of the itinerary on foot.
Start your day just a ten-minute walk from the hotel at the National Film Archive of Japan, the only national film archive in the country. The institution houses tens of thousands of films, scripts, posters, camera equipment, and archival photos mapping over a hundred years of Japanese cinema. If you're interested in the work of Akira Kurosawa, Yasujiro Ozu, Kenji Mizoguchi, or the development of Japanese animation, this place is pretty much a must-visit.
Besides the permanent exhibition, they regularly host thematic displays and screenings of restored films. If your schedule allows, I recommend checking the current program before your trip.
Opening hours: 11:00–18:30 (closed Mondays).
Visit duration: 1.5–2 hours
Admission: ¥250 for the permanent exhibition.
Recommendation: If you're planning to visit more galleries or museums during your trip, you can purchase a Grutto Pass here for ¥2,500, which gives you free or heavily discounted entry to participating locations. Detailed information can be found here.
Film trivia
The archive preserves original materials for films by directors like Akira Kurosawa, Yasujiro Ozu, and Kenji Mizoguchi. It is here that many classic Japanese films, known from festivals all over the world, undergo restoration.
After a morning dedicated to film history, you're in for a totally different world. The Pokémon Center Tokyo DX is the flagship store of The Pokémon Company. You won't just find hundreds of souvenirs here, but also limited editions available only in Japan. The shop is dominated by a huge statue of Snorlax and Mew, which is one of the most photographed spots in the store.
Next to the store is the Pokémon Café. If you want to have lunch there, you need to make a reservation several weeks before your trip.
Duration of visit: 45–60 minutes.
Entry: free.
Film trivia:
Since 1998, Pokémon have appeared in over twenty feature films and are among the most successful film franchises in Japanese animation.
For lunch, I recommend staying in the Nihonbashi area. The price for lunch is approximately between ¥1,200 – ¥2,000.
If you still have enough energy, I recommend making a short stop at the Tokyo International Forum between the Pokémon Center and the Imperial Palace. This impressive glass building by architect Rafael Viñoly resembles the hull of a massive ship and frequently appears in Japanese films, TV series, and commercials. It is beautifully lit up in the evening and is one of the most photogenic modern structures in Tokyo.
The vast park surrounding the Imperial Palace offers a completely different atmosphere than the surrounding skyscrapers. The East Gardens, which were created on the site of the original Edo Castle, are primarily open to the public. During your walk, you will see stone walls, defensive moats, gardens, and the remains of the former shogun's residence.
Duration of visit: 60–90 minutes.
Admission: free.
Film trivia:
The area around the palace has appeared in a number of Japanese historical films and TV dramas set in both the Edo period and modern Japan. These include, for example, The Wolverine (2013), Lost in Translation (2003), or Shin Godzilla (2016).
Continue towards the Hibiya district, where a bronze statue of Japan's most famous movie monster awaits you. The statue commemorates the original Godzilla film (1954) and has become a popular spot for fans of kaiju movies.
The surrounding area often hosts themed events related to new Toho company films.
Admission: free
Movie trivia:
Just a few minutes away is the headquarters of Toho, the company that created Godzilla. This is where most of the films in this legendary series were made.
Stop duration: 15 minutes.
Directly opposite Godzilla stands the modern Tokyo Midtown Hibiya complex. You'll find shops, restaurants, the TOHO Cinemas Hibiya, and an observation deck with views of Hibiya Park and the Imperial Palace.
If any Japanese films with English subtitles are screening during your stay, an evening show is definitely worth considering.
Visit duration: 45 minutes.
Just a few streets away from Hibiya lies one of Tokyo's most interesting lesser-known attractions. The giant Nittele Oodokei mechanical clock was designed by Hayao Miyazaki for the Nippon Television company. Every three hours, it comes to life with moving mechanisms reminiscent of Studio Ghibli films. I recommend timing your visit to coincide with one of the clock's shows.
Stop duration: 20 minutes.
Admission: free.
Film trivia:
The clock's design was created by Hayao Miyazaki himself while he was working on the movie Howl's Moving Castle. Fans will therefore notice similar mechanical themes.
Around Shimbashi station, I recommend checking out one of the traditional Japanese izakaya pubs. If you prefer a quieter atmosphere, head back to Ginza, where you'll find a huge variety of restaurants at all price ranges.
The modern face of Tokyo. You're in for digital installations that blur the lines between art and technology, Tokyo's most famous beach, a museum showcasing the future of science and technology, and two iconic landmarks of the city. If you spent the previous days exploring Japan's history and film legacy, today you'll see Tokyo as a city of the future.
From the hotel, head on foot to Shintomichō or Higashi-ginza station. Take the subway to Shin-Toyosu station, which is just a few minutes' walk away. The total journey takes about 30 minutes.
Start your day at one of the world's most famous digital art museums. At teamLab Planets, you don't just become a visitor – you become part of the installations. Expect to walk barefoot through water, explore mirror rooms, see endless light projections, and interact with floral exhibits that react to your movement.
Unlike regular galleries, there is no fixed route here. Each space creates a different experience, and photos from here are among the most iconic in all of Tokyo.
Tickets should be booked several weeks before your departure, especially if you are traveling in the summer season.
Recommended visit duration: 2–2.5 hours
Film trivia:
Although no major films were shot here, the aesthetic of teamLab is reminiscent of the visual styles of Ghost in the Shell, The Matrix, or Tron: Legacy. The installations are also often used for filming music videos and commercials.
After visiting the digital gallery, continue along the bay to the man-made Odaiba Beach. Although swimming isn't common, the beach offers one of the best views of Tokyo Bay, the Rainbow Bridge, and the skyscraper skyline. In the summer months, it has a pleasant holiday vibe and is an ideal spot for a short break.
Just a few steps from the beach stands a replica of the Statue of Liberty, one of Odaiba's most famous symbols. It was first placed here in 1998 as part of an event celebrating the friendship between Japan and France. Although it was intended to be a temporary installation, it became so popular that it was replaced by the current permanent replica in 2000.
The statue stands about 12.25 meters tall and, with the backdrop of the Rainbow Bridge and skyscrapers, creates one of the most photographed spots in Tokyo. On a clear day, you can even catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji from here.
Movie trivia:
Odaiba appears in a wide range of Japanese films and series. You can spot the Rainbow Bridge panorama in films like Godzilla: Final Wars (2004) or in the Digimon Adventure anime, where this part of Tokyo appears repeatedly.
For lunch, I recommend heading to the DiverCity shopping center, about a ten-minute walk away, where you'll find a local food court and dozens of Japanese restaurants.
The price of lunch ranges between ¥1,200–2,000.
If you have time, stop by the nearly 20-meter-tall Gundam Unicorn statue in front of the shopping center; it changes its form several times a day and is accompanied by a light show in the evening.
Miraikan presents the future through the eyes of Japanese scientists. The museum focuses on:
- robotics,
- artificial intelligence,
- space research,
- climate change,
- medicine,
- space technologies.
The biggest attractions are the humanoid robot ASIMO (as part of the current exhibits) and the giant digital globe Geo-Cosmos, which displays real-time weather data from across the planet.
Duration of visit: 2 hours.
Admission: 630 ¥.
Film trivia:
Many exhibits resemble technologies known from movies like I, Robot, Ex Machina, or the Japanese anime Ghost in the Shell, which significantly influenced the look of modern science fiction.
From Telecom Center station, board the automated Yurikamome line. The ride itself is one of the highlights of the day. The train crosses the Rainbow Bridge, offering beautiful views of the entire Tokyo Bay. Get off at Shimbashi station and continue by subway or take an approximately twenty-minute walk to Tokyo Tower.
Zojoji Temple is one of the most significant Jodo Buddhist temples in Tokyo. Set against the backdrop of the modern Tokyo Tower, it creates one of the most photographed contrasts in the city – traditional Japanese architecture in front of a modern landmark.
I recommend also walking through the garden with its many small Jizo statues, which commemorate unborn or prematurely deceased children.
Visit duration: 30–40 minutes.
Admission: free.
Film trivia:
Zojoji Temple has appeared in films such as Tokyo! (2008) and many Japanese TV dramas. Thanks to its location beneath Tokyo Tower, it is a frequent backdrop for film shots representing the capital city.
End your day at one of Japan's most iconic landmarks. Although Tokyo Skytree now offers the highest viewpoint, the Tokyo Tower remains the true symbol of the country's post-war development.
I recommend visiting the main deck shortly before sunset. This way, you can see Tokyo in daylight and then watch the millions of lights come on during a single visit. On a clear day, you can spot Mount Fuji on the western horizon.
Admission (Main Deck): approximately 1,500 ¥.
Film trivia:
Tokyo Tower is one of the most frequently depicted structures in Japanese cinema. It plays a significant role in films such as: The Return of Godzilla (1984), Godzilla vs. Mothra (1992), Godzilla: Final Wars (2004), and Tokyo Tower: Mom and Me, and Sometimes Dad (2007). In Godzilla movies, the tower is regularly destroyed or damaged during monster attacks, making it one of the most prominent symbols of the entire series.
After visiting the observation deck, I recommend having dinner around Hamamatsucho Station or taking the subway back to Ginza. If you're craving sushi, this part of Tokyo offers a number of quality spots at more affordable prices than the luxury restaurants in Ginza.
If you still have energy after dinner, I recommend a short evening stroll through Shiba Park. It's the perfect spot to take some of the best photos of the illuminated Tokyo Tower, and the atmosphere there at night is surprisingly peaceful.
Today is a treat for all animation lovers. You'll dive into the world of Hayao Miyazaki, where characters from My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, or Princess Mononoke come to life. In the afternoon, you'll discover the other side of Japanese animation – the legendary Toei Animation studio, the force behind series like Dragon Ball, Sailor Moon, or One Piece. A day full of inspiration, film history, and beautiful parks awaits you.
The Ghibli Museum isn't your typical museum. Hayao Miyazaki designed it as a place where visitors should feel like children discovering a new world. That's why you won't find a fixed route or labels on the exhibits – the rooms themselves invite you to explore on your own.
You'll walk through an animator's studio, learn about traditional hand-drawn animation techniques, visit exhibits dedicated to the filmmaking process, and be greeted on the roof by the iconic robot from the movie Castle in the Sky. The ticket also includes a screening of a short animated film that can only be seen here.
Photography is not allowed inside the museum, which allows visitors to enjoy the atmosphere without their mobile phones.
Admission: 1,000 ¥.
Important: Tickets for the Ghibli Museum are for a specific time and often sell out weeks or even months in advance. I recommend securing your reservation immediately after booking your flights. If you can't get a ticket due to high demand, the museum is still worth seeing from the outside.
Film Trivia:
The museum is dedicated to the work of Studio Ghibli, which has created many world-famous films, such as: My Neighbor Totoro (1988), Kiki's Delivery Service (1989), Princess Mononoke (1997), Spirited Away (2001) – Academy Award winner for Best Animated Feature, Howl's Moving Castle (2004), Ponyo (2008), The Boy and the Heron (2023) – Academy Award winner for Best Animated Feature.
Just a few steps from the museum lies Inokashira Park, one of Tokyo's most popular parks. In addition to several shrines, the park also features a small zoo and the option to rent boats.
On a small island in the middle of the lake stands a shrine dedicated to the goddess Benzaiten – the patron of music, arts, learning, and fortune. Tradition says that visitors come here to pray for creative inspiration and success in their artistic endeavors, which is why art students and budding illustrators often head here.
Duration of visit: 20 minutes.
Admission: free.
Film trivia:
The peaceful atmosphere of Inokashira Park is reminiscent of the settings in Studio Ghibli films. Although no specific movie was filmed directly here, Hayao Miyazaki and other creators repeatedly came here to find inspiration for drawing natural scenery.
From Kichijōji Station, take the train back to the center of Tokyo and continue by subway to Ōizumi-gakuen Station.
The museum is about a 15-minute walk from the station.
The total journey takes approximately 60 minutes.
Toei Animation is one of the most significant animation studios in the world. Since its founding in 1956, it has created hundreds of films and series that have influenced several generations of viewers. In the museum, you can see historical drawings, storyboards, original animation cels, character models, and demonstrations of the production process. You will be greeted by statues of well-known heroes in front of the building.
Admission: free.
Film trivia:
Toei Animation studio has been one of the world's most important animation studios since 1956. Over its history, it has created hundreds of television series and feature films. Among its best-known works are: GeGeGe no Kitarō (1968), Dragon Ball (1986), Sailor Moon (1992), Digimon Adventure (1999), One Piece (1999), and Pretty Cure (2004).
Just a few minutes from Ōizumi-gakuen Station is the Ōizumi Anime Gate – a small public space with statues of anime characters, such as Joe Yabuki (Ashita no Joe), Maetel (Galaxy Express 999), or Lum (Urusei Yatsura). Since it is on the way back to the station, I recommend making a short stop here. It takes about 15 minutes and is free.
If you feel like ending the day on a thematic note, you can visit one of the anime cafes in Akihabara, which is just a few subway stops away.
Today you'll be transported back to the Edo period, when Tokyo became one of the world's largest cities. In the morning, you'll discover the daily life of its former inhabitants, in the afternoon you'll visit the oldest and most significant Buddhist temple in Tokyo, and you'll wrap up the day at the observation deck of Japan's tallest structure. The route combines traditional culture, movie locations, and one of the city's most vibrant tourist hubs.
From Shintomichō Station, take the subway to Kiyosumi-shirakawa Station, from where the museum is about a ten-minute walk.
Unlike classic museums, you won't find glass cases full of exhibits here. The museum presents a faithful, life-sized reconstruction of a Tokyo neighborhood from the Edo period. You can enter the homes of merchants, artisans, and ordinary residents to see their daily lives. Thanks to the elaborate sets, it's easy to imagine the environment where many historical Japanese films and series take place.
Recommended visit duration: 1.5–2 hours.
Admission: 400 ¥.
Film trivia:
The city reconstruction resembles the sets of films like Seven Samurai (1954), Sanjuro (1962), or The Twilight Samurai (2002). Although these films were shot primarily in film studios, the museum faithfully shows the look of the city that filmmakers reconstructed when creating them.
From Kiyosumi-shirakawa Station, take the Hanzōmon subway line to Oshiage Station.
The trip takes about 15 minutes.
At 634 meters tall, Tokyo Skytree is Japan's tallest structure and the third tallest in the world. Completed in 2012 as a television broadcast tower, it is also one of Tokyo's most visited attractions.
I recommend visiting the observation deck before noon. Visibility is usually best at this time, and the lines are generally shorter than in the afternoon. On a clear day, you can see Mount Fuji, Tokyo Bay, and a panorama stretching for tens of kilometers from the observation deck.
If you want an even more impressive view, you can pay extra for the Tembo Galleria (450 m), which leads up a spiral ramp to the highest publicly accessible point of the tower. On the ground floor of the Tokyo Solamachi complex, you'll find over 300 shops, restaurants, and the Pokémon Center SKYTREE TOWN, themed around Rayquaza and other flying-type Pokémon.
Recommended visit duration: 1.5–2 hours.
- Tembo Deck (350 m): from ¥2,100
- combined ticket (350 m + 450 m): from ¥3,100
Film trivia:
Tokyo Skytree appears in many contemporary films and anime, for example: Shin Godzilla (2016), Weathering with You (2019), and Jujutsu Kaisen 0 (2021). In the world of Pokémon, it appears under a fictional name to fit the anime setting.
From Tokyo Skytree, take about a 20-minute walk across the Azuma Bridge. Along the way, you'll get beautiful views of the Sumida River, the Asahi Brewery building with its signature golden sculpture, and the Senso-ji Temple in the distance. This pleasant walk is the perfect transition between modern Tokyo and the historic Asakusa district.
The monumental two-story Hozomon Gate serves as the main entrance to the Senso-ji temple complex. A striking feature is the massive pair of straw sandals, known as waraji, hanging on the sides of the building, which symbolize the strength of the temple's guardians. This spot is where some of the most famous photos of all Asakusa are taken.
Film trivia:
The gate appears in countless Japanese films, TV series, and anime. You can clearly spot it, for instance, in the movie Tokyo Drifter (1966) or the anime Tokyo Revengers (2021).
Senso-ji is the oldest Buddhist temple in Tokyo. Its history dates back to 645, and it is visited by over 30 million people every year. The area also features a large local market and tea houses where you can take part in a Matcha ceremony.
I recommend walking through the main temple hall, lighting some incense sticks, and trying your luck with an omikuji fortune.
If you draw an unlucky fortune, you can tie it to the racks provided and symbolically leave your bad luck at the temple.
Admission: free.
Film trivia:
Senso-ji Temple is one of the most frequently depicted landmarks in Tokyo. It has appeared in films such as Tokyo Story (1953), Tokyo Drifter (1966), and the anime Children Who Chase Lost Voices (2011).
Just a few steps from the temple stands the Asakusa Shinto Shrine. Unlike the bustling Senso-ji, it has a much more peaceful atmosphere. The shrine is best known for the Sanja Matsuri festival, which is one of the largest celebrations in all of Japan.
Admission: free.
Film trivia:
The shrine regularly appears in documentaries and feature films capturing traditional Japanese festivals. During Sanja Matsuri, television crews from all over the world film here.
After visiting Asakusa Shrine, head to Asakusa Station and board the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line towards Ueno. The journey takes about 5 minutes, and it is about a 10-minute walk from Ueno Station to the main entrance of the zoo.
Ueno Zoo is the oldest zoological garden in Japan. It was opened back in 1882 and today it houses over 300 species of animals. Giant pandas, which have become the symbol of the zoo, traditionally attract the most attention from visitors, but you can also find gorillas, Sumatran tigers, polar bears, or rare Japanese species here.
The zoo is divided into two parts connected by an elevated monorail. If you don't have the whole day, I recommend focusing mainly on the eastern part with the pandas and main pavilions.
Recommended duration of visit: 2–2.5 hours.
Admission: 600 ¥.
Film trivia:
Ueno Zoo has appeared in a number of Japanese films and TV series. It plays a significant role, for example, in the film Hachiko's Story (1987), where it adds to the atmosphere of everyday life in Tokyo. Thanks to its panda breeding, it also regularly appears in documentaries and TV reports.
After a few days of exploring traditional Japan, today you will dive into the world of film tricks, sets, and special effects. You will spend the morning and afternoon at one of the world's largest film studios open to the public, where the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films were made. In the evening, you will head back to the center of Tokyo to see Japan's most famous movie monster – Godzilla – and wrap up the day at one of the best free viewpoints in the city.
Take the subway from Higashi-ginza station to Toshimaen station.
The journey takes about 45 minutes. The studio is just a few minutes' walk from the station.
This is the world's largest indoor attraction dedicated to the Harry Potter films. Unlike Universal Studios, this isn't a theme park with rides, but a place to see actual film sets, costumes, props, and technology used in the making of all eight Harry Potter movies and the Fantastic Beasts series.
You can walk through the Great Hall of Hogwarts, step into Diagon Alley, visit Dumbledore's office, explore the Forbidden Forest, or see Platform 9¾ with the original Hogwarts Express train.
The exhibition also features demonstrations of makeup effects, animatronics, green screen work, and digital effects.
Film production enthusiasts can easily spend half a day here.
Recommended visit duration: 4–5 hours
Admission: Adult: from ¥7,000
Film trivia:
Besides the London studios, the Tokyo studios are the only ones that offer a look into the sets from the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films.
There are several themed restaurants located directly on-site.
I recommend trying the Butterbeer, which is one of the symbols of the entire exhibition.
Lunch prices range between ¥1,500 and ¥2,500.
From Toshimaen station, take the Toei Oedo Line directly to Shinjuku station.
The journey takes about 25 minutes.
Just a few minutes' walk from Shinjuku Station is one of Tokyo's most famous movie attractions. A more than twelve-meter-high Godzilla head lurks on the roof of the Hotel Gracery Shinjuku, letting out a signature roar and lighting up its eyes several times an hour. The observation terrace on the eighth floor is open to the public.
Admission: free.
Movie trivia:
Godzilla first appeared in Toho's film Godzilla (1954) and has become one of the world's most famous movie characters over the following decades. The hotel is located in close proximity to the headquarters of Toho, the company that created this legendary series.
Tip – Godzilla Store Tokyo:
The official Toho store is about a 15-minute walk from the Gracery Hotel.
You'll find collectible figures, posters, movie monster models, and limited editions available only in Japan.
Even if you don't buy anything, it's an interesting stop for fans of kaiju movies.
It's about a 20-minute walk from Hotel Gracery, or one stop by subway.
The twin towers of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building offer one of the best free views of the city. The observation deck is located at a height of 202 meters, and with good visibility, you can see Mount Fuji, the Tokyo Skytree, and Tokyo Tower.
I recommend arriving about half an hour before sunset.
After dark, the building's facade turns into a giant projection screen. Modern projections utilize the building's architecture and often feature themes related to Tokyo, Japanese culture, or popular movies and anime.
The screenings are free and are among the most interesting evening experiences in the city.
Admission: free.
Film trivia:
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building appears in a whole host of films and series. Its most famous destruction is in the film Godzilla vs. King Ghidorah (1991). It also appears in The Return of Godzilla (1984), Shin Godzilla (2016), and the anime Weathering with You (2019).
After the screening, I recommend having dinner at one of the restaurants in the Shinjuku district. If you want to keep the cinematic vibe going, head over to the Kabukicho district, whose neon streets appear in countless Japanese films, series, and video games. At night, the area has a unique atmosphere that evokes the futuristic Tokyo known from the movie Lost in Translation (2003) or the Yakuza game series.
Your last full day in Tokyo will be spent in one of the city's most vibrant neighborhoods. Shibuya is a symbol of modern Japan—a place where the latest architectural trends, pop culture, and world-famous film locations collide. You'll visit the Olympic Museum, stroll past the award-winning public restrooms from THE TOKYO TOILET project, snap a photo at the world's most famous pedestrian crossing, and wrap up the day at one of the best observation decks in Tokyo.
From Higashi-ginza Station, take the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line to Kasumigaseki Station and continue on the Ginza Line to Gaienmae Station.
The total journey takes approximately 30 minutes.
The museum is located directly opposite the National Stadium, which hosted the 2021 Summer Olympic Games. The exhibition charts the history of the Olympic Games from ancient Greece to the present day. A large part is dedicated to the Tokyo Olympics in 1964 and 2021, their organization, and the technologies used during the games. You will find original Olympic torches, medals, sports equipment, and interactive stations where you can try out various disciplines.
Recommended duration of visit: 1.5 hours.
Admission: 500 ¥.
Before moving on, I recommend a short walk around the stadium designed by architect Kengo Kuma. The wooden elements and abundance of greenery represent one of the most successful examples of contemporary Japanese architecture.
Head out on foot towards the Harajuku and Shibuya districts.
Along the way, you can visit several public toilets created as part of THE TOKYO TOILET project, which involved leading Japanese architects including Tadao Ando, Kengo Kuma, and Shigeru Ban.
The most famous are the transparent toilets in Haru-no-Ogawa Community Park. The colored glass walls are transparent when the toilets are empty and automatically become opaque once locked.
Film trivia:
THE TOKYO TOILET project was made famous by the film Perfect Days (2023) directed by Wim Wenders. The main character, Hirayama, works as a cleaner for these architecturally unique public toilets. The film won the Best Actor award at the Cannes Film Festival and was nominated for an Oscar for Best International Feature Film.
I recommend trying one of the restaurants around Cat Street or Harajuku station.
The price of lunch ranges between 1,200–2,000 ¥.
If you have a sweet tooth, you can taste the famous Japanese crepes or fluffy soufflé pancakes.
It's about a 15-minute walk from Harajuku to Shibuya.
The most famous dog statue in Japan stands in front of Shibuya Station.
The story of the loyal dog Hachiko has become a symbol of devotion and inspired several film adaptations.
Just a few meters from the statue lies the world's most famous pedestrian crossing.
Up to three thousand people cross the intersection during a single green light, and the spot has become a symbol of modern Tokyo.
I recommend crossing it a few times from different directions and then taking photos of it from one of the surrounding viewpoints.
Film trivia:
The dog's story was filmed as Hachiko Monogatari (1987), and later an American remake, Hachi: A Dog's Tale (2009), was made starring Richard Gere. The crossing has appeared in films such as: Lost in Translation (2003), The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift (2006), Resident Evil: Retribution (2012), and Weathering with You (2019). It is also one of the most frequently depicted locations in anime and video games set in Tokyo.
The highlight of the day is a visit to one of the most modern observatories in the city. Located at a height of approximately 230 meters, it features an open-air rooftop terrace with panoramic views of all of Tokyo.
I recommend booking your entry about an hour before sunset.
On a clear day, you can see Mount Fuji, Tokyo Tower, and Tokyo Skytree.
Recommended visit duration: 1.5–2 hours.
Admission: from ¥2,700.
Film trivia:
The highlight of the day is a visit to one of the most modern observatories in the city.
Located at a height of approximately 230 meters, it features an open-air rooftop terrace with panoramic views of all of Tokyo.
Tip – Magnet by Shibuya109
If you don't want to wait for your Shibuya Sky reservation time or are looking for an alternative view of the crossing, I recommend the MAGNET by SHIBUYA109 CROSSING VIEW observation deck.
For a lower admission fee, it offers one of the best views of the famous intersection.
I recommend spending your last evening in Tokyo right here in Shibuya. There are hundreds of restaurants to choose from – ranging from traditional Japanese eateries and izakayas to modern fusion cuisine. If you want to wrap up your trip in style, pick a restaurant with a view of the city's night skyline.
The last day is dedicated to flying home. If your flight time allows, you can still enjoy the morning atmosphere of Tokyo, have breakfast at one of the local cafes, or buy some last-minute souvenirs. After that, you'll head to Haneda Airport for your journey back.
After breakfast, check out of your hotel. If your flight is in the afternoon or evening, I recommend using the luggage storage at the hotel or one of the lockers at the metro stations or Tokyo Station.
If you have a few extra hours, you can take a walk around the Ginza district.
I recommend visiting:
- Ginza Six – a modern shopping center with designer shops and a rooftop garden.
- Itoya Ginza – a multi-story stationery store that is a paradise for lovers of writing supplies and Japanese design.
- Tsutaya Books Ginza – a bookstore with a wide selection of books on film, photography, architecture, and Japanese culture.
If you haven't managed to buy any movie souvenirs during your trip, this is your last chance.
Transfer to Haneda Airport
Walk from the hotel to Higashi-ginza Station.
Option 1 – Keikyū Line (recommended)
From Higashi-ginza Station, take a direct train on the Keikyū Airport Line.
Travel time: approximately 35 minutes
Price: approximately ¥550
This is the fastest and easiest connection without any transfers.
Option 2 – Tokyo Monorail
Take the metro to Hamamatsuchō Station, then continue on the Tokyo Monorail.
Travel time: approximately 40 minutes
Price: approximately ¥700
The monorail offers beautiful views of Tokyo Bay and the harbor, making it popular among visitors to the city.
Haneda Airport (HND)
I recommend arriving at the airport at least 3 hours before your flight, especially if you are traveling to Europe.
Haneda Airport is one of the most modern airports in the world and offers a variety of shops and restaurants.
If you have time left, you can visit:
- Edo Market Place in Terminal 3, designed to look like a historic Japanese town,
- the observation deck with a view of the runway,
- shops with limited edition Japanese sweets, teas, or anime souvenirs.
Tokyo is a city where tradition meets the future and every corner tells its own story. Alongside ancient temples and peaceful gardens, you will find vibrant neighborhoods filled with neon lights, state-of-the-art architecture, and places you know from movies and anime. This itinerary will guide you through not only iconic landmarks and cultural experiences but also filming locations, studios, and the behind-the-scenes world of Japanese cinema. It is designed for everyone who wants to discover Tokyo in all its diversity, from history and gastronomy to the world of film, animation, and pop culture.
After a long flight, you finally land in Tokyo. Thanks to Haneda Airport, you can reach the city center in no time, so your first day doesn't just have to be about heading to the hotel. If your time and fatigue levels allow, treat yourself to a quiet stroll around your accommodation or enjoy your first Japanese dinner. Take it easy—the best part starts tomorrow.
Haneda is the closest international airport to downtown Tokyo and most travelers consider it the most convenient gateway to Japan. It is located about 15 kilometers from the city center, and thanks to excellent connections, you can reach most districts in 30–45 minutes.
Upon arrival, I recommend:
- going through immigration control,
- picking up your luggage,
- picking up or activating your eSIM/SIM card,
- purchasing or activating a Suica or PASMO card, which you can use for transport or some purchases (also available in Apple Wallet),
- withdrawing cash from a 7-Eleven or Japan Post Bank ATM (it's handy to have a little bit on hand for small purchases),
- optionally sending your large suitcase to the hotel using the Yamato Transport service (Takkyubin) if you are planning multiple transfers.
Recommended route from the airport
Keikyu Airport Line → Asakusa Line
- Haneda Airport Terminal 3
- direct train Keikyu / Toei Asakusa Line
- get off at Takarachō or Higashi-ginza station
- approximately 8–10 minutes walk to the hotel
Travel time: 35–40 minutes
Price: approximately ¥620
Accommodation
After arrival, check in and take a moment to rest. If you arrive before 3 PM, most hotels will be happy to store your luggage until check-in time. An alternative is the Tokyo Monorail to Hamamatsucho followed by a transfer to the JR line, but the trip is slightly longer and less convenient.
Evening stroll
If you have any energy left after the journey, we recommend a short circular walk around the hotel area. All stops are within walking distance.
Tsukiji Hongan-ji
A modern Buddhist temple with unmistakable architecture inspired by India. It looks very photogenic in the evening lighting, and there are usually very few visitors there.
Free admission.
Kabuki-za Theatre
Just a few minutes from the hotel stands Tokyo's most famous kabuki theater. Even if you don't plan to attend a performance, the evening view of the illuminated building is definitely worth it.
An interesting fact is that kabuki appears in many Japanese films and television series as a symbol of Tokyo's traditional culture.
Ginza
Continue towards Ginza – one of Tokyo's most luxurious districts. Here you will find modern architecture, department stores, and a multitude of restaurants. In the evening, there is a pleasant atmosphere, and your first walk will allow you to get used to the rhythm of the city.
Straight to the heart of Tokyo. In a single day, you'll discover the history of Japanese cinema, stroll around the Imperial Palace, visit the biggest Pokémon Center in the city, and end your evening among Godzilla film sets and the legendary Studio Ghibli clock. With your stay at the LiVEMAX Higashi Ginza hotel, you can reach most of the itinerary on foot.
Start your day just a ten-minute walk from the hotel at the National Film Archive of Japan, the only national film archive in the country. The institution houses tens of thousands of films, scripts, posters, camera equipment, and archival photos mapping over a hundred years of Japanese cinema. If you're interested in the work of Akira Kurosawa, Yasujiro Ozu, Kenji Mizoguchi, or the development of Japanese animation, this place is pretty much a must-visit.
Besides the permanent exhibition, they regularly host thematic displays and screenings of restored films. If your schedule allows, I recommend checking the current program before your trip.
Opening hours: 11:00–18:30 (closed Mondays).
Visit duration: 1.5–2 hours
Admission: ¥250 for the permanent exhibition.
Recommendation: If you're planning to visit more galleries or museums during your trip, you can purchase a Grutto Pass here for ¥2,500, which gives you free or heavily discounted entry to participating locations. Detailed information can be found here.
Film trivia
The archive preserves original materials for films by directors like Akira Kurosawa, Yasujiro Ozu, and Kenji Mizoguchi. It is here that many classic Japanese films, known from festivals all over the world, undergo restoration.
After a morning dedicated to film history, you're in for a totally different world. The Pokémon Center Tokyo DX is the flagship store of The Pokémon Company. You won't just find hundreds of souvenirs here, but also limited editions available only in Japan. The shop is dominated by a huge statue of Snorlax and Mew, which is one of the most photographed spots in the store.
Next to the store is the Pokémon Café. If you want to have lunch there, you need to make a reservation several weeks before your trip.
Duration of visit: 45–60 minutes.
Entry: free.
Film trivia:
Since 1998, Pokémon have appeared in over twenty feature films and are among the most successful film franchises in Japanese animation.
For lunch, I recommend staying in the Nihonbashi area. The price for lunch is approximately between ¥1,200 – ¥2,000.
If you still have enough energy, I recommend making a short stop at the Tokyo International Forum between the Pokémon Center and the Imperial Palace. This impressive glass building by architect Rafael Viñoly resembles the hull of a massive ship and frequently appears in Japanese films, TV series, and commercials. It is beautifully lit up in the evening and is one of the most photogenic modern structures in Tokyo.
The vast park surrounding the Imperial Palace offers a completely different atmosphere than the surrounding skyscrapers. The East Gardens, which were created on the site of the original Edo Castle, are primarily open to the public. During your walk, you will see stone walls, defensive moats, gardens, and the remains of the former shogun's residence.
Duration of visit: 60–90 minutes.
Admission: free.
Film trivia:
The area around the palace has appeared in a number of Japanese historical films and TV dramas set in both the Edo period and modern Japan. These include, for example, The Wolverine (2013), Lost in Translation (2003), or Shin Godzilla (2016).
Continue towards the Hibiya district, where a bronze statue of Japan's most famous movie monster awaits you. The statue commemorates the original Godzilla film (1954) and has become a popular spot for fans of kaiju movies.
The surrounding area often hosts themed events related to new Toho company films.
Admission: free
Movie trivia:
Just a few minutes away is the headquarters of Toho, the company that created Godzilla. This is where most of the films in this legendary series were made.
Stop duration: 15 minutes.
Directly opposite Godzilla stands the modern Tokyo Midtown Hibiya complex. You'll find shops, restaurants, the TOHO Cinemas Hibiya, and an observation deck with views of Hibiya Park and the Imperial Palace.
If any Japanese films with English subtitles are screening during your stay, an evening show is definitely worth considering.
Visit duration: 45 minutes.
Just a few streets away from Hibiya lies one of Tokyo's most interesting lesser-known attractions. The giant Nittele Oodokei mechanical clock was designed by Hayao Miyazaki for the Nippon Television company. Every three hours, it comes to life with moving mechanisms reminiscent of Studio Ghibli films. I recommend timing your visit to coincide with one of the clock's shows.
Stop duration: 20 minutes.
Admission: free.
Film trivia:
The clock's design was created by Hayao Miyazaki himself while he was working on the movie Howl's Moving Castle. Fans will therefore notice similar mechanical themes.
Around Shimbashi station, I recommend checking out one of the traditional Japanese izakaya pubs. If you prefer a quieter atmosphere, head back to Ginza, where you'll find a huge variety of restaurants at all price ranges.
The modern face of Tokyo. You're in for digital installations that blur the lines between art and technology, Tokyo's most famous beach, a museum showcasing the future of science and technology, and two iconic landmarks of the city. If you spent the previous days exploring Japan's history and film legacy, today you'll see Tokyo as a city of the future.
From the hotel, head on foot to Shintomichō or Higashi-ginza station. Take the subway to Shin-Toyosu station, which is just a few minutes' walk away. The total journey takes about 30 minutes.
Start your day at one of the world's most famous digital art museums. At teamLab Planets, you don't just become a visitor – you become part of the installations. Expect to walk barefoot through water, explore mirror rooms, see endless light projections, and interact with floral exhibits that react to your movement.
Unlike regular galleries, there is no fixed route here. Each space creates a different experience, and photos from here are among the most iconic in all of Tokyo.
Tickets should be booked several weeks before your departure, especially if you are traveling in the summer season.
Recommended visit duration: 2–2.5 hours
Film trivia:
Although no major films were shot here, the aesthetic of teamLab is reminiscent of the visual styles of Ghost in the Shell, The Matrix, or Tron: Legacy. The installations are also often used for filming music videos and commercials.
After visiting the digital gallery, continue along the bay to the man-made Odaiba Beach. Although swimming isn't common, the beach offers one of the best views of Tokyo Bay, the Rainbow Bridge, and the skyscraper skyline. In the summer months, it has a pleasant holiday vibe and is an ideal spot for a short break.
Just a few steps from the beach stands a replica of the Statue of Liberty, one of Odaiba's most famous symbols. It was first placed here in 1998 as part of an event celebrating the friendship between Japan and France. Although it was intended to be a temporary installation, it became so popular that it was replaced by the current permanent replica in 2000.
The statue stands about 12.25 meters tall and, with the backdrop of the Rainbow Bridge and skyscrapers, creates one of the most photographed spots in Tokyo. On a clear day, you can even catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji from here.
Movie trivia:
Odaiba appears in a wide range of Japanese films and series. You can spot the Rainbow Bridge panorama in films like Godzilla: Final Wars (2004) or in the Digimon Adventure anime, where this part of Tokyo appears repeatedly.
For lunch, I recommend heading to the DiverCity shopping center, about a ten-minute walk away, where you'll find a local food court and dozens of Japanese restaurants.
The price of lunch ranges between ¥1,200–2,000.
If you have time, stop by the nearly 20-meter-tall Gundam Unicorn statue in front of the shopping center; it changes its form several times a day and is accompanied by a light show in the evening.
Miraikan presents the future through the eyes of Japanese scientists. The museum focuses on:
- robotics,
- artificial intelligence,
- space research,
- climate change,
- medicine,
- space technologies.
The biggest attractions are the humanoid robot ASIMO (as part of the current exhibits) and the giant digital globe Geo-Cosmos, which displays real-time weather data from across the planet.
Duration of visit: 2 hours.
Admission: 630 ¥.
Film trivia:
Many exhibits resemble technologies known from movies like I, Robot, Ex Machina, or the Japanese anime Ghost in the Shell, which significantly influenced the look of modern science fiction.
From Telecom Center station, board the automated Yurikamome line. The ride itself is one of the highlights of the day. The train crosses the Rainbow Bridge, offering beautiful views of the entire Tokyo Bay. Get off at Shimbashi station and continue by subway or take an approximately twenty-minute walk to Tokyo Tower.
Zojoji Temple is one of the most significant Jodo Buddhist temples in Tokyo. Set against the backdrop of the modern Tokyo Tower, it creates one of the most photographed contrasts in the city – traditional Japanese architecture in front of a modern landmark.
I recommend also walking through the garden with its many small Jizo statues, which commemorate unborn or prematurely deceased children.
Visit duration: 30–40 minutes.
Admission: free.
Film trivia:
Zojoji Temple has appeared in films such as Tokyo! (2008) and many Japanese TV dramas. Thanks to its location beneath Tokyo Tower, it is a frequent backdrop for film shots representing the capital city.
End your day at one of Japan's most iconic landmarks. Although Tokyo Skytree now offers the highest viewpoint, the Tokyo Tower remains the true symbol of the country's post-war development.
I recommend visiting the main deck shortly before sunset. This way, you can see Tokyo in daylight and then watch the millions of lights come on during a single visit. On a clear day, you can spot Mount Fuji on the western horizon.
Admission (Main Deck): approximately 1,500 ¥.
Film trivia:
Tokyo Tower is one of the most frequently depicted structures in Japanese cinema. It plays a significant role in films such as: The Return of Godzilla (1984), Godzilla vs. Mothra (1992), Godzilla: Final Wars (2004), and Tokyo Tower: Mom and Me, and Sometimes Dad (2007). In Godzilla movies, the tower is regularly destroyed or damaged during monster attacks, making it one of the most prominent symbols of the entire series.
After visiting the observation deck, I recommend having dinner around Hamamatsucho Station or taking the subway back to Ginza. If you're craving sushi, this part of Tokyo offers a number of quality spots at more affordable prices than the luxury restaurants in Ginza.
If you still have energy after dinner, I recommend a short evening stroll through Shiba Park. It's the perfect spot to take some of the best photos of the illuminated Tokyo Tower, and the atmosphere there at night is surprisingly peaceful.
Today is a treat for all animation lovers. You'll dive into the world of Hayao Miyazaki, where characters from My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, or Princess Mononoke come to life. In the afternoon, you'll discover the other side of Japanese animation – the legendary Toei Animation studio, the force behind series like Dragon Ball, Sailor Moon, or One Piece. A day full of inspiration, film history, and beautiful parks awaits you.
The Ghibli Museum isn't your typical museum. Hayao Miyazaki designed it as a place where visitors should feel like children discovering a new world. That's why you won't find a fixed route or labels on the exhibits – the rooms themselves invite you to explore on your own.
You'll walk through an animator's studio, learn about traditional hand-drawn animation techniques, visit exhibits dedicated to the filmmaking process, and be greeted on the roof by the iconic robot from the movie Castle in the Sky. The ticket also includes a screening of a short animated film that can only be seen here.
Photography is not allowed inside the museum, which allows visitors to enjoy the atmosphere without their mobile phones.
Admission: 1,000 ¥.
Important: Tickets for the Ghibli Museum are for a specific time and often sell out weeks or even months in advance. I recommend securing your reservation immediately after booking your flights. If you can't get a ticket due to high demand, the museum is still worth seeing from the outside.
Film Trivia:
The museum is dedicated to the work of Studio Ghibli, which has created many world-famous films, such as: My Neighbor Totoro (1988), Kiki's Delivery Service (1989), Princess Mononoke (1997), Spirited Away (2001) – Academy Award winner for Best Animated Feature, Howl's Moving Castle (2004), Ponyo (2008), The Boy and the Heron (2023) – Academy Award winner for Best Animated Feature.
Just a few steps from the museum lies Inokashira Park, one of Tokyo's most popular parks. In addition to several shrines, the park also features a small zoo and the option to rent boats.
On a small island in the middle of the lake stands a shrine dedicated to the goddess Benzaiten – the patron of music, arts, learning, and fortune. Tradition says that visitors come here to pray for creative inspiration and success in their artistic endeavors, which is why art students and budding illustrators often head here.
Duration of visit: 20 minutes.
Admission: free.
Film trivia:
The peaceful atmosphere of Inokashira Park is reminiscent of the settings in Studio Ghibli films. Although no specific movie was filmed directly here, Hayao Miyazaki and other creators repeatedly came here to find inspiration for drawing natural scenery.
From Kichijōji Station, take the train back to the center of Tokyo and continue by subway to Ōizumi-gakuen Station.
The museum is about a 15-minute walk from the station.
The total journey takes approximately 60 minutes.
Toei Animation is one of the most significant animation studios in the world. Since its founding in 1956, it has created hundreds of films and series that have influenced several generations of viewers. In the museum, you can see historical drawings, storyboards, original animation cels, character models, and demonstrations of the production process. You will be greeted by statues of well-known heroes in front of the building.
Admission: free.
Film trivia:
Toei Animation studio has been one of the world's most important animation studios since 1956. Over its history, it has created hundreds of television series and feature films. Among its best-known works are: GeGeGe no Kitarō (1968), Dragon Ball (1986), Sailor Moon (1992), Digimon Adventure (1999), One Piece (1999), and Pretty Cure (2004).
Just a few minutes from Ōizumi-gakuen Station is the Ōizumi Anime Gate – a small public space with statues of anime characters, such as Joe Yabuki (Ashita no Joe), Maetel (Galaxy Express 999), or Lum (Urusei Yatsura). Since it is on the way back to the station, I recommend making a short stop here. It takes about 15 minutes and is free.
If you feel like ending the day on a thematic note, you can visit one of the anime cafes in Akihabara, which is just a few subway stops away.
Today you'll be transported back to the Edo period, when Tokyo became one of the world's largest cities. In the morning, you'll discover the daily life of its former inhabitants, in the afternoon you'll visit the oldest and most significant Buddhist temple in Tokyo, and you'll wrap up the day at the observation deck of Japan's tallest structure. The route combines traditional culture, movie locations, and one of the city's most vibrant tourist hubs.
From Shintomichō Station, take the subway to Kiyosumi-shirakawa Station, from where the museum is about a ten-minute walk.
Unlike classic museums, you won't find glass cases full of exhibits here. The museum presents a faithful, life-sized reconstruction of a Tokyo neighborhood from the Edo period. You can enter the homes of merchants, artisans, and ordinary residents to see their daily lives. Thanks to the elaborate sets, it's easy to imagine the environment where many historical Japanese films and series take place.
Recommended visit duration: 1.5–2 hours.
Admission: 400 ¥.
Film trivia:
The city reconstruction resembles the sets of films like Seven Samurai (1954), Sanjuro (1962), or The Twilight Samurai (2002). Although these films were shot primarily in film studios, the museum faithfully shows the look of the city that filmmakers reconstructed when creating them.
From Kiyosumi-shirakawa Station, take the Hanzōmon subway line to Oshiage Station.
The trip takes about 15 minutes.
At 634 meters tall, Tokyo Skytree is Japan's tallest structure and the third tallest in the world. Completed in 2012 as a television broadcast tower, it is also one of Tokyo's most visited attractions.
I recommend visiting the observation deck before noon. Visibility is usually best at this time, and the lines are generally shorter than in the afternoon. On a clear day, you can see Mount Fuji, Tokyo Bay, and a panorama stretching for tens of kilometers from the observation deck.
If you want an even more impressive view, you can pay extra for the Tembo Galleria (450 m), which leads up a spiral ramp to the highest publicly accessible point of the tower. On the ground floor of the Tokyo Solamachi complex, you'll find over 300 shops, restaurants, and the Pokémon Center SKYTREE TOWN, themed around Rayquaza and other flying-type Pokémon.
Recommended visit duration: 1.5–2 hours.
- Tembo Deck (350 m): from ¥2,100
- combined ticket (350 m + 450 m): from ¥3,100
Film trivia:
Tokyo Skytree appears in many contemporary films and anime, for example: Shin Godzilla (2016), Weathering with You (2019), and Jujutsu Kaisen 0 (2021). In the world of Pokémon, it appears under a fictional name to fit the anime setting.
From Tokyo Skytree, take about a 20-minute walk across the Azuma Bridge. Along the way, you'll get beautiful views of the Sumida River, the Asahi Brewery building with its signature golden sculpture, and the Senso-ji Temple in the distance. This pleasant walk is the perfect transition between modern Tokyo and the historic Asakusa district.
The monumental two-story Hozomon Gate serves as the main entrance to the Senso-ji temple complex. A striking feature is the massive pair of straw sandals, known as waraji, hanging on the sides of the building, which symbolize the strength of the temple's guardians. This spot is where some of the most famous photos of all Asakusa are taken.
Film trivia:
The gate appears in countless Japanese films, TV series, and anime. You can clearly spot it, for instance, in the movie Tokyo Drifter (1966) or the anime Tokyo Revengers (2021).
Senso-ji is the oldest Buddhist temple in Tokyo. Its history dates back to 645, and it is visited by over 30 million people every year. The area also features a large local market and tea houses where you can take part in a Matcha ceremony.
I recommend walking through the main temple hall, lighting some incense sticks, and trying your luck with an omikuji fortune.
If you draw an unlucky fortune, you can tie it to the racks provided and symbolically leave your bad luck at the temple.
Admission: free.
Film trivia:
Senso-ji Temple is one of the most frequently depicted landmarks in Tokyo. It has appeared in films such as Tokyo Story (1953), Tokyo Drifter (1966), and the anime Children Who Chase Lost Voices (2011).
Just a few steps from the temple stands the Asakusa Shinto Shrine. Unlike the bustling Senso-ji, it has a much more peaceful atmosphere. The shrine is best known for the Sanja Matsuri festival, which is one of the largest celebrations in all of Japan.
Admission: free.
Film trivia:
The shrine regularly appears in documentaries and feature films capturing traditional Japanese festivals. During Sanja Matsuri, television crews from all over the world film here.
After visiting Asakusa Shrine, head to Asakusa Station and board the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line towards Ueno. The journey takes about 5 minutes, and it is about a 10-minute walk from Ueno Station to the main entrance of the zoo.
Ueno Zoo is the oldest zoological garden in Japan. It was opened back in 1882 and today it houses over 300 species of animals. Giant pandas, which have become the symbol of the zoo, traditionally attract the most attention from visitors, but you can also find gorillas, Sumatran tigers, polar bears, or rare Japanese species here.
The zoo is divided into two parts connected by an elevated monorail. If you don't have the whole day, I recommend focusing mainly on the eastern part with the pandas and main pavilions.
Recommended duration of visit: 2–2.5 hours.
Admission: 600 ¥.
Film trivia:
Ueno Zoo has appeared in a number of Japanese films and TV series. It plays a significant role, for example, in the film Hachiko's Story (1987), where it adds to the atmosphere of everyday life in Tokyo. Thanks to its panda breeding, it also regularly appears in documentaries and TV reports.
After a few days of exploring traditional Japan, today you will dive into the world of film tricks, sets, and special effects. You will spend the morning and afternoon at one of the world's largest film studios open to the public, where the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films were made. In the evening, you will head back to the center of Tokyo to see Japan's most famous movie monster – Godzilla – and wrap up the day at one of the best free viewpoints in the city.
Take the subway from Higashi-ginza station to Toshimaen station.
The journey takes about 45 minutes. The studio is just a few minutes' walk from the station.
This is the world's largest indoor attraction dedicated to the Harry Potter films. Unlike Universal Studios, this isn't a theme park with rides, but a place to see actual film sets, costumes, props, and technology used in the making of all eight Harry Potter movies and the Fantastic Beasts series.
You can walk through the Great Hall of Hogwarts, step into Diagon Alley, visit Dumbledore's office, explore the Forbidden Forest, or see Platform 9¾ with the original Hogwarts Express train.
The exhibition also features demonstrations of makeup effects, animatronics, green screen work, and digital effects.
Film production enthusiasts can easily spend half a day here.
Recommended visit duration: 4–5 hours
Admission: Adult: from ¥7,000
Film trivia:
Besides the London studios, the Tokyo studios are the only ones that offer a look into the sets from the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films.
There are several themed restaurants located directly on-site.
I recommend trying the Butterbeer, which is one of the symbols of the entire exhibition.
Lunch prices range between ¥1,500 and ¥2,500.
From Toshimaen station, take the Toei Oedo Line directly to Shinjuku station.
The journey takes about 25 minutes.
Just a few minutes' walk from Shinjuku Station is one of Tokyo's most famous movie attractions. A more than twelve-meter-high Godzilla head lurks on the roof of the Hotel Gracery Shinjuku, letting out a signature roar and lighting up its eyes several times an hour. The observation terrace on the eighth floor is open to the public.
Admission: free.
Movie trivia:
Godzilla first appeared in Toho's film Godzilla (1954) and has become one of the world's most famous movie characters over the following decades. The hotel is located in close proximity to the headquarters of Toho, the company that created this legendary series.
Tip – Godzilla Store Tokyo:
The official Toho store is about a 15-minute walk from the Gracery Hotel.
You'll find collectible figures, posters, movie monster models, and limited editions available only in Japan.
Even if you don't buy anything, it's an interesting stop for fans of kaiju movies.
It's about a 20-minute walk from Hotel Gracery, or one stop by subway.
The twin towers of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building offer one of the best free views of the city. The observation deck is located at a height of 202 meters, and with good visibility, you can see Mount Fuji, the Tokyo Skytree, and Tokyo Tower.
I recommend arriving about half an hour before sunset.
After dark, the building's facade turns into a giant projection screen. Modern projections utilize the building's architecture and often feature themes related to Tokyo, Japanese culture, or popular movies and anime.
The screenings are free and are among the most interesting evening experiences in the city.
Admission: free.
Film trivia:
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building appears in a whole host of films and series. Its most famous destruction is in the film Godzilla vs. King Ghidorah (1991). It also appears in The Return of Godzilla (1984), Shin Godzilla (2016), and the anime Weathering with You (2019).
After the screening, I recommend having dinner at one of the restaurants in the Shinjuku district. If you want to keep the cinematic vibe going, head over to the Kabukicho district, whose neon streets appear in countless Japanese films, series, and video games. At night, the area has a unique atmosphere that evokes the futuristic Tokyo known from the movie Lost in Translation (2003) or the Yakuza game series.
Your last full day in Tokyo will be spent in one of the city's most vibrant neighborhoods. Shibuya is a symbol of modern Japan—a place where the latest architectural trends, pop culture, and world-famous film locations collide. You'll visit the Olympic Museum, stroll past the award-winning public restrooms from THE TOKYO TOILET project, snap a photo at the world's most famous pedestrian crossing, and wrap up the day at one of the best observation decks in Tokyo.
From Higashi-ginza Station, take the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line to Kasumigaseki Station and continue on the Ginza Line to Gaienmae Station.
The total journey takes approximately 30 minutes.
The museum is located directly opposite the National Stadium, which hosted the 2021 Summer Olympic Games. The exhibition charts the history of the Olympic Games from ancient Greece to the present day. A large part is dedicated to the Tokyo Olympics in 1964 and 2021, their organization, and the technologies used during the games. You will find original Olympic torches, medals, sports equipment, and interactive stations where you can try out various disciplines.
Recommended duration of visit: 1.5 hours.
Admission: 500 ¥.
Before moving on, I recommend a short walk around the stadium designed by architect Kengo Kuma. The wooden elements and abundance of greenery represent one of the most successful examples of contemporary Japanese architecture.
Head out on foot towards the Harajuku and Shibuya districts.
Along the way, you can visit several public toilets created as part of THE TOKYO TOILET project, which involved leading Japanese architects including Tadao Ando, Kengo Kuma, and Shigeru Ban.
The most famous are the transparent toilets in Haru-no-Ogawa Community Park. The colored glass walls are transparent when the toilets are empty and automatically become opaque once locked.
Film trivia:
THE TOKYO TOILET project was made famous by the film Perfect Days (2023) directed by Wim Wenders. The main character, Hirayama, works as a cleaner for these architecturally unique public toilets. The film won the Best Actor award at the Cannes Film Festival and was nominated for an Oscar for Best International Feature Film.
I recommend trying one of the restaurants around Cat Street or Harajuku station.
The price of lunch ranges between 1,200–2,000 ¥.
If you have a sweet tooth, you can taste the famous Japanese crepes or fluffy soufflé pancakes.
It's about a 15-minute walk from Harajuku to Shibuya.
The most famous dog statue in Japan stands in front of Shibuya Station.
The story of the loyal dog Hachiko has become a symbol of devotion and inspired several film adaptations.
Just a few meters from the statue lies the world's most famous pedestrian crossing.
Up to three thousand people cross the intersection during a single green light, and the spot has become a symbol of modern Tokyo.
I recommend crossing it a few times from different directions and then taking photos of it from one of the surrounding viewpoints.
Film trivia:
The dog's story was filmed as Hachiko Monogatari (1987), and later an American remake, Hachi: A Dog's Tale (2009), was made starring Richard Gere. The crossing has appeared in films such as: Lost in Translation (2003), The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift (2006), Resident Evil: Retribution (2012), and Weathering with You (2019). It is also one of the most frequently depicted locations in anime and video games set in Tokyo.
The highlight of the day is a visit to one of the most modern observatories in the city. Located at a height of approximately 230 meters, it features an open-air rooftop terrace with panoramic views of all of Tokyo.
I recommend booking your entry about an hour before sunset.
On a clear day, you can see Mount Fuji, Tokyo Tower, and Tokyo Skytree.
Recommended visit duration: 1.5–2 hours.
Admission: from ¥2,700.
Film trivia:
The highlight of the day is a visit to one of the most modern observatories in the city.
Located at a height of approximately 230 meters, it features an open-air rooftop terrace with panoramic views of all of Tokyo.
Tip – Magnet by Shibuya109
If you don't want to wait for your Shibuya Sky reservation time or are looking for an alternative view of the crossing, I recommend the MAGNET by SHIBUYA109 CROSSING VIEW observation deck.
For a lower admission fee, it offers one of the best views of the famous intersection.
I recommend spending your last evening in Tokyo right here in Shibuya. There are hundreds of restaurants to choose from – ranging from traditional Japanese eateries and izakayas to modern fusion cuisine. If you want to wrap up your trip in style, pick a restaurant with a view of the city's night skyline.
The last day is dedicated to flying home. If your flight time allows, you can still enjoy the morning atmosphere of Tokyo, have breakfast at one of the local cafes, or buy some last-minute souvenirs. After that, you'll head to Haneda Airport for your journey back.
After breakfast, check out of your hotel. If your flight is in the afternoon or evening, I recommend using the luggage storage at the hotel or one of the lockers at the metro stations or Tokyo Station.
If you have a few extra hours, you can take a walk around the Ginza district.
I recommend visiting:
- Ginza Six – a modern shopping center with designer shops and a rooftop garden.
- Itoya Ginza – a multi-story stationery store that is a paradise for lovers of writing supplies and Japanese design.
- Tsutaya Books Ginza – a bookstore with a wide selection of books on film, photography, architecture, and Japanese culture.
If you haven't managed to buy any movie souvenirs during your trip, this is your last chance.
Transfer to Haneda Airport
Walk from the hotel to Higashi-ginza Station.
Option 1 – Keikyū Line (recommended)
From Higashi-ginza Station, take a direct train on the Keikyū Airport Line.
Travel time: approximately 35 minutes
Price: approximately ¥550
This is the fastest and easiest connection without any transfers.
Option 2 – Tokyo Monorail
Take the metro to Hamamatsuchō Station, then continue on the Tokyo Monorail.
Travel time: approximately 40 minutes
Price: approximately ¥700
The monorail offers beautiful views of Tokyo Bay and the harbor, making it popular among visitors to the city.
Haneda Airport (HND)
I recommend arriving at the airport at least 3 hours before your flight, especially if you are traveling to Europe.
Haneda Airport is one of the most modern airports in the world and offers a variety of shops and restaurants.
If you have time left, you can visit:
- Edo Market Place in Terminal 3, designed to look like a historic Japanese town,
- the observation deck with a view of the runway,
- shops with limited edition Japanese sweets, teas, or anime souvenirs.
itinerary by Zuzana Ctvrteckova
Tokyo is a city where tradition meets the future and every corner tells its own story. Alongside ancient temples and peaceful gardens, you will find vibrant neighborhoods filled with neon lights, state-of-the-art architecture, and places you know from movies and anime. This itinerary will guide you through not only iconic landmarks and cultural experiences but also filming locations, studios, and the behind-the-scenes world of Japanese cinema. It is designed for everyone who wants to discover Tokyo in all its diversity, from history and gastronomy to the world of film, animation, and pop culture.
After a long flight, you finally land in Tokyo. Thanks to Haneda Airport, you can reach the city center in no time, so your first day doesn't just have to be about heading to the hotel. If your time and fatigue levels allow, treat yourself to a quiet stroll around your accommodation or enjoy your first Japanese dinner. Take it easy—the best part starts tomorrow.
Haneda is the closest international airport to downtown Tokyo and most travelers consider it the most convenient gateway to Japan. It is located about 15 kilometers from the city center, and thanks to excellent connections, you can reach most districts in 30–45 minutes.
Upon arrival, I recommend:
- going through immigration control,
- picking up your luggage,
- picking up or activating your eSIM/SIM card,
- purchasing or activating a Suica or PASMO card, which you can use for transport or some purchases (also available in Apple Wallet),
- withdrawing cash from a 7-Eleven or Japan Post Bank ATM (it's handy to have a little bit on hand for small purchases),
- optionally sending your large suitcase to the hotel using the Yamato Transport service (Takkyubin) if you are planning multiple transfers.
Recommended route from the airport
Keikyu Airport Line → Asakusa Line
- Haneda Airport Terminal 3
- direct train Keikyu / Toei Asakusa Line
- get off at Takarachō or Higashi-ginza station
- approximately 8–10 minutes walk to the hotel
Travel time: 35–40 minutes
Price: approximately ¥620
Accommodation
After arrival, check in and take a moment to rest. If you arrive before 3 PM, most hotels will be happy to store your luggage until check-in time. An alternative is the Tokyo Monorail to Hamamatsucho followed by a transfer to the JR line, but the trip is slightly longer and less convenient.
Evening stroll
If you have any energy left after the journey, we recommend a short circular walk around the hotel area. All stops are within walking distance.
Tsukiji Hongan-ji
A modern Buddhist temple with unmistakable architecture inspired by India. It looks very photogenic in the evening lighting, and there are usually very few visitors there.
Free admission.
Kabuki-za Theatre
Just a few minutes from the hotel stands Tokyo's most famous kabuki theater. Even if you don't plan to attend a performance, the evening view of the illuminated building is definitely worth it.
An interesting fact is that kabuki appears in many Japanese films and television series as a symbol of Tokyo's traditional culture.
Ginza
Continue towards Ginza – one of Tokyo's most luxurious districts. Here you will find modern architecture, department stores, and a multitude of restaurants. In the evening, there is a pleasant atmosphere, and your first walk will allow you to get used to the rhythm of the city.
Straight to the heart of Tokyo. In a single day, you'll discover the history of Japanese cinema, stroll around the Imperial Palace, visit the biggest Pokémon Center in the city, and end your evening among Godzilla film sets and the legendary Studio Ghibli clock. With your stay at the LiVEMAX Higashi Ginza hotel, you can reach most of the itinerary on foot.
Start your day just a ten-minute walk from the hotel at the National Film Archive of Japan, the only national film archive in the country. The institution houses tens of thousands of films, scripts, posters, camera equipment, and archival photos mapping over a hundred years of Japanese cinema. If you're interested in the work of Akira Kurosawa, Yasujiro Ozu, Kenji Mizoguchi, or the development of Japanese animation, this place is pretty much a must-visit.
Besides the permanent exhibition, they regularly host thematic displays and screenings of restored films. If your schedule allows, I recommend checking the current program before your trip.
Opening hours: 11:00–18:30 (closed Mondays).
Visit duration: 1.5–2 hours
Admission: ¥250 for the permanent exhibition.
Recommendation: If you're planning to visit more galleries or museums during your trip, you can purchase a Grutto Pass here for ¥2,500, which gives you free or heavily discounted entry to participating locations. Detailed information can be found here.
Film trivia
The archive preserves original materials for films by directors like Akira Kurosawa, Yasujiro Ozu, and Kenji Mizoguchi. It is here that many classic Japanese films, known from festivals all over the world, undergo restoration.
After a morning dedicated to film history, you're in for a totally different world. The Pokémon Center Tokyo DX is the flagship store of The Pokémon Company. You won't just find hundreds of souvenirs here, but also limited editions available only in Japan. The shop is dominated by a huge statue of Snorlax and Mew, which is one of the most photographed spots in the store.
Next to the store is the Pokémon Café. If you want to have lunch there, you need to make a reservation several weeks before your trip.
Duration of visit: 45–60 minutes.
Entry: free.
Film trivia:
Since 1998, Pokémon have appeared in over twenty feature films and are among the most successful film franchises in Japanese animation.
For lunch, I recommend staying in the Nihonbashi area. The price for lunch is approximately between ¥1,200 – ¥2,000.
If you still have enough energy, I recommend making a short stop at the Tokyo International Forum between the Pokémon Center and the Imperial Palace. This impressive glass building by architect Rafael Viñoly resembles the hull of a massive ship and frequently appears in Japanese films, TV series, and commercials. It is beautifully lit up in the evening and is one of the most photogenic modern structures in Tokyo.
The vast park surrounding the Imperial Palace offers a completely different atmosphere than the surrounding skyscrapers. The East Gardens, which were created on the site of the original Edo Castle, are primarily open to the public. During your walk, you will see stone walls, defensive moats, gardens, and the remains of the former shogun's residence.
Duration of visit: 60–90 minutes.
Admission: free.
Film trivia:
The area around the palace has appeared in a number of Japanese historical films and TV dramas set in both the Edo period and modern Japan. These include, for example, The Wolverine (2013), Lost in Translation (2003), or Shin Godzilla (2016).
Continue towards the Hibiya district, where a bronze statue of Japan's most famous movie monster awaits you. The statue commemorates the original Godzilla film (1954) and has become a popular spot for fans of kaiju movies.
The surrounding area often hosts themed events related to new Toho company films.
Admission: free
Movie trivia:
Just a few minutes away is the headquarters of Toho, the company that created Godzilla. This is where most of the films in this legendary series were made.
Stop duration: 15 minutes.
Directly opposite Godzilla stands the modern Tokyo Midtown Hibiya complex. You'll find shops, restaurants, the TOHO Cinemas Hibiya, and an observation deck with views of Hibiya Park and the Imperial Palace.
If any Japanese films with English subtitles are screening during your stay, an evening show is definitely worth considering.
Visit duration: 45 minutes.
Just a few streets away from Hibiya lies one of Tokyo's most interesting lesser-known attractions. The giant Nittele Oodokei mechanical clock was designed by Hayao Miyazaki for the Nippon Television company. Every three hours, it comes to life with moving mechanisms reminiscent of Studio Ghibli films. I recommend timing your visit to coincide with one of the clock's shows.
Stop duration: 20 minutes.
Admission: free.
Film trivia:
The clock's design was created by Hayao Miyazaki himself while he was working on the movie Howl's Moving Castle. Fans will therefore notice similar mechanical themes.
Around Shimbashi station, I recommend checking out one of the traditional Japanese izakaya pubs. If you prefer a quieter atmosphere, head back to Ginza, where you'll find a huge variety of restaurants at all price ranges.
The modern face of Tokyo. You're in for digital installations that blur the lines between art and technology, Tokyo's most famous beach, a museum showcasing the future of science and technology, and two iconic landmarks of the city. If you spent the previous days exploring Japan's history and film legacy, today you'll see Tokyo as a city of the future.
From the hotel, head on foot to Shintomichō or Higashi-ginza station. Take the subway to Shin-Toyosu station, which is just a few minutes' walk away. The total journey takes about 30 minutes.
Start your day at one of the world's most famous digital art museums. At teamLab Planets, you don't just become a visitor – you become part of the installations. Expect to walk barefoot through water, explore mirror rooms, see endless light projections, and interact with floral exhibits that react to your movement.
Unlike regular galleries, there is no fixed route here. Each space creates a different experience, and photos from here are among the most iconic in all of Tokyo.
Tickets should be booked several weeks before your departure, especially if you are traveling in the summer season.
Recommended visit duration: 2–2.5 hours
Film trivia:
Although no major films were shot here, the aesthetic of teamLab is reminiscent of the visual styles of Ghost in the Shell, The Matrix, or Tron: Legacy. The installations are also often used for filming music videos and commercials.
After visiting the digital gallery, continue along the bay to the man-made Odaiba Beach. Although swimming isn't common, the beach offers one of the best views of Tokyo Bay, the Rainbow Bridge, and the skyscraper skyline. In the summer months, it has a pleasant holiday vibe and is an ideal spot for a short break.
Just a few steps from the beach stands a replica of the Statue of Liberty, one of Odaiba's most famous symbols. It was first placed here in 1998 as part of an event celebrating the friendship between Japan and France. Although it was intended to be a temporary installation, it became so popular that it was replaced by the current permanent replica in 2000.
The statue stands about 12.25 meters tall and, with the backdrop of the Rainbow Bridge and skyscrapers, creates one of the most photographed spots in Tokyo. On a clear day, you can even catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji from here.
Movie trivia:
Odaiba appears in a wide range of Japanese films and series. You can spot the Rainbow Bridge panorama in films like Godzilla: Final Wars (2004) or in the Digimon Adventure anime, where this part of Tokyo appears repeatedly.
For lunch, I recommend heading to the DiverCity shopping center, about a ten-minute walk away, where you'll find a local food court and dozens of Japanese restaurants.
The price of lunch ranges between ¥1,200–2,000.
If you have time, stop by the nearly 20-meter-tall Gundam Unicorn statue in front of the shopping center; it changes its form several times a day and is accompanied by a light show in the evening.
Miraikan presents the future through the eyes of Japanese scientists. The museum focuses on:
- robotics,
- artificial intelligence,
- space research,
- climate change,
- medicine,
- space technologies.
The biggest attractions are the humanoid robot ASIMO (as part of the current exhibits) and the giant digital globe Geo-Cosmos, which displays real-time weather data from across the planet.
Duration of visit: 2 hours.
Admission: 630 ¥.
Film trivia:
Many exhibits resemble technologies known from movies like I, Robot, Ex Machina, or the Japanese anime Ghost in the Shell, which significantly influenced the look of modern science fiction.
From Telecom Center station, board the automated Yurikamome line. The ride itself is one of the highlights of the day. The train crosses the Rainbow Bridge, offering beautiful views of the entire Tokyo Bay. Get off at Shimbashi station and continue by subway or take an approximately twenty-minute walk to Tokyo Tower.
Zojoji Temple is one of the most significant Jodo Buddhist temples in Tokyo. Set against the backdrop of the modern Tokyo Tower, it creates one of the most photographed contrasts in the city – traditional Japanese architecture in front of a modern landmark.
I recommend also walking through the garden with its many small Jizo statues, which commemorate unborn or prematurely deceased children.
Visit duration: 30–40 minutes.
Admission: free.
Film trivia:
Zojoji Temple has appeared in films such as Tokyo! (2008) and many Japanese TV dramas. Thanks to its location beneath Tokyo Tower, it is a frequent backdrop for film shots representing the capital city.
End your day at one of Japan's most iconic landmarks. Although Tokyo Skytree now offers the highest viewpoint, the Tokyo Tower remains the true symbol of the country's post-war development.
I recommend visiting the main deck shortly before sunset. This way, you can see Tokyo in daylight and then watch the millions of lights come on during a single visit. On a clear day, you can spot Mount Fuji on the western horizon.
Admission (Main Deck): approximately 1,500 ¥.
Film trivia:
Tokyo Tower is one of the most frequently depicted structures in Japanese cinema. It plays a significant role in films such as: The Return of Godzilla (1984), Godzilla vs. Mothra (1992), Godzilla: Final Wars (2004), and Tokyo Tower: Mom and Me, and Sometimes Dad (2007). In Godzilla movies, the tower is regularly destroyed or damaged during monster attacks, making it one of the most prominent symbols of the entire series.
After visiting the observation deck, I recommend having dinner around Hamamatsucho Station or taking the subway back to Ginza. If you're craving sushi, this part of Tokyo offers a number of quality spots at more affordable prices than the luxury restaurants in Ginza.
If you still have energy after dinner, I recommend a short evening stroll through Shiba Park. It's the perfect spot to take some of the best photos of the illuminated Tokyo Tower, and the atmosphere there at night is surprisingly peaceful.
Today is a treat for all animation lovers. You'll dive into the world of Hayao Miyazaki, where characters from My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, or Princess Mononoke come to life. In the afternoon, you'll discover the other side of Japanese animation – the legendary Toei Animation studio, the force behind series like Dragon Ball, Sailor Moon, or One Piece. A day full of inspiration, film history, and beautiful parks awaits you.
The Ghibli Museum isn't your typical museum. Hayao Miyazaki designed it as a place where visitors should feel like children discovering a new world. That's why you won't find a fixed route or labels on the exhibits – the rooms themselves invite you to explore on your own.
You'll walk through an animator's studio, learn about traditional hand-drawn animation techniques, visit exhibits dedicated to the filmmaking process, and be greeted on the roof by the iconic robot from the movie Castle in the Sky. The ticket also includes a screening of a short animated film that can only be seen here.
Photography is not allowed inside the museum, which allows visitors to enjoy the atmosphere without their mobile phones.
Admission: 1,000 ¥.
Important: Tickets for the Ghibli Museum are for a specific time and often sell out weeks or even months in advance. I recommend securing your reservation immediately after booking your flights. If you can't get a ticket due to high demand, the museum is still worth seeing from the outside.
Film Trivia:
The museum is dedicated to the work of Studio Ghibli, which has created many world-famous films, such as: My Neighbor Totoro (1988), Kiki's Delivery Service (1989), Princess Mononoke (1997), Spirited Away (2001) – Academy Award winner for Best Animated Feature, Howl's Moving Castle (2004), Ponyo (2008), The Boy and the Heron (2023) – Academy Award winner for Best Animated Feature.
Just a few steps from the museum lies Inokashira Park, one of Tokyo's most popular parks. In addition to several shrines, the park also features a small zoo and the option to rent boats.
On a small island in the middle of the lake stands a shrine dedicated to the goddess Benzaiten – the patron of music, arts, learning, and fortune. Tradition says that visitors come here to pray for creative inspiration and success in their artistic endeavors, which is why art students and budding illustrators often head here.
Duration of visit: 20 minutes.
Admission: free.
Film trivia:
The peaceful atmosphere of Inokashira Park is reminiscent of the settings in Studio Ghibli films. Although no specific movie was filmed directly here, Hayao Miyazaki and other creators repeatedly came here to find inspiration for drawing natural scenery.
From Kichijōji Station, take the train back to the center of Tokyo and continue by subway to Ōizumi-gakuen Station.
The museum is about a 15-minute walk from the station.
The total journey takes approximately 60 minutes.
Toei Animation is one of the most significant animation studios in the world. Since its founding in 1956, it has created hundreds of films and series that have influenced several generations of viewers. In the museum, you can see historical drawings, storyboards, original animation cels, character models, and demonstrations of the production process. You will be greeted by statues of well-known heroes in front of the building.
Admission: free.
Film trivia:
Toei Animation studio has been one of the world's most important animation studios since 1956. Over its history, it has created hundreds of television series and feature films. Among its best-known works are: GeGeGe no Kitarō (1968), Dragon Ball (1986), Sailor Moon (1992), Digimon Adventure (1999), One Piece (1999), and Pretty Cure (2004).
Just a few minutes from Ōizumi-gakuen Station is the Ōizumi Anime Gate – a small public space with statues of anime characters, such as Joe Yabuki (Ashita no Joe), Maetel (Galaxy Express 999), or Lum (Urusei Yatsura). Since it is on the way back to the station, I recommend making a short stop here. It takes about 15 minutes and is free.
If you feel like ending the day on a thematic note, you can visit one of the anime cafes in Akihabara, which is just a few subway stops away.
Today you'll be transported back to the Edo period, when Tokyo became one of the world's largest cities. In the morning, you'll discover the daily life of its former inhabitants, in the afternoon you'll visit the oldest and most significant Buddhist temple in Tokyo, and you'll wrap up the day at the observation deck of Japan's tallest structure. The route combines traditional culture, movie locations, and one of the city's most vibrant tourist hubs.
From Shintomichō Station, take the subway to Kiyosumi-shirakawa Station, from where the museum is about a ten-minute walk.
Unlike classic museums, you won't find glass cases full of exhibits here. The museum presents a faithful, life-sized reconstruction of a Tokyo neighborhood from the Edo period. You can enter the homes of merchants, artisans, and ordinary residents to see their daily lives. Thanks to the elaborate sets, it's easy to imagine the environment where many historical Japanese films and series take place.
Recommended visit duration: 1.5–2 hours.
Admission: 400 ¥.
Film trivia:
The city reconstruction resembles the sets of films like Seven Samurai (1954), Sanjuro (1962), or The Twilight Samurai (2002). Although these films were shot primarily in film studios, the museum faithfully shows the look of the city that filmmakers reconstructed when creating them.
From Kiyosumi-shirakawa Station, take the Hanzōmon subway line to Oshiage Station.
The trip takes about 15 minutes.
At 634 meters tall, Tokyo Skytree is Japan's tallest structure and the third tallest in the world. Completed in 2012 as a television broadcast tower, it is also one of Tokyo's most visited attractions.
I recommend visiting the observation deck before noon. Visibility is usually best at this time, and the lines are generally shorter than in the afternoon. On a clear day, you can see Mount Fuji, Tokyo Bay, and a panorama stretching for tens of kilometers from the observation deck.
If you want an even more impressive view, you can pay extra for the Tembo Galleria (450 m), which leads up a spiral ramp to the highest publicly accessible point of the tower. On the ground floor of the Tokyo Solamachi complex, you'll find over 300 shops, restaurants, and the Pokémon Center SKYTREE TOWN, themed around Rayquaza and other flying-type Pokémon.
Recommended visit duration: 1.5–2 hours.
- Tembo Deck (350 m): from ¥2,100
- combined ticket (350 m + 450 m): from ¥3,100
Film trivia:
Tokyo Skytree appears in many contemporary films and anime, for example: Shin Godzilla (2016), Weathering with You (2019), and Jujutsu Kaisen 0 (2021). In the world of Pokémon, it appears under a fictional name to fit the anime setting.
From Tokyo Skytree, take about a 20-minute walk across the Azuma Bridge. Along the way, you'll get beautiful views of the Sumida River, the Asahi Brewery building with its signature golden sculpture, and the Senso-ji Temple in the distance. This pleasant walk is the perfect transition between modern Tokyo and the historic Asakusa district.
The monumental two-story Hozomon Gate serves as the main entrance to the Senso-ji temple complex. A striking feature is the massive pair of straw sandals, known as waraji, hanging on the sides of the building, which symbolize the strength of the temple's guardians. This spot is where some of the most famous photos of all Asakusa are taken.
Film trivia:
The gate appears in countless Japanese films, TV series, and anime. You can clearly spot it, for instance, in the movie Tokyo Drifter (1966) or the anime Tokyo Revengers (2021).
Senso-ji is the oldest Buddhist temple in Tokyo. Its history dates back to 645, and it is visited by over 30 million people every year. The area also features a large local market and tea houses where you can take part in a Matcha ceremony.
I recommend walking through the main temple hall, lighting some incense sticks, and trying your luck with an omikuji fortune.
If you draw an unlucky fortune, you can tie it to the racks provided and symbolically leave your bad luck at the temple.
Admission: free.
Film trivia:
Senso-ji Temple is one of the most frequently depicted landmarks in Tokyo. It has appeared in films such as Tokyo Story (1953), Tokyo Drifter (1966), and the anime Children Who Chase Lost Voices (2011).
Just a few steps from the temple stands the Asakusa Shinto Shrine. Unlike the bustling Senso-ji, it has a much more peaceful atmosphere. The shrine is best known for the Sanja Matsuri festival, which is one of the largest celebrations in all of Japan.
Admission: free.
Film trivia:
The shrine regularly appears in documentaries and feature films capturing traditional Japanese festivals. During Sanja Matsuri, television crews from all over the world film here.
After visiting Asakusa Shrine, head to Asakusa Station and board the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line towards Ueno. The journey takes about 5 minutes, and it is about a 10-minute walk from Ueno Station to the main entrance of the zoo.
Ueno Zoo is the oldest zoological garden in Japan. It was opened back in 1882 and today it houses over 300 species of animals. Giant pandas, which have become the symbol of the zoo, traditionally attract the most attention from visitors, but you can also find gorillas, Sumatran tigers, polar bears, or rare Japanese species here.
The zoo is divided into two parts connected by an elevated monorail. If you don't have the whole day, I recommend focusing mainly on the eastern part with the pandas and main pavilions.
Recommended duration of visit: 2–2.5 hours.
Admission: 600 ¥.
Film trivia:
Ueno Zoo has appeared in a number of Japanese films and TV series. It plays a significant role, for example, in the film Hachiko's Story (1987), where it adds to the atmosphere of everyday life in Tokyo. Thanks to its panda breeding, it also regularly appears in documentaries and TV reports.
After a few days of exploring traditional Japan, today you will dive into the world of film tricks, sets, and special effects. You will spend the morning and afternoon at one of the world's largest film studios open to the public, where the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films were made. In the evening, you will head back to the center of Tokyo to see Japan's most famous movie monster – Godzilla – and wrap up the day at one of the best free viewpoints in the city.
Take the subway from Higashi-ginza station to Toshimaen station.
The journey takes about 45 minutes. The studio is just a few minutes' walk from the station.
This is the world's largest indoor attraction dedicated to the Harry Potter films. Unlike Universal Studios, this isn't a theme park with rides, but a place to see actual film sets, costumes, props, and technology used in the making of all eight Harry Potter movies and the Fantastic Beasts series.
You can walk through the Great Hall of Hogwarts, step into Diagon Alley, visit Dumbledore's office, explore the Forbidden Forest, or see Platform 9¾ with the original Hogwarts Express train.
The exhibition also features demonstrations of makeup effects, animatronics, green screen work, and digital effects.
Film production enthusiasts can easily spend half a day here.
Recommended visit duration: 4–5 hours
Admission: Adult: from ¥7,000
Film trivia:
Besides the London studios, the Tokyo studios are the only ones that offer a look into the sets from the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films.
There are several themed restaurants located directly on-site.
I recommend trying the Butterbeer, which is one of the symbols of the entire exhibition.
Lunch prices range between ¥1,500 and ¥2,500.
From Toshimaen station, take the Toei Oedo Line directly to Shinjuku station.
The journey takes about 25 minutes.
Just a few minutes' walk from Shinjuku Station is one of Tokyo's most famous movie attractions. A more than twelve-meter-high Godzilla head lurks on the roof of the Hotel Gracery Shinjuku, letting out a signature roar and lighting up its eyes several times an hour. The observation terrace on the eighth floor is open to the public.
Admission: free.
Movie trivia:
Godzilla first appeared in Toho's film Godzilla (1954) and has become one of the world's most famous movie characters over the following decades. The hotel is located in close proximity to the headquarters of Toho, the company that created this legendary series.
Tip – Godzilla Store Tokyo:
The official Toho store is about a 15-minute walk from the Gracery Hotel.
You'll find collectible figures, posters, movie monster models, and limited editions available only in Japan.
Even if you don't buy anything, it's an interesting stop for fans of kaiju movies.
It's about a 20-minute walk from Hotel Gracery, or one stop by subway.
The twin towers of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building offer one of the best free views of the city. The observation deck is located at a height of 202 meters, and with good visibility, you can see Mount Fuji, the Tokyo Skytree, and Tokyo Tower.
I recommend arriving about half an hour before sunset.
After dark, the building's facade turns into a giant projection screen. Modern projections utilize the building's architecture and often feature themes related to Tokyo, Japanese culture, or popular movies and anime.
The screenings are free and are among the most interesting evening experiences in the city.
Admission: free.
Film trivia:
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building appears in a whole host of films and series. Its most famous destruction is in the film Godzilla vs. King Ghidorah (1991). It also appears in The Return of Godzilla (1984), Shin Godzilla (2016), and the anime Weathering with You (2019).
After the screening, I recommend having dinner at one of the restaurants in the Shinjuku district. If you want to keep the cinematic vibe going, head over to the Kabukicho district, whose neon streets appear in countless Japanese films, series, and video games. At night, the area has a unique atmosphere that evokes the futuristic Tokyo known from the movie Lost in Translation (2003) or the Yakuza game series.
Your last full day in Tokyo will be spent in one of the city's most vibrant neighborhoods. Shibuya is a symbol of modern Japan—a place where the latest architectural trends, pop culture, and world-famous film locations collide. You'll visit the Olympic Museum, stroll past the award-winning public restrooms from THE TOKYO TOILET project, snap a photo at the world's most famous pedestrian crossing, and wrap up the day at one of the best observation decks in Tokyo.
From Higashi-ginza Station, take the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line to Kasumigaseki Station and continue on the Ginza Line to Gaienmae Station.
The total journey takes approximately 30 minutes.
The museum is located directly opposite the National Stadium, which hosted the 2021 Summer Olympic Games. The exhibition charts the history of the Olympic Games from ancient Greece to the present day. A large part is dedicated to the Tokyo Olympics in 1964 and 2021, their organization, and the technologies used during the games. You will find original Olympic torches, medals, sports equipment, and interactive stations where you can try out various disciplines.
Recommended duration of visit: 1.5 hours.
Admission: 500 ¥.
Before moving on, I recommend a short walk around the stadium designed by architect Kengo Kuma. The wooden elements and abundance of greenery represent one of the most successful examples of contemporary Japanese architecture.
Head out on foot towards the Harajuku and Shibuya districts.
Along the way, you can visit several public toilets created as part of THE TOKYO TOILET project, which involved leading Japanese architects including Tadao Ando, Kengo Kuma, and Shigeru Ban.
The most famous are the transparent toilets in Haru-no-Ogawa Community Park. The colored glass walls are transparent when the toilets are empty and automatically become opaque once locked.
Film trivia:
THE TOKYO TOILET project was made famous by the film Perfect Days (2023) directed by Wim Wenders. The main character, Hirayama, works as a cleaner for these architecturally unique public toilets. The film won the Best Actor award at the Cannes Film Festival and was nominated for an Oscar for Best International Feature Film.
I recommend trying one of the restaurants around Cat Street or Harajuku station.
The price of lunch ranges between 1,200–2,000 ¥.
If you have a sweet tooth, you can taste the famous Japanese crepes or fluffy soufflé pancakes.
It's about a 15-minute walk from Harajuku to Shibuya.
The most famous dog statue in Japan stands in front of Shibuya Station.
The story of the loyal dog Hachiko has become a symbol of devotion and inspired several film adaptations.
Just a few meters from the statue lies the world's most famous pedestrian crossing.
Up to three thousand people cross the intersection during a single green light, and the spot has become a symbol of modern Tokyo.
I recommend crossing it a few times from different directions and then taking photos of it from one of the surrounding viewpoints.
Film trivia:
The dog's story was filmed as Hachiko Monogatari (1987), and later an American remake, Hachi: A Dog's Tale (2009), was made starring Richard Gere. The crossing has appeared in films such as: Lost in Translation (2003), The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift (2006), Resident Evil: Retribution (2012), and Weathering with You (2019). It is also one of the most frequently depicted locations in anime and video games set in Tokyo.
The highlight of the day is a visit to one of the most modern observatories in the city. Located at a height of approximately 230 meters, it features an open-air rooftop terrace with panoramic views of all of Tokyo.
I recommend booking your entry about an hour before sunset.
On a clear day, you can see Mount Fuji, Tokyo Tower, and Tokyo Skytree.
Recommended visit duration: 1.5–2 hours.
Admission: from ¥2,700.
Film trivia:
The highlight of the day is a visit to one of the most modern observatories in the city.
Located at a height of approximately 230 meters, it features an open-air rooftop terrace with panoramic views of all of Tokyo.
Tip – Magnet by Shibuya109
If you don't want to wait for your Shibuya Sky reservation time or are looking for an alternative view of the crossing, I recommend the MAGNET by SHIBUYA109 CROSSING VIEW observation deck.
For a lower admission fee, it offers one of the best views of the famous intersection.
I recommend spending your last evening in Tokyo right here in Shibuya. There are hundreds of restaurants to choose from – ranging from traditional Japanese eateries and izakayas to modern fusion cuisine. If you want to wrap up your trip in style, pick a restaurant with a view of the city's night skyline.
The last day is dedicated to flying home. If your flight time allows, you can still enjoy the morning atmosphere of Tokyo, have breakfast at one of the local cafes, or buy some last-minute souvenirs. After that, you'll head to Haneda Airport for your journey back.
After breakfast, check out of your hotel. If your flight is in the afternoon or evening, I recommend using the luggage storage at the hotel or one of the lockers at the metro stations or Tokyo Station.
If you have a few extra hours, you can take a walk around the Ginza district.
I recommend visiting:
- Ginza Six – a modern shopping center with designer shops and a rooftop garden.
- Itoya Ginza – a multi-story stationery store that is a paradise for lovers of writing supplies and Japanese design.
- Tsutaya Books Ginza – a bookstore with a wide selection of books on film, photography, architecture, and Japanese culture.
If you haven't managed to buy any movie souvenirs during your trip, this is your last chance.
Transfer to Haneda Airport
Walk from the hotel to Higashi-ginza Station.
Option 1 – Keikyū Line (recommended)
From Higashi-ginza Station, take a direct train on the Keikyū Airport Line.
Travel time: approximately 35 minutes
Price: approximately ¥550
This is the fastest and easiest connection without any transfers.
Option 2 – Tokyo Monorail
Take the metro to Hamamatsuchō Station, then continue on the Tokyo Monorail.
Travel time: approximately 40 minutes
Price: approximately ¥700
The monorail offers beautiful views of Tokyo Bay and the harbor, making it popular among visitors to the city.
Haneda Airport (HND)
I recommend arriving at the airport at least 3 hours before your flight, especially if you are traveling to Europe.
Haneda Airport is one of the most modern airports in the world and offers a variety of shops and restaurants.
If you have time left, you can visit:
- Edo Market Place in Terminal 3, designed to look like a historic Japanese town,
- the observation deck with a view of the runway,
- shops with limited edition Japanese sweets, teas, or anime souvenirs.
Tokyo is a city where tradition meets the future and every corner tells its own story. Alongside ancient temples and peaceful gardens, you will find vibrant neighborhoods filled with neon lights, state-of-the-art architecture, and places you know from movies and anime. This itinerary will guide you through not only iconic landmarks and cultural experiences but also filming locations, studios, and the behind-the-scenes world of Japanese cinema. It is designed for everyone who wants to discover Tokyo in all its diversity, from history and gastronomy to the world of film, animation, and pop culture.
After a long flight, you finally land in Tokyo. Thanks to Haneda Airport, you can reach the city center in no time, so your first day doesn't just have to be about heading to the hotel. If your time and fatigue levels allow, treat yourself to a quiet stroll around your accommodation or enjoy your first Japanese dinner. Take it easy—the best part starts tomorrow.
Haneda is the closest international airport to downtown Tokyo and most travelers consider it the most convenient gateway to Japan. It is located about 15 kilometers from the city center, and thanks to excellent connections, you can reach most districts in 30–45 minutes.
Upon arrival, I recommend:
- going through immigration control,
- picking up your luggage,
- picking up or activating your eSIM/SIM card,
- purchasing or activating a Suica or PASMO card, which you can use for transport or some purchases (also available in Apple Wallet),
- withdrawing cash from a 7-Eleven or Japan Post Bank ATM (it's handy to have a little bit on hand for small purchases),
- optionally sending your large suitcase to the hotel using the Yamato Transport service (Takkyubin) if you are planning multiple transfers.
Recommended route from the airport
Keikyu Airport Line → Asakusa Line
- Haneda Airport Terminal 3
- direct train Keikyu / Toei Asakusa Line
- get off at Takarachō or Higashi-ginza station
- approximately 8–10 minutes walk to the hotel
Travel time: 35–40 minutes
Price: approximately ¥620
Accommodation
After arrival, check in and take a moment to rest. If you arrive before 3 PM, most hotels will be happy to store your luggage until check-in time. An alternative is the Tokyo Monorail to Hamamatsucho followed by a transfer to the JR line, but the trip is slightly longer and less convenient.
Evening stroll
If you have any energy left after the journey, we recommend a short circular walk around the hotel area. All stops are within walking distance.
Tsukiji Hongan-ji
A modern Buddhist temple with unmistakable architecture inspired by India. It looks very photogenic in the evening lighting, and there are usually very few visitors there.
Free admission.
Kabuki-za Theatre
Just a few minutes from the hotel stands Tokyo's most famous kabuki theater. Even if you don't plan to attend a performance, the evening view of the illuminated building is definitely worth it.
An interesting fact is that kabuki appears in many Japanese films and television series as a symbol of Tokyo's traditional culture.
Ginza
Continue towards Ginza – one of Tokyo's most luxurious districts. Here you will find modern architecture, department stores, and a multitude of restaurants. In the evening, there is a pleasant atmosphere, and your first walk will allow you to get used to the rhythm of the city.
Straight to the heart of Tokyo. In a single day, you'll discover the history of Japanese cinema, stroll around the Imperial Palace, visit the biggest Pokémon Center in the city, and end your evening among Godzilla film sets and the legendary Studio Ghibli clock. With your stay at the LiVEMAX Higashi Ginza hotel, you can reach most of the itinerary on foot.
Start your day just a ten-minute walk from the hotel at the National Film Archive of Japan, the only national film archive in the country. The institution houses tens of thousands of films, scripts, posters, camera equipment, and archival photos mapping over a hundred years of Japanese cinema. If you're interested in the work of Akira Kurosawa, Yasujiro Ozu, Kenji Mizoguchi, or the development of Japanese animation, this place is pretty much a must-visit.
Besides the permanent exhibition, they regularly host thematic displays and screenings of restored films. If your schedule allows, I recommend checking the current program before your trip.
Opening hours: 11:00–18:30 (closed Mondays).
Visit duration: 1.5–2 hours
Admission: ¥250 for the permanent exhibition.
Recommendation: If you're planning to visit more galleries or museums during your trip, you can purchase a Grutto Pass here for ¥2,500, which gives you free or heavily discounted entry to participating locations. Detailed information can be found here.
Film trivia
The archive preserves original materials for films by directors like Akira Kurosawa, Yasujiro Ozu, and Kenji Mizoguchi. It is here that many classic Japanese films, known from festivals all over the world, undergo restoration.
After a morning dedicated to film history, you're in for a totally different world. The Pokémon Center Tokyo DX is the flagship store of The Pokémon Company. You won't just find hundreds of souvenirs here, but also limited editions available only in Japan. The shop is dominated by a huge statue of Snorlax and Mew, which is one of the most photographed spots in the store.
Next to the store is the Pokémon Café. If you want to have lunch there, you need to make a reservation several weeks before your trip.
Duration of visit: 45–60 minutes.
Entry: free.
Film trivia:
Since 1998, Pokémon have appeared in over twenty feature films and are among the most successful film franchises in Japanese animation.
For lunch, I recommend staying in the Nihonbashi area. The price for lunch is approximately between ¥1,200 – ¥2,000.
If you still have enough energy, I recommend making a short stop at the Tokyo International Forum between the Pokémon Center and the Imperial Palace. This impressive glass building by architect Rafael Viñoly resembles the hull of a massive ship and frequently appears in Japanese films, TV series, and commercials. It is beautifully lit up in the evening and is one of the most photogenic modern structures in Tokyo.
The vast park surrounding the Imperial Palace offers a completely different atmosphere than the surrounding skyscrapers. The East Gardens, which were created on the site of the original Edo Castle, are primarily open to the public. During your walk, you will see stone walls, defensive moats, gardens, and the remains of the former shogun's residence.
Duration of visit: 60–90 minutes.
Admission: free.
Film trivia:
The area around the palace has appeared in a number of Japanese historical films and TV dramas set in both the Edo period and modern Japan. These include, for example, The Wolverine (2013), Lost in Translation (2003), or Shin Godzilla (2016).
Continue towards the Hibiya district, where a bronze statue of Japan's most famous movie monster awaits you. The statue commemorates the original Godzilla film (1954) and has become a popular spot for fans of kaiju movies.
The surrounding area often hosts themed events related to new Toho company films.
Admission: free
Movie trivia:
Just a few minutes away is the headquarters of Toho, the company that created Godzilla. This is where most of the films in this legendary series were made.
Stop duration: 15 minutes.
Directly opposite Godzilla stands the modern Tokyo Midtown Hibiya complex. You'll find shops, restaurants, the TOHO Cinemas Hibiya, and an observation deck with views of Hibiya Park and the Imperial Palace.
If any Japanese films with English subtitles are screening during your stay, an evening show is definitely worth considering.
Visit duration: 45 minutes.
Just a few streets away from Hibiya lies one of Tokyo's most interesting lesser-known attractions. The giant Nittele Oodokei mechanical clock was designed by Hayao Miyazaki for the Nippon Television company. Every three hours, it comes to life with moving mechanisms reminiscent of Studio Ghibli films. I recommend timing your visit to coincide with one of the clock's shows.
Stop duration: 20 minutes.
Admission: free.
Film trivia:
The clock's design was created by Hayao Miyazaki himself while he was working on the movie Howl's Moving Castle. Fans will therefore notice similar mechanical themes.
Around Shimbashi station, I recommend checking out one of the traditional Japanese izakaya pubs. If you prefer a quieter atmosphere, head back to Ginza, where you'll find a huge variety of restaurants at all price ranges.
The modern face of Tokyo. You're in for digital installations that blur the lines between art and technology, Tokyo's most famous beach, a museum showcasing the future of science and technology, and two iconic landmarks of the city. If you spent the previous days exploring Japan's history and film legacy, today you'll see Tokyo as a city of the future.
From the hotel, head on foot to Shintomichō or Higashi-ginza station. Take the subway to Shin-Toyosu station, which is just a few minutes' walk away. The total journey takes about 30 minutes.
Start your day at one of the world's most famous digital art museums. At teamLab Planets, you don't just become a visitor – you become part of the installations. Expect to walk barefoot through water, explore mirror rooms, see endless light projections, and interact with floral exhibits that react to your movement.
Unlike regular galleries, there is no fixed route here. Each space creates a different experience, and photos from here are among the most iconic in all of Tokyo.
Tickets should be booked several weeks before your departure, especially if you are traveling in the summer season.
Recommended visit duration: 2–2.5 hours
Film trivia:
Although no major films were shot here, the aesthetic of teamLab is reminiscent of the visual styles of Ghost in the Shell, The Matrix, or Tron: Legacy. The installations are also often used for filming music videos and commercials.
After visiting the digital gallery, continue along the bay to the man-made Odaiba Beach. Although swimming isn't common, the beach offers one of the best views of Tokyo Bay, the Rainbow Bridge, and the skyscraper skyline. In the summer months, it has a pleasant holiday vibe and is an ideal spot for a short break.
Just a few steps from the beach stands a replica of the Statue of Liberty, one of Odaiba's most famous symbols. It was first placed here in 1998 as part of an event celebrating the friendship between Japan and France. Although it was intended to be a temporary installation, it became so popular that it was replaced by the current permanent replica in 2000.
The statue stands about 12.25 meters tall and, with the backdrop of the Rainbow Bridge and skyscrapers, creates one of the most photographed spots in Tokyo. On a clear day, you can even catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji from here.
Movie trivia:
Odaiba appears in a wide range of Japanese films and series. You can spot the Rainbow Bridge panorama in films like Godzilla: Final Wars (2004) or in the Digimon Adventure anime, where this part of Tokyo appears repeatedly.
For lunch, I recommend heading to the DiverCity shopping center, about a ten-minute walk away, where you'll find a local food court and dozens of Japanese restaurants.
The price of lunch ranges between ¥1,200–2,000.
If you have time, stop by the nearly 20-meter-tall Gundam Unicorn statue in front of the shopping center; it changes its form several times a day and is accompanied by a light show in the evening.
Miraikan presents the future through the eyes of Japanese scientists. The museum focuses on:
- robotics,
- artificial intelligence,
- space research,
- climate change,
- medicine,
- space technologies.
The biggest attractions are the humanoid robot ASIMO (as part of the current exhibits) and the giant digital globe Geo-Cosmos, which displays real-time weather data from across the planet.
Duration of visit: 2 hours.
Admission: 630 ¥.
Film trivia:
Many exhibits resemble technologies known from movies like I, Robot, Ex Machina, or the Japanese anime Ghost in the Shell, which significantly influenced the look of modern science fiction.
From Telecom Center station, board the automated Yurikamome line. The ride itself is one of the highlights of the day. The train crosses the Rainbow Bridge, offering beautiful views of the entire Tokyo Bay. Get off at Shimbashi station and continue by subway or take an approximately twenty-minute walk to Tokyo Tower.
Zojoji Temple is one of the most significant Jodo Buddhist temples in Tokyo. Set against the backdrop of the modern Tokyo Tower, it creates one of the most photographed contrasts in the city – traditional Japanese architecture in front of a modern landmark.
I recommend also walking through the garden with its many small Jizo statues, which commemorate unborn or prematurely deceased children.
Visit duration: 30–40 minutes.
Admission: free.
Film trivia:
Zojoji Temple has appeared in films such as Tokyo! (2008) and many Japanese TV dramas. Thanks to its location beneath Tokyo Tower, it is a frequent backdrop for film shots representing the capital city.
End your day at one of Japan's most iconic landmarks. Although Tokyo Skytree now offers the highest viewpoint, the Tokyo Tower remains the true symbol of the country's post-war development.
I recommend visiting the main deck shortly before sunset. This way, you can see Tokyo in daylight and then watch the millions of lights come on during a single visit. On a clear day, you can spot Mount Fuji on the western horizon.
Admission (Main Deck): approximately 1,500 ¥.
Film trivia:
Tokyo Tower is one of the most frequently depicted structures in Japanese cinema. It plays a significant role in films such as: The Return of Godzilla (1984), Godzilla vs. Mothra (1992), Godzilla: Final Wars (2004), and Tokyo Tower: Mom and Me, and Sometimes Dad (2007). In Godzilla movies, the tower is regularly destroyed or damaged during monster attacks, making it one of the most prominent symbols of the entire series.
After visiting the observation deck, I recommend having dinner around Hamamatsucho Station or taking the subway back to Ginza. If you're craving sushi, this part of Tokyo offers a number of quality spots at more affordable prices than the luxury restaurants in Ginza.
If you still have energy after dinner, I recommend a short evening stroll through Shiba Park. It's the perfect spot to take some of the best photos of the illuminated Tokyo Tower, and the atmosphere there at night is surprisingly peaceful.
Today is a treat for all animation lovers. You'll dive into the world of Hayao Miyazaki, where characters from My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, or Princess Mononoke come to life. In the afternoon, you'll discover the other side of Japanese animation – the legendary Toei Animation studio, the force behind series like Dragon Ball, Sailor Moon, or One Piece. A day full of inspiration, film history, and beautiful parks awaits you.
The Ghibli Museum isn't your typical museum. Hayao Miyazaki designed it as a place where visitors should feel like children discovering a new world. That's why you won't find a fixed route or labels on the exhibits – the rooms themselves invite you to explore on your own.
You'll walk through an animator's studio, learn about traditional hand-drawn animation techniques, visit exhibits dedicated to the filmmaking process, and be greeted on the roof by the iconic robot from the movie Castle in the Sky. The ticket also includes a screening of a short animated film that can only be seen here.
Photography is not allowed inside the museum, which allows visitors to enjoy the atmosphere without their mobile phones.
Admission: 1,000 ¥.
Important: Tickets for the Ghibli Museum are for a specific time and often sell out weeks or even months in advance. I recommend securing your reservation immediately after booking your flights. If you can't get a ticket due to high demand, the museum is still worth seeing from the outside.
Film Trivia:
The museum is dedicated to the work of Studio Ghibli, which has created many world-famous films, such as: My Neighbor Totoro (1988), Kiki's Delivery Service (1989), Princess Mononoke (1997), Spirited Away (2001) – Academy Award winner for Best Animated Feature, Howl's Moving Castle (2004), Ponyo (2008), The Boy and the Heron (2023) – Academy Award winner for Best Animated Feature.
Just a few steps from the museum lies Inokashira Park, one of Tokyo's most popular parks. In addition to several shrines, the park also features a small zoo and the option to rent boats.
On a small island in the middle of the lake stands a shrine dedicated to the goddess Benzaiten – the patron of music, arts, learning, and fortune. Tradition says that visitors come here to pray for creative inspiration and success in their artistic endeavors, which is why art students and budding illustrators often head here.
Duration of visit: 20 minutes.
Admission: free.
Film trivia:
The peaceful atmosphere of Inokashira Park is reminiscent of the settings in Studio Ghibli films. Although no specific movie was filmed directly here, Hayao Miyazaki and other creators repeatedly came here to find inspiration for drawing natural scenery.
From Kichijōji Station, take the train back to the center of Tokyo and continue by subway to Ōizumi-gakuen Station.
The museum is about a 15-minute walk from the station.
The total journey takes approximately 60 minutes.
Toei Animation is one of the most significant animation studios in the world. Since its founding in 1956, it has created hundreds of films and series that have influenced several generations of viewers. In the museum, you can see historical drawings, storyboards, original animation cels, character models, and demonstrations of the production process. You will be greeted by statues of well-known heroes in front of the building.
Admission: free.
Film trivia:
Toei Animation studio has been one of the world's most important animation studios since 1956. Over its history, it has created hundreds of television series and feature films. Among its best-known works are: GeGeGe no Kitarō (1968), Dragon Ball (1986), Sailor Moon (1992), Digimon Adventure (1999), One Piece (1999), and Pretty Cure (2004).
Just a few minutes from Ōizumi-gakuen Station is the Ōizumi Anime Gate – a small public space with statues of anime characters, such as Joe Yabuki (Ashita no Joe), Maetel (Galaxy Express 999), or Lum (Urusei Yatsura). Since it is on the way back to the station, I recommend making a short stop here. It takes about 15 minutes and is free.
If you feel like ending the day on a thematic note, you can visit one of the anime cafes in Akihabara, which is just a few subway stops away.
Today you'll be transported back to the Edo period, when Tokyo became one of the world's largest cities. In the morning, you'll discover the daily life of its former inhabitants, in the afternoon you'll visit the oldest and most significant Buddhist temple in Tokyo, and you'll wrap up the day at the observation deck of Japan's tallest structure. The route combines traditional culture, movie locations, and one of the city's most vibrant tourist hubs.
From Shintomichō Station, take the subway to Kiyosumi-shirakawa Station, from where the museum is about a ten-minute walk.
Unlike classic museums, you won't find glass cases full of exhibits here. The museum presents a faithful, life-sized reconstruction of a Tokyo neighborhood from the Edo period. You can enter the homes of merchants, artisans, and ordinary residents to see their daily lives. Thanks to the elaborate sets, it's easy to imagine the environment where many historical Japanese films and series take place.
Recommended visit duration: 1.5–2 hours.
Admission: 400 ¥.
Film trivia:
The city reconstruction resembles the sets of films like Seven Samurai (1954), Sanjuro (1962), or The Twilight Samurai (2002). Although these films were shot primarily in film studios, the museum faithfully shows the look of the city that filmmakers reconstructed when creating them.
From Kiyosumi-shirakawa Station, take the Hanzōmon subway line to Oshiage Station.
The trip takes about 15 minutes.
At 634 meters tall, Tokyo Skytree is Japan's tallest structure and the third tallest in the world. Completed in 2012 as a television broadcast tower, it is also one of Tokyo's most visited attractions.
I recommend visiting the observation deck before noon. Visibility is usually best at this time, and the lines are generally shorter than in the afternoon. On a clear day, you can see Mount Fuji, Tokyo Bay, and a panorama stretching for tens of kilometers from the observation deck.
If you want an even more impressive view, you can pay extra for the Tembo Galleria (450 m), which leads up a spiral ramp to the highest publicly accessible point of the tower. On the ground floor of the Tokyo Solamachi complex, you'll find over 300 shops, restaurants, and the Pokémon Center SKYTREE TOWN, themed around Rayquaza and other flying-type Pokémon.
Recommended visit duration: 1.5–2 hours.
- Tembo Deck (350 m): from ¥2,100
- combined ticket (350 m + 450 m): from ¥3,100
Film trivia:
Tokyo Skytree appears in many contemporary films and anime, for example: Shin Godzilla (2016), Weathering with You (2019), and Jujutsu Kaisen 0 (2021). In the world of Pokémon, it appears under a fictional name to fit the anime setting.
From Tokyo Skytree, take about a 20-minute walk across the Azuma Bridge. Along the way, you'll get beautiful views of the Sumida River, the Asahi Brewery building with its signature golden sculpture, and the Senso-ji Temple in the distance. This pleasant walk is the perfect transition between modern Tokyo and the historic Asakusa district.
The monumental two-story Hozomon Gate serves as the main entrance to the Senso-ji temple complex. A striking feature is the massive pair of straw sandals, known as waraji, hanging on the sides of the building, which symbolize the strength of the temple's guardians. This spot is where some of the most famous photos of all Asakusa are taken.
Film trivia:
The gate appears in countless Japanese films, TV series, and anime. You can clearly spot it, for instance, in the movie Tokyo Drifter (1966) or the anime Tokyo Revengers (2021).
Senso-ji is the oldest Buddhist temple in Tokyo. Its history dates back to 645, and it is visited by over 30 million people every year. The area also features a large local market and tea houses where you can take part in a Matcha ceremony.
I recommend walking through the main temple hall, lighting some incense sticks, and trying your luck with an omikuji fortune.
If you draw an unlucky fortune, you can tie it to the racks provided and symbolically leave your bad luck at the temple.
Admission: free.
Film trivia:
Senso-ji Temple is one of the most frequently depicted landmarks in Tokyo. It has appeared in films such as Tokyo Story (1953), Tokyo Drifter (1966), and the anime Children Who Chase Lost Voices (2011).
Just a few steps from the temple stands the Asakusa Shinto Shrine. Unlike the bustling Senso-ji, it has a much more peaceful atmosphere. The shrine is best known for the Sanja Matsuri festival, which is one of the largest celebrations in all of Japan.
Admission: free.
Film trivia:
The shrine regularly appears in documentaries and feature films capturing traditional Japanese festivals. During Sanja Matsuri, television crews from all over the world film here.
After visiting Asakusa Shrine, head to Asakusa Station and board the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line towards Ueno. The journey takes about 5 minutes, and it is about a 10-minute walk from Ueno Station to the main entrance of the zoo.
Ueno Zoo is the oldest zoological garden in Japan. It was opened back in 1882 and today it houses over 300 species of animals. Giant pandas, which have become the symbol of the zoo, traditionally attract the most attention from visitors, but you can also find gorillas, Sumatran tigers, polar bears, or rare Japanese species here.
The zoo is divided into two parts connected by an elevated monorail. If you don't have the whole day, I recommend focusing mainly on the eastern part with the pandas and main pavilions.
Recommended duration of visit: 2–2.5 hours.
Admission: 600 ¥.
Film trivia:
Ueno Zoo has appeared in a number of Japanese films and TV series. It plays a significant role, for example, in the film Hachiko's Story (1987), where it adds to the atmosphere of everyday life in Tokyo. Thanks to its panda breeding, it also regularly appears in documentaries and TV reports.
After a few days of exploring traditional Japan, today you will dive into the world of film tricks, sets, and special effects. You will spend the morning and afternoon at one of the world's largest film studios open to the public, where the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films were made. In the evening, you will head back to the center of Tokyo to see Japan's most famous movie monster – Godzilla – and wrap up the day at one of the best free viewpoints in the city.
Take the subway from Higashi-ginza station to Toshimaen station.
The journey takes about 45 minutes. The studio is just a few minutes' walk from the station.
This is the world's largest indoor attraction dedicated to the Harry Potter films. Unlike Universal Studios, this isn't a theme park with rides, but a place to see actual film sets, costumes, props, and technology used in the making of all eight Harry Potter movies and the Fantastic Beasts series.
You can walk through the Great Hall of Hogwarts, step into Diagon Alley, visit Dumbledore's office, explore the Forbidden Forest, or see Platform 9¾ with the original Hogwarts Express train.
The exhibition also features demonstrations of makeup effects, animatronics, green screen work, and digital effects.
Film production enthusiasts can easily spend half a day here.
Recommended visit duration: 4–5 hours
Admission: Adult: from ¥7,000
Film trivia:
Besides the London studios, the Tokyo studios are the only ones that offer a look into the sets from the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films.
There are several themed restaurants located directly on-site.
I recommend trying the Butterbeer, which is one of the symbols of the entire exhibition.
Lunch prices range between ¥1,500 and ¥2,500.
From Toshimaen station, take the Toei Oedo Line directly to Shinjuku station.
The journey takes about 25 minutes.
Just a few minutes' walk from Shinjuku Station is one of Tokyo's most famous movie attractions. A more than twelve-meter-high Godzilla head lurks on the roof of the Hotel Gracery Shinjuku, letting out a signature roar and lighting up its eyes several times an hour. The observation terrace on the eighth floor is open to the public.
Admission: free.
Movie trivia:
Godzilla first appeared in Toho's film Godzilla (1954) and has become one of the world's most famous movie characters over the following decades. The hotel is located in close proximity to the headquarters of Toho, the company that created this legendary series.
Tip – Godzilla Store Tokyo:
The official Toho store is about a 15-minute walk from the Gracery Hotel.
You'll find collectible figures, posters, movie monster models, and limited editions available only in Japan.
Even if you don't buy anything, it's an interesting stop for fans of kaiju movies.
It's about a 20-minute walk from Hotel Gracery, or one stop by subway.
The twin towers of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building offer one of the best free views of the city. The observation deck is located at a height of 202 meters, and with good visibility, you can see Mount Fuji, the Tokyo Skytree, and Tokyo Tower.
I recommend arriving about half an hour before sunset.
After dark, the building's facade turns into a giant projection screen. Modern projections utilize the building's architecture and often feature themes related to Tokyo, Japanese culture, or popular movies and anime.
The screenings are free and are among the most interesting evening experiences in the city.
Admission: free.
Film trivia:
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building appears in a whole host of films and series. Its most famous destruction is in the film Godzilla vs. King Ghidorah (1991). It also appears in The Return of Godzilla (1984), Shin Godzilla (2016), and the anime Weathering with You (2019).
After the screening, I recommend having dinner at one of the restaurants in the Shinjuku district. If you want to keep the cinematic vibe going, head over to the Kabukicho district, whose neon streets appear in countless Japanese films, series, and video games. At night, the area has a unique atmosphere that evokes the futuristic Tokyo known from the movie Lost in Translation (2003) or the Yakuza game series.
Your last full day in Tokyo will be spent in one of the city's most vibrant neighborhoods. Shibuya is a symbol of modern Japan—a place where the latest architectural trends, pop culture, and world-famous film locations collide. You'll visit the Olympic Museum, stroll past the award-winning public restrooms from THE TOKYO TOILET project, snap a photo at the world's most famous pedestrian crossing, and wrap up the day at one of the best observation decks in Tokyo.
From Higashi-ginza Station, take the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line to Kasumigaseki Station and continue on the Ginza Line to Gaienmae Station.
The total journey takes approximately 30 minutes.
The museum is located directly opposite the National Stadium, which hosted the 2021 Summer Olympic Games. The exhibition charts the history of the Olympic Games from ancient Greece to the present day. A large part is dedicated to the Tokyo Olympics in 1964 and 2021, their organization, and the technologies used during the games. You will find original Olympic torches, medals, sports equipment, and interactive stations where you can try out various disciplines.
Recommended duration of visit: 1.5 hours.
Admission: 500 ¥.
Before moving on, I recommend a short walk around the stadium designed by architect Kengo Kuma. The wooden elements and abundance of greenery represent one of the most successful examples of contemporary Japanese architecture.
Head out on foot towards the Harajuku and Shibuya districts.
Along the way, you can visit several public toilets created as part of THE TOKYO TOILET project, which involved leading Japanese architects including Tadao Ando, Kengo Kuma, and Shigeru Ban.
The most famous are the transparent toilets in Haru-no-Ogawa Community Park. The colored glass walls are transparent when the toilets are empty and automatically become opaque once locked.
Film trivia:
THE TOKYO TOILET project was made famous by the film Perfect Days (2023) directed by Wim Wenders. The main character, Hirayama, works as a cleaner for these architecturally unique public toilets. The film won the Best Actor award at the Cannes Film Festival and was nominated for an Oscar for Best International Feature Film.
I recommend trying one of the restaurants around Cat Street or Harajuku station.
The price of lunch ranges between 1,200–2,000 ¥.
If you have a sweet tooth, you can taste the famous Japanese crepes or fluffy soufflé pancakes.
It's about a 15-minute walk from Harajuku to Shibuya.
The most famous dog statue in Japan stands in front of Shibuya Station.
The story of the loyal dog Hachiko has become a symbol of devotion and inspired several film adaptations.
Just a few meters from the statue lies the world's most famous pedestrian crossing.
Up to three thousand people cross the intersection during a single green light, and the spot has become a symbol of modern Tokyo.
I recommend crossing it a few times from different directions and then taking photos of it from one of the surrounding viewpoints.
Film trivia:
The dog's story was filmed as Hachiko Monogatari (1987), and later an American remake, Hachi: A Dog's Tale (2009), was made starring Richard Gere. The crossing has appeared in films such as: Lost in Translation (2003), The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift (2006), Resident Evil: Retribution (2012), and Weathering with You (2019). It is also one of the most frequently depicted locations in anime and video games set in Tokyo.
The highlight of the day is a visit to one of the most modern observatories in the city. Located at a height of approximately 230 meters, it features an open-air rooftop terrace with panoramic views of all of Tokyo.
I recommend booking your entry about an hour before sunset.
On a clear day, you can see Mount Fuji, Tokyo Tower, and Tokyo Skytree.
Recommended visit duration: 1.5–2 hours.
Admission: from ¥2,700.
Film trivia:
The highlight of the day is a visit to one of the most modern observatories in the city.
Located at a height of approximately 230 meters, it features an open-air rooftop terrace with panoramic views of all of Tokyo.
Tip – Magnet by Shibuya109
If you don't want to wait for your Shibuya Sky reservation time or are looking for an alternative view of the crossing, I recommend the MAGNET by SHIBUYA109 CROSSING VIEW observation deck.
For a lower admission fee, it offers one of the best views of the famous intersection.
I recommend spending your last evening in Tokyo right here in Shibuya. There are hundreds of restaurants to choose from – ranging from traditional Japanese eateries and izakayas to modern fusion cuisine. If you want to wrap up your trip in style, pick a restaurant with a view of the city's night skyline.
The last day is dedicated to flying home. If your flight time allows, you can still enjoy the morning atmosphere of Tokyo, have breakfast at one of the local cafes, or buy some last-minute souvenirs. After that, you'll head to Haneda Airport for your journey back.
After breakfast, check out of your hotel. If your flight is in the afternoon or evening, I recommend using the luggage storage at the hotel or one of the lockers at the metro stations or Tokyo Station.
If you have a few extra hours, you can take a walk around the Ginza district.
I recommend visiting:
- Ginza Six – a modern shopping center with designer shops and a rooftop garden.
- Itoya Ginza – a multi-story stationery store that is a paradise for lovers of writing supplies and Japanese design.
- Tsutaya Books Ginza – a bookstore with a wide selection of books on film, photography, architecture, and Japanese culture.
If you haven't managed to buy any movie souvenirs during your trip, this is your last chance.
Transfer to Haneda Airport
Walk from the hotel to Higashi-ginza Station.
Option 1 – Keikyū Line (recommended)
From Higashi-ginza Station, take a direct train on the Keikyū Airport Line.
Travel time: approximately 35 minutes
Price: approximately ¥550
This is the fastest and easiest connection without any transfers.
Option 2 – Tokyo Monorail
Take the metro to Hamamatsuchō Station, then continue on the Tokyo Monorail.
Travel time: approximately 40 minutes
Price: approximately ¥700
The monorail offers beautiful views of Tokyo Bay and the harbor, making it popular among visitors to the city.
Haneda Airport (HND)
I recommend arriving at the airport at least 3 hours before your flight, especially if you are traveling to Europe.
Haneda Airport is one of the most modern airports in the world and offers a variety of shops and restaurants.
If you have time left, you can visit:
- Edo Market Place in Terminal 3, designed to look like a historic Japanese town,
- the observation deck with a view of the runway,
- shops with limited edition Japanese sweets, teas, or anime souvenirs.
