Model Courses for Foreigners Sightseeing in Tokyo! 3 Courses to enjoy in different patterns

Tokyo is a fascinating tourist destination where Japanese traditions and modern culture merge.

For foreigners in particular, the city offers a diverse range of experiences, from historical shrines and temples to cutting-edge pop culture and world-class gastronomy.

This article proposes a model Tokyo sightseeing course for visitors from abroad.

Each course is designed to maximize your enjoyment of Tokyo’s diverse attractions, including history, culture, pop culture, and cuisine. We hope you will find them useful in your Tokyo sightseeing.

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Model courses for foreign visitors to Tokyo

Making a plan is important to have a fulfilling sightseeing tour of Tokyo in a short period of time.

In this issue, we will introduce a model course for sightseeing in Tokyo according to three themes. First, a course to experience Japanese traditions, second, a course to fully enjoy pop culture, and finally, a course to enjoy Tokyo’s gourmet food.

We hope you will find these courses helpful.

Model Course 1|Tokyo Traditional Experience

This 3-day/2-night model course is recommended for those who wish to experience Japanese traditions, culture and history.

Experience good old Japanese culture while touring historical sightseeing spots such as Asakusa and Kamakura.

Day 1

On the first day, we will explore Asakusa and Tokyo Skytree in downtown Tokyo.

Visit Kaminarimon and Senso-ji Temple|Stroll along Nakamise Street

Pass through the Kaminarimon, a landmark of Asakusa, and visit Senso-ji Temple.

Visitors can enjoy the temple’s uniquely austere atmosphere while drawing omikuji, or walk along Nakamise-dori and look for Japanese souvenirs.

仲見世通りで日本の伝統工芸品を見たり、団子やおせんべいなどの和菓子を味わいながら、日本の風情を楽しんでください。

I recommend it.

Store Name: Daikokuya Tempura
Address: 1-38-10 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan
Phone Number: 03-3844-1111
Hours: 11:00 – 20:00
Official Website: http://www.tempura.co.jp/

Store Name: Asakusa Imahan
Address: 1-19-7 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan
Phone Number: 03-3841-1411
Hours: 11:30-14:30 17:00-20:00
Official Website: https://imahan-honten.co.jp/

Boarding a Sumida River Cruise|Tour of Tokyo Sky Tree

Head from Asakusa to the Sumida River and enjoy a Sumida River cruise. You can sit back, relax, and enjoy sightseeing while enjoying the Tokyo cityscape from the water.

After the cruise, travel to Tokyo Sky Tree and enjoy the panoramic view of Tokyo from the observation deck.

At the Tokyo Sky Tree TEMBO Kairo, you can enjoy the view of Tokyo from 450 meters above the ground. After dark, you can enjoy the lights of the Sky Tree from Tokyo Solamachi.

I recommend it.

Name: Sky Tree “Sky Restaurant 634”
Address: 1-1-2 Oshiage, Sumida-ku, Tokyo 131-0045 345 Tokyo Sky Tree TEMBO Deck Floor
Phone: 03-3623-0634
Hours: 12:00 – 14:00 17:30 – 19:00 30 min.
Official website: https://restaurant.tokyo-skytree.jp/

2nd day

On the second day, visit the museum and zoo, and then head to Kamakura.

Tokyo National Museum and Ueno Zoo

On the second day, visit the Ueno area. First, we recommend that you visit the Tokyo National Museum to get a taste of Japanese history and culture.

Afterwards, take a stroll through the Ueno Zoo, located just a few blocks away, and enjoy a relaxing moment while watching the animals.

A stroll in Ueno Onshi Park instead of the zoo is also recommended.

I recommend it.

Store Name: Mihashi
Address: 4-9-7 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo 110-0005, Japan
Phone Number: 03-3831-0384
Hours: 10:30am – 9:00pm
Official Website: http://www.mihashi.co.jp/

Day trip to Kamakura

Kamakura, which can be reached by train from Tokyo in about an hour, is a beautiful old city where history and nature are in harmony.

The “Great Buddha of Kamakura (Kotokuin)” is the symbol of Kamakura. Visitors can see the majestic form of this 11.4 meter high statue of Buddha.

Also, take a stroll in the precincts of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, located in the center of Kamakura, and enjoy the elegant streetscape of Kamakura.

I recommend it.

Store Name: Creative Japanese Cuisine Kondo
Address: 1-8-36 Yukinoshita, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-0005, Japan Tsutaya Bldg. 1F #3
Phone Number: 04-6725-0301
Hours: 11:30-15:00 17:30-21:00
Official Website: https://www. kamakura-kondo.com/

3rd day

On the third day, enjoy the beautiful garden created in the city at the Imperial Palace Garden.

Imperial Palace Outer Gardens|Nijubashi Bridge and East Gardens

Start your last day with a visit to the outer gardens of the Imperial Palace.

The vast grounds of the outer gardens of the Imperial Palace can be freely explored. The Nijubashi Bridge, a popular photo spot, is especially recommended.

Next, proceed to the East Gyoen, which can be visited on foot.

The East Gyoen, where the main citadel of Edo Castle once stood, is a beautiful garden with seasonal flowers. The plum and cherry blossoms in spring and the autumn leaves in fall are spectacular. Nature in the midst of the city, as well as the remains of buildings and stone walls that remind us of history, are also highlights of the area.

I recommend it.

Store Name: Ginza Kyubei
Address: 8-7-6 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0061, Japan
Phone Number: 03-3571-6523
Hours: 11:30-14:00 17:00-22:00
Official Website: http://www.kyubey.jp/

Ginza shopping and fine Japanese cuisine

Finish off your last day with some shopping and dining in Ginza, Tokyo’s most sophisticated area.

Ginza is an upscale shopping district with the world’s most prestigious brands.

ショッピングを楽しんだ後は、銀座の高級和食店でちょっとリッチな贅沢な食事を楽しむのがおすすめです。銀座には、ミシュラン星を獲得している名店や、伝統的な和食を提供する老舗が数多く揃っています。

Restaurants offering traditional Japanese food culture, such as sushi, tempura, and kaiseki cuisine, are especially recommended as they offer first-class Japanese food.

Finish your Tokyo sightseeing tour by enjoying authentic Japanese cuisine prepared by top chefs in a chic and relaxed atmosphere.

Pop Culture Course

Japanese anime and otaku culture are very popular among foreigners.

This 3-day/2-night course is perfect for those who want to focus on pop culture during their visit to Tokyo. Experience the latest trends and pop culture in Tokyo.

Day 1

Day 1 is the center of Japanese anime and otaku culture! We will start from Akihabara.

Akihabara Otaku Culture Experience

The first day of sightseeing in Tokyo is a mecca for world-famous otaku! Let’s start from Akihabara.

Akihabara is home to stores related to anime, manga, figures, and video games. It is truly the center of Japanese subculture.

Even just walking down the street, you will see huge advertisements depicting anime and video game characters.

You can also find the latest figures, cards, and other collectibles at electronics retailers and specialty video game and anime stores.

Akihabara’s attractions are not limited to goods and anime stores. You can enjoy eating and drinking at unique cafes such as maid cafes and ani-song cafes.

I recommend it.

Store Name: “Meidorimin Akihabara Honten”
Address: Sumiyoshi Bldg. 6F, 3-16-17 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0021, Japan
Phone Number: 03-6744-6726
Business Hours: 11:30 – 23:00
Official Website: https://maidreamin.com/ shop/detail.html?id=1

Kanda Myojin, a sacred place for anime

Located within walking distance of Akihabara, Kanda Myojin is an essential spot for anime fans.

Kanda Myojin is a very historic shrine that has been cherished in Tokyo since ancient times, but in recent years it has also attracted attention as a sacred site for the anime “Love Live! has also attracted attention in recent years as a sacred site for the anime Love Live ! It is a very attractive place to enjoy Japanese pop culture and feel the history of central Tokyo.

Within the precincts of Kanda Myojin, visitors can experience traditional Japanese culture through the seasonal Japanese atmosphere and the beautiful architecture of the main shrine and shrine pavilions.

A visit to Kanda Myojin, where anime and history come together, will make for a fulfilling day.

I recommend it.

Store Name: Shibuya Gonpachi
Address: Floor A E. Space Tower 14F, 3-6 Maruyamacho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0044, Japan
Hours: 11:30am-3:30pm (lunch time until 3pm)
Official Website: https://gonpachi.jp/shibuya/

2nd day

On the second day, you will be in the heart of Japan’s youth culture! Take a stroll through Harajuku and Takeshita-dori.

A Touch of Pop Culture in Harajuku and Takeshita-dori

The second day will start at Takeshita Street in Harajuku, a center of youth culture and trends.

Famous as a mecca for street fashion, Takeshita-dori is a place overflowing with colorful fashions and the unique styles of Japanese youth.

It is also a place where various sweet stores and general stores line the streets. Harajuku’s crepe stores are very famous.

There are many Instagram-worthy spots, so you can feel the vibrancy of Japan’s youth just by visiting. Along Takeshita-dori Avenue, small stores are densely packed, and you can also find unique and unusual accessories and kawaii sundries.

If you like Japanese fashion and pop culture, Harajuku is a must-visit spot.

Strolling along Omotesando

After enjoying Takeshita-dori Avenue, you can extend your visit to the Omotesando area.

Omotesando is an area lined with fashion brands and high-end stores that has a different charm from Harajuku, with a mature and relaxed atmosphere. It is a perfect place to enjoy shopping, with world-famous brands and high-end fashion brands from Japan.

Omotesando is also lined with fashionable cafes and restaurants, making it an easy area to take a break if you get tired between shopping trips.

Enjoying both Harajuku and Omotesando will allow you to experience Tokyo’s diverse culture in a single day.

I recommend it.


Restaurant Name: Japanese Cuisine TAIGETSU
Address: B1F Sekine Bldg. 3-13-1 Kita-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-0061 Tel: 03-6450-5991
Hours: 11:30-14:00 18:00-23:00
Official Website: https://tagetsu. tokyo/

Store name: tonkatsu.jp Omotesando
Address: FN Building 1F, 3-9-9 Kita-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-0061, Japan
Phone number: 03-6427-4910
Hours: 11:30 am – 3:30 pm 5:30 pm – 9:00 pm
Official website: https:// tonkatsu.jp/todays-menu

Enjoy the urban townscape of Daikanyama

In the afternoon, move from the Harajuku/Omotesando area to Daikanyama for a more sophisticated urban atmosphere. Daikanyama is an area of fashionable boutiques and cafes.

In Daikanyama, it will be nice to relax and have tea in a cafe in a calm atmosphere. Also, a visit to a cultural spot such as Daikanyama Tsutaya Bookstore is highly recommended. Daikanyama Tsutaya is one of the most famous bookstores in Japan, with 700,000 books on display in its vast 2,300 tsubo (approximately 1,860 square meters) of space.

It is wonderful to purchase a book here, carefully selected by the concierge as a reminder of Japan. You can experience the urban lifestyle in this bookstore with its stylish atmosphere.

I recommend it.

Restaurant Name: Hacienda del Cielo
Address: 10-19F Sarugakucho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0033, Japan
Phone: 03-5457-1521
Hours: 11:30am – 11:00pm
Official Website: https://www.huge.co.jp/ restaurant/modern-mexicano/hacienda

Accommodation area: Shibuya or Harajuku area

3rd day

On the third day, experience the latest digital art that Japan is proud of in the world.

Latest Activity Experience|TeamLabo Borderless

On the third day, we recommend “TeamLab Borderless,” a cutting-edge art experience in Tokyo.

TeamLab Borderless is a facility where visitors can enjoy digital art and a fantastic space with sound and light using the latest technology.

This is an interactive facility, so the sense of presence is outstanding! The unique feature of this facility is that you can become one with the artworks and experience as if you have stepped into the art. The TeamLab Borderless art group, which has no boundaries, is a valuable experience that can only be enjoyed here.

Since this is a walking-type facility, it is recommended to visit with comfortable walking sneakers. At the Sketch Factory near TeamLab Borderless, there is also a factory where visitors can turn their drawings into goods using the Sketch Ocean method.

I recommend it.

Store Name: Sembikiya Sohonten Azabudai Hills
Address: Azabudai Hills Garden Plaza B B1F, 5-9-1 Toranomon, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-0001, Japan
Phone Number: 03-6809-1192
Opening Hours: 11:00 – 20:00
Official Website: https://www. sembikiya.co.jp/azabudai-hills/

Night View of Tokyo|Odaiba Sightseeing

After experiencing digital art at TeamLab Borderless, move to Odaiba to enjoy the beautiful view of Tokyo Bay.

お台場では、レインボーブリッジや東京タワーなど、東京の代表的なランドマークを一望できます。

Especially from dusk to night, the night view of Tokyo Bay is very beautiful and popular as a photo spot. At Odaiba Seaside Park, visitors can enjoy the contrast between the cityscape and the ocean while strolling along the seashore with a refreshing sea breeze.

The Odaiba area is also home to many shopping malls and restaurants, where you can dine while enjoying the night view.

In particular, you can enjoy dining at restaurants on the upper floors while enjoying the panoramic view of Tokyo’s nightscape. You can also enjoy shopping at DiverCity Tokyo.

Gourmet Course

I want to enjoy Japanese food culture to the fullest! That’s why I came to Japan! We propose a 3-day/2-night gourmet experience course for foreign tourists who want to enjoy Japan’s food culture to the fullest!

From Tokyo’s markets to fine Japanese cuisine, this plan will allow you to enjoy Japan’s culinary culture and fully appreciate the charms of Japan through food.

Day 1

The first day will start in Toyosu, where delicious food is gathered.

Tokyo’s Kitchen|Toyosu Market

The first day of our gourmet tour will take us to Toyosu Market, the “kitchen” of Tokyo. Toyosu Market is one of Japan’s largest markets for fresh produce and delicious food.

仲卸売場やセリを見学できるデッキが用意されており、市場の活気やセリの様子を感じることができます。

You can see the fresh produce on the tare and in the market from the viewing deck. Inside the Toyosu Market are sushi restaurants and seafood restaurants where you can taste the freshest seafood. How about enjoying fresh sashimi or sushi for breakfast?

Sushi items are fresh and varied! You can also enjoy such high-end ingredients as sea urchin, toro, and ikura (salmon roe). The freshness that only a market can offer allows you to enjoy high quality ingredients that you would not normally be able to enjoy.

I recommend it.

Store Name: Don Takumi
Address: 3F, Administration Facility Building, 6-6-1 Toyosu, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-0061, Japan
Phone Number: 03-6633-0026
Hours: 5:30am – 2:00pm
Official Website: https://www.tsukiji-dontaku.jp/

Store Name: Senri-Ken
Address: 3F, Fisheries Wholesale Building, 6-5-16 Toyosu, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-0061, Japan
Phone Number: 03-6633-0050
Hours: 5:00am – 1:00pm
Official Website: https://agy2.hannnari.com/coffee /

Enjoy history and Japanese food|Asakusa stroll

After experiencing Japanese food at the Toyosu Market, move on to Asakusa, where you can experience Tokyo’s traditions and cuisine. Asakusa is famous for its historical sights such as Senso-ji Temple, but it is also an attractive gourmet spot.

First, pass through the Kaminarimon gate and stroll down Nakamise-dori. Nakamise-dori is lined with stores selling traditional Japanese sweets and Japanese tea.

特に「雷おこし」や「人形焼」は、観光客に人気の伝統的なお菓子です。ランチタイムには、浅草の老舗の和食店で江戸の味を楽しむのがおすすめ。

There are many long-established restaurants serving tempura, soba, and unagi (eel), and you can enjoy the flavors that have been passed down from generation to generation. Tempura, in particular, is a typical Japanese dish of lightly crispy fried shrimp and vegetables served in dashi broth.

I recommend it.

Store Name: Ki no Niwa Asakusa
Address: 2-7-26 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo, 111-0032, Japan 1F, Asakusa Villa, Oyado Nono
Phone Number: 03-5830-1522
Hours: 11:00 – 21:00
Official Website: None

2nd day

On the second day, the course offers urban views of Tokyo and nature in the city.

Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building & Shinjuku Gyoen for a view of Tokyo

On the second day, enjoy the scenery and food of Tokyo in the Shinjuku area. First, enjoy the magnificent panoramic view of Tokyo at the observation deck of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. This spot is free and open to everyone.

Fuji and the Sky Tree, so you can feel the expanse of the Kanto Plain. The observatory also has a café, so you can relax and enjoy the view of Tokyo with a cup of coffee in hand.

Next, move on to Shinjuku and visit Shinjuku Gyoen.

The vast garden is planted with beautiful seasonal plants, allowing visitors to feel nature in the midst of the city. The cherry blossoms in spring and autumn leaves in fall are especially beautiful.

伝統的な日本庭園を眺めながら、東京の中心で静かな時間を過ごすことができます。自然豊かな環境での散策は、しばし都会の喧騒から離れてリフレッシュするのに最適です。

I recommend it.

Store Name: Robata Sakabanamachi Gogo Kagurazaka
Address: 4-4 Kagurazaka, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-0825, Japan
Phone Number: 03-5261-8550
Hours: Tuesday – Friday 16:30 – 00:00 Saturday and Sunday 14:00 – 23:00
Official Website: https://d-finger.com/

Shopping in Shibuya

In the afternoon, move from Shinjuku to Shibuya for shopping and dining. Shibuya is the center of Japanese youth culture and fashion. You will be able to experience the latest trendy items and Japan’s unique pop culture.

In addition, the Shibuya Scramble Crossing is a world-famous tourist spot, so it is sure to be an Instagram-worthy spot.

ショッピングの休憩時間には、渋谷のカフェやレストランがおすすめ。和食を現代風にアレンジした料理を楽しむことができるレストランや、和洋折衷のデザートが楽しめるカフェでゆっくりしましょう。

Get a taste of the latest Japanese fashion and food in Shibuya.

I recommend it.

Store Name: Katsuyoshi Shinjuku
Address: B1F Kdc Shibuya Building, 3-9-10 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0002, Japan
Phone Number: 050-3134-5712
Hours: 11:00am – 3:00pm 5:00pm – 9:00pm
Official Website: http://www. bodaijyu.co.jp/restaurant/shibuya/

3rd day

On the third day, enjoy fine Japanese cuisine and shopping in Ginza.

Fine Japanese cuisine|Lunch in Ginza

End the last day of your gourmet indulgence course with a sumptuous Japanese lunch in Ginza.

Ginza is both an upscale shopping area in Tokyo and home to some of the world’s most acclaimed Japanese restaurants.

Dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant or at a long-established restaurant that upholds a time-honored tradition will be a special memory.

高級和食は、味だけでなく、視覚でも食を楽しむという日本の食文化を存分に堪能できます。

After dinner in Ginza, take a stroll while enjoying shopping. We recommend the long-established Japanese sweets store in Nihonbashi, the UNIQLO Ginza store, and the MUJI Ginza store. It may also be a good idea to stroll around the rooftop garden of Ginza Six or walk through the sophisticated streets of Ginza to enjoy the atmosphere.

I recommend it.

Store Name: Tonkatsu Ginza Umebayashi
Address: B1, 7-8-1 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0061, Japan
Phone Number: 03-3571-0350
Hours: 11:30 – 20:00
Official Website: http://www.ginzabairin.com/

Store Name: Ginza UCHIYAMA
Address: Light Building B1, 2-12-3 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0061, Japan
Phone Number: 03-3541-6720
Hours: 11:30-14:30 18:00-21:00
Official Website: https://www.ginza- uchiyama.co.jp/

Recommended for foreigners using public transportation

In order to explore Tokyo, it is necessary to travel efficiently by public transportation. Cabs are an alternative, but they are expensive and congested.

Public transportation allows you to get around the tourist sites smoothly without worrying about traffic jams. Special tickets for foreign tourists are also available, which can save you time and money.

Tokyo Subway Ticket

Tokyo Subway Ticket is a convenient ticket that allows unlimited rides on all Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway lines.

It is more reasonably priced than the one-day pass and is recommended for foreign tourists touring Tokyo.

Ticket TypeCharge
Tokyo Subway 24-Hour Ticket” valid for 24 hoursAdults 800 yen (children 400 yen)
Tokyo Subway 48-Hour Ticket” valid for 48 hoursAdults 1,200 yen (children 600 yen)
Tokyo Subway 72-Hour Ticket” valid for 72 hoursAdults 1,500 yen (children 750 yen)

Tokyo Subway Ticket is a ticket for travelers, and is also available in combination with an admission ticket to tourist facilities such as Tokyo Skytree TEMBO Kairo and TEMBO DECK, Sunshine Aquarium/Sunshine 60 Observation Deck TEMBO PARK.

オンラインのほか、全国のセブン‐イレブン、ローソン、ミニストップ、ファミリーマートなどでも購入できます。

JR TOKYO Wide Pass (300)

The JR TOKYO Wide Pass is a convenient pass that allows unlimited travel on JR East’s JR lines in the Tokyo and surrounding areas.

It can also be used for day trips to Kamakura, Mt. Fuji, Nikko, and other tourist destinations a short distance from Tokyo.

The validity of the pass includes Shinkansen and limited express trains, allowing passengers to enjoy comfortable travel while reducing travel time.

You can purchase tickets at JR-EAST Train Reservation, at Travel Service Center counters in Japan, and at major train stations.

Ticket TypeCharge
Adults (12 years and older)15,000 yen
Children (6-11 years old)Adults 7,500 yen

Expiration date 3 consecutive days from the selected date

summary

Tokyo is a city where traditional Japanese culture and modern culture merge, and where visitors can experience a diverse range of foods, pop culture, Japanese traditions, and history. In this article, we have proposed three model courses for tourists from abroad.

First, the “Tokyo Traditional Experience Course” to experience historical Japanese traditions in Asakusa and Kamakura; next, the “Pop Culture Course” to enjoy Japanese pop culture in Akihabara, Harajuku, and Team Lab Borderless; and finally, the “Gourmet Indulgence Course” to enjoy fine Japanese cuisine in Toyosu Market and Ginza.

All of these courses are designed to last three days and two nights so that visitors can fully enjoy the attractions of Tokyo even in a short period of time.

Since this course uses public transportation, the Tokyo Subway Ticket and JR TOKYO Wide Pass can be used for efficient and reasonable travel.

Motenas Japan can also create a sightseeing course for you. Please contact us anytime you would like to create your own sightseeing course. We hope you will enjoy the world-class capital city of Japan, Tokyo, to the fullest.

Motenas Japan Official Site

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