Tokyo Day Trip

The blend of modern technology and ancient tradition that characterizes Japan's largest city, Tokyo, is only part of what make Tokyo so appealing. The city is at once on the forefront of the modern world and yet full of the mystery of the old world and the customs that have shaped Japan for thousands of years. Good day trips in Tokyo should include a trip to historic Tokyo as well as time spent enjoying the popular local hot spots and futuristic Tokyo.

Tsukiji Fish Market

If you have just one day for a day trip to Tokyo, you will want to set your alarm for the earliest possible time you can manage. Head right away to the Tsukiji Fish Market, where you can try fresh sushi and other seafood delights at Japan's largest wholesale fish market. With your belly full of fish and maybe a cup of tea, head next to the Tokyo National Museum, located in the Ueno section of Tokyo. The Tokyo National Museum is widely considered to be the country's most important museum and is a must for a day trip to Tokyo. Transportation throughout the city is most efficient for visitors via the city bus. Bus lines run throughout the day and almost everywhere in the city.

Asakusa

Asakusa is considered to be the best place in Tokyo to sample old world Japan and is a highlight of many day trips in Tokyo. Your Tokyo tour of Asakusa should include a stroll down the ancient streets, as well as a quick trip to the Sensoji Temple. Sensoji Temple was completed in 645 AD, making it Japan's oldest temple and an incredible stop on any Tokyo tour. Enjoy a snack or even lunch in the surrounding shops or cafes.

Shiodome

From old Tokyo, your Tokyo tour can next lead you to one of the newest sections of Tokyo called Shiodome. Shiodome is the perfect section of the city for shopping, seeing a movie, or eating in some of Japan's most exclusive restaurants. The area is punctuated by long skyscrapers and the streets are full of the Japanese business class. Many restaurants in Shiodome overlook the water, making this an excellent place to have an elegant dinner. If you have time in the afternoon, you can take advantage of the shopping, as Shiodome is known for hosting the most modern shops in Tokyo. Many day trips in Tokyo focus mainly on Shiodome and the surrounding area.

Odaiba

A day trip to Tokyo with a trip to the Oedo Onsen Monogatari, a hot spring theme park, can be incredibly relaxing. From Shiodome, take a ride on the Yurikamome elevated train across the rainbow bridge to Odaiba, an entertainment district with more shopping and tourist attractions. While there are multiple ways to enjoy Odaiba, the Oedo Onsen Monogatari hot springs is an excellent way to wind down your busy day of Japan sightseeing. The hot springs are open late night, closed only from 2 a.m. to 5 a.m., and are fed by hot spring water from a depth of 1400 meters. The hot springs are meant to mirror the mineral baths of seventeenth century Japan and are increasingly popular among families and adults alike.

Shibuya, Harajuku, Meiji

A day trip to the Shibuya and Harajuku areas of Tokyo will offer even more excellent shopping. Plenty of theatres and other modern entertainment lines the streets as well, plenty to fill an entire day in Tokyo. The nearby Meiji Shrine is located within walking distance from the shopping and entertainment district and offers a nice reprieve from the bustle of modern Tokyo. The Meiji Shrine is dedicated to the first emperor of modern Japan, Emperor Meiji.

Although your Japan sightseeing may end here, you'll have seen some of the best highlights of Tokyo and even Japan. Japan sightseeing can be enjoyed in a number of ways, so be sure to keep an eye out for a caf` or shop that catches your attention along the way.