2 DAYS IN TOKYO
WHAT TO DO IN TOKYO JAPAN FOR 2 DAYS
Our 2 Days in Tokyo adventure is here. Tokyo is the capital of Japan, the most popular metropolis and a busy city that is famous for its fashion style, shopping, traditional arts, sculpture, distinctive food, anime’s, electronics, and video games. But one thing, to know more about Japan’s culture is to visit shrines or temples. Famous of which is, Meiji Jingu Shrine and Senso-Ji Temple nearby the city. Tokyo city can be seen in a wide view at the top of the Tokyo Metropolitan Tower. Aside from Tokyo’s tallest buildings and towers, you can visit the scenic garden at Shinjuku Gyoen with its beautiful landscapes and design.
2 DAYS IN TOKYO - CONTENTS
FIRST TIME VISIT TO JAPAN ON WINTER SEASON
Our first-time visit to Japan was during the winter season. We were excited, as this would be the first time experiencing a winter season, for us we have prepared the winter customs (jackets, fleece, and boots). We went to Japan in the month of January, where the average temperature was around 10° Celsius in the day and 5° Celsius in the evening. It was a good memorable experience since it was our first time visiting a country during its winter season. During our 2 days in Tokyo. we notice most of the trees lose their leaves, people are wearing thick clothes, the days will be shorter and nights will be longer. And the good thing was, as we explored different places and walking from one point to another was an easy thing, it was not hot and we don’t see any sign of sweat in our body.
HOW TO TRAVEL FROM PHILIPPINES TO JAPAN
There are two (2) ways to travel from the Philippines to Japan. Flying from Mactan-Cebu and Manila both have direct flights to Tokyo, Japan. There are two international airports in Tokyo, Haneda, and Narita. But most of the international airlines arrive and depart at Narita International Airport. Based on the geographical map the distance between Mactan-Cebu to Tokyo is around 3,200km while Manila to Tokyo is at 3,000km. Approximate flying time for these flights will take around 4 hours and 30 minutes. Below is the detailed flight schedule of the different airlines that operate direct flights from the Philippines to Tokyo-Narita.
MANILA TO TOKYO
Philippine Airlines
6:40 AM
Cebu Pacific
6:15 AM
Japan Airlines
9:40 AM
All Nippon Airways
9:30 AM
CEBU-MACTAN TO TOKYO
Philippine Airlines
8:05 AM
2:50 PM
Cebu Pacific
2:40 AM
NARITA INT'L AIRPORT
Narita International Airport is one of Tokyo’s international airports which is now known as the New Tokyo International Airport. The airport is located further outside of Tokyo which is around 60 kilometers from downtown Tokyo. Most of the international passengers arrive and depart at this airport which makes it the busiest airport in Japan. We depart at Mactan-Cebu International Airport and arrived at Narita International Airport passed 8 a.m., we observed there where fewer arriving passengers. The immigration check and clearance wherein smooth processes. Along the way, we observed that there were parts inside the airport that is under renovations. We were then told that because they were preparing for the 2020 Olympics. Overall, Narita international airport has everything you expected with the range of a good selection of shops and eateries.
HOW TO GO FROM NARITA AIRPORT TO TOKYO
Since the airport is located further outside of Tokyo, going to Tokyo gives us three (3) options. Below is the common use mode of transportation in getting there.
Train
The fastest way to get from Narita Airport to Tokyo is by train. There is a direct train that travels between Narita Airport to Tokyo Station. Most of the travelers ride the JR Narita Express, it is a one-way journey that cost around ¥3,000 for almost 1-hour travel. Alternatively, some commuters are riding the Keisei Main Line which is cheaper with a one-way journey cost of ¥1,100. But this train will terminate at Nippori, which means you need to transfer train Nippori to reach Tokyo.
Limousine Bus
There is a limousine bus that operates between Narita Airport to Tokyo. The limousine bus ticket counter is located on Narita Airport lobby in terminal 1, 2, and 3. Travel time duration is around 1 hour and 30 minutes and the fare for one adult is ¥2,000.
Taxi
Riding a taxi from Narita airport is also one of the available options to get to Tokyo. but most of the budget-friendly travelers won’t take this option because of the fare is quite expensive. The average one-way fare from Narita airport to Tokyo is ¥20,000. and travel time duration is at 1 hour and 10 minutes.
For us, we choose the option of taking the train. We purchased the tickets for Keisei Main Line and head straight to the train platform.
TOKYO TRANSPORTATION
The main transportation in Tokyo is by subway and train. Tokyo metro subway and railway system is the most highly efficient public transportation system within the humongous city of Tokyo. For all foreign visitors, the metro subway system is quite easy to use as instructions are all written in English which makes it easy to navigate. Staff attendants were also helpful in helping travelers to navigate. It is the most convenient mode of transportation to go around and explore different tourist spots in the city. The system is quite easy to follow and understand even if you are not familiar with public transportation. It is recommended to purchase the Suica/Pasmo (IC) card which is used to pay when you ride the subway. The traveler will just show tap card upon entering the metro at the gate and repeat at the exit and the system deducts value from your card depending on ride length. The metro system was extremely timely and fast which makes it efficient to travel. The IC card makes it convenient to use as you can save your time when you purchase a ticket at the machine and standing in line to buy one with cash. Also inside the subway and platform is very clean. During our 2 days in Tokyo, what can we say is that overall the subway system is built with state of the art technology developed to deliver quality public transportation system.
Places we have been
Although it was short, our 2 days in Tokyo, we have visited some of the most popular places like Asakusa Temple, Meiji Shrine, Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, Takeshita Street, Shibuya Crossing and Tokyo Tower.
Sensō-ji Temple
2 Chome-3-1 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo
Entrance Fee: FREE
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM (DAILY)
It is the oldest Buddhist temple in Tokyo located in the Asakusa district. The Buddhist temple is rich in cultural and traditional history in Japan. Beside the temple are the five-story pagoda, gardens with monuments, and two main gates. The temple’s architecture and shrines are something to look for. Before going inside the temple, it’s customary to cleanse your hands and around your mouth with water. Around the temple are many local street foods and souvenir shops. Most of the time the place is crowded due to the number of tourists who visit the area. When you are in Tokyo, this temple is one of the most visited places. Tokyo Skytree and Asahi building is also located nearby this temple.
How To Get Sensoji Temple:
Located in the Taito City of Tokyo, the nearest train station is at Asakusa which is just 10 minutes to reach the temple. Take the Exit 1 of Asakusa station and walk through to the main entrance of Kaminarimon Gate Senso-Ji where you will notice the big red lantern in between the statues. Walk along the Nakamise shopping street and in the end, you will reach the temple.
Meiji Jingu SHRINE
1-1 Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya City, Tokyo
Entrance Fee: FREE
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM (DAILY)
It is the shrine and a religious place built in honor of Emperor Meiji known as the great emperor of Japan. The shrine is inside the huge forest located within the City of Shibuya. Once you enter into the shrine, you will notice the large Torii Gate. Along the way, barrels of Sake and Wine are being displayed. Like most of the temples in Japan, before you enter, you need to clean by washing your hands and around your mouth with water. Once inside the shrine, priest and maidens are wearing traditional dress and while performing rituals and prayers. It is a very peaceful shrine, where most of the locals do pray and worship. It is highly recommended to visit the place to learn the history and cultural traditions of Japan.
How To Get Meiji Jingu Shrine:
The nearest access to the shrine is by Harajuku Station-JR Yamanote Line, take west exit and head through Jingu Bashi bridge (Harajuku Bridge). The shrine is just 10 minutes walk from the train station.
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
2 Chome-8-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku
Entrance Fee: FREE
Opening Hours: 8:30am-5:00pm (Monday-Friday)
It is Japan’s government building that offers a FREE observation room access to the 360-degree panoramic view of the City. It is one of the tallest buildings in Tokyo which is located in Shinjuku. The building is around 200m in height which offers great experience in Tokyo city view. There is two observation deck located on the south and north of the building. Inside the observation deck are souvenir gift shops and small cafe restaurant. For you to access, visitors will need to queue on the line and have a quick security check before entering the lift which brings you to the observation deck. The best reason to visit the building is that, its FREE.
How To Get To Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building:
The closest access to the building is the Tochomae Station-Toei Ōedo Line, which is just a 5 minutes walk into the building. Otherwise, you can take 15 minutes to walk from the west exit of Shinjuku station.
Takeshita Street
1 Chome-17 Jingumae, Shibuya
Entrance Fee: FREE
Opening Hours: 24 Hours (DAILY)
This is the most popular street in Harajuku, where most of the visitors are tourists and local youngsters in Japan. It is located just in front of the Harajuku station. The long stretch of these streets consists mostly of clothing shops, cafes, and bars. Famous foods are sugary crepes which are worth to try for, animal-themed cafes and also the huge multi-story Daiso shop is here. Some people are dressed in costumes like Cosplay which can be crowded most of the time. If you like watching people in color and checking funky shops, this is the place to be. The street is a relatively nearby walk to the famous Shibu Crossing and Meije Shrine.
How To Get To Takeshita Street:
The closest train station is the Harajuku Station-JR Yamanote Line, which is just around 3 minutes from the station. Take Takeshita exit and cross the street, there you will see the entrance of Takeshita street.
Hachikō Memorial Statue & Shibuya Crossing
1 Chome-2 Dogenzaka, Shibuya City, Tokyo
Entrance Fee: FREE
Opening Hours: 24hours (Daily)
It is the statue of the famous story of the loyal dog in Japan. Hachiko’s story is very touching and heartbreaking where the dog is seen as very loyal to his owner even after owners’ death. For those who have read or seen the movie-Hachi: A Dog’s Tale is worth watching for. The statue was created in honor of his great loyalty and fidelity to man. it is located in front of the world busiest street crossing of Shibuya. The place is known now as the common meeting point where you will notice a huge crowd filled with tourists and locals.
Right next to the statue is the Shibuya crossing, where vehicles stop in all directions a large number of pedestrians crossing on the street. The best place to view people crossing is from the Starbucks Coffee located at the Shibuya Tsutaya. From here you will see pedestrians crossing in all directions.
How To Get There
The nearest access is the Shibuya Station, a subway located at the heart of Shibuya City. Take the Hachiko Exit walk for about 5 minutes to reach Hachiko’s status.
Tokyo Tower
4 Chome-2-8 Shibakoen, Minato City, Tokyo
Observation Deck Entrance Fee: ¥900/person
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM (DAILY)
Tokyo Tower is a communication tower used for television and radio broadcasting in Japan. The tower height is around 300m which is considered the second tallest tower next to Tokyo Skytree. The tower is inspired by France iconic Eiffel Tower, on top, there are shops and souvenir items for all visitors. The entrance is quite expensive if you are interested in watching a good view of the city and a glimpse of Mount Fuji this could be the best place given the clouds are clear. The observation deck has some shops and souvenir items which you can consider buying. The tower is interesting when visiting at night where you will saw the lights consisting of red and different colors.
How To Get There
The closest access to Tokyo Tower is via Akabanebashi Station-Toei Oedo Line. Take the Akabanebashi Exit, from here the tower will be visible, cross the street and walk for about 10 minutes to reach the tower.
Zo-joji Temple
4 Chome-7-35 Shibakoen, Minato City, Tokyo
Entrance Fee: FREE
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (DAILY)
It is the Buddhist temple located in the City of Minato. right next to the Tokyo Tower and just beside Shiba Park. It is one of the temples where visitors are allowed to go inside. Inside the temple is peaceful and calm where most of the visitors pray. Just outside the temple is a memorial place where you will see some stone children statues (jizos) with red bonnets and bibs. Also, there is a cemetery, mausoleum, and museum honoring the late Tokugawa Shoguns.
How To Get There
There is 4 subway station located nearby the temple, Onariomon Station, Daimon Station, Hamamatsucho Station, and Akabanebashi Station. Of all 4 the closest access to Tokyo Tower is via Onariomon Station-Toei Mita Line. Take the A1 exit and walk for about 5 minutes to reach the temple.
WHere we stay
IRORI Nihonbashi Hostel and Kitchen
5-13 Nihonbashiyokoyamacho, Chuo City, Tokyo
Room Rate: ¥4200/night
This hostel is a 7-story building. The ground floor is the main lobby and where the shared kitchen and dining area. The remaining floor consists of both mixed and female dormitory rooms. The 7th-story smoking and lounge area. Visitors can choose from bunk beds or single beds. The accommodation includes a Wi-Fi, shared lounge, shared bathroom, and luggage storage. On our 2 days in Tokyo we stayed on Bunk Bed mixed dormitory room which is clean and beds are ready upon check-in. The shared bathroom is well maintained as well as the kitchen.
How To Get There
It conveniently located to two 3 nearby train station Bakuroyokoyama, Bakurochō and Higashi-Nihombashi) which is about 5 minutes’ walk to the hostel.
TOKYO AUTHENTIC FOODS AND DESSERTS WE HAVE EATEN
160-0022 Tokyo, Shinjuku City, Shinjuku, 3 Chome−34−11 B1F・6F ピースビル
Opening Hours: 24 hours (DAILY)
ICHIRAN is one of the famous Ramen restaurants in Japan. This is the most queue restaurant when ordering Ramen. Most of the time people will wait for about 20-30 minutes to get serve. Before you will get seated, you will need to order at the electronic counter machine. From here you will need to choose the number of Ramen options and pay for the order. Once inside you will be seated on one of the single cubicles where you will need to wait for your order to be served. The service is quite fast and good. Likewise, the food is delicious, especially when slurping the noodles and the soup which is rich in flavor. It is a must-try ramen restaurant in Japan. Please check our blog on how to order ramen in Ichiran Japan.
Price: Regular – ¥890 | Special – ¥1400
Sawawa Asakusa
Matcha Soft Ice Cream
2 Chome-2-10 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (DAILY)
The shop is located within Asakusa which is just opposite of Hōzōmon Gate. Sawawa sells Japanese matcha sweets such as biscuits, sponge cake, crackers, and soft-ice cream. Visitors can seat inside the shop while enjoying a bite snack of green tea. The green tea ice cream is served in the soft cone which is yummy and the taste is rich in green tea flavor. A must try soft serve ice cream when visiting at Sensoji temple.
Price: ¥400
Kikuya
Yaki-Dango
1-20-1, Asakusa, Taito Tokyo
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Tuesday to Friday) | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Saturday & Sunday) | Closed Monday
Dango is a Japanese dessert in a form of balls which is special because if its texture. These are like glutinous balls made up of rice flour, with some red bean paste inside. They are usually dipped into a sweets paste. When eaten its texture is like gummy and soft. The Dango is quite pleasing and interesting and a must-try dessert when visiting Japan.
Price: ¥400
FINAL THOUGHTS
Tokyo is the place to be, from shopping, entertainment, food, and beautiful spots. During our 2 days in Tokyo was fun as we have seen and experienced new things that add to our memorable adventures in Tokyo, especially trying and eating Japanese food which we really like. We were overwhelmed by the high modern technology and how Tokyo turned out to be a stabilized city. Though the city is modern and crowded still history remains intact to which tourists nowadays can still see what Japanese culture looks like. After are visit in Tokyo we went for overnight sleeper bus from Tokyo to Kyoto, for more details please check here.
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2 Days In Tokyo Itinerary
DAY 1
- 09:30 – Arrived at Narita Intl Airport T2
- 10:00 – Purchase Train Tickets
Narita-Ueno (Keisei Main Line) - 11:00 – Alight Nippori Station
Ride train to Shinjuku - 11:15 – Alight at Shinjuku Station
- 11:30 – Head for Lunch
Ichiran Ramen - 12:00 – Walk 500m
Tokyo Metro Government Building - 12:30 – Head Observation Deck
Panoramic View of Tokyo - 13:15 – Ride Train to Shinjuku
Head to Hostel - 13:45 – Check-IN
IRORI Nihonbashi Hostel & Kitchen - 14:30 – Head to Asakusa
Toei Subway Asakusa Line - 15:00 – Explore Nakamise Street
Senso-ji Temple - 17:30 – Walk to Hoppy Street
- 18:00 – Dinner
Asakusa Monja Teppan Daikichi - 19:30 – Walk to Don Quijote Store
Shop and Explore - 20:30 – Head to Asuma Bashi Bridge
Check Tokyo Skytree
Asahi Beer Golden Statue - 21:00 – Head to Hostel
Rest
DAY 2
- 07:00 – Wake Up
- 08:00 – Breakfast
- 08:45 – Check-Out Hostel
- 09:15 – Head to Meiji Shrine
- 09:40 – Explore Meiji Shrine
- 10:15 – Walk to Harajuku
- 10:20 – Expore Takeshita Street
Shop at Daiso - 11:00 – Walk 1000m
Shibuya - 11:30 – Lunch
Ramen at Shibuya - 12:15 – Walk to Shibuya Crossing
Hachiko Memorial Statue - 13:00 – Starbucks Tsutaya
View Shibuya Crossing - 13:30 – Explore Shibuya
Shop Don Quijote - 15:00 – Head to Tokyo Tower
Visit Zo-joji Temple - 16:30 – Head to Tokyo Station
- 17:00 – Explore Tokyo Station
Head to Kitte Shopping Mall - 18:00 – Check Marunouchi Illumination
Marunouchi Naka-Dori St - 18:45 – Dinner
Shop and Kitte Grocery Store
Head to Bus Station - 21:00 – Overnight Bus To Kyoto
