Shibuya → Harajuku → Omotesando
12:30-18:00
Duration: 5 hours 30 minutes
Travel from Shibuya accommodation to Harajuku (12:30-12:45)
Explore Harajuku Takeshita Street (竹下通り) (12:45-14:15)
Walk to Omotesando and explore Omotesando Hills (表参道ヒルズ) (14:15-15:45)
Coffee break at THE ROASTERY BY NOZY COFFEE (15:45-16:45)
Continue exploring Omotesando boutiques and architecture (16:45-18:00)
💡 Direct ride, very frequent trains. Use the Takeshita Exit at Harajuku Station for direct access to Takeshita Street.
📍 東京都渋谷区神宮前5-17-13
A stylish, industrial-chic coffee shop known for its high-quality single-origin beans. Perfect for a trendy coffee break with friends and its minimalist interior makes for great Instagram photos.
💡 Insider Tip: Try their 'Coffee Flight' to sample different single-origin beans. They also offer delicious donuts and pastries. Seating can be limited, especially for groups of 4, so be prepared to wait or grab a standing spot. * **Dietary:** Offers oat milk alternatives for coffee. Vegan pastries are sometimes available; ask staff. * **Mobility:** Ground floor access, generally accessible. Restrooms may be compact.
🔄 Backup:
LATTEST OMOTESANDO Espresso Bar - A popular espresso bar known for its unique latte art and cozy atmosphere. Great for a quick, quality coffee in Omotesando if The Roastery is too crowded.
📍 東京都渋谷区神宮前1丁目
🛒 Recommended: Kawaii fashion (crepe-themed accessories, colorful clothing), Unique souvenirs, Harajuku-style sweets (crepes, giant cotton candy)
💡 Insider Tip: This street is a hub for youth culture and quirky fashion. It gets extremely crowded, especially on Saturdays. Visit closer to opening (around 11 AM) or late afternoon for slightly fewer crowds. Many shops offer tax-free shopping for tourists on purchases over ¥5,000 (ask for 'Tax-Free' sign). * **Mobility:** The street is narrow and often packed, making it challenging for strollers or wheelchairs. Be prepared for slow movement.
🗺️ View on Google Maps📍 東京都渋谷区神宮前4-12-10
🛒 Recommended: High-end fashion brands, Designer goods, Unique lifestyle items
💡 Insider Tip: Designed by Tadao Ando, this complex features a unique spiraling ramp connecting floors. It houses a mix of international and Japanese high-end brands. Many stores offer tax-free shopping. Look out for seasonal art installations or pop-up shops. * **Mobility:** Excellent accessibility with elevators and escalators throughout. Rest points are available on each floor.
🗺️ View on Google MapsThe iconic entrance arch of Takeshita Street, bustling with colorful signs and young fashionistas. Captures the energetic essence of Harajuku.
📐 Best Angle: Stand slightly back from the entrance on the Harajuku Station side to get the full arch and the crowd flowing in. Look for people in unique outfits.
🗺️ View on Google MapsThe striking modern architecture of Omotesando Hills, especially its unique spiraling interior design and the elegant facade.
📐 Best Angle: Inside, from the ground floor looking up at the spiraling ramps and skylight. Outside, across the street to capture the full length of the building.
🗺️ View on Google MapsWalk from Harajuku to Omotesando (approx. 10-15 min) instead of taking another train to fully appreciate the area. Wear comfortable shoes.
If Takeshita Street is too crowded, explore Cat Street (キャットストリート) for a more relaxed, trendy vibe with vintage shops and cafes. If Omotesando Hills is not appealing, explore the side streets of Omotesando for unique boutiques and art galleries.
Omotesando Hills is primarily indoors. For Takeshita Street, explore the covered shopping arcade 'Laforet Harajuku' (ラフォーレ原宿) which offers a similar fashion focus. Many cafes in Omotesando provide shelter.
18:00-20:30
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
Travel from Omotesando to Shibuya (18:00-18:15)
Dinner at 開花屋 Kaikaya by the Sea (18:15-20:00)
Walk around Shibuya Center-Gai / Dogenzaka area (20:00-20:30)
💡 Direct ride. Shibuya Station is a large complex, follow signs for Hachiko Exit or Center-Gai.
📍 東京都渋谷区円山町23-7
Known for its fresh, creative seafood dishes and vibrant, lively atmosphere perfect for a group of friends. The presentation of dishes is very Instagram-worthy, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists seeking a unique dining experience.
💡 Insider Tip: Call ahead or use online booking platforms like Tabelog (in Japanese) to secure a table. Popular dishes include the 'Tuna Ribs' and various sashimi platters. The atmosphere is bustling and friendly. * **Dietary:** Primarily seafood. Vegetarian options are limited but may include vegetable tempura or salads; inquire with staff. For allergies, use the phrase '〇〇アレルギーがあります' (〇〇 arerugii ga arimasu - I have an 〇〇 allergy) and point to a list of ingredients if possible. * **Mobility:** Located on multiple floors, with stairs. Ground floor seating might be available but cannot be guaranteed without prior arrangement. Restrooms are typically on upper floors.
🔄 Backup:
わらやき屋 Warayakiya (Shibuya) - Specializes in 'warayaki' (straw-grilled) dishes, particularly bonito (katsuo no tataki). It offers a lively atmosphere and delicious, smoky flavors, making it a great alternative for a group seeking authentic Japanese cuisine.
📍 東京都渋谷区道玄坂2-29-1
🛒 Recommended: Trendy Shibuya-style fashion, Youthful apparel, Accessories
💡 Insider Tip: An iconic fashion landmark for young women, known for its fast-changing trends. Stores are typically small, but packed with items. Most shops close around 9 PM. * **Mobility:** Elevators and escalators are available. It can get very crowded, especially on weekends.
🗺️ View on Google MapsThe world's busiest intersection, famous for its synchronized pedestrian scramble. An absolute must-see for its sheer scale and energy, incredibly Instagrammable.
📐 Best Angle: For a classic shot, stand at the second-floor Starbucks in TSUTAYA (if you can get a window seat) or the Magnet by Shibuya 109 rooftop observation deck (admission fee). For street level, capture the crowd from the Hachiko side as people begin to cross.
🗺️ View on Google MapsThe famous bronze statue of the loyal dog Hachiko, a popular meeting spot and a symbol of loyalty.
📐 Best Angle: From slightly elevated ground or eye-level, capturing Hachiko with the bustling Shibuya Station background. Be patient as many people take photos here.
🗺️ View on Google MapsMake dinner reservations well in advance for popular restaurants like Kaikaya, especially for a Saturday evening. Use Google Maps for walking directions within Shibuya.
If Kaikaya is fully booked or has an excessive wait, consider Warayakiya (Shibuya) as mentioned, or explore the restaurant floors of Shibuya Hikarie (渋谷ヒカリエ) or Shibuya Scramble Square (渋谷スクランブルスクエア) for various dining options with shorter wait times.
Shibuya Station area has many underground passages connecting department stores and shopping complexes, offering shelter. Shibuya Hikarie and Shibuya Scramble Square are excellent indoor options for dining and browsing.
20:30-23:00
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes+
Yakitori and drinks at 鳥竹 Toritake (Shibuya) (20:30-22:00)
Explore Shibuya's nightlife (bars, izakayas) (22:00-23:00+)
💡 Toritake is conveniently located near Shibuya Station, a short walk from the Dogenzaka area.
📍 東京都渋谷区道玄坂1-6-1
A classic, bustling yakitori spot in Shibuya, known for its charcoal-grilled skewers and long-standing history. Perfect for a casual, authentic Japanese nightlife experience with friends, offering a lively atmosphere and delicious, affordable food.
💡 Insider Tip: This is a popular, no-frills local spot. The menu is mostly in Japanese, but they usually have a picture menu or English-speaking staff. Order a variety of skewers (chicken, vegetables, offal) and pair with beer or sake. It's a smoke-friendly environment. * **Dietary:** Primarily chicken and some vegetable skewers. Vegetarian options are limited to vegetable skewers (e.g., shiitake, ginkgo nuts); ask staff. For allergies, communicate clearly as many items are grilled together. * **Mobility:** Often has counter seating and small tables, can be cramped. Restrooms may be small and on a different floor (stairs likely).
🔄 Backup:
串カツ田中 渋谷 Kushikatsu Tanaka Shibuya - A lively and casual spot specializing in kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers). It's a fun, interactive dining experience perfect for friends, known for its affordable prices and energetic atmosphere.
📍 東京都渋谷区宇田川町28-6
🛒 Recommended: Snacks and sweets, Cosmetics and skincare, Souvenirs, Electronics, Party goods
💡 Insider Tip: A multi-story discount store open late (often 24/7). It's chaotic but a treasure trove for unique Japanese items, souvenirs, and everyday necessities. Tax-free shopping available for tourists. * **Mobility:** Elevators and escalators are available, but aisles can be narrow and crowded.
🗺️ View on Google MapsThe vibrant, neon-lit main street of Shibuya's entertainment district. Captures the energetic and bustling nightlife of Tokyo.
📐 Best Angle: From the entrance looking down the street, or from various points along the street, capturing the dynamic signs and crowds.
🗺️ View on Google MapsThe sloping street leading up from Shibuya Station, known for its array of restaurants, bars, and unique architecture, including some distinctive 'love hotels'. Offers a glimpse into a different side of Shibuya's nightlife.
📐 Best Angle: Various spots along the slope, capturing the diverse building facades and the lively street scene. Look for interesting signs and architectural details.
🗺️ View on Google MapsStick to the Shibuya area for nightlife to minimize travel time and maximize enjoyment. Many good izakayas are within walking distance of each other.
If Toritake is too busy, explore other izakayas in the Dogenzaka or Center-Gai area. Many offer similar yakitori or other Japanese pub food. For a different vibe, check out bars in the Shibuya Nonbei Yokocho (のんべい横丁) alley, a charming, retro drinking street.
Many izakayas and bars are indoors. Shibuya has numerous covered shopping arcades and underground passages to navigate between venues. Shibuya Mark City also has many dining options.
Shibuya → Omotesando → Shinjuku
10:00-12:00
Duration: 2 hours
Brunch at Bills Omotesando (1h 15min)
Explore Omotesando Hills (45min)
💡 Take Tokyo Metro Ginza Line from Shibuya to Omotesando. Bills is a short walk from Omotesando Station.
📍 東京都渋谷区神宮前4-30-3 東急プラザ表参道原宿 7F
Famous for its ricotta hotcakes and relaxed, chic atmosphere. It's a popular, Instagram-worthy brunch spot to start the day in Omotesando, perfect for a group of friends looking for a stylish dining experience.
💡 Insider Tip: Bills is very popular, especially on weekends. Arriving right at opening or shortly after is best. Request a window seat for better views and natural light for photos. Their ricotta hotcakes with fresh banana and honeycomb butter are a must-try for Instagram. They can accommodate vegetarian requests for many dishes; ask staff for 'vegetarian menu' (ベジタリアンメニュー) options.
🔄 Backup:
THE GREAT BURGER (Harajuku) - A highly-rated burger joint known for its gourmet burgers and American diner vibe, offering a fun and hearty alternative if Bills has an excessive wait.
📍 東京都渋谷区神宮前4-30-3
🛒 Recommended: Fashion boutiques, Lifestyle goods, Cosmetics
💡 Insider Tip: The 'Omokado' entrance on the 6th floor features a unique mirrored escalator, a popular photo spot. The rooftop garden, Omohara Forest, offers a relaxing break and city views. Many stores offer tax-free shopping for tourists; look for the 'Tax-Free' logo.
🗺️ View on Google MapsA lush rooftop garden offering a tranquil escape and unique views of Omotesando. The greenery against the city backdrop makes for beautiful, serene photos.
📐 Best Angle: Capture the contrast of nature and urban landscape. Look for reflections in the glass facades. The wooden deck area is great for group shots.
🗺️ View on Google MapsPurchase subway tickets or use a Suica/Pasmo card to avoid queues at ticket machines. Walk between Omotesando Hills and Takeshita Street as they are very close.
If Bills is too crowded, head to THE GREAT BURGER in Harajuku. For shopping, explore the smaller boutiques along Omotesando side streets instead of just the main mall.
Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harajuku and Omotesando Hills are indoor shopping complexes, providing shelter. Bills is also indoors.
12:00-14:00
Duration: 2 hours
Explore Harajuku Takeshita Street (1h)
Lunch at Afuri Ebisu (1h)
💡 Walk from Omotesando Hills to Harajuku Station (5-7min). Take the JR Yamanote Line from Harajuku to Ebisu. Afuri Ebisu is a short walk from Ebisu Station.
📍 東京都渋谷区恵比寿1-1-7 恵比寿グリーンビル 1F
A trendy ramen spot famous for its refreshing yuzu-infused broth and clean, modern interior. A popular choice that's both delicious and visually appealing, offering a lighter ramen experience compared to traditional heavy broths. Great for an Instagram story.
💡 Insider Tip: Order using the vending machine at the entrance. The Yuzu Shio Ramen is their signature, but the Yuzu Ratanmen (spicy) is also popular. You can customize your broth richness and noodle texture. They offer vegan ramen options (ヴィーガンラーメン) which are clearly marked on the vending machine, making it a good choice for vegetarian friends. No specific allergy notes usually, but staff can be asked about ingredients if needed.
🔄 Backup:
原宿牛かつもと村 Harajuku Gyukatsu Motomura - Known for its unique gyukatsu (fried beef cutlet), where you cook the thinly sliced beef yourself on a hot stone. It's a fun, interactive, and delicious experience, perfect if Afuri's line is too long and you're still in the Harajuku area.
📍 東京都渋谷区神宮前1丁目
🛒 Recommended: Kawaii fashion, Crepes, Souvenirs, Unique accessories
💡 Insider Tip: This street is incredibly crowded, especially on Sundays. Go early if you want to avoid the worst of the crowds. Try a famous Harajuku crepe for an Instagram-worthy snack. Many small shops offer quirky and affordable fashion items.
🗺️ View on Google MapsThe iconic entrance arch of Takeshita Street is a must-capture for its vibrant energy and unique Harajuku vibe. It perfectly encapsulates the youth fashion culture.
📐 Best Angle: Stand slightly back from the entrance to capture the full arch and the bustling crowd entering. Look for colorful signs and street performers.
🗺️ View on Google MapsWalk through Takeshita Street efficiently if crowds are heavy. Use your IC card (Suica/Pasmo) for seamless train travel.
If Takeshita Street is too overwhelming, explore Cat Street (キャットストリート) nearby, which offers a more relaxed, stylish atmosphere with vintage shops and cafes. If Afuri is too long, Harajuku Gyukatsu Motomura is a great alternative.
Takeshita Street is mostly outdoors, but many shops offer cover. Gyukatsu Motomura and Afuri are indoor dining.
14:00-18:00
Duration: 4 hours
Coffee break at Streamer Coffee Company (45min)
Explore Shibuya 109 & Center-Gai (1h 30min)
Head to Shibuya Scramble Square for Shibuya Sky (30min)
💡 A very short ride from Ebisu back to Shibuya. Streamer Coffee Company and Shibuya 109 are within walking distance from Shibuya Station.
📍 東京都渋谷区渋谷1-20-28
A popular spot known for its excellent latte art and cool, urban vibe. A great place for a group of friends to relax, enjoy high-quality coffee, and capture some Instagram-worthy latte art photos in Shibuya.
💡 Insider Tip: Their 'Military Latte' is a unique green tea latte. Ask the barista for their best latte art design. It's a casual, standing-friendly spot, but there are some seats. They offer oat milk options for those avoiding dairy. No specific allergy information is usually provided, but you can inquire about ingredients.
🔄 Backup:
フグレン トウキョウ Fuglen Tokyo (Shibuya) - A renowned Norwegian coffee bar known for its minimalist design and exceptional coffee. Offers a more laid-back atmosphere and is great for coffee connoisseurs.
📍 東京都渋谷区道玄坂2-29-1
🛒 Recommended: Trendy Japanese fashion (gyaru style), Accessories, Souvenirs
💡 Insider Tip: Shibuya 109 is a fashion landmark for young women. It's multi-story with many small boutiques. Even if not buying, it's an experience to see the latest trends. Look for seasonal sales. Some stores offer tax-free shopping, but it's less common for smaller boutiques.
🗺️ View on Google MapsThe world's busiest intersection, a symbol of modern Tokyo's energy. Capturing the synchronized chaos of pedestrians is an iconic Instagram moment.
📐 Best Angle: For a classic shot, use the Starbucks (QFRONT building) window on the 2nd floor (can be crowded). Shibuya Scramble Square's observation decks offer an elevated, panoramic view. For street-level, capture the motion blur of people.
🗺️ View on Google MapsShibuya is very walkable. Plan your route between Shibuya 109, Streamer Coffee, and Shibuya Scramble Square to minimize backtracking.
If Shibuya 109 is too busy, explore Shibuya Center-Gai (渋谷センター街) for more diverse shops and restaurants. If Streamer Coffee is full, Fuglen Tokyo is a good alternative.
Shibuya 109 is entirely indoors. Shibuya Scramble Square (for Shibuya Sky) is also indoors. Streamer Coffee is an indoor cafe.
18:00-23:00
Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes
Shibuya Sky experience (1h 30min - 2h)
Dinner at The Legian Tokyo (2h)
💡 Shibuya Sky is located in Shibuya Scramble Square, directly above Shibuya Station. The Legian Tokyo is a short walk from Shibuya Station.
📍 東京都渋谷区東1-26-20 渋谷イーストビル 12F
A stylish rooftop restaurant offering stunning city views and sophisticated Modern Asian & French fusion cuisine. Perfect for a memorable dinner after experiencing Shibuya Sky, providing another fantastic vantage point for Shibuya's night lights and an elegant dining experience for a group of friends.
💡 Insider Tip: Make a reservation well in advance (予約したいのですが - Yoyaku shitai no desu ga). Request a window table for the best views (窓側の席をお願いします - Madogawa no seki o onegai shimasu). The ambiance is romantic and chic, great for photos. They often have seasonal menus. Dietary restrictions can be communicated during reservation; mention 'vegetarian' (ベジタリアン) or 'no seafood' (魚介類なし) etc. when booking.
🔄 Backup:
権八 西麻布 Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu - Famous for its traditional Japanese ambiance, izakaya-style dining, and as the inspiration for a scene in 'Kill Bill'. Offers a lively atmosphere and diverse menu (yakitori, sushi, tempura) if The Legian Tokyo is unavailable or you prefer a more casual, authentic Japanese experience. Would require a short taxi ride from Shibuya.
An open-air observation deck offering breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of Tokyo. With a confirmed 18:00 reservation, you'll experience the transition from sunset to the dazzling night view, including the iconic Shibuya Crossing from above. Absolutely Instagram-worthy.
📐 Best Angle: Capture the sunset over Mount Fuji (if visible) from the west side. The 'Sky Edge' corner offers a dramatic view looking down at Shibuya Crossing. The helipad area is perfect for wide-angle shots of the cityscape. Use the glass barriers for unique reflections.
🗺️ View on Google MapsArrive at Shibuya Scramble Square 15-20 minutes before your Shibuya Sky reservation to allow for entry procedures. The Legian Tokyo is a short walk, so no need for additional transportation.
If The Legian Tokyo is fully booked, consider Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu for a different but equally memorable dining experience, or explore the restaurant floors of Shibuya Hikarie or Shibuya Stream for other dining options with views.
Shibuya Sky has an indoor observation area (Sky Gallery) and a covered outdoor section, so it's still enjoyable in rain. The Legian Tokyo is indoors.
23:00-01:00
Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
Explore Shinjuku Golden Gai (1h)
Late-night ramen at Ramen Nagi Golden Gai (45min)
💡 Take the JR Yamanote Line from Shibuya to Shinjuku. Golden Gai is about a 10-15 minute walk from Shinjuku Station East Exit. Be mindful of the last train back to Shibuya (around 00:30-01:00).
📍 東京都新宿区歌舞伎町1-1-10 ゴールデン街
A famous ramen shop located in Shinjuku's Golden Gai, known for its rich, sardine-based broth (niboshi ramen). It's a perfect late-night meal after exploring the unique bars of Golden Gai, offering an authentic and memorable Tokyo nightlife food experience.
💡 Insider Tip: This tiny shop is on the second floor. The 'Sugoi Niboshi Ramen' is their signature; it's very rich and flavorful. You can customize noodle firmness and broth strength. It's a unique experience due to its location and small size. Not ideal for specific dietary needs due to the strong fish broth, but you can ask about ingredients if you have severe allergies. They have a ticket machine system.
🔄 Backup:
新宿思い出横丁 Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho (specific stall like Kabuto) - Also known as 'Piss Alley', this atmospheric alleyway is filled with tiny izakayas and ramen shops. It offers a nostalgic, retro Tokyo vibe and many late-night dining options if Ramen Nagi is too busy or you prefer more variety.
A historic district of tiny, atmospheric bars packed into narrow alleys. Each bar has its own unique character, making it a fantastic spot for capturing Tokyo's retro nightlife and intimate bar culture.
📐 Best Angle: Focus on the narrow alleys with their glowing lanterns and unique bar signs. Capture the cozy interiors (with permission). The contrast of old Tokyo charm against the modern city backdrop is striking.
🗺️ View on Google MapsWalk directly to Golden Gai from Shinjuku Station East Exit (about 10-15 minutes). Use Google Maps for precise navigation.
If Golden Gai is too overwhelming or you prefer a different vibe, explore Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane) for more traditional izakaya experiences and late-night food. For ramen, Omoide Yokocho also has several options.
Golden Gai's alleys are somewhat covered by awnings, but you'll be exposed to rain. The bars themselves are indoors. Ramen Nagi is indoors.
Shinjuku → Tokyo Station
10:00-12:00
Duration: 2 hours
Check out from accommodation & store luggage at Shibuya Station lockers (30min)
Travel to Shinjuku (20min)
Morning coffee at Verve Coffee Roasters Shinjuku (45min)
Explore Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden (45min)
💡 Direct train, frequent service. Shibuya Station has numerous coin lockers for luggage storage. Ensure you get a large enough locker for carry-on luggage.
📍 東京都新宿区新宿4-1-6 NEWoMan新宿 2F
A trendy Californian specialty coffee shop known for its excellent brews and bright, modern atmosphere. It's a perfect spot for a morning pick-me-up and a great start to the day in Shinjuku.
💡 Insider Tip: Located inside NEWoMan Shinjuku, it's easily accessible from Shinjuku Station's South Exit. They offer a variety of single-origin pour-overs and espresso drinks. It's a popular spot, so grab your coffee and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. For dietary needs, they offer oat milk alternatives for lattes. The space is generally accessible, with elevators available within NEWoMan for upper floors.
🔄 Backup:
猿田彦珈琲 新宿 Sarutahiko Coffee Shinjuku - A popular Japanese specialty coffee chain with a cozy atmosphere, offering high-quality coffee and light snacks. Conveniently located in Lumine Shinjuku.
📍 東京都新宿区新宿4-1-6
🛒 Recommended: Trendy apparel, unique lifestyle goods, gourmet food souvenirs (food hall in B1F)
💡 Insider Tip: This modern department store caters to a younger, fashion-conscious crowd. Look for unique Japanese brands and stylish accessories. The food hall in the basement is excellent for gourmet snacks and gifts. Tax-free shopping is available for eligible purchases; inquire at the information desk. Best to visit in the morning to avoid peak crowds.
🗺️ View on Google MapsA tranquil oasis amidst the urban sprawl of Shinjuku, featuring French Formal, English Landscape, and traditional Japanese gardens. It's a beautiful spot for serene photos.
📐 Best Angle: The Japanese Traditional Garden with its teahouse and pond, or the greenhouse for lush greenery. Capture the contrast of nature against the Shinjuku skyscrapers in the background.
🗺️ View on Google MapsPurchase Shinjuku Gyoen tickets from the vending machines upon entry to save time.
If Shinjuku Gyoen is too crowded or if you prefer more indoor activities, explore the various floors of NEWoMan Shinjuku or Lumine Shinjuku for more shopping and browsing.
Spend more time exploring NEWoMan Shinjuku's shops and cafes, or head to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observation Decks (東京都庁舎) for free panoramic city views (address: 東京都新宿区西新宿2-8-1, maps_query: Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building).
12:00-14:00
Duration: 2 hours
Lunch at Shinjuku Kappo Nakajima (1 hour)
Explore Shinjuku Golden Gai / Omoide Yokocho (45min)
Souvenir shopping at Isetan Shinjuku (45min)
💡 A pleasant walk through the bustling streets of Shinjuku.
📍 東京都新宿区新宿3-32-5 日原ビルB1F
A Michelin-starred restaurant offering an incredibly affordable and delicious sardine-focused lunch set (iwashi ryori). It's a true hidden gem for an authentic and unique traditional Japanese culinary experience, highly recommended for foodies.
💡 Insider Tip: The lunch menu is famous for its various sardine preparations: fried (furai), sashimi, simmered (nitsuke), and grilled (shioyaki). It's a set menu, so ordering is simple. For dietary restrictions, note that the focus is sardines; vegetarian or halal options are extremely limited or non-existent for lunch. It's a basement restaurant, so look for the stairs. The space is small and traditional, not ideal for strollers. No specific mobility notes beyond the stairs to enter. Cash is often preferred for lunch.
🔄 Backup:
新宿つな八 Tempura Shinjuku Tsunahachi - A long-established and highly-regarded tempura restaurant, offering excellent quality tempura sets in a traditional setting. A reliable choice for delicious Japanese cuisine.
📍 東京都新宿区新宿3-14-1
🛒 Recommended: High-end fashion, cosmetics, Japanese confectionery, gourmet food items (B1F food hall)
💡 Insider Tip: Isetan is one of Japan's most prestigious department stores. The basement food hall (depachika) is legendary, offering an incredible array of gourmet foods, bentos, and exquisite Japanese sweets – perfect for high-quality souvenirs. Tax-free shopping is available. Mobility: Excellent accessibility with numerous elevators and escalators. Rest areas are available on various floors. Best time to visit for food shopping is after lunch to avoid the peak lunch rush.
🗺️ View on Google MapsA tightly packed network of narrow alleys filled with tiny, atmospheric bars. While famous for its nightlife, the daytime offers a unique, nostalgic charm for photos, capturing the rustic signs and quaint architecture.
📐 Best Angle: Walk through the narrow alleys, focusing on the colorful signs, weathered wooden facades, and the intricate details of each small bar. Look for interesting textures and compositions.
🗺️ View on Google MapsAnother atmospheric alleyway filled with small eateries and izakayas, evoking a post-war Tokyo vibe. Great for capturing a glimpse of old Tokyo.
📐 Best Angle: Focus on the hanging lanterns, smoke rising from yakitori grills (if active), and the narrowness of the alley. Look for reflections in puddles after rain.
🗺️ View on Google MapsHave your order ready at Shinjuku Kappo Nakajima (choose your sardine preparation) to speed up service.
If Shinjuku Kappo Nakajima has an excessive wait, head to Tempura Shinjuku Tsunahachi for a different but equally authentic Japanese lunch experience. For shopping, explore the various floors of Lumine Est Shinjuku for trendy fashion.
Focus on indoor shopping at Isetan Shinjuku or explore the underground shopping malls connected to Shinjuku Station.
14:00-17:30
Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes
Travel to Tokyo Station (20min)
Vegan Ramen at T's TanTan (45min)
Souvenir shopping at Tokyo Character Street (45min)
Photo op at Tokyo Station Marunouchi Building (20min)
Retrieve luggage from Shibuya Station (30min)
Travel to Shinjuku/Shibuya for N'EX (15min)
Board Narita Express (N'EX) to NRT (1 hour 20min)
💡 Direct and fast service. Tokyo Station is a major hub, ensure you know which exit you need.
📍 東京都千代田区丸の内1-9-1 JR東京駅構内 京葉ストリート内
A highly-rated vegan ramen shop inside Tokyo Station, known for its flavorful plant-based broths and creative toppings. It's a convenient and delicious option, especially for those with dietary restrictions, and even non-vegans enjoy it.
💡 Insider Tip: Located within the ticketed area of Tokyo Station (Keiyo Street), so you'll need a valid train ticket or a platform ticket (入場券 nyujoken, ¥140) to access it. Perfect for vegetarians, vegans, and those looking for a lighter meal. All dishes are plant-based, so it's naturally halal-friendly and dairy-free. The restaurant is compact but accessible. Stroller access might be tight during busy hours. Restrooms are available within the station.
🔄 Backup:
東京ラーメンストリート Tokyo Ramen Street (e.g., Rokurinsha) - A collection of popular ramen shops, offering a wide variety of styles. Rokurinsha is famous for its tsukemen (dipping ramen), but options for specific dietary needs might be limited.
📍 東京都千代田区丸の内1-9-1 JR東京駅構内
🛒 Recommended: Official merchandise from popular anime/manga (Pokémon, Studio Ghibli, Jump Shop), local Tokyo souvenirs, unique Japanese snacks and sweets
💡 Insider Tip: This underground shopping area is a paradise for fans of Japanese pop culture. It's a great place for last-minute, unique souvenirs. Many shops offer tax-free shopping. Mobility: Fully accessible with elevators and wide pathways. Best time to visit is mid-afternoon to avoid the morning commuter rush.
🗺️ View on Google MapsThe iconic red-brick facade of Tokyo Station's Marunouchi side is a stunning example of Meiji-era architecture, beautifully restored. It's a must-see for its historical grandeur and a great photo backdrop.
📐 Best Angle: From the plaza directly in front of the station, capturing the entire facade. Also, from the second-floor terrace of KITTE Marunouchi (across the street) for an elevated view.
🗺️ View on Google MapsHave your N'EX tickets pre-purchased if possible. Use the JR app or Google Maps for real-time train schedules.
If T's TanTan is too busy, explore other eateries within Tokyo Station's Ekibenya Matsuri (駅弁屋 祭) for a wide selection of bento boxes, or choose another ramen shop on Tokyo Ramen Street.
All activities within Tokyo Station and the N'EX journey are indoors, making this block entirely rain-proof.