The Perfect 1-week Itinerary for Tokyo!
7 Days Tokyo Itinerary
Tokyo is one of those cities that never fails to sweep you off your feet. Every visit reveals something new—a hidden street food stall, a peaceful temple nestled between skyscrapers, or a quirky shop that feels like a portal to another world.
If you’re planning your first solo female trip to Tokyo, prepare for a whirlwind of food, culture, and adventure. To help you make the most of your experience, I’ve crafted a 1-week Tokyo itinerary designed specifically for solo female travelers.
Whenever I arrive in a new city, I like to start with a private tour guide or a city tour to get my bearings and uncover hidden gems right from the start.
Day 1: Shibuya and Harajuku
Start your Tokyo adventure at Shibuya Crossing, the iconic scramble intersection that’s a must for any first-timer. Joining the sea of people as you cross is an experience in itself—just hold onto your belongings and go!
Lunch: Head to Ichiran Ramen (multiple locations) for their famous Hakata-style tonkotsu ramen, where you can customize the spice level.
Pro tip: Order extra hot peppers and an extra egg! It’s perfect for solo diners, with private booths for a peaceful meal.
After lunch, take a stroll down Takeshita Street in Harajuku. This lively street is full of quirky shops, themed cafés, and everything kawaii. Don’t miss the rainbow cotton candy or a fun photo session in one of the many selfie booths.
Dinner with a View: End your day at the Park Hyatt Tokyo in Shinjuku. Treat yourself to a cocktail at the New York Bar (yes, the one from “Lost in Translation”) and enjoy stunning views of the city skyline. Tip: Arrive early to snag a bar seat!
Alternatives: If you prefer a more relaxing evening, unwind at Hamarikyu Gardens or visit a local onsen for some well-deserved pampering.
Day 2: Asakusa and Ueno
Asakusa:
Start your day at Sensō-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest and most iconic temple. Wander through the bustling Nakamise-dori shopping street, where you’ll find everything from traditional souvenirs to mouthwatering street food. Don’t forget to try the best melon bread in Tokyo!
Ueno Park:
This sprawling green space is perfect for a leisurely stroll and packed with cultural activities. You can visit the Tokyo National Museum for some history or check out Ueno Zoo. For something more unique, consider attending a traditional tea ceremony in the park—a peaceful way to unwind and experience Japanese customs.
Prefer to keep sampling the local cuisine? A food tour in Ueno is a great way to explore the area’s flavors.
Shinjuku:
In the evening, head to Shinjuku for a bite at an izakaya (casual pub). Experience the lively atmosphere with a glass of sake. Keep in mind that many izakayas have a cover charge and allow smoking. If you’d rather not go solo, consider joining a bar-hopping tour through Shinjuku’s alley bars—it’s a fun way to meet new people and try local dishes (3-4 dishes and 4 drinks included).
Alternate Activities:
Explore Yanaka Ginza shopping street or wander through quiet residential neighborhoods like Koenji for a more laid-back experience.
Lunch Tip:
While in Asakusa, try monjayaki, a savory pancake dish. Solo travelers are welcome, and if you’re unsure how to make it, the friendly staff will help!
Day 3: TeamLab Planets and Ghibli Museum
TeamLab Planets:
I was initially skeptical, but TeamLab Planets is an absolute must-see! Be sure to purchase your tickets well in advance and aim for the first time slot of the day. Arrive 30-45 minutes before opening to beat the crowds.
Afterward, head back to your hotel and explore the local dining scene. Whether you’re in the mood for a lively izakaya experience, a steaming bowl of ramen, or a sushi feast, the choice is yours—delicious memories await!
Tip: After all that walking, treat yourself to a foot massage! Wear something that can be rolled up to your knees or, if you’re in a dress or skirt, make sure to have something underneath—the water at TeamLab goes beyond your ankles.
Ghibli Museum:
Next, head to Mitaka for a visit to the Ghibli Museum, a must for fans of films like Spirited Away and My Neighbor Totoro.
Pro tip: Purchase tickets the day they go on sale—they sell out quickly!
Day 4: Hakone Day Trip from Tokyo
Take a day trip to Hakone, a stunning resort town nestled in a volcanic caldera. On a clear day, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Fuji!
Pro Tip: Check this website for the best times to catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji—it offers detailed predictions for optimal viewing conditions.
For lunch, treat yourself to a traditional Japanese kaiseki ryori (multi-course meal), an exquisite culinary experience.
Afterward, ride the Hakone Ropeway cable car for panoramic views of the Owakudani Valley, a dramatic geothermal landscape with bubbling hot springs and fumaroles. If you’re up for more adventure, hop on a pirate ship cruise across Lake Ashi or visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum to enjoy art surrounded by nature.
Day 5: Tsukiji Outer Market and Ginza
Tsukiji Outer Market:
Start your morning by wandering through the Tsukiji Outer Market. Check out the fresh seafood on display and treat yourself to a sushi lunch at one of the nearby restaurants! Be sure to try the melt-in-your-mouth maguro (tuna)!
Feeling overwhelmed by all the options? Book a guided tour for insider tips on the best stalls to visit.
Ginza:
Afterward, head to Ginza, Tokyo’s upscale shopping district. Whether you’re shopping or just window-shopping, you’ll find everything from luxury brands to unique items at stores like Uniqlo, where you can even create custom pieces.
For dinner, treat yourself to a Michelin-starred meal—Tokyo is home to countless options, but remember to book in advance!
Tip: Take advantage of Tokyo’s wide variety of spas and onsens, catering to every price point, for a relaxing break during your stay.
Day 6: Akihabara & Roppongi
Akihabara
If you’re into anime, manga, or anything geeky, Akihabara is your playground. Try your luck at a claw machine (seriously, those prizes are way more tempting than you’d think!), get lost in rows of manga and anime, or check out a maid café for a fun, quirky experience.
Alternate Option: Not really an anime fan? No worries! Head to Odaiba instead—tons of activities and you could easily spend the whole day exploring.
Roppongi
For the evening, hit up Roppongi and dive into Tokyo’s nightlife. You can join a Tokyo Pub Crawl to meet fellow travelers or grab a mic at a karaoke spot for some solo singing—or duet with your new pub crawl buddies!
On your last day, enjoy a relaxed breakfast and maybe squeeze in some last-minute souvenir shopping. Depending on your flight time, you might even have time for one more must-see!
Tokyo Skytree
Kick off the day with a visit to Tokyo Skytree for stunning 360-degree views of the city. If it’s clear, you might even catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji!
Pro Tip: Book your Tokyo Skytree tickets in advance to snag your preferred time slot and avoid the long lines.
Imperial Palace East Garden
If you’re in the mood for something more chill, head over to the Imperial Palace East Garden. It’s a peaceful escape right in the city—perfect for reflecting on your trip before you say goodbye to Tokyo.
Day 7: Tokyo Skytree & Final Day in Tokyo
Best Time to Visit Tokyo
- Spring (March-May): Cherry blossoms (sakura!) are in full bloom, but expect bigger crowds and slightly higher prices.
- Shoulder Seasons (April-May & Sept-October): Great balance of nice weather, fewer crowds, and gorgeous fall foliage.
- Summer (June-August): Hot and humid, but the summer festivals and nightlife are worth it!
Where to Stay in Tokyo
- Shibuya: Right in the middle of the action, with easy access to public transport.
- Asakusa: A more traditional vibe, close to Sensō-ji Temple.
- Ginza: For a bit of luxury and central convenience. Personally, I love staying here for easy access to everything (even if it’s a bit pricier).
Getting Around Tokyo
- Get a Suica Card – Your go-to for hopping on and off trains and buses.
- Master the Train System – It’s a bit tricky at first, but super efficient once you get the hang of it!
- Avoid Taxis – They can get expensive fast.
Hey there! I’m Dani, a travel blogger, foodie, and solo female travel expert.
If you’re a Millennial woman ready to break free from the 9-5 grind and dive into solo travel, you’re in the right place. I started traveling solo in 2015, and after exploring over 20 countries, I’m here to tell you—you can do it too!
I’m obsessed with my dog Bella, Taylor Swift, and K-Dramas. I love planning trips around food and culture, and I always prioritize self-care along the way.
On my blog, danirovestheworld, I share my adventures and help you explore the world on your own terms!
