2 Days in Tokyo: A Love Letter Written in Ramen & Neon Nights

Morning (7am - 11am)

Breakfast: Café de L’Ambre is an old-school coffee shrine—literally. Since 1948, it’s been brewing single-origin beans with the precision of a chemistry lab. Sip on their famous hand-dripped dark roast or opt for their sweet red bean coffee.

Attraction: Edo-Tokyo Museum

Before Shibuya scrambles and robot cafés, there was Edo—samurai, sumo, and scandal. This museum time-warps you back 400 years to see how Tokyo became the glittering beauty it is today. 

Nearest stop:

• Ryogoku, Edo-Tokyo Museum (Red Course)

Highlights: 

• Cross a full-scale replica of Nihonbashi Bridge like you’re entering 1800s Tokyo. 
• Gawk at samurai armor, merchant houses, and kabuki theatres in glorious, walk-through dioramas.
• Watch Tokyo morph from Edo grit to a sleek skyline with interactive models that light up like your brain on trivia night.

Pro tip: Head to the top floor first—the chronological layout means the fascinating Edo stuff kicks off upstairs.

Suggested time to spend: 2 hours

Time to next stop: 12 minutes on the bus ride. 

Afternoon (12pm - 3pm)

Lunch: Slurping soba at Kanda Yabu Soba is practically a cultural ritual. Founded in 1880, their seiro soba (cold soba with dipping sauce) is legendary, and the kamo nanban (duck soba) is a soul-hug in a bowl. Rebuilt after a fire in 2013, the peaceful Edo-style courtyard with kimono-clad servers is a vibe you can’t miss. 

Attraction: Tokyo National Museum
Calling all relic romantics! This museum is like Tinder for Japanese artifacts—you’ll fall hard and fast. It's Japan’s oldest museum, housing over 110,000 items, from ancient swords that probably saw battle to Buddhist statues oozing serenity. It’s where you meet the ancestors. 

Nearest stop:

• Ueno Matsuzakaya (Red Course)

Highlights: 

• See the Honkan building’s samurai section and wish your high school history class looked half this cool.
• The Gallery of Horyuji Treasures is a spiritual punch—7th-century serenity hits differently.
• Limited-time exhibits rotate in rare pieces, so even seasoned culture snobs get something new.

Pro tip: Rent the audio guide even if it sounds nerdy, but the deep cuts on sword history will blow your mind.

Suggested time to spend: 2 hours

Time to next stop: 3 minutes—that’s all it’ll take you for the next attraction. 

Evening (4pm - 7pm)

Attraction: Senso-ji Temple
Tokyo’s oldest temple, Senso-ji, doesn’t just whisper history; it belts it out through incense clouds. Built in 645 AD, it’s been rebuilt a few times but still radiates old-school soul. It has lanterns, dragons, fortune slips, and enough vibes to make your spiritual self dance happily.

Nearest stop:

• Asakusa Tawaramachi (Red Course)

Highlights: 

• Nakamise Street is your Edo-era shopping lane, complete with snacks and souvenirs. 
• The main hall and five-story pagoda offer a front-row seat to centuries of Buddhist architecture.
• It’s a place where pilgrims, poets, and now social media influencers have all stood, layered with stories from every century.

Pro tip: Head to Asakusa Shrine next door—it’s quieter, less touristy, and often overlooked. 

Suggested time to spend: 2 hours

Time to next stop: 8-minute walk for dinner. 

Late night (8pm - 12am)

Dinner: Asakusa Imahan is a shrine to sukiyaki, aka a Japanese hotpot where thinly sliced beef, tofu, and veggies simmer in a sweet soy-based broth and are dipped in raw egg. The setting? Tatami floors, kimono-clad servers, and serious “dining like a daimyō” vibes. 

Morning (7am - 11am)

Breakfast: At Tsukiji Outer Market, seafood dreams serves up everything from buttery otoro (fatty tuna) to uni (creamy sea urchin), grilled scallops dripping in soy butter, and fluffy tamagoyaki (sweet rolled omelet). It’s lively, a little chaotic, and ridiculously delicious.

Attraction: Imperial Palace
If you’re into emperors and samurai, this one’s your jam. The Imperial Palace, built on the grounds of the former Edo Castle, is still home to Japan’s Emperor. While the inner palace is mostly off-limits, the East Gardens are your golden ticket to stepping into a bygone world of stone walls, ancient guard towers, and samurai swagger. 

Nearest stop:

• Marunouchi Mitsubishi Building (Red Course)

Highlights: 

• That iconic Nijubashi Bridge? Snap a pic that’ll make you think you’ve crossed into a fairytale. 
• Moss-covered stones, koi-filled ponds, and serene pathways, the East Gardens is where Japanese history and beauty collide.
• Walk on the ruins of Edo Castle’s walls! These massive stone fortifications once kept feuding warlords far away. 

Pro tip: The gardens are full of hidden nooks! Stray off the main path, and you'll stumble upon peaceful corners, perfect for a moment of reflection.

Suggested time to spend: 2 hours

Time to next stop: 15 minutes on the bus ride to Yasukuni Shrine. 

Afternoon (12pm - 3pm)

Lunch: Step into a slice of Tokyo’s past at this century-old soba joint, Nihonbashi Yukari, where the seiro soba (cold buckwheat noodles) takes center stage—cool, fresh, and utterly satisfying. Want something crispy? The kakiage soba, topped with golden tempura, hits the spot. 

Attraction: Yasukuni Shrine

A living testament to Japan’s past, Yasukuni Shrine commemorates the lives lost during wartime, but it’s more than just a memorial. The peaceful grounds, historical exhibits, and majestic torii gates invite reflection on the nation’s path. 

Nearest stop:

• Akihabara (Red Course)

Highlights: 

• Walk past the towering torii gates that mark the entrance—a monumental way to enter history.
• Admire the traditional architecture of the shrine, designed to honor Japan's past and people.
• The museum here dives deep into Japan’s military history. Just a heads up, it can spark some lively debates.

Pro tip: If the shrine’s grounds feel too quiet, look for the seasonal festivals for a burst of cultural energy.

Suggested time to spend: 2 hours

Time to next stop: Your next stop is in 30 minutes—time to window-watch. 

Evening (4pm - 7pm)

Attraction: Meiji Shrine

Nestled in a lush forested area, Meiji Shrine is a tranquil escape in the middle of the city. Dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, this shrine represents Japan’s rapid transformation into the modern age. Here, ancient Shinto rituals blend beautifully with the quiet hum of urban Tokyo life.

Nearest stop:

• Shibuya City Hall (Green Course)

Highlights: 

• The serene forest that surrounds the shrine creates an immersive experience. 
• Take a moment at the massive torii gates marking the boundary between the natural world and the sacred grounds.
• On New Year’s Day, the shrine hosts one of the biggest gatherings in Japan, attracting millions who come to pray.

Pro tip: Try your luck with an “omikuji” (fortune slip)—you might walk away with a nice bit of insight for your travels.

Suggested time to spend: 2 hours

Time to next stop: A quick 15-minute walk to your final stop for the day.

Late night (8pm - 12am)

Dinner: Slip into one of Ichiran’s private booths, where slurping your ramen becomes a meditative experience. Known for its rich, flavorful tonkotsu broth and perfectly cooked noodles, you can customize everything from spice level to noodle firmness, ensuring every bowl is tailored to your taste. 

Morning (7am - 11am)

Breakfast: You’re in Tokyo, and it's time to fuel up at Tully’s—where the coffee is serious, but the atmosphere is cozy-casual. Grab a cappuccino or a sweet caramel macchiato if you’re feeling extra and pair it with a fluffy croissant or one of their yummy savory scones. 

Attraction: Shinjuku Gyoen

A hidden oasis where you can escape the madness of the city. Wander through sprawling lawns, zen-like ponds, and blooming cherry blossoms—if you're here at the right time! It’s the perfect place to clear your head and recharge while surrounded by beauty.

Nearest stop:

• Shinjuku Gyoen Station (Green Course)

Highlights: 

• A triple treat: three distinct gardens—Japanese, English, and French. It’s like three countries in one park. 
• Cherry blossoms here are jaw-dropping in spring. They’ll make your Instagram explode.
• The park is so big, you can totally lose yourself—in a good way—find a quiet corner to reflect or get lost in nature.

Pro tip: Do not miss out on the greenhouse; it is an unexpected tropical wonderland. It’ll feel like a mini-vacation within your vacation.

Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours

Time to next stop: Just 10 minutes until your next stop—sit back and enjoy the ride. 

Afternoon (12pm - 3pm)

Lunch: Fukumimi Shinjuku is where ramen dreams come true. Savor rich bowls of miso ramen or go for the creamy cold noodles. Pair it with crispy gyoza that’ll make you rethink your snack game. The small, cozy space feels like a secret haven tucked in Shinjuku’s bustling streets.

Attraction: Harajuku

Harajuku is Tokyo's rebellious heart, where the streets pulse with wild fashion, outrageous food, and enough energy to make your head spin. It’s the perfect place to soak in eccentric street styles and browse quirky shops. Oh, and did we mention the people-watching?

Nearest stop:

• Shibuya City Hall (Green Course)

Highlights: 

• Harajuku's fashion scene is next level, it’s the birthplace of Tokyo’s boldest, most out-there styles.
• Takeshita Street is a sensory overload—think rainbow crepes and colorful chaos.
• Beyond the busy streets, hidden alleyways are filled with vintage shops, cool cafes, and secret gems.

Pro tip: Want a break from all the chaos? Try a themed cafe—cat cafes, owl cafes, you name it—it's all here.

Suggested time to spend: 2 to 3 hours

Time to next stop: Stretch your legs for 20 minutes and you’ll be there at Shibuya Crossing.

Evening (4pm - 7pm)

Attraction: Shibuya Crossing

Shibuya Crossing is the human version of a rollercoaster—crazy, fast-paced, and exhilarating. Step into the intersection and feel Tokyo’s pulse for yourself. Watch as the streets flood with people and neon lights flash. It’s pure Tokyo magic in motion.

Nearest stop:

• Shibuya City Hall (Green Course)

Highlights: 

• World’s busiest crossing—you’ll be part of the stampede, and it’s as wild as it sounds.
• The neon lights around the crossing are as iconic as they come. It’s like Tokyo’s skyline decided to throw a rave.
• Right in the heart of Shibuya, you’re just steps away from cool cafes, trendy boutiques, and Tokyo nightlife.

Pro tip: Don’t just cross the street. Take a second to stand in the middle and embrace the chaos. It’s a feeling you won’t forget.

Suggested time to spend: 1 hour

Time to next stop: Just a short 4-minute stroll to your next stop.

Late night (8pm - 12am)

Diner: Uobei is not your typical sushi joint. The tuna, salmon, and even the eel come fresh, and with so many choices, you can go from classic to bold. The atmosphere here is buzzing, with the friendly clatter of orders and plates stacking up. It’s fast, fun, and utterly delicious. 

Morning (7am - 11am)

Breakfast: Want coffee that feels like a hug in a cup? Blue Bottle delivers. Whether you're sipping on their signature New Orleans iced coffee or going for a rich pour-over, their warm croissants and avocado toasts pair perfectly. 

Attraction: Akihabara

Let’s get electric! Akihabara is a playground for nerds, gamers, anime fans, and gadget enthusiasts. Picture vintage game shops, maid cafes, and all things high-tech.

Nearest stop:

• Kodenmacho Station (Red Course)

Highlights: 

• Heaven for anime lovers, with endless shops full of merchandise and iconic figures.
• The arcades here are a multi-story experience, and you can play everything from retro to the latest VR games.
• The tech shops are packed with gadgets that will make your wallet cry—but in the best way possible.

Pro tip: Stop by a maid café (where waitresses wear traditional French maid costumes) for a totally wacky moment—yes, it’s as strange as it sounds, but so much fun.

Suggested time to spend: 2 hours

Time to next stop: 6 to 10 minutes of bus-bound bliss before the next landmark rolls in.

Afternoon (12pm - 3pm)

Lunch: Are you ready to dive into curry heaven? At Coco Ichibanya, it’s all about the customizable curry experience. Pick your spice level, add a crispy katsu or some veggies, and a side of pickles. The food is tangy and crunchy, and it’ll make you wonder why you didn’t try it sooner. 

Attraction: Ginza

Imagine if high fashion, sleek architecture, and the smell of luxury all had a love child—that’s Ginza. If you are someone with a penchant for chic shopping and some post-window-shopping "me time", Ginza’s where you need to be. From glitzy department stores to charming coffee spots, it’s the perfect spot to treat yourself.

Nearest stop:

• Tsukiji Ginza (Blue Course)

Highlights: 

• Ginza is a fashionista’s dream—luxury brands and trendy boutiques will make your shopping list super long.
• Art lovers will appreciate the unique galleries, featuring modern works and classic Japanese art that feels a bit exclusive.
• Stroll down the main avenue and explore high-end department stores like Mitsukoshi for the local Tokyo vibe.

Pro tip: If you’re feeling fancy, book a table at a rooftop bar for an epic view of Tokyo Tower as you sip on a cocktail.

Suggested time to spend: 2 hours

Time to next stop: Hop on to your bus for a 9-minute ride to Midtown. 

Evening (4pm - 7pm)

Attraction: Tokyo Midtown

Sleek, modern, and oh-so-cool, Tokyo Midtown is the definition of sophistication. For those who want to blend some art, shopping, and nature into their day, this is the perfect destination. It’s quiet enough to escape the buzz of Tokyo while still offering a ton to do.

Nearest stop:

• Marunouchi Mitsubishi Building (Green Course)

Highlights: 

• Architecture buffs will love the striking buildings designed by world-renowned architects.
• Art lovers will feel at home in the Suntory Museum of Art, where Japanese and modern art collide in style.
• Take a walk through the Midtown Garden, a peaceful oasis in the middle of the bustling city, perfect for a recharge.

Pro tip: Head to the 5th floor for amazing views and an outdoor garden that’s prime for photos—don’t forget your camera. 

Suggested time to spend: 2 hours

Time to next stop: 10 minutes walk through the local buzz and you're there.

Late night (8pm - 12am)

Dinner: Dinner at Sakana Bar Grill feels like stumbling into your cool Tokyo friend’s secret hangout. Grilled skewers, buttery sashimi, juicy yakitori—basically a flavor rave in every bite. Also, the place has just the right buzz for people-watching and sake-sipping marathons.