Tokio
Three days in Tokyo: from market to temple to view
Three nights are enough to see Tokyo's highlights: the bustle of the fish market, the peace of old temples, and the energy of Shibuya. This route takes you step by step through the city, neighbourhood by neighbourhood.
7 September 2026 · Wayloha editorial · 5 sources
Day 1: Tsukiji Market and Sensō-ji Temple
Start early. In the southeast of Tokyo lies the Tsukiji Fish Market, where you can still see large tuna being auctioned and fresh fish sold to sushi restaurants. Arrive before sunrise, when it is busiest. Spending about two hours here will give you a good impression.
Next, travel to the Sensō-ji Temple, one of Tokyo's oldest and most visited temples. You can get there in a few stops by metro or taxi. End your day here, in the area near the temple where there are many small restaurants.
- Make sure you are at the market before sunrise; it becomes quieter after that.
- Organise your visits by neighbourhood so you don't travel back and forth.
At the Tsukiji Market, you see tuna being auctioned in the early morning light; in the evening, you look out from Shibuya Sky over that same city filled with lit windows.Tokio
Day 2: Shibuya Crossing and Shibuya Sky
Day two is for Shibuya. Start with the famous Shibuya Crossing, the busiest intersection in the world, where thousands of people cross at the same time. It only takes a few minutes, but it feels like the heart of the city.
After that, book your tickets for Shibuya Sky well in advance, as the best time slots sell out weeks ahead. This observation platform gives you a panorama over all of Tokyo. Avoid the peak hours around sunset, when everyone goes at once. Have dinner nearby; Shibuya is full of restaurants.
- Book Shibuya Sky tickets as soon as your travel dates are fixed.
- Avoid the crowds around sunset; visit in the afternoon or early evening instead.
Day 3: Nezu Shrine and Gōtokuji Temple
On day three, it's time for some peace and quiet. The Nezu Shrine is much less crowded than Sensō-ji and feels like the real Tokyo. It is accessible by metro.
You could also visit the Gōtokuji Temple, also known as Tokyo's cat temple, where hundreds of Maneki-neko statues (the lucky cats) stand together. It's a place many tourists overlook. You can visit both temples in one day, but take your time. These are neighbourhoods where you can feel that Tokyo is not just busy and modern.
- Nezu Shrine and Gōtokuji Temple are located in quiet neighbourhoods that many travellers skip.
- Make sure you don't spend all your days in Shibuya and at Sensō-ji; these places are worth the extra effort.
