Disclaimer: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you book through them, we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. See our Privacy Policy for details.
1 Week Tokyo December Itinerary: Top 30 Things to Do
December isn’t the busiest time for tourists in Tokyo. But trust me, it’s actually the best time to visit. It’s beautiful, way more affordable, and there’s still plenty to see and do.
After spending a week soaking up the city’s vibes—tourist spots and hidden gems alike—I’ve realised I could easily spend another 7 days here!
So, if you’re wondering how to make the most of your week in Tokyo during December, I’ve got you covered with some of the best things to do.
Our 7-day Tokyo itinerary for December skips overhyped spots like Tokyo Tower, gives you alternatives to the crowded Asakusa temples, and has cool experiences like watching sumo training.
It’s all laid out area wise, so you can easily follow along and make the most of your week in Tokyo by using public transport, keeping it under budget.
Day 1 : in and around Marunouchi
D1.1 Tokyo Hop on Hop off Bus Tour
You may not be a fan of hop-on hop-off buses in other cities, just like me—it’s definitely a touristy thing. But the Sky hop bus is a must in Tokyo, especially for first-timers!
Tokyo is massive, and from historical sights to technological marvels, the list of things to do can be overwhelming, even in the quieter month of December.
Kick off your adventure from the top of an open-top Tokyo double-decker bus
The rooftop gives you an unbeatable view of the city and plenty of sunshine on cold winter days. The Tokyo Sky hop bus has three different routes.
I recommend sitting through all of them without getting off, except at the final stop. This way, you can observe the city and figure out where you want to spend more time
To make the most of it, start your tour early on the first bus and aim to finish all three routes by 3 or 4 PM.
D1.2 Get lost in Tokyo Central Station
Tokyo Station is more than a transit hub—it’s the prettiest and most lively train station I’ve ever seen! With its European-style red brick and domed roof, it’s a blend of history and modernity.
There are dozens of bakeries in the underground section of Tokyo Station. The smell of fresh pastries fills the air, making the whole place feel cosy.
And don’t forget the countless Gatcha Gatcha machines—they make losing money almost fun! The station even hosts smaller exhibitions, making it more of a landmark than just a transit hub.
Japan isn’t big on public plazas, but the one outside Tokyo Station is a great spot to catch some sunshine during the chilly afternoons of December.
Plus, if you need to swap your JR Pass exchange order, Tokyo Station is the best place to do it. You can also collect useful maps and other tourist information at their help kiosk.
D1.3 Have Lunch at Shin Marunouchi Mall
During the breaks between your Tokyo sky hop Bus tour, head to the Shin Marunouchi Building for some window shopping and an affordable lunch with a fantastic view of the area, especially Tokyo Station.
Plus, they set up a gigantic Christmas tree at the start of December, and the locals love taking pictures in front of it. It is fun to watch how Japanese line up patiently in front of this decorative tree just for a photo!
The mall is perfect for high-end shoppers, but the variety of cheap food makes it an awesome spot to grab an authentic seafood Japanese lunch or even an Italian pizza – An only option in Marunouchi Mall for vegetarians.
D1.4 Enjoy the Christmas vibe at Marunouchi Street Park
No other non-Christian nation celebrates Christmas quite like the Japanese do. Especially in Tokyo, people get unbelievably excited about Christmas decorations.
The Marunouchi Nakadori and Gyoko-dori Avenue come alive with stunning illuminations on December evenings, making them some of the best places to visit in Tokyo in winter.
In the evenings, you’ll find food trucks, kiosks selling sweets and pastries, and even a cute carousel.
Tokyo in December can get chilly, but you won’t have to worry. The sidewalks are dotted with heating lamps, so you can comfortably enjoy the magical winter lights until midnight.
The best places to eat in the Marunouchi area
- Rigoletto Wine and Bar at Shin Marunouchi Mall – Delicious Italian food with plenty of vegetarian options.
- Godiva Café – Affordable hot chocolate and sweet treats.
- Try the food trucks at the Christmas markets for pumpkin soup and roasted chicken with Japanese sauces.
Day 2 : Shibuya, Shinjuku, Shinagawa
D2.1 Get amazed at the maze of Shibuya crossing.
Coming to Japan and skipping Shibuya Crossing is almost a crime. It’s a scramble, and the busiest pedestrian intersection in the world.
Sure, watching from nearby buildings is a thing, but being in the middle of the madness gets your heart racing like nothing else.
Street artists are dancing, TikTokers are suddenly stopping in the middle of the crossing to bust out moves—it’s organised chaos, and we never get tired of it.
Where to get the best views of Shibuya Crossing
Mag’s Park Rooftop on the 8th floor got the best aerial view of Shibuya Crossing. A drink purchase (200-300 yen) is mandatory, but it’s worth it for the uninterrupted view.
For one of the most popular views of Shibuya Crossing, head to the second floor of Starbucks in the QFRONT building. It’s a famous spot for tourists.
For a quieter, free option, try the Shibuya Station bridge leading to Mark City. This hidden gem is usually crowd-free since not many tourists know about it.
D2.2 Visit Hachiko Square
Hachiko Square in Shibuya is a well-known meeting spot, named after Hachiko, the super loyal Akita dog who kept waiting at the station for his owner, even after he passed away.
For most tourists, it’s just a popular spot with a cute dog statue and beautiful autumn leaves in December.
But for dog parents, it’s a place filled with love, bringing back memories of the dogs we’ve lost. You can easily spend about 45 minutes here.
As a dog mum, the story of Hachi really had hit home when I watched the movie. This real-life story is so emotional that I’ve never been able to watch the movie’s climax.
But visiting the spot where Hachiko waited for his dad felt like a sacred moment for me.
After shedding a flood of tears, I decided to skip visiting Hachi’s grave, which is about a kilometre away.
D2.3 Have Ebi Doria for lunch
Japan is a paradise for seafood lovers, and Ebi Doria is a must-try! It’s a cheesy, shrimp-topped rice gratin that’s way different from the usual raw seafood.
My husband swears it’s one of the best Japanese dishes he’s had.
You won’t find Ebi Doria in local joints, so head to Excelsior Café in Shibuya for a great one. And for vegetarians like me, they’ve got a few solid options too!
D2.4 Get Free Aerial Views of Tokyo from 45th floor
Seeing Tokyo from above gives you a sense of why it’s the busiest yet best city in the world.
While popular spots like Tokyo Tower and Shibuya Sky charge a fee, Tokyo Metropolitan Building gives free view!
The observation decks on 45th floor with panoramic views of the city, is open daily from 9 AM to 10:30 PM free for everyone.
D2.5 See More Colours Than Ever at Pigment Art Supply Store
Hop on the metro and head to Shinagawa to visit Pigment, an art supply store that’s honestly one of the coolest offbeat things you can do in Tokyo in December.
Pigment isn’t just a shop—it’s like stepping into a world where a rainbow exploded onto the shelves. At first, it may look like a typical art supply store, but once you explore, you’ll find endless colours ready to play with.
Ashrith, being partially colour-blind, was amazed. He kept swaying, trying to understand how reds shift into oranges and why blues and greens looked so similar, yet different.
You’ll spot artists buying brushes you didn’t even know existed. Some even sit down to mix pigments with the staff’s help.
Although a bit pricey, you can buy some cool art supplies here to take back as quirky gifts from Japan.
Just be respectful—don’t go overboard with reels or TikToks. They haven’t restricted visitors yet, but if it becomes too touristy, they might!
D2.6 Take a walk through Shibuya’s backstreets:
Shibuya’s backstreets are a maze of narrow alleys, perfect for discovering hidden gems like quirky cafes, affordable shops, and bars.
You’ll find everything from pachinko slots and dog cafes to maid cafes and even spots serving grasshopper-based dishes. Two hours of wandering here feels like 30 minutes.
I enjoyed these alleys even more at night, especially on weekends—tourists and locals alike get high, sing, dance, and sometimes pass out. The Shibuya night vibe is truly one-of-a-kind!
D2.7 Try Shibuya Street food in the evening
It’s bizarre how a high-end brand showroom sits right next to a humble chestnut roasting kiosk in Shibuya. Takoyaki (octopus ball) shops co-exist beside towering, posh buildings.
On a chilly December afternoon, eating Melon pan ice cream might sound crazy, but it’s honestly one of the best things to do in Tokyo!
Best places to eat in Shibuya and Shinjuku
Mominoki House – A great spot for vegan ramen.
Takoyaki Bar Cureo-ru, Dogenzaka – A small, cosy Izakaya bar for octopus balls in Shibuya.
D2.8 Dine at Omoide Yokocho.
Omoide Yokocho, also called “Memory Lane,” is a tiny alleyway in the heart of Tokyo that serves up a delicious dose of nostalgia with every bite.
This narrow street, lined with traditional Izakaya bars, feels like stepping into a movie scene.
The air is thick with the scent of grilled meat and sake, while vintage lanterns cast a warm glow.
It’s mostly a haven for non-vegetarians, but on request, you can find some grilled Japanese scallions (Negi) for vegetarians like me.
The sound of clinking glasses and lively chatter makes it one of the best ways to spend a December night in Tokyo.
Day 3 : Hibiya Park, Nihonbashi and Akihabara
D3.1 Wander in Hibiya Park and its surroundings.
Tokyo has many large parks, but Hibiya Park stood out to us, especially since it’s near locations from Death Note, making it a must-visit for fans.
What started as a pilgrimage to follow in Light Yagami’s footsteps turned into a peaceful morning for about 2 hours.
The park was once the grounds of feudal lords and became public in 1903. During
World War II, most trees were cut down for timber, and fences were melted for steel, but it was beautifully restored in the 1960s with Western-inspired garden elements.
On our visit, the park was lively with joggers, cyclists, and even a Christmas market adding to the festive December vibe.
Towards the end of the park,there is a lovely Japanese garden with giant saffron maple leaves painting the sky. Most people stay near the entrance, so this little pond can feel like your own hidden escape for a while.
D3.2 Take a free walking tour in Older Tokyo.
It might surprise you just how historic the “world’s most expensive city” really is. That’s why taking at least one walking tour is a must to uncover Tokyo’s layers.
Japan is expensive for travellers. So going on a free walking tour by Guru Walk is one of the ways to save some money especially in costly Tokyo
If you’re curious about what Tokyo was like before the glass facades and tech took over, the Nihonbashi: Cultural Walk is the best and for about 2.5 to 3hrs.
Nihonbashi has seen it all—from Edo-era merchants in traditional attire to becoming a vibrant shopping and cultural hotspot today. It’s also where Japan’s first department store, Mitsukoshi, opened back in 1904.
In December, the area looks like something straight out of a postcard, with autumn leaves adding vibrant colour to the old neighbourhood.
This is where you realise Tokyo was once a city of canals, many of which were covered up to make more land! Tokyo was actually like Amsterdam in olden days with so many canals!
The neighbourhood is also home to some of Japan’s oldest bakeries, serving Mochi sweets and Wagashi since 1870.
And don’t miss the Instagram-famous Taiyaki, the fish-shaped sweets that are a signature of this area.
D3.3 Get Electrified at Akihabara
I like to call Akihabara “The Junk Pile,” while my gamer husband prefers “Treasure Pot.” Akihabara became a hub for electronic goods in the 1920s.
Since then, Akihabara has become Japan’s go-to spot for video game arcades, electronics, and yes, touristy places like Taito Stations and Maid Cafes. Even if you’re not into tech, it’s still a blast—just skip those last two.
The area is full of electronics stores, with big names like Yodobashi Camera and BIC Camera offering gadgets you didn’t even know existed. They’re not cheap, but the quality is worth it.
On a cold December evening, there’s nothing better than diving into Akihabara’s gaming arcades!
Playing vintage classics like Bomberman, Pacman, and the first version of Mario is a must while in Tokyo, no matter the season.
Super Potato in Akihabara is a mecca for gamers, where you can play, eat crazy snacks, and feel all kinds of nostalgic. Plus you can buy some old video game cassettes as souvenirs here.
Lastly end your day with some kickass ramen at Kyushu Jangara– One of the few places where you get veg Ramen along with the usual chicken and seafood ramen that my husband devoured.
Day 4 – Sumo Tour, Asakusa, Zojoji, Harajuku
D4.1 Start your day with Sumo Stable Tour.
Sumo wrestling is Japan’s national sport and has been around for over 1,300 years. But the matches don’t happen every day—they’re only during certain times of the year.
So, how can you meet sumo wrestlers as a traveller? By visiting their training stables! Trust me, it’s one of the coolest cultural experiences of Tokyo, especially in December.
You’ll be sitting up close, watching them practice and getting a real insight into their intense lifestyle—it was honestly just as thrilling as a live match for us.
Plus, all the myths I had about sumo wrestlers were completely shattered, and I learned it’s a sacred discipline, not just some show.
At last you get to take pictures with two senior wrestlers of the stable. Most stables are in the Ryogoku district and a few in Sumida ward, but you can’t just walk in.
You need to book a tour and be accompanied by a local guide to see the morning practice.
D4.2 Experience culture and modernity at once in Asakusa
Asakusa is a top spot for tourists in Tokyo, so even though December is the off-season, it still will be pretty crowded.
I wasn’t sure if we should even go, but how can you skip the oldest part of the world’s most modern city? So, of course, I ended up visiting Asakusa for a few hours!
Asakusa Sensoji Temple is definitely overcrowded, and I felt a bit overwhelmed by it. But step just outside the temple, and the surrounding area is super charming!
Picture standing by an ancient temple with autumn trees, while towering glass skyscrapers loom behind you—it’s a crazy mix of old and new Tokyo!
In Asakusa, men in traditional hats pull rickshaws past wooden buildings, but look around and you’ll also spot quirky modern structures, like a poop-shaped sculpture and a beer mug building!
Japanese Women in kimonos stroll alongside fashion-forward girls in skirts and heels, perfectly blending old and new Tokyo vibes.
Don’t miss the top floor view from the Asakusa Tourist Information Centre—it’s the best spot to see old and new Tokyo blend together.
There’s also the cosy Miharashi Café, where you can enjoy a sweet potato and ice cream dessert. It’s a bit pricey, but totally worth it!
D4.3 Peace out at Zojo-ji temple.
Asakusa Temple might be the oldest, but it lacks the peaceful vibe you’d expect from a Shinto shrine. For something offbeat in Tokyo this December, visit Zojoji Temple.
A short walk through the quiet neighbourhood of Shiba-koen brings you to this hidden gem. Spend about 2 hours here.
Tokyo Tower (which I find a bit overrated) stands behind Zojo-ji temple. The interiors are simple, but the garden with its autumn leaves is stunning.
The most moving part is the Garden of Unborn Babies, where stone statues with hand-knitted beanies are offered by Shinto followers. It’s a bittersweet sight that stirs mixed emotions.
The area around Zojoji Temple isn’t popular with tourists, which is great if you’re looking for local spots to eat.
Most food joints cater to the working crowd and serve pork, beef, or chicken. If you’re curious about Tokyo’s solo dining culture, visit the nearby McDonald’s—people eat in complete silence, without a word or even a glance at each other.
D4.4 Experience the “Cyberpunk” culture and eat Crepes at Harajuku
The best thing to do in Tokyo during chilly December evenings is to visit Harajuku, the district known for its wild fashion. While most of Tokyo feels like The Devil Wears Prada, Harajuku is more like a Tim Burton film.
Harajuku is all about neon lights, funky fashion, and tasty crepes. It’s one of the most unique places on Earth, where you’ll see people dressed like anime characters or straight out of a cyberpunk movie. The Lolita style, with girls in schoolgirl outfits, is super common.
You’ll probably find yourself staring—it’s hard not to! If you’re into this style, Takeshita Street has plenty of shops selling similar clothes.
While you’re busy admiring the funky fashion, don’t forget to grab some delicious and affordable crepes at Harajuku! Santa Monica and Marion Crepes are famous spots.
We tried the strawberry crepes here—they were so tasty and filling that we ended up skipping dinner!
Day 5 : Trip to Kamakura for Sea Vibes
Tokyo in December is cooler and cheaper, but after spending several days in the city, you might find yourself craving some sunshine and quiet.
That’s why a day trip to the seaside town of Kamakura is perfect for a peaceful sunny escape. The giant meditating Buddha is the most popular place in Kamakura.
But for me, the real highlight is the Enoshima Railway. This scenic train ride runs right along the Pacific Ocean, making any evening feel magical.
All the practical details on getting to Kamakura and things to do are listed in a separate post. Check it out
Heads up—While Fuji Five Lakes is another popular December day trip from Tokyo, we don’t recommend rushing it. This area deserves at least 2-3 days. Check out how we spent two blissful days in Fujigoko.
Day 6 : Toyosu and Odaiba
D6.1 Tuna Fish Auction with Toyosu Market Tour
The action kicks off with bells ringing, and fishmongers use hand gestures to bid, with tuna being sold in seconds. The entire place is buzzing with energy.
The Tuna Auction at Toyosu Market is hands-down one of the coolest things you can do in Tokyo on a December morning.
And after the auction? The sold tuna gets chopped at the basement level before being sent to the bidders.
Plus, Toyosu Market isn’t just about tuna—you’ll find vegetable shops, handmade knives used for cutting tuna, and some of the oldest sushi spots around.
Keep in mind, this isn’t a “walk in anytime” market. Auction starts at 6AM. So its an early start to your day in Tokyo.
The buzz dies down by 10 AM, and you’ll need a local guide to explain what’s happening. Otherwise, you’ll be standing on the upper floors clueless while giant tuna are dragged below.
Check out this post to learn how to combine a Toyosu Market tour with the tuna auction experience.
D6.2 Enjoy sushi for breakfast in the best place
After wandering through the market, it was time to taste what you saw at the auction for breakfast.
Our guide took us to “Iso Sushi” at 7:30 AM. They open at 6 AM and close at 2:30 PM.
Izo Sushi had Kauntaseki seating, right in front of the chef. We watched him slice tuna with such precision—it was shocking.
Then, the chef serves you Nigiri and Sushi with some hot matcha, even showing you how to dip wasabi with sushi or mix grated ginger with it!
Izo Sushi is definitely one of the best spots to enjoy sushi during your Toyosu Market tour.
As we were leaving Izo Sushi, we noticed a wall full of celebrity photos, including Jeff Bezos and Tom Holland, who had eaten there too. Pretty cool, right?
Another old and good restaurant our guide took was “Sushi Bun since 1800” – I tried Veg Sushi here and was super good.
D6.3 Admire Tokyo’s skyline from Toyosu Deck.
There’s nothing better than taking a post-lunch break on the Toyosu deck, with its garden terrace overlooking the bay and skyscrapers.
Some of these buildings even have earthquake dampeners! When you take in the view and compare it to old Tokyo at Nihonbashi, the contrast is striking in the best way possible.
The cool breeze and stunning sights here are the perfect way to shake off the tiredness from waking up at 4:30 AM to get Toyosu Auction.
D6.4 Take Monorail and see Statue of Liberty and more!
If you’re like us and have watched endless videos listing “100 Things to do in Tokyo in December” and wonder where they’re all hiding, hop on the Yurikamome monorail.
This driverless monorail glides along the bay, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the city.Wirth some bizzare things you can see on the way.
You’ll pass iconic spots like the Tokyo Olympic Stadium, but also some unexpected sights, like a Statue of Liberty at Odaiba and a giant Ghibli clock.
If you’re curious, you can hop off on your way back to get a closer look and ponder why Tokyo has its own Statue of Liberty!
D6.5 Take rest at Toyosu Park areas
We won’t sugarcoat it—the Toyosu day plan can be exhausting. After waking up at 4:30, watching the intense tuna auction, and wandering the market, you’ll definitely need a break.
Remember, travelling isn’t about just ticking off places; it’s about enjoying them fully. So, instead of rushing back to your room, we suggest heading to Urban Dock LaLaport.
There’s a Starbucks and a Bubba Gump Shrimp restaurant, so you can either stay caffeinated or relax under the trees on the street furniture. Trust me, a 30-minute rest here will recharge you.
Afterward, take a stroll around Daiba Park for an amazing sunset. Kick back on the grass mounds and enjoy the Tokyo skyline by the bay—it’s the perfect way to end your day.
D6.6 Lose yourself at the sci-fi artsy place of teamLab Planets.
Art comes in many forms—music to be heard, paintings to be seen, sculptures to be touched. But have you ever wondered if coding is art? Not everyone connects with traditional art, so is it just for artists to judge?
I initially thought teamLab Planets was just a spot for Instagrammers, but I loved every bit of this digital art museum.
It wasn’t just about looking; I got to interact with the art! I touched the orchids, and they floated upwards. I waved my hands in the water, and digital koi fish scattered—it was surreal.
You could easily spend two to three hours here. Curious how to experience it? Click here to learn more about visiting teamLab Planets in Tokyo!
D6.7 End your day at most expensive area of Tokyo Ginza
Curious about where many Japanese women are buying their Chanel, Dior, Gucci, Louis Vuitton bags and Versace outfits from? – Welcome to Ginza.
Historically referred to as a shopping district of Tokyo, it continues to baffle tourists with its glittery-lit shops.
You won’t catch me shopping for Prada or Gucci- I am after all a budget traveller. But I’m all about window shopping!
Staring at those glossy Versace outfits and elegant Fendi bags, I thoroughly enjoyed browsing in Ginza.
However, there’s one store I seriously recommend visiting—the 12-floor Uniqlo Store in Ginza!
Uniqlo is affordable and high quality, so I stocked up on all my winter gear for our 24-day winter trip in Japan, including Heattech thermal layers and jackets.
They were much cheaper and of excellent quality—the most practical keepsakes from Japan I could ask for.
Plus, some cool bakeries around here sell Strawberry Daifuku at lower prices—definitely worth a try!
D6.8 Sleep at a Capsule hotel on your last night in Tokyo.
Japan has all sorts of cool places to stay—traditional inns called Ryokans, temple stays like Shukubo, and something truly born out of Japan’s space crunch: the capsule hotel.
But it’s not just about saving money—there’s something fun about having your own little private space while sharing the area with others.
As someone who’s claustrophobic, I thought sleeping in one of these pods would be a nightmare, but I actually had a super comfy and satisfying sleep.
And here’s the kicker—if you’re up for it, they’ll even give you a sleep report based on sensors in the pod. How cool is that? Check out this detailed story on why and which Pod Hotel in Tokyo is the best.
Day 7 : Setagaya
D7.1 Visit Gotokuji Temple
Gokokuji Temple is far from calm. But it got the cutest vibe of “Manekineko”
The temple, as a structure, is typical of other Japanese temples.
In fact, the prettier temples are in Kyoto. But Gotokuji is filled with Maneki Neko (those cute waving cat dolls) believed to bring good fortune, and that’s what I loved about it.
It’s believed that a cat waved at a lord, inviting him in and saving him from a thunderstorm.
So, all over the temple, you find Maneki Neko stacked, offered by local folks for good luck.
D7.2 Have Totoro Cream Puff before you leave
Are you a Ghibli fan like us and love Totoro? Then you have to eat Totoro before leaving Tokyo!
Shiro-Hige’s Cream Puff Factory in Setagaya makes Totoro-shaped cream puffs, officially approved by the master, Hayao Miyazaki himself.
Not only do they look adorable, but they taste amazing too! It was tough to bite into such a cute Totoro, but I was there to eat it!
Overhyped Tourist attractions in Tokyo to Avoid
Tokyo Tower and Skytree – Both are overpriced and overly touristy. Architecturally, they’re nothing special—just big metal structures. For better aerial views of Tokyo, visit the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for free. It’s less crowded, offers stunning views, and feels more authentic without the heavy tourist gimmicks
Kabuki Theatre Performance – Witnessing an Edo-period traditional drama is definitely exciting if you’re willing to pay at least 3,500 yen to sit in the farthest row.
Robot Café – Think carefully before booking. After researching and watching vlogs, we concluded that robots don’t actually serve you food here. In fact, there’s no robotics involved—just a flashy, glitter-filled performance by dancers in a café.
Meiji Jingu and other shrines : Meiji Jingu is one of the most crowded temples in Tokyo next to Asakusa. Skip it. Go to Zojo-ji (least crowded) or Gotokuji ( known for “maneki-neko” cat dolls- crowded but better than others)
Ghibli Museum – It’s not pricey, but it was out of the way for what we had planned. If you’re visiting during Sakura season and love Ghibli, pair this with Inokashira Park for stunning cherry blossom views by the lake.
Yoyogi Park : Might be beautiful during Sakura season. But it can get crowded. Visit smaller and less crowded HIbiya park instead.
Shibuya Hikarie – This entertainment complex is like Pachinko’s younger sibling. It can be fun, but don’t be surprised if your money disappears without you realising it.
Street Go-Karting Experience – At 7,300 yen for an hour, this is a fun thing to do in Tokyo if you have an international driving license and are comfortable with left-lane driving.
Tokyo Disneyland – Online opinions say that Tokyo Disneyland isn’t as exciting as the ones in Florida or Paris. We wanted to experience Nintendo World at USJ, so we skipped Disneyland since it was out of our budget.
Famous Tokyo Landmarks That Shut After 2020
The KitKat Factory in Shibuya – In December 2022, I walked all the way from Shibuya Crossing to the KitKat Factory, eager to try Japan’s unique flavours, only to discover it had permanently shut down. A huge disappointment.
Transparent Toilets in Tokyo – I specifically chose Yoyogi to end my Tokyo trip in December because of its transparent toilets with colourful glass walls. I walked all the way to see these innovative designs, only to find they were locked and under restoration.
Sega Arcade – This one stung. I’d been looking forward to exploring Sega Arcade’s multi-floor maze of retro and modern games in Akihabara. Unfortunately, it didn’t survive the pandemic, and Tokyo lost one of its gaming culture landmarks before I could make it there.
Taito Station Shinjuku – I always wanted to dive into the gaming culture at Taito Station. Known for its arcade machines and anime memorabilia, I planned to visit, but the pandemic forced it to shut down.
Oedo Onsen Monogatari – I had dreams of soaking in the Edo-period charm of this hot spring town. It was the perfect escape from Tokyo’s hustle, but sadly, it closed due to the pandemic. Thank god I could have onsen experience at Nagano.
After reading our blog, what would you love to do in Tokyo in December as a tourist? Let us know in the comment section below.
Tips to follow this 1 Week Tokyo Itinerary
Public transport in Tokyo: It’s the most affordable and convenient way to visit all the places mentioned above.
Operating hours of buses and trains: Tokyo Public transport doesn’t run from midnight to 5:30 AM.
Breakfast at 7/11: It’s a budget-friendly option, and the coffee and breakfast are surprisingly good!
SIM card for easy navigation: Get a local Japanese SIM with data and voice calls for accessing apps like Japan Transit Planner and using Google Maps.
Walking or cycling around: Tokyo is easy to explore on foot or by bicycle.
Stay outside tourist hotspots: Opt for non-tourist areas to stay in Tokyo like we did, and skip hotels in Roppongi, Asakusa, Shibuya, and Shinjuku.
