Are you planning your first trip to Tokyo and looking for a day filled with history, culture, and unique experiences? Look no further than this ultimate 1-day East Tokyo itinerary, where you’ll explore the city’s traditional side while enjoying modern gems along the way. This carefully curated tour covers Toyosu, Sumida River, Asakusa, Kappabashi, Oshiage Sky Tree, and Fukagawa—an area rich in Edo-era flavor, local food, and traditional Japanese culture.
Whether you’re an art enthusiast, foodie, or history lover, this tour promises to showcase Tokyo’s authentic charm.
Morning: Start the Day with Digital Art and a Serene Coffee Break
1. TeamLab Planets in Toyosu
Kick off your day at the world-famous Teamlab Planets, located in Toyosu. This immersive art experience is unlike anything you’ll find in a traditional museum. Be prepared to step into the artwork itself—walking through water, reflective spaces, and multi-sensory digital installations that will leave you speechless.
Pro Tip: Wear pants you can roll up to your knees, as some areas require walking through knee-high water. Book your tickets in advance to secure your spot and avoid long waits.
📍 Booking Link: TeamLab Planets TOKYO. It take about 2 hours so book at 10.00 or 10.30 slots for ample time to enjoy.
2. Coffee at Blue Bottle Coffee
After TeamLab, take a relaxing walk toward Toyosu LaLaport and treat yourself to coffee at the recently opened Blue Bottle Coffee (opened in August 2024). Located in a park overlooking Tokyo Bay, this spacious and peaceful café is perfect for recharging.
Enjoy expertly brewed coffee at the perfect temperature and a fresh scone while soaking in the serene bay views. If you prefer something more substantial, the nearby LaLaport shopping mall offers a variety of dining options, including a delightful soba noodle shop which I often go to for a quick slurp.
Midday: Cruise Along the Sumida River to Asakusa
3. Sumida River Cruise (1:55 PM)
Next, take a scenic Sumida River Cruise from Toyosu to Asakusa. For just 1,400 yen per person, this journey offers a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle while showcasing Tokyo from a unique perspective. You’ll pass under several iconic bridges and enjoy announcements detailing the river’s rich history.
Fun Fact: This river cruise company has been operating for over 100 years, and the boat’s design is inspired by the famous manga Spaceship Yamato.
Booking your tickets a couple of days in advance is highly recommended, especially if you want a comfortable table seat.
📍 Booking Link: Tokyo Cruise Ship
Afternoon: Culture, Shopping, and Street Food in Asakusa
4. Senso-ji Temple & Nakamise Street
Upon arriving in Asakusa, step into the Edo period at the historic Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest and most iconic Buddhist temple. Before entering, take part in Japanese traditions like cleansing with smoke and water and trying your luck with an omikuji fortune slip.
Stroll down Nakamise Street, a bustling shopping street leading to the temple, where you’ll find a wide array of Japanese souvenirs, from sensu (folding fans) and kimono to traditional sweets and senbei (rice crackers).
5. Visit Kappabashi Street
If you’re a cooking enthusiast, make time to explore Kappabashi Street, just a 15-minute walk from Senso-ji. This street is a paradise for kitchenware lovers, offering everything from high-quality Japanese knives to beautiful ceramic dishes at wholesale prices.
Insider Tip: Japanese knives are a popular item among international travelers for their unparalleled craftsmanship.
Evening: Sunset at Sky Tree
6. Oshiage Sky Tree and Sumida River Walk
Wrap up your day with a leisurely 20-minute walk from Asakusa to the Tokyo Sky Tree. The path takes you across the Sumida River and along a charming canal dotted with coffee shops—perfect for a quick rest or photo op.
At Sky Tree, marvel at Tokyo’s skyline as the city lights up for the evening. For a truly magical experience, time your visit to catch the sunset (around 4:30 PM in late December). The observation deck offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
7. Dinner at Sky Tree Mall
End your tour with dinner at the Sky Tree Mall, which boasts a wide variety of restaurants. You can also explore the supermarket in Soramachi to find huge variety of Japanese and Indian curry selections to eat at home or stroll along the shotengai (shopping street) 1st floor for a snack.
Special Tips for Travelers
- Best Time to Visit: This itinerary works well in any season, as most activities are indoors or shaded.
- Transportation: Walking and public transit are great options, but renting a bike could add an extra layer of fun.
- What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, cash for small purchases, and clothes you can roll up for TeamLab Planets.
Additional Recommendations for Staying in East Tokyo
If you want to immerse yourself further in the East Tokyo experience, consider staying overnight in this area. It’s rich in culture, history, and local charm, making it an excellent base for your Tokyo visit.
1. Stay at the Royal Park Hotel
For a comfortable 4-star stay, I highly recommend the Royal Park Hotel in Suitengu-mae area. This hotel offers:
- Convenient Location: It’s located next to TCAT (Tokyo City Air Terminal), which has limousine buses connecting directly to Narita and Haneda Airports.
- Transportation Options: Easy access to the Hanzomon Metro Line and a short taxi ride to Tokyo Station.
- Serene Environment: It’s near the Sumida River, offering a beautiful riverside walk to start or end your day. The hotel also seems not to cater for large tour groups, hence quieter time in the lobby.
- Spacious Rooms: Known for offering larger rooms compared to many Tokyo hotels, with reasonable rates for the quality provided.
📍 Pro Tip: The riverside near Royal Park Hotel is perfect for a peaceful morning stroll or evening walk.
Extend Your East Tokyo Exploration
If you have extra time, here are a few more gems in East Tokyo to add to your itinerary:
2. Edo-Tokyo Museum
Located in Ryogoku, this museum is a must-visit for history buffs. It vividly showcases life during the Edo period (1603–1868) through interactive exhibits, models of old Tokyo streets, and even full-scale replicas of traditional houses.
3. Kokugikan – The Sumo Wrestling Arena
Ryogoku is also home to Kokugikan, Japan’s most famous sumo wrestling stadium. Even if you don’t catch a live tournament, the area offers sumo-themed attractions, shops, and restaurants. You can even try chanko nabe, the hearty stew that sumo wrestlers eat to build strength.
4. Local Cafés and Food Spots
Fukagawa is dotted with charming local restaurants and coffee shops. Explore hidden gems serving traditional monjayaki (a savory pancake-like dish) or enjoy modern twists on Japanese cuisine in cozy settings.
📍 Read more in my blog about the hidden food gems in Fukagawa!
Why Stay in East Tokyo?
Staying in East Tokyo gives you a taste of the city’s more traditional, authentic side—an experience you may not get in areas like Shibuya or Shinjuku. Plus, it’s a quieter area, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.
If you’d like to add an extra day or two to explore East Tokyo’s hidden gems, Fukagawa offers the perfect blend of modern convenience and historic charm.
Wrapping Up Your 1-Day East Tokyo Adventure
East Tokyo is a treasure trove of culture, history, and authentic charm, making it the perfect destination for first-time visitors looking to experience the real Tokyo. From the mesmerizing digital art installations at Teamlab Planets in Toyosu to the peaceful Sumida River Cruise, the vibrant streets of Asakusa, and the towering splendor of Tokyo Skytree, this itinerary offers a seamless blend of tradition and modernity.
For those who want to dive deeper into the area’s rich heritage, a visit to Fukagawa and nearby Ryogoku provides fascinating glimpses into the Edo period, with highlights like the Edo-Tokyo Museum, Kokugikan Sumo Arena, and local culinary delights. And if you’re planning to stay in East Tokyo, the Royal Park Hotel offers comfort, convenience, and access to all these attractions.
Whether you’re strolling through Asakusa’s Nakamise Street, shopping for Japanese culinary tools in Kappabashi, or savoring street food along the way, East Tokyo delivers an authentic Japanese experience that will leave you with lasting memories.
So, lace up your walking shoes, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to explore the timeless charm of East Tokyo—where history, culture, and modernity meet in perfect harmony!
