Looking for the ultimate 1 day itinerary in Tokyo that’s packed with charm, local culture, and a budget-friendly twist? This guide covers lesser-known places, secret scenic corners, and whimsical experiences—all while saving over ¥1,170 on transportation. Yes, it’s possible, and yes, it’s totally worth it.
We started our journey at Kameari Station and bought a Tokunai Pass for just ¥760. This special JR-issued pass lets you travel unlimited times on local JR lines within Tokyo for one day. If your plans include multiple stops across the city, this pass is your budget-friendly best friend.
Tsutaya Books Daikanyama – A Book Lover’s Dream
Train ticket fare: ~500 yen (Fare included in Tokunai pass)
Location: Tsutaya Books Daikanyama
〒150-0033 Tokyo, Shibuya, Sarugakucho, 17−5 代官山Ｔ－ＳＩＴＥ １号館～３号館 １階～２階
Train Route:
Kameari station (Joban Line) > Kitasenju Station > Nippori Station (Yamanote line via Osaki ) > Ebisu Station (exit) > walk or ride a bus going to Tsutaya books Daikanyama
From Kameari, we transferred via Kitasenju Station and Nippori Station to reach Ebisu Station, followed by a short walk to Daikanyama. The area is known for its upscale residential charm and creative architecture.
One of the main highlights is Tsutaya Books Daikanyama. This modern complex combines bookstores, cafés, and lifestyle shops in a space that blends design and function. Visitors can browse a wide selection of Japanese and English books, or simply enjoy the atmosphere with a coffee.
Walking around Daikanyama en route to the station reveals several architecturally notable buildings and quiet residential streets. Totally Instagram-worthy and photo-perfect.
La Vita Jiyugaoka - Little Europe in Tokyo
Ticket Price: 180 (Not included in Tokunai pass)
Location: La Vita Jiyugaoka
Train Route:
Tsutaya Books Daikanyama >> Daikanyama Station (Toyoko line -via local Motomachi-chukagai) >> Jiyūgaoka Station >> La Vita Jiyugaoka (6 minutes walk)
After picking up some books, we made our way to La Vita in Jiyugaoka. It’s a quiet little spot with a Venice-inspired vibe—complete with a mini canal and gondolas. While it’s smaller than I expected, it’s still a charming place for a quick photo stop.
It would’ve been nice if there was a café to sit and enjoy the view, but even so, it’s a great place to slow down for a bit. We spent a few minutes snapping photos before heading to Mikiyas, a cozy pasta place just a short walk from La Vita and not far from the station.
Lunch at Mikiyas
Meal Price range: ¥1000- ¥3000
Location: MiKiYA’s
〒152-0035 Tokyo, Meguro City, Jiyugaoka, 1 Chome−26−20 笹川ビル 202
The restaurant is on the second floor, accessible by stairs. It’s a cozy pasta bar where you choose a base pasta and then add toppings like bacon, eggplant, and more.
We kept it light and went with their spaghetti and a fresh salad—and honestly, both were really good. Simple, flavorful, and just the right portion.
You can also upgrade your meal with a set. I recommend the B set—it comes with a drink, salad, and garlic bread. They also offer a course menu if you’re feeling extra hungry.
The staff were super friendly, and the vibe was relaxed. Definitely a spot I’d return to next time I’m in the area.
Hachiko & Shibuya Scramble
Ticket Price: 180 yen (Not included in Tokunai pass)
Location: Hachiko Statue
2 Chome-1 Dogenzaka, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0043
Ticket price: 180 yen (not included in Tokunai pass)
Train Route:
Mikiyas >> Jiyugaoka station (Toyoko line) >> Shibuya station
We briefly transferred at Shibuya Station, so of course, we made time for a quick visit to the iconic Hachiko statue and the famous Shibuya Crossing.
NTV Ghibli Clock
Traine Route
Shibuya station (Via Yamanote line for Shinagawa) > Shimbashi Station> NTV Ghibli Clock
About 30 minutes from Shibuya by train, we arrived at our next stop—the NTV Big Clock in Shiodome, perched on the Nittele Tower. Designed by Hayao Miyazaki, this massive steampunk-style clock looks like something straight out of a Ghibli film—and it’s completely free to visit.
We took the underground path from the station, and as we stepped outside, we were met with stunning views of Tokyo’s skyscrapers and some seriously impressive architecture. It honestly felt like stumbling into a secret corner of the city.
Huge thanks to those online who pointed out that the clock comes to life a few minutes before 6, 9, 12, and 3—both in the morning and afternoon. The little show is short but magical, with moving parts and whimsical music.
Standing there watching it felt like being inside an animated film. If you love Ghibli or just appreciate playful design, this spot should definitely be on your list.
Discover Yanaka District
Train Route
Shimbashi Station >> Nippori Station >>Tennoji Temple
Yanaka Tennoji Temple
No admission fee
Location: Tennōji Temple
7 Chome-14-8 Yanaka, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0001
We came across Tennoji Temple on our way to Yanaka Ginza, and it turned out to be a peaceful little surprise. The temple grounds are beautifully kept, and if you visit between late March and early April, the cherry blossoms here are super nice.
At the center stands a large Buddha statue, reminiscent of the one at Kotoku-in Temple in Kamakura. It’s a quiet spot that invites you to slow down and take it all in.
Best of all, it’s completely free to enter—and right next to Yanaka Cemetery, which is also worth exploring if you enjoy peaceful walks and a bit of local history.
Yanaka Cemetery
Adjacent to the temple is Yanaka Cemetery, one of Tokyo’s largest, offering wide walking paths and a peaceful atmosphere. It also serves as a popular hanami (cherry blossom viewing) location in spring.
Yanaka Ginza Shopping Street
Yanaka Ginza isn’t huge—just a couple of main streets—but it’s packed with charm. Old buildings, cozy shops, and a relaxed neighborhood vibe make it a really enjoyable place to explore. The streets are narrow, walkable, and full of character.
It’s also known for its love of cats, so you’ll spot plenty of cat-themed souvenirs and decor in the local shops. Even with a decent number of visitors, the area stays surprisingly calm and peaceful. It’s one of those places where everything just feels slower—in a good way.
Sugamo Jizodori Shopping Street- aka Grandma's Harajuku
Train Route
Nippori Station (Yamanote line) >> Sugamo Station >> Sugamo Jizodori Shopping Street
Sugamo Jizodori reminds me a bit of Yanaka Ginza—it has that same old-town, residential feel but with an even quieter and slower pace. It’s definitely less touristy, and you’ll notice that many of the shops cater more to older locals. You’ll see a lot of seniors out and about, doing their shopping or catching up with friends. It’s actually a really pleasant place to take a walk, especially on weekends or in the late afternoon.
I came here on a weekend looking for matcha and found several nice tea shops along the street. There are also plenty of food stalls and small local stores—nothing flashy, but very homey.
People say it’s “an old people’s area,” but honestly, that’s part of the charm. It feels very local. The sidewalks are wide and flat, which makes walking easy, and there are lots of supermarkets where you can grab fresh fruits or bento boxes.
Make sure to walk all the way to the end of the street—there’s a cute little dessert shop right outside Koshinzuka Station that’s worth checking out.
And if you’re here during sakura season, take the Toden Arakawa Line—also known as the Sakura Tram. It’s the last tram line still running in Tokyo. It might be old, but it’s far from outdated. Watching the cherry blossoms roll by from the tram is honestly one of the most peaceful experiences you can have in the city.
Temari no Oshiro Cat Cafe
Ticket fare: 320 yen
Entrance fee: 1000 yen -1400 yen (weekdays) , 1200 Yen-1800 yen (Weekends and holidays)
Location: Temari No Oshiro
〒180-0004 Tokyo, Musashino, Kichijoji Honcho, 2 Chome−33−2 吉祥寺プティット村
Train Route:
Sugamo Station (Yamanote line via Ikebukuro)>> shinjuku station (Chuo line – Rapid Ome)>> Kichioji Station
Note: You can use the Tokunai Pass from Sugamo Station to Shinjuku Station, but it doesn’t cover the route from Shinjuku to Kichijoji, so you’ll need to pay separately for that part.
This place is hands down one of the best cat cafés I’ve been to in Tokyo. The moment I walked in, it felt like I’d stepped into a scene from a Ghibli movie—cozy, whimsical, and full of charm.
There are over 25 cats here, each with their own quirky personality. The staff are super friendly and you can tell they genuinely care for the cats. What surprised me most is that each cat gets a different kind of food depending on what they like—how cute is that?
I spent a lot of time playing with a grey shorthair named Kumori. He looked a bit grumpy at first, but give him a toy and he’s the most playful one in the room.
The whole vibe of the café is so relaxing. Soft lighting and warm wooden decor make it a perfect spot to unwind. If you love cats (and coffee), this café is a must.
Nakano Broadway- Known as the Anime and Manga Mecca
Train Route:
Temari No Oshiro >> Kichijōji Station (Chuo line) >> Nakano Station
After Kichijoji, we made our way to Nakano Broadway, a shopping complex located just a few minutes from Nakano Station (JR Chuo Line). The building specializes in anime and manga merchandise, collectible toys, vintage watches, and subculture items. It also features a food market and local eateries on the lower floors.
Compared to Akihabara, Nakano is less crowded and easier to navigate for casual browsing.
Shinjuku Station
Train ticket: 170 yen
Location : Shinjuku Station
Train Route
Nakano Station >> Shinjuku Station
As our final major stop, we headed to Shinjuku Station, Tokyo’s busiest transportation hub. Near the station, visitors can view the Giant 3D Cat billboard, located above a street intersection and accompanied by sound effects.
Giant 3D Cat
Location:The Giant 3D Cat
3 Chome-23-18 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0022
The area is bright and lively, even if it gets a bit crowded. What’s fun is hearing the cat’s meow from a distance—it catches your attention and makes you look around until you spot it. It’s a clever and creative touch that adds to the experience.
Godzilla Head at Hotel Gracery
Just a 6-minute walk from Shinjuku Station, this modern high-rise hotel is easily recognized by the giant Godzilla head peeking over its terrace. It’s also within walking distance of Golden Gai, one of Tokyo’s most iconic nightlife areas, and about 4 kilometers from the historic Akasaka Palace.
Kabukicho Tower
On the ground floor, visitors will find a mix of shops catering to different interests, including a Starbucks for a quick coffee break, a florist with seasonal arrangements, and a TKTS booth offering same-day discounted tickets to live shows and events—making it a convenient spot for planning an evening out in Shinjuku.
Upstairs, the second floor is home to Shinjuku Kabuki Hall – Kabuki Yokocho, a lively food court styled after a traditional Japanese alleyway. The area comes alive with colorful neon lights, upbeat music, and the aroma of local dishes. It’s a fun and casual place to sample a variety of flavors in one setting.
Red light sign of Kabukicho and Omoide Yokocho
Train Ticket back to home: ~500 yen
Location: Omoide Yokocho Memory Lane
It was my first time walking around Kabukicho, Tokyo’s most well-known red light district—and it definitely has a vibe of its own. The area is packed with neon signs, maid cafés, clubs, and night bars. You’ll see a lot of tourists here, especially those curious about Japan’s nightlife scene.
Just a few minutes away is Omoide Yokocho, also known as Memory Lane. It’s a narrow, smoky alley lined with tiny yakitori stalls and hole-in-the-wall eateries. The scent of grilled meat fills the air, and the atmosphere is loud, crowded, and full of energy.
If you’re looking to end your night with drinks, skewers, and a dose of old-school Tokyo, this is the place to be. It’s gritty, fun, and definitely memorable.
Final thoughts
This 1 day itinerary in Tokyo highlights a diverse set of locations, from quiet temples and bookstores to animated clocks and vibrant entertainment districts. With the Tokunai Pass, travelers can explore much of Tokyo on a budget while avoiding the city’s most crowded spots.
While the pace may be fast, the itinerary offers a well-rounded view of the capital’s culture, design, and local lifestyle in just one day.
