Tokyo

Start with the number of nights and the traveller profile, then group the trip around Shibuya, Shinjuku, Asakusa and Sensō-ji, Meiji Shrine and Harajuku, Ginza, Akihabara and day trips toward Mount Fuji or Hakone. Do not place major attractions in random order. Keep arrival day lighter after the flight from India, reserve the most weather-sensitive or timed experiences for days with enough buffer, and protect one flexible block for rest, shopping or an optional activity. A stay of 5–7 days in Tokyo; 9–12 days for Tokyo–Kyoto–Osaka is a practical starting point, but the right length depends on whether the trip is a stand-alone holiday or part of a wider route.

Hotel location changes the trip more than many travellers expect. Shinjuku for transport and nightlife; Shibuya for energy; Tokyo Station/Ginza for premium shopping and intercity rail; Asakusa for a more traditional atmosphere. Compare real room size, breakfast timing, transport access and the experiences planned for the evening, not only star category. A slightly better-located hotel can reduce transfer time enough to justify a higher room rate, especially for families and travellers with short stays.

Build the core around Shibuya, Shinjuku, Asakusa and Sensō-ji, Meiji Shrine and Harajuku, Ginza, Akihabara and day trips toward Mount Fuji or Hakone. Add Kyoto and Osaka by high-speed rail, or Hakone/Fuji Five Lakes for mountain scenery only if the trip has enough time and the transfer pattern remains comfortable. Avoid booking every available attraction simply because it appears in a package list. The strongest itinerary mixes signature sights with unstructured time, local atmosphere and one or two experiences that match the traveller—family, honeymoon, culture, food, shopping or premium leisure.

Tokyo offers extraordinary dining variety, but strict vegetarian and Jain travellers should research because fish-based dashi appears in many dishes. That makes meal planning easier, but strict vegetarian, Jain, allergy or other dietary needs should still be communicated clearly to hotels and restaurants. Ginza, Shibuya, Shinjuku and Akihabara specialise in different shopping categories from luxury and fashion to electronics and pop culture. Keep shopping blocks realistic so they do not consume sightseeing days, and check baggage allowance plus Indian customs rules for high-value, food or natural-product purchases.

Before ticketing, compare flight timings, baggage allowance, airport, hotel location and transfer type as one package rather than separate decisions. Indian passport holders should verify Japan's current visa requirements, application procedure and entry conditions through official Japanese embassy or consular guidance before booking non-refundable travel. Keep digital and offline copies of passports, visas, insurance, hotel vouchers and confirmed transfers. If adding Kyoto and Osaka by high-speed rail, or Hakone/Fuji Five Lakes for mountain scenery, coordinate the connection within the same itinerary so hotel check-out, luggage and onward transport are realistic.

Use reputable transport and tour operators, protect travel documents and valuables, follow local weather and safety advice, and keep travel insurance suitable for the planned activities.

Tokyo offers extraordinary dining variety, but strict vegetarian and Jain travellers should research because fish-based dashi appears in many dishes.

Ginza, Shibuya, Shinjuku and Akihabara specialise in different shopping categories from luxury and fashion to electronics and pop culture.

Evening options vary from relaxed dining to nightlife districts. Choose hotel location and return transport according to the traveller's comfort level and next-day schedule.

Tokyo is excellent for families with Disney resorts, museums, aquariums and safe transport, though walking distances can be substantial.

Couples can combine Tokyo skyline and dining experiences with a Hakone ryokan or Kyoto extension.

Excellent walking shoes, season-specific layers, a small day bag and any medication documentation required by Japanese rules.

Dress for weather and planned venues, and use more respectful clothing at religious, cultural or formal sites. Follow local rules displayed at attractions.

Hotel Wi-Fi is common, but personal mobile data is recommended for maps, tickets, transport updates and communication while sightseeing.

Tipping practices vary by destination and supplier. Check whether service is included and use local norms rather than assuming a fixed percentage.