5-Day Tokyo Itinerary
Tokyo, Japan with Tokyo Tower in top center.
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5-Day Tokyo Itinerary: An Accessible Guide to Japan for Disabled Travelers (and Everyone Else)
First things first, as you’re preparing for your trip to Japan you may be wondering, is 5 days enough in Tokyo? For most people, yes. But it depends on your travel style. If you like to take things slow you may need a few more days. I’ve put together a 5-day Tokyo Itinerary that will be suitable for most travelers. This itinerary includes all the must-see sites without cramming in too many activities on each of the days. Tokyo has good accessibility and most everything is a short distance from one of the city’s major rail lines. Of course, if you want to include more off-the-beaten-track and unusual Tokyo experiences you’ll want to plan for a longer stay.
You may also want to include Tokyo as part of a larger Japan trip. If you’re interested in ticking off a lot of experiences from your Japan bucket list, I recommend a 2-week Japan Itinerary to see most of the major cities and attractions. Of course, if time isn’t an issue, you may want to consider a more expansive 4-week Japan Itinerary.
Before I launch into my incredible 5-Day Tokyo Itinerary, it’s important to mention Japan is one of my absolute favorite countries for travel. Japanese culture is amazing. The food is incredible. The people are welcoming. The crime rate is low and it’s incredibly safe for solo travelers. Though, as mentioned in my accessible guide to Kyoto, it can be difficult for travelers who rely on prescription medications for conditions like ADHD, chronic pain, and certain allergies to enter Japan.
The laws in Japan are very strict when it comes to which medications are allowed through customs. If you are caught with a prohibited medication (which can be something as simple as Sudafed or Adderal) you risk being imprisoned and/or deported. If you are traveling with certain prescriptions and/or over-the-counter medications you will need to obtain a Yunyu Kakunin-sho, a sort of permission slip for entering and exiting Japan with your medications. For a list of prohibited drugs and instructions for obtaining a Yunyu Kakunin-sho visit Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare. Please allow up to two weeks for processing.
Now on to the fun stuff!
One of my biggest culture shocks in Tokyo was seeing how locals left their bikes unattended in the middle of the city without locks. If you did this in Los Angeles your bike would be gone before you turned your back.
5-Day Tokyo Itinerary Summary
Day 1: Toyosu Fish Market, Ginza, Hamarikyu Gardens, Tokyo Skytree
Day 2: Meiji-Jingu Shrine, Yoyogi Park, Takeshita Dori Pop Culture Alley, Harajuku, Omotesando Street, and Shibuya Tokyo
Day 3: Senso-Ji Temple, Tokyo National Museum, Ueno Park, Akihabara Electronic Town
Day 4: Shinjuku, Golden Gai, The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, Samurai Museum, and Robot Restaurant
Day 5: Tokyo Imperial Palace, Imperial Gardens, Amazing Ramen, and Tokyo DisneySea
Bonus day trip to Hakone
Cherry Blossoms in Tokyo
The Best Time to Visit Tokyo
I visited in the summer, and while I still enjoyed Tokyo immensely, it was extremely hot and humid providing an ideal environment for mosquitos. By the time I left Japan my legs and arms were covered in bites. If you do visit Tokyo in summer, make sure you wear long, loose clothing and pack plenty of bug spray.
The best time to visit Tokyo depends on what you want to do and see, what your budget allows, and several other factors. The most popular times for tourists are spring and fall. Between March and April is ideal for cherry blossom season. Between September and November is perfect for viewing colorful fall foliage. If you’re coming to Japan to view these beautiful blossoms, there are a number of fantastic secret spots for viewing cherry blossoms in Tokyo.
When it comes to weather, spring and fall also bring the most comfortable temperatures. But spring and fall also bring higher hotel prices and crowds. As I said, there’s no one-size-fits-all all “best time to visit Tokyo.” But this article can help you find the perfect time to visit Tokyo for your individual needs.
How to Get Around Tokyo
The Tokyo metropolitan area spans more than 5,000 sq miles, making Tokyo the world’s most populous city. Fortunately, getting around Tokyo is quite easy by rail. Tokyo has two subway systems, Tokyo Metro and Toei Subways. Happily, these two train lines are interlinked. For tourists, the most useful train line in Tokyo is the JR Yamanote Line, referred to as “the Loop Line” or “Tokyo Loop Line.”
You could also purchase a Japan Rail Pass if your Japan travel is multi-city and lasts seven or more days. For a 5-day Tokyo itinerary purchasing a Japan Rail Pass doesn’t make financial sense. But if your trip to Japan includes a multi-city, 7 or more day itinerary, a Japan Rail Pass provides the best bang for your buck. Japan Rail Pass comes in 7 days, 14 days, and 21 days options, ranging from $236 to $655 depending on cabin class and length of stay.
The best option for purchasing train tickets is to buy a prepaid card from Pasmo or Suica. Visitors can purchase these cards from vending machines at JR stations in Tokyo, online at Voyagin, or at Narita and Haneda airports. These cards are super convenient, basically interchangeable, good for all trains, buses, and subways in Tokyo, and can even be used at convenience stores. I purchased my card from Narita airport and took the Narita Express train directly to my hotel in Shibuya.
Subway in Tokyo
Accessible Trains in Tokyo
Nearly all trains and subways in Japan are wheelchair accessible. In fact, over 90% of trains in Japan’s big cities are accessible. Most stations have elevators, though some feature stair-climber-type lifts attached to the walls. If you alert Station staff they will get a ramp to help you onto the train. Bonus, when you tell station staff where you’re going they will also phone ahead to the transfer station or your destination and alert the staff, so someone will help you transfer or disembark once you get to your stop.
Once on the train, look for the large area without seating. You can sit there without worrying about blocking the door with your wheelchair. I found able-bodied Japanese people were really mindful about not blocking this space, even during rush hours. This was a welcome surprise for someone who grew up using the NYC subway system where seating for disabled passengers was regularly taken up by able-bodied people, shopping bags, and rats eating pizza.
Shinjuku Station, Tokyo near The Keio Plaza Hotel
Where to Stay in Tokyo
As a general rule, hotels in Japan, and especially in Tokyo, are quite small, making them difficult to navigate as a wheelchair user. Make sure you look carefully at not just the accessibility features of the room, but the size of the room before booking. The hotels listed below are would be excellent for any traveler, but they’re especially good for those looking for wheelchair-accessible accommodations, This is a limited list, Please know there are plenty of great places to stay in Tokyo.
Our first room in Tokyo at the Shibuya Granville Hotel. A beautiful hotel, but single rooms measure a mere 151 sq feet. It’s also located on a hill, which was difficult for me to navigate after a long day on my feet.
Royal Park Hotel Tokyo - Located in the center of business and culture in Tokyo’s Shiodome, this accessible hotel is nearby several major attractions, including Tsukiji Fish Market and Tokyo Skytree. Word of warning, rooms do not feature a roll-in shower, but they do offer shower chairs that can be placed in or beside the bathtub. Rooms cost about $240 USD a night.
Conrad Tokyo - A 5-star hotel in the heart of Tokyo with two Michelin-starred restaurants, the Conrad is pure luxury. It also complies with ADA Guidelines in all public areas and facilities. Well-appointed accessible rooms feature a roll-in shower and grab bars. The Conrad is also located near the Shiodome making it a little more appealing to business travelers, but also great for those who want accessible luxury in close proximity to a major train station. I’ve seen some great deals on room prices here, starting around $220 USD.
Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo - A 5-minute walk from Shinjuku Subway Station, Keio Plaza is my top pick for the best accessible hotel in Tokyo. It’s also easy to travel from Narita airport to Shinjuku. The Keio Plaza’s “Universal Design” accessible rooms offer ample space, an electric reclining bed, electric chair, closet with lowered bar, bathroom with grab bars, and slip-proof mat. Accessible rooms start at $155 USD/ night and range from deluxe twin rooms to suites.
There are of course other options, but I really liked these properties for their proximity to train stations and larger room sizes. The Shinjuku and Shibuya neighborhoods are probably my favorite in Japan, so if these particular hotels don’t fit your needs, I highly recommend the Shinjuku/ Shibuya areas for first-time Tokyo visitors.
5-Day Tokyo Itinerary (with Accessibility Info)
If you’re taking a flight to Tokyo I recommend landing in the afternoon. The rail trip from Narita Airport takes about an hour and a half to get into the city. By the time you check in, unpack, and grab a quick bite to eat you’ll be ready for bed. But no worries, if you’re visiting from the US you’re probably going to be up super early given the time difference and looking for a good breakfast. So, we’re going to take advantage of your jet lag by kicking things off super early.
Day 1: Toyosu Fish Market, Ginza, Hamarikyu Gardens, Tokyo Skytree
Toyosu Fish Market
It happens every time I visit eastern Asia, the first few days there I’m awake at 4 am, staring at the ceiling wondering when I can head out and see something. That’s why I recommend utilizing your early morning energy and checking out the Toyosu Fish Market, (the new Tokyo fish market which replaced the famous Tsukiji Fish Market in 2018). Toyosu Market is the largest wholesale fish market in the world, full of bustling activity and incredible food.
Outside the old Tsukiji Fish Market
Located near Shijomae Station on the Yurikamome Line in Tokyo’s Koto Ward, Toyosu Fish Market is entirely wheelchair accessible. Full disclosure, when I visited Tokyo, Toyosu Fish Market wasn’t yet finished. We instead visited the Tsukiji Fish Market, which at the time was the largest fish market in the world. Toyosu is twice the size of Tsukiji at a whopping 4,391,675 sq feet. So bring comfortable walking shoes and any needed mobility aids and beware, walking distances may be difficult for those who tire easily.
Visitors can watch the tuna auctions from the viewing gallery, which take place from 5:30 am to 6:30 am. During the first auction of Toyosu Market on January 5, 2019, a businessman paid a record highest bid of $3.08 million USD for a 612-pound Pacific bluefin tuna. Big tuna is big business and the auctions can be exciting to watch.
Tuna prepared for auction. Some sell for millions of dollars.
After the auction, take an hour to wander around the rest of the facility which on top of the auction market contains a wholesale market for consumers, a fruit and vegetable market, and a large rooftop terrace with laws. On a clear day in winter, you can see Mt Fuji in the distance. The rest of the year you can enjoy beautiful views of Tokyo Bay.
Japanese signs are better than anything you find in America. I particularly loved this one at the fish market.
One level under the entrance is a collection of restaurants, the real highlight of anyone’s trip to one of Japan’s massive fish markets. Here you’ll find udon and tempura spots, as well as mind-blowingly delicious sushi at Daiwa Sushi. I know some of you will say, sushi? For breakfast? Yes. Trust me. Unless you’ve taken one of those deep sea fishing excursions where they prepare your catch on deck, you will never have fresher fish in your life. Plus, your internal clock is still messed up from the 12+ hour flight and time has no meaning.
Daiwa Sushi has no written menu, much like I found with the Tsukiji Fish Market Restaurants. It’s recommended visitors go with omakase. Employees speak some English and are accommodating when it comes to swapping out anything you may not like or be allergic to. Prices are around $30 - $35 USD for a full set and soup.
For those who prefer a guided tour, there is a Wheelchair-Accessible Tour of Toyosu Market and Tsukiji.
*A note to allergy sufferers:
If you do have food allergies, I recommend writing them out in both English and Japanese and carrying that information with you so you can easily show it to restaurant employees. Depending on where you go it may be difficult to find English speakers and convey specifics, like the difference between a fish allergy and a shellfish allergy. You can find translations online or through apps. Just make sure you have this information offline and at the ready should you not have cell reception.
The freshest, most delicious sashimi and sushi I’ve ever eaten.
Ginza Tokyo
From the Toyosu Fish Market, you can take the subway to Ginza Station in eight minutes. The Ginza area is known for its upmarket shopping, art galleries, restaurants, and cafes. It’s an excellent area for people watching, snapping photos, admiring the impressive Tokyo architecture, or listening to a local busker.
The main street in the area, Chuo Dori, is closed to traffic on weekends making it an ideal spot for walking. Similar to Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, the street is lined with high-end brands like Dior, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Tiffany’s, as well as electronics giants like Sony and Apple. The stores are wheelchair accessible and there are wheelchair-accessible bathrooms.
Passerby in front of the Mikimoto window in Ginza’s shopping area of Tokyo, Japan.
If you are interested in seeing traditional Kabuki theater, Ginza is the place to do it. To get tickets, head to nearby Kabukiza. FYI, Kabuki plays are very long but visitors can purchase tickets for a single act. Tickets for a single act are available on the morning of the show for those who stand in line. Fortunately, if you’re following this itinerary, you’ll arrive with plenty of time to snag a ticket for that evening. The theater is wheelchair accessible. Though I would recommend asking an employee if accessible seating is still available for that night’s show before lining up.
Kabuki performer at Kabukiza in Ginza, Tokyo, Japan
Hamarikyu Gardens
If you take the subway from Ginza Station one stop away to nearby Higashi-Ginza Station you’ll be a short walk from beautiful Hamarikyu Gardens.
Hamarikyu Gardens, Tokyo
Hama Rikyu is a great place to escape the busyness of the Tokyo city streets. Dating back to 1654, the park features seawater ponds that change level with the tides, the remains of an old moat, several reconstructed duck hunting blinds, and an island tea house where visitors can rest and enjoy the scenery.
While the park is for the most part accessible to wheelchair users, the tea house unfortunately is not. There are also several hilly paths that may prove difficult for some.
A free English audio guide contains several self-guided walking tours around the garden. Entrance costs less than $3 US and is free to those in wheelchairs.
View from the ground looking up at Tokyo Skytree
Tokyo Skytree
From Hamarikyu Gardens take the Asakusa Line to Honjo-Azumabashi Station and it’s a seven-minute walk to Tokyo Skytree.
I’m a sucker for a sky tree. If your city has one, it’s going to be one of my first stops. With stunning 360-degree views of Tokyo, the Tokyo Skytree is the third-largest structure in the world and the tallest observation tower anywhere. Its primary use is as a television and radio signal tower but it also offers visitors two observatories. The lower observatory is 1,150 feet high, with a capacity of 2,000 people and the upper observatory is 1,480 feet high with a capacity of 900 people. The upper observatory features a glass skywalk leading up to a section of glass flooring where visitors can look directly down on the city beneath them. Unlike I described in my Auckland city guide, there is no bungee jumping.
View of Tokyo Skytree framed by cherry blossoms.
I like to include Tokyo Skytree on the first day of the itinerary because it’s a great way to get accustomed to the layout of the city and get your bearings, particularly if it’s your first time in Tokyo. On top of the amazing views, the observation decks contain interactive maps that allow you to do a magnifying glass search enlarging areas of interest.
Tokyo Skytree is wheelchair accessible and disabled guests are eligible for half-price tickets.
The Search Magnifying glass is touch-sensitive, allowing you to enlarge areas of the map for easier viewing and reading about them in more detail.
The Tembo Galleria at Tokyo Skytree is one of Tokyo’s most popular sightseeing spots. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Mt. Fuji. At night the streets below light up giving a magnificent city view you can only find here.
Tokyo Skytree also features a restaurant and souvenir shop. The restaurant is fine for a snack, but if you’re like me, you’ll prefer eating your main meals in authentic local restaurants rather than in tourist destinations.
Be sure to bring your camera. With so many viewing areas, you’ll be sure to capture some amazing photos of the city.
Click here for Tickets to Tokyo Skytree.
Day 2: Meiji-Jingu Shrine, Yoyogi Park, Takeshita Dori Pop Culture Alley, Harajuku, Omotesando Street, and Shibuya Tokyo
Meiji Jingu Shrine
Day two begins in Shibuya at the Meiji-Jingu Shrine. The closest subway stop to the Meiji-Jingu Shrine is Meiji-Jingu Mae Harajuku. From there it’s a short walk to the shrine.
Meiji-Jingu Shrine looking out at the wooden torii gate.
The Meiji Jingu Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shōken. The shrine used building materials gathered from every Japanese prefecture and in today’s money, it cost about $26 million USD to construct. The grounds and shrine were completed in 1926. The shrine is located in a 170-acre forest.
It’s a stunningly beautiful place to stroll through the woods and see gorgeous Japanese art, and if you’re lucky enough, you might happen upon a traditional Shinto wedding ceremony. Just make sure you are respectful inside the shrine and follow the guidelines for visiting a Shinto shrine.
Accessibility is somewhat tricky. There is a really nice wheelchair-accessible restroom and well-designed ramps up to the main sanctuary, but to reach them visitors will have to traverse a gravel pathway. This could be difficult for those like me with hypermobile ankles that tend to roll, as well as for manual wheelchair users.
Opening hours are from sunrise to sunset each day. Admission to the main area is free, but there is a 500 yen fee to enter the garden. (Approximately $4 USD.)
Yoyogi Park
Directly next door to Meiji Jingu Shrine is the beautiful Yoyogi Park. On Sundays, it becomes a popular place for Japanese subculture, cosplayers, jugglers, musicians, comics, and hobby groups. It’s a great spot for people watching and enjoying all sorts of performances.
In spring, thousands of people visit Yoyogi Park to see the cherry blossoms in bloom.
Cherry Blossoms in Yoyogi Park
You can also rent bikes or picnic in the park. It’s like Central Park without all the flashers. There are plenty of paved paths, making it easily accessible for those in wheelchairs and visitors with mobility issues.
Yoyogi Park in Autumn
Takeshita Dori Pop Culture Alley and What to do in Harajuku
From Yoyogi Park, it’s a six-minute walk to Takeshita Dori Pop Culture Alley, the most popular street in the Harajuku district. Well known as being the center of Kawaii culture, it was one of my favorite stops on our tour of Tokyo. Takeshita Dori, Harajuku is filled with all sorts of trinkets, toys, fashion, and pop culture items. If you’re looking for super fun souvenirs this is a must-visit spot.
The start of Takeshita Street in Shibuya
At just .3 miles long, Takeshita-Dori is a short street passing through the Harajuku district, but it’s jam-packed with kawaii fashion, rainbow cotton candy, crepe shops, and stores dedicated to everything from socks, to gothic fashions, to your favorite childhood toys like Barbie, Monchichi and more. I purchased a pair of robot fish here along with an adorable fish condo.
Shops are open from 11 am to 8 pm daily.
Warning, Takeshita Street is extremely crowded, especially on weekends. The surrounding area of Harajuku also has some great shopping but offers more room to navigate the sidewalks.
More than half the shops, unfortunately, have a step you must go up to enter. Even those with slope entrances can often be crowded which means you may have to rely on someone to assist you in shopping. Visitors in wheelchairs and those who use mobility aids may wish to visit on weekdays when crowds are dramatically less than on weekends.
The entrance to Takeshita Dori starts atop a hill near the Harajuku subway station. While manageable, some wheelchair users may find this difficult. If you have issues navigating steeper inclines you can enter from the opposite end of Takeshita Street.
If you require an accessible restroom both Harajuku Station and Meiji Jingu Mae Station offer accessible bathrooms for public use.
Omotesando Avenue
If Takeshita Dori isn’t your cup of tea, nearby Omotesando Dori may be more to your taste. Omotesando is known as the Champs-Elysees of Japan. It’s packed full of big brands, stylish shops, and fashionable people. Even if you’re not in the shopping mood, it’s worth checking out these areas just for the people watching.
Mirrored view looking out at Omotesando Avenue.
Shibuya Crossing
From Omotesando Avenue, it’s a 10-minute walk to Shibuya Crossing.
In front of the Shibuya Station exit is one of the most popular and recognizable intersections in the world, Shibuya Crossing. Unfortunately, this is another area known for crowds. If you don’t want to get caught up in the middle of the organized chaos of Shibuya’s scramble crossing, you can always watch the street traffic below from the Starbucks above.
Waiting for the light to change at Shibuya Crossing at night.
Shibuya Crossing holds the record for the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing, with as many as 3,000 people crossing at a time. If you can brave the crowds, it’s really an amazing sight to behold. Despite the crowds, pedestrians move in a very orderly fashion and lack the pushing and shoving that you find in some of the world’s other major metropolises. I found it very safe to walk around busy Shibuya using a cane without people knocking into me.
There’s far more to this neighborhood than just this busy street crossing. There are tons of great things to do in Shibuya. The area is also perfect for grabbing a bite to eat and shopping. You can find a wide variety of fashion, accessories, souvenirs, crafts, and some of the best English-language bookstores in Tokyo. It’s well worth checking out some of these shops after you’ve marveled at the organized chaos that is Shibuya Crossing.
Overhead view of Shibuya Crossing.
Shibuya Train Station Chu-ken Hachiko, Akita Dog Mosaic
Shibuya nightlife is amazing and there are many great places to eat. But once you finish your day I recommend stopping by Shibuya Train Station to check out one final point of interest, Chu-ken Hachiko, Akita Dog Mosaic. If you’ve read my many posts about my trips to China, you know how much I love dogs and volunteering in dog rescue. Hachiko was an Akita dog who patiently waited for his owner at the Shibuya Station in Tokyo every day from 1923 to 1935. This made him a national celebrity in Japan and inspired this beautiful work of art.
Day 3: Sensoji Temple, Tokyo National Museum, Ueno Park, Akihabara Electronic Town
Sensoji Temple
Day 3 in Tokyo begins at Sensoji (Asakusa Kannon Temple.) Sensoji Temple is a few steps from Asakusa Station on the Ginza Subway Line, Asakusa Subway Line, or Tobu Railway, making it super easy to get to and involving minimal walking. Because after 3 days in Tokyo, your Fitbit has probably seen a lot of action. I like to pepper in a nice chill day.
Founded in 645 AD Sensoji Buddhist Temple is Tokyo’s oldest and most significant temple. Next to the temple, you’ll find the Asakusa Shinto shrine and a bevy of shops selling traditional Japanese goods in Nakamise Dori, or Nakamise Shopping Street.
The area is very wheelchair accessible and an absolute must-see in Tokyo. There is no admission fee. What could be better than an accessible, free-to-visit, deeply significant, easy-to-get-to, iconic landmark?
Sensoji Temple, Asakusa
During WWII the temple was destroyed during the March 10th air raid on Tokyo. The fact that it was rebuilt later makes it a symbol of rebirth and peace to the Japanese people. Please be mindful of signage, which is also printed in English, and be respectful when visiting.
If you visit in late spring, be aware that Sensō-Ji is the center of the largest festival in Tokyo, Sanja Matauri. The festival lasts 3-4 days and surrounding streets are closed to traffic.
Tokyo National Museum
From Asakusa Station take the Ginza line to Ueno Station. From there it’s a short walk to The Tokyo National Museum. Admission to the museum is about $5.75 USD for adults.
I love a museum because there are plenty of places to sit and appreciate art and history. You can also take things at your own pace in keeping with our relaxing day three theme.
The Tokyo National Museum is the oldest national museum in Japan, the largest art museum in Japan, and one of the largest art museums in the entire world.
Tokyo National Museum
The museum is incredibly wheelchair accessible. TNM also offers a tactile map that conveys the materials, typical characteristics, and production techniques of objects in each of the exhibition rooms. This is particularly useful for visually impaired guests.
In addition, Tokyo National Museum has Ostomate facilities (for those with colostomies or urostomies) located in their accessible restrooms.
Ueno Park
Directly outside of the Tokyo National Museum is beautiful Ueno Park. The park houses many other museums, such as The National Museum for Western Art, The Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, and The National Science Museum. In addition, it’s home to Japan’s first zoological garden, The Ueno Zoo.
If you don’t have the desire or energy to visit more museums, you can simply take a stroll around the gorgeous grounds. In spring the park is popular for viewing cherry blossoms. The park and its attractions draw over 10 million visitors a year.
The park is mostly wheelchair accessible, though to cross between the park’s museum section and southern pond section, you must use stairs or go around the lengthy perimeter of the park. There are several wheelchair-accessible bathrooms throughout the park, though their cleanliness is questionable. It’s best to use the bathrooms inside the museums.
Ueno Park with cherry blossoms in bloom.
AKIHABARA ELECTRIC TOWN
After you’ve enjoyed your easy-breezy morning and afternoon, you may want to take a break and enjoy a nice dinner or nap before checking out one of the most interesting and exciting neighborhoods of Tokyo, Akihabara. From Akihabara Anime Plaza to the numerous manga shops and arcades, Akihabara is not to be missed and is best seen at night.
Anime Plaza and the lights of Akihabara at night.
Akihabara is the area surrounding Akihabara Station in the Chiyoda Ward of Tokyo. Known by the nickname, Electric Town, the area is famous for being a major shopping center for video games, manga, anime, electronics, and computer-related goods. The top electronic stores in Tokyo are located here. There are also plentiful maid cafes, arcades, karaoke spots, and pachinko parlors.
Sega and the fantastic colors of Akihabara at night.
I literally wandered for hours, my senses overloaded by the energy, sounds, and flashing lights of Akihabara. If you are someone with sensory issues, the arcades and pachinko parlors may be far too overwhelming without noise-canceling headphones or ear plugs. (I like the pair below.) I made it about 2 minutes before having to leave the one and only pachinko parlor I visited. The noise is near deafening, yet watching people transfixed by the game was fascinating.
Akihabara night at one of the area’s popular pachinko parlors.
Wheelchair accessibility varies by establishment but there are plenty of shops and arcade venues that can be accessed without having to go up and down stairs.
Day 4: Shinjuku, The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, Samurai Museum, Robot Restaurant, and Golden Gai
SHINJUKU
Day four of our trip to Tokyo begins by heading to Shinjuku Station. This Tokyo station area is the busiest railway station in the world. Shinjuku became the second major center of Tokyo following WWII. The name literally translates to “New Inn Ward.” There so much to see here, it’s possible to spend 2 days in Shinjuku alone.
THE TOKYO METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT BUILDING
Called Tochō for short, The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building was designed by Kenzo Tange. The three gothic-like structures each take up a city block. This wonderfully unique structure is the tallest city hall in the world. Two of the structures have panoramic observation decks on their 45th floors. The observation decks are each open on alternating days between 9:30 am and 11:00 pm. They are free to the public and offer a variety of gift shops and cafes, making this a great spot to grab breakfast and take in the city views.
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
Since these are government buildings, wheelchair accessibility is very good. The accessible observation deck bathrooms are roped off to ensure they are used only by visitors who require accessible facilities. There is a staff member on duty at all times to remove the rope for guests. Leaving the building, the elevator will stop on the second-floor escalator to the ground floor. However, you can ask to be taken down to the ground floor via the elevator if you cannot use the escalator.
Though not as shiny and new as The Tokyo Skytree, the architecture at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building is truly exceptional, as are the views. On a clear day you can see Mt. Fuji, Tokyo Tower, Tokyo Skytree, and the Meiji Shrine.
SAMURAI MUSEUM
From the Shinjuku Station, it’s a short walk to The Samurai Museum, Shinjuku. The Samurai Museum is dedicated to the armor and weapons used by these legendary honor-bound Japanese warriors. Dozens of suits of armor from 700 years of samurai history (Kamakura to Edo periods) are on display, in addition to swords, katanas, furniture, and other elements of Japanese life. These items include suits of armor from such famous samurai as Oda Nobunaga, Date Masamune, and Toyotomi Hideyoshi.
Medieval Era Samurai armor.
There’s also a fantastic museum gift shop where guests can purchase not only usual souvenirs like T-shirts and figurines, but also antiques, katanas, sword mountings, and other unique items.
Unfortunately, because of limited space inside the museum, wheelchair users are required to make a reservation. You can do so by sending an email through the Samurai Museum Shinjuku website.
Robot Restaurant
Even if you've never been to Tokyo, you’ve probably heard of the famous Robot Restaurant, a theme restaurant where giant robots do battle during your meal. In my personal opinion, there are far better places to eat in Tokyo. But the show is incredible. Pro tip: grab a bite to eat elsewhere then enjoy some drinks at the show.
The Robot Restaurant is a two-minute walk from the Samurai museum. You will need reservations, so be sure to make them well in advance.
Because of COVID-19, The Robot Restaurant has closed its doors. Please check their website for updates as it is unclear when/if they will be reopening.
Golden Gai
Golden Gai is the least wheelchair-accessible location on my 5 days in Tokyo itinerary, but I’m including it because it’s iconic and I’d at least like to provide information for travelers so they can make their own individual choices on whether or not to visit. I will warn that the streets and doorways are very narrow in parts and not wide enough for most wheelchairs to pass through.
The alleys of Golden Gai
The Golden Gai area is a rough around the edges yet charming post-war neighborhood frequented by celebrities, artists, writers, and other creatives. It’s filled with small bars and restaurants that often lead to adventurous evenings and unexpected excitement. Some of the more unique watering holes include a hospital-themed bar, an 80s/90s bar, an S&M club, and La Jeteé, the favorite bar among cinephiles.
I recommend getting a proper Tour Guide for Golden Gai, as the area can be confusing to navigate and if you don’t know where you’re going you, it’s easy to get completely lost. It’s also important to note Golden Gai alleys are not public streets. These are private alleys where you cannot smoke, drink, or take photographs without permission. Please be respectful.
Fun side story, when I visited Tokyo with my fiance, we were riding the train near Shinjuku Station when my fiance looked up and thought he recognized another rider. Sure enough, it was his college roommate from freshman year who he hadn’t seen in more than 15 years. His roommate had moved back to Japan from Boston years prior and offered to take us out for dinner and drinks. We ended up wandering around the wonderful hole-in-the-wall establishments in Golden Gai where almost no one spoke English and I learned about “celebration fish” and the fact that the guest must eat the collagen-packed eyes for good luck. Not to be rude, I went for it. But I think my good luck was limited to running into a friendly local who showed us around a place I might otherwise have missed.
Celebration fish heads. Incredibly tasty. And yes, I ate the eye.
Day 5: Tokyo Imperial Palace, Imperial Gardens, Amazing Ramen, and Tokyo DisneySea
OK, so here’s the thing about day 5, I know a lot of people LOVE Disney and could easily make their entire five days in Tokyo one big trip to Tokyo Disney and DisneySea, and that’s fine if it’s your thing. While I was curious about Tokyo Disney, I felt guilty using up my short time in this amazing city riding Space Mountain when I literally live 40 minutes from Disneyland.
But Tokyo Disney has the perfect offering for people like me… partial day passports. With these tickets, you can enter the park later in the day for a fraction of the full ticket price. So, if you want a taste of Disney you don’t have to pay those huge prices and get there when the park opens to feel like you’re getting a good value.
This itinerary gives the option of seeing the Imperial Palace and Imperial Gardens in the morning and grabbing a great ramen lunch before taking the train to Disney. But if you’re dying to see the Mickey, you can skip right to the teacups.
Tokyo Imperial Palace
The Imperial Palace of Japan is home to the emperor of Japan. It sits in a massive park area in the Chiyoda ward. To reach the palace you can either take the JR line to Tokyo Station and take a 10-15 minute walk to the Imperial Palace area or take the train to the Otemachi Subway Station for a 10-minute walk to the Imperial Palace East Garden.
The emperor’s “house” as it were, is known as Fukiage Palace. There’s an additional palace for ceremonies, receptions, living quarters for several members of the Imperial Family, museums, an archive, and administrative offices.
Guests can visit the Imperial Household Agency, but most of the main palace grounds remain closed to the public except for reserved guided tours which run from Tuesdays to Saturdays.
Fun Fact: at the height of the 80s Japanese property bubble, the palace grounds were valued higher than all of the real estate in the entire state of California.
Imperial Palace Gardens
imperial gardens
The Imperial Gardens and surrounding parks showcase a wide variety of plants, flowers, trees, a pond, moat, koi fish, and ample benches for resting and taking in all this natural beauty.
The park is very wheelchair accessible and without steep hills. There are plenty of paved walkways and accessible restrooms throughout the entire almost half-mile sq park.
Warning, if you’re visiting in the summer, you should know the mosquitos are vicious. Not realizing this, I didn’t pack any mosquito repellant. I left there chewed up worse than I have ever been chewed up in my life. (And I grew up in New Jersey!!!)
Be sure to bring plenty of sunscreen, or like the locals, you could carry an umbrella or parisol to help block out the sun. There isn’t much shade here so you will be in direct sunlight for much of your visit.
ramen lunch
Delicious ramen.
There’s a wide variety of Ramen restaurants in Tokyo from places where you order by machine, to fancy, Michelin star establishments. For this lunch, I recommend one of the best, Kikanbo…. Both for its amazing flavors and for its proximity to The Imperial Palace.
To get to Kikanbo from The Imperial Palace, take the Yamanote Line from Tokyo Station to Kanda Station and it’s a 4-minute walk to Kikanbo.
Kikanbo is Japanese for “spiked bat.” You’ll notice this theme as soon as you enter the establishment and see its spiked weaponry decor. The ramen itself is prepared with varying levels of spice, some of which also feel like you’re being clubbed with a spiked bat. For a milder heat choose the chili pepper version. To set your mouth on fire choose the sansho pepper version.
If you’re not into extreme heat, order the regular version and ask for “futsu.” You also have the option to add more heat on your own. So if you’re worried about that heat order mild and go the DIY way. Their soup is a mix of miso and tonkotsu with added fish soup, pork back fat, beansprouts, crisp menma, the most massive pork belly, scallions, onions, baby corn, and 3 different noodle thicknesses. It is out of this world!
Tokyo Disney and Tokyo Disney Sea
To get to the Tokyo Disney Resort take the JR Keiyo/Musashino Line from Tokyo Station to the JR Maihama Station. It’s the 6th stop and an approximately 17-minute ride. The train will let you off right in front of the Park entrance.
Due to COVID-19 tickets and ticket varieties are limited to Tokyo Disney and Tokyo Disney Sea. As of 6/14/22, you must purchase your tickets two months in advance if you wish to visit the parks. There are also limits on the types of tickets being sold. For the most up-to-date information, check the Tokyo Disney Resort website.
Welcome to Tokyo Disneyland. Sign from the 2019 35th anniversary celebration.
When I visited with my fiance there was an option to buy tickets for 6 pm till closing. The was the perfect amount of time to check out It’s a Small World, Space Mountain, a few other rides, and try a curry popcorn.
Like other Disney parks accessibility is great. Tokyo Disney also offers discount tickets for disabled guests.
I must warn readers, that if you are over 6 feet tall and/or more than 200 lbs, you may find some of these rides really snug or not safe to ride. While we were waiting in the 2+ hour line for Space Mountain attendants kept coming over to my fiance to tell him that he was a “big American” and the Space Mountain was “Japanese size.” Now, my fiancé isn’t that much of a giant, so we decided to keep waiting since we had already been in line for at least an hour. He ended up riding with his knees in his chest quietly mumbling, “Japanese size” to himself.
Possible Day Trip Add-ons
There are plenty of places to see in Tokyo in 5 days. If you have time to extend your trip I highly recommend the following day trips.
Famous for hot springs, natural beauty and the view across Lake Ashinoko of nearby Mount Fuji, Hakone is one of the most popular destinations in Japan. It’s possible to see Hakone with this one-day Hakone loop itinerary.
I also recommend a day trip or 2-day trip to Kyoto. You can find my accessible guide to Kyoto here.
Once the capital of Japan, Kyoto is still considered the cultural capital of Japan. It’s filled with Buddhist Temples, Shinto Shrines, and traditional wooden houses. It’s a far more relaxed environment than the busy streets of Tokyo.
Let me know what you think
I hope you’ve enjoyed this 5-Day Tokyo Itinerary. Because of COVID-19, I recommend travelers check to see if indoor attractions are experiencing closures. I’ve done my very best to keep this up to date, but due to the unpredictable nature of the virus spread, things are constantly in flux. I also recommend purchasing any necessary tickets well in advance as some attractions are operating at a limited capacity.
I hope you enjoy Tokyo as much as I have. Please let me know what you think in the comments below.
