Begin the day at the Tokyo Imperial Palace, the residence of Japan’s Emperor. Stroll the scenic outer gardens and admire views of the iconic Nijubashi Bridge and stone walls, offering a glimpse into Japan’s imperial past.

Head to Tsukiji Outer Market for lunch, where you’ll find bustling outer market stalls and small eateries. Consider sampling fresh sushi, grilled seafood, tamagoyaki, or other seasonal specialties the market is known for. Families with young kids might consider eating at a sit-down restaurant instead of in the market.

Then head to a taiko drumming workshop to learn basic rhythms and techniques while experiencing the physical intensity and communal spirit that define this traditional musical form.

After the workshop, stroll through Asakusa to experience the historic, old-world atmosphere on the way to Senso-ji Temple, one of Tokyo’s oldest and most famous Buddhist temples.

Optional add-on: Before heading up the Tokyo Skytree, get some close-up views of the marine creatures in the Sumida Aquarium.

End the day with sunset at Tokyo Skytree. From the observation decks, enjoy panoramic views as daylight fades and the city gradually transforms into a glittering expanse of city lights.

Begin at the Ghibli Museum, a whimsical tribute to the artistry and storytelling of Studio Ghibli. Interactive exhibits, original sketches, and short animated films invite visitors into the creative world behind classics like My Neighbor Totoro and Spirited Away. Timed-entry tickets should be secured as soon as the reservation window opens, as availability is limited and demand is high.

Head to Harajuku, a hub of youth fashion, kawaii food, and street style. Takeshita Street buzzes with boutiques, sweet shops, and trendsetting storefronts, while the surrounding lanes offer quieter cafés and curated shops.

Continue the pop culture theme with a themed café experience, such as the Pokémon Café, Kirby Cafe, a cat café, or a specialty character café that suits your interests.

Continue over to the spectacle of Shibuya Crossing, one of the world’s busiest urban intersections, known for its scramble system, and a stroll through Yoyogi Park that provides a peaceful contrast to Shibuya and Harajuku.

Optional add-on: View Shibuya Crossing from an aerial perspective at Shibuya Sky.

Conclude the day with a Japanese cooking class. Under the guidance of a local instructor, learn to prepare traditional dishes while gaining insight into the techniques and ingredients behind them.

Families with young kids might consider limiting their time in Harajuku to a themed cafe or skipping it altogether. The extra time can then be spent in Yoyogi Park.

They also might consider seeing Shibuya Crossing from Shibuya Sky rather than at ground level.

Begin at the National Museum of Nature and Science in Ueno, where exhibits trace the story of the natural world alongside Japan’s scientific and technological achievements. You’ll find exhibits ranging from dinosaur skeletons and space exploration displays to robotics and engineering innovations.

Continue to Akihabara, Tokyo’s iconic electronics and anime district. Keep your eye out for multi-story gaming arcades, as well as specialty shops for retro games, manga, and character goods. While you’re there, consider trying your luck at a capsule toy (gachapon) machine.

Optional add-on: After Akihabara, take a Sumida River Cruise for a different perspective of some of Tokyo's iconic landmarks.

Conclude the day at teamLab Borderless, where digital art installations respond to movement, light, and sound. Immersive rooms blur the line between viewer and artwork.

Families with young kids might consider replacing Akihabara with the Ueno Zoo to see a wide range of animals from diverse ecosystems and booking teamLab Borderless for late afternoon rather than the evening.