โตเกียว Day Guides
Are you traveling to Japan for the first time and landing in Tokyo? This first-day itinerary will help you start your trip smoothly. From navigating the airport to checking into your hotel and exploring nearby areas, this guide will make your arrival stress-free.
Follow this plan to settle in comfortably and make the most of your first day in Japan.
After landing, go through immigration, pick up your luggage, and walk through customs. Haneda Airport is fast and efficient, so this should be quick. Use the free Wi-Fi if needed. Once you're done, go straight to the taxi area and take a taxi to your hotel.
Traveler's Tip: If you need cash, use the ATMs inside the airport. Most machines accept international cards.
Take a large taxi to the Grand Prince Hotel if you have a lot of luggage. The ride typically takes around 25–30 minutes, depending on traffic.
Hotel Address: Grand Prince Hotel Takanawa; Address: 3-13-1 Takanawa, Minato, Tokyo
If you prefer public transport:
Take the Keikyu Line to Shinagawa Station.
Transfer to the JR Yamanote Line.
The hotel is a 10-minute walk from Shinagawa Station.
When you reach the hotel, you will see the main entrance. Inside, the check-in counter is directly ahead. The hotel features a Japanese garden, offering a quiet place to relax. Rooms are spacious and comfortable, and staff speak English to assist with check-in.
Traveller's Tip: If your room isn’t ready, you can leave your luggage at the front desk and explore the garden or nearby attractions
If you're feeling energetic after check-in, take a short stroll around the area.
Takanawa Gateway Station – A futuristic train station with a sleek design.
Takanawa Mori no Park – A peaceful green space for relaxation.
Shinagawa Station Shopping – Atre Shinagawa has a variety of stores with souvenirs, Japanese snacks, and cosmetics.
Traveller's Tip: Walking helps fight jet lag and helps you adjust to the new time zone.
After a long day of travel and exploring, it's time to enjoy a good meal. Whether you prefer dining at the hotel or venturing out to experience local cuisine, here are some great options nearby.
Wakatake – Specializes in seasonal tempura.
Ean – Serves authentic Japanese dishes.
Le Trianon – A fine-dining French restaurant with an excellent wine selection.
For a taste of local flavors, visit these highly rated restaurants:
EN Washoku (10 min walk) – A well-reviewed Japanese restaurant serving traditional dishes.
Address: 4 Chome−10−18 Takanawa, Basement floor 1.
Tachigui Sushi at Shinagawa Station – A standing sushi bar known for fresh and affordable sushi, popular with locals.
Devi Corner (13 min walk) – A cozy Indian restaurant serving authentic curries and naan.
Address: 3 Chome-24-21 Takanawa, Minato City.
If you’re still awake and want to explore, consider these options:
Maxell Aqua Park (15 min walk): A digital aquarium with stunning jellyfish displays and light shows.
Shinagawa Prince Hotel Complex: Has a cinema, bowling alley, and even an indoor amusement area.
Le Connaisseur Hotel Bar: A great place to enjoy a relaxing drink without leaving the hotel.
Traveller's Tip: If you're exhausted, head to bed early to sync with Japan's time zone.
Japan’s convenience stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and Lawson) are open 24/7 and offer a variety of snacks, drinks, and fresh meals like rice balls, sandwiches, and bento boxes. Many stores also have small seating areas where you can eat comfortably.
If you need to do laundry during your stay, here are two options:
Mamma Ciao Laundromat: A 24-hour self-service laundromat located 19 minutes on foot from the hotel.
Hotel Laundry Service: The Grand Prince Hotel offers professional laundry services, which may be more convenient if you're staying for multiple days.
Traveller's Tip: If you plan to use a laundromat, bring some 100-yen coins as many machines require them. Some laundromats also offer detergent for purchase on-site.
