Attractions & Itineraries
Tokyo offers an incredible array of free and budget-friendly attractions perfect for students. Whether you're into temples and shrines, bustling shopping districts, or serene parks, there's something for everyone. Below you'll find our top picks for budget-conscious travellers, plus a sample 3-day itinerary to get you started.
Budget-Friendly & Free Attractions
Senso-ji Temple (Asakusa)
Tokyo's oldest and most famous Buddhist temple, featuring the iconic Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate) with its massive red lantern. Walk down Nakamise-dori, a traditional shopping street lined with stalls selling snacks and souvenirs. The temple grounds are free to explore and offer excellent photo opportunities, especially in the evening when lit up.
Cost: Free entry
Meiji Shrine (Harajuku)
A peaceful Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, located within a beautiful forested park. The shrine provides a calm escape from the city's hustle and is conveniently close to the vibrant Harajuku and Shibuya areas. Walk through the towering torii gates and observe traditional wedding ceremonies if you're lucky.
Cost: Free entry
Shibuya Crossing & Hachiko Statue
Experience the world's busiest pedestrian crossing, where thousands of people cross in all directions during each light change. Nearby, you'll find the famous Hachiko statue commemorating the loyal dog who waited for his owner every day. This area is spectacular at night with all the neon lights and advertising screens.
Cost: Free
Akihabara
The heart of Tokyo's electronics, anime, and gaming culture. Browse multi-storey electronics shops, visit retro game arcades, explore manga and anime stores, or check out themed cafes. While arcades and some shops have fees, simply walking around and window-shopping is free and endlessly entertaining.
Cost: Free to explore; optional paid activities
Ueno Park
One of Tokyo's largest public parks, home to museums, a zoo, temples, and beautiful ponds. The park is especially stunning during cherry blossom season. Walking the grounds is completely free, while the zoo and some museums charge modest admission fees.
Cost: Free; zoo around ¥600, museums vary
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building (Shinjuku)
Free observation decks on the 45th floor offer stunning panoramic views of Tokyo, including Mount Fuji on clear days. This is one of the best free viewpoints in the city and a must-visit, especially at sunset or after dark when the city lights up.
Cost: Free
Odaiba (Tokyo Bay Area)
A futuristic waterfront district with shopping malls, entertainment complexes, and excellent views of Rainbow Bridge. Visit the replica Statue of Liberty, stroll along the beach, or explore the many shopping centres. While there are paid attractions like teamLab Borderless, you can enjoy views and window-shopping for free.
Cost: Free to walk around; paid attractions available
Imperial Palace East Gardens
Beautiful landscaped gardens surrounding the remains of Edo Castle. The gardens feature traditional Japanese landscaping, stone walls, and historic gates. Free admission makes this a perfect spot for a peaceful afternoon walk.
Cost: Free (closed Mondays and Fridays)
Sample 3-Day Itinerary for Students
This itinerary focuses on free and low-cost activities, with a target budget of around ¥5,000–8,000 per day (excluding accommodation).
Day 1 – Shibuya / Harajuku / Shinjuku
Morning: Start at Meiji Shrine and explore the peaceful forested grounds and Yoyogi Park. Take your time walking through the torii gates and observing the shrine rituals.
Afternoon: Head to Harajuku and walk down Takeshita Street, famous for quirky fashion and street food. Grab a cheap lunch from a convenience store or a fast-food chain like Yoshinoya.
Evening: Visit Shibuya Crossing and the Hachiko statue. Experience the crossing from street level and from above if you can find a good vantage point. Have budget dinner at a gyudon chain, then head to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for free night views of the city.
Estimated cost: ¥1,500–2,500 (food and snacks) + transport
Day 2 – Asakusa / Ueno / Akihabara
Morning: Visit Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa early to avoid crowds. Browse Nakamise-dori shopping street and sample traditional snacks like ningyo-yaki or melon pan.
Afternoon: Walk or take a short train ride to Ueno Park. Stroll around the ponds and gardens, and consider visiting one of the low-cost museums if interested. Grab lunch from a convenience store or a budget curry restaurant.
Evening: Explore Akihabara's electronics shops, arcades, and anime stores. Try a few games at a retro arcade or just soak in the neon-lit atmosphere. Dinner at a cheap curry or ramen chain.
Estimated cost: ¥2,000–3,000 (food, snacks, optional arcade) + transport
Day 3 – Odaiba & Tokyo Bay
Morning/Afternoon: Take the train or the Yurikamome line to Odaiba. Walk along the waterfront promenades, visit the beach area, and see the Statue of Liberty replica. Explore shopping centres like DiverCity or Aqua City and grab lunch at a food court or Saizeriya.
Evening: Watch the sunset over Rainbow Bridge, then head back to central Tokyo for a final evening meal. Consider visiting a local izakaya or ramen shop for your last night in the city.
Estimated cost: ¥1,500–2,500 (food) + transport
Note: This itinerary emphasises free activities and budget meals. You can extend it to 4 or 5 days by adding areas like Shimokitazawa, Nakano Broadway, or day trips to nearby locations.