If you’re flying from the vibrant landscapes of South Africa to the neon-lit streets of Tokyo, get ready for a culture shock in the best way possible. Japan’s capital is a perfect blend of tradition and futuristic charm. Here’s a 7-day itinerary for first-time travelers from South Africa heading to Tokyo!
✈️ Day 1: Arrival & Shinjuku Exploration
- Flight: Most flights from Johannesburg or Cape Town to Tokyo (Narita or Haneda) are around 20–24 hours with layovers in Doha, Dubai, or Singapore.
- Check-in: Book a hotel in Shinjuku – central, lively, and full of food!
- Evening: Take a walk around Kabukicho, grab a bowl of tonkotsu ramen, and enjoy Tokyo’s skyline from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building (free observatory!).
🏯 Day 2: Shibuya & Harajuku
- See the Shibuya Crossing, visit Hachiko Statue, and shop at Shibuya 109.
- Explore Takeshita Street in Harajuku for quirky fashion and crepes.
- Don’t miss Meiji Shrine, a peaceful break in the forest right in the city.
🍣 Day 3: Asakusa & Tokyo Skytree
- Morning at Sensoji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest temple.
- Stroll down Nakamise Street for traditional snacks and souvenirs.
- Head to Tokyo Skytree for panoramic views and a cool shopping complex.
🎌 Day 4: Cultural Immersion Day
- Book a kimono experience and tea ceremony in Ueno or Asakusa.
- Visit Ueno Zoo or the Tokyo National Museum.
- Dinner at an izakaya – try yakitori and sake!
🎮 Day 5: Akihabara & Anime
- Dive into Akihabara, Japan’s otaku paradise.
- Visit anime stores, themed cafés, and try capsule toy machines.
- Gamers? Spend an hour at a Japanese arcade!
🚅 Day 6: Day Trip to Mt. Fuji or Yokohama
- Take a train to Hakone or Lake Kawaguchi for Mt. Fuji views.
- Or explore Yokohama Chinatown and the Cup Noodles Museum.
🍵 Day 7: Last-minute Shopping & Fly Home
- Shop at Ginza or Don Quijote for souvenirs.
- Enjoy a final sushi lunch or bento box before heading to the airport.
Tips for South African Travelers:
- Visa required: Apply early through the Japanese embassy.
- Suica/Pasmo cards help with public transport.
- Pocket WiFi or eSIM is handy for navigation.
Enjoy your journey from the southern tip of Africa to the heart of Japan! Tokyo will welcome you with open arms, crazy vending machines, and unforgettable memories.
