Complete Guide to 4 Days of Free Exploration in Tokyo

1. Tokyo Station
Access: JR lines, Tokyo Metro
Highlights: Marunouchi Station Building (red brick exterior), KITTE (with observation terrace)
Notes: The station is vast and easy to get lost in, so be sure to check the information boards carefully.

2. Imperial Palace (about a 10-minute walk from Tokyo Station)
Access: Walk from Tokyo Station's Marunouchi South Exit
Highlights: Imperial Palace Outer Garden, Nijubashi Bridge, Otemon Gate
Notes: Many areas are not accessible inside. During daytime walks, especially in summer, bring a hat and stay hydrated.

3. TeamLab Borderless (Azabudai Hills)
Access: From Tokyo Station, take the Hibiya Line or Namboku Line to "Azabudai Hills"
Recommended Time: At least 2 hours
Notes: Tickets must be reserved in advance (date and time specified). The space is dark and has many mirrored surfaces, so be cautious with heels, etc. Photography is allowed, but flash is prohibited in some areas.

4. Tokyo Tower & Zojoji Temple (within walking distance from TeamLab)
Access: About a 15–20 minute walk from Azabudai Hills
Highlights: Tokyo Tower Observatory (best during daytime to evening), Zojoji Temple: great photo opportunities with Tokyo Tower
Notes: Zojoji Temple is a sacred site, so maintain quiet and respect while visiting. Tokyo Tower Observatory may have waiting times during busy periods.

Yokohama Sightseeing (or a possible day trip from Tokyo)

5. Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse
Access: JR "Sakuragicho" Station → 15-minute walk, or Minatomirai Line "Bashamichi" Station nearby
Highlights: Shops, cafes, and event plaza inside the warehouse
Notes: Extremely crowded during weekends and events. Many outdoor events, so check the weather.

6. Yokohama Chinatown
Access: Walk from Red Brick Warehouse or take the Minatomirai Line to "Motomachi-Chukagai" Station
Highlights: Gates (like Zenrin Gate), street food, Kanteibyo Temple
Notes: Follow proper etiquette for street food (stop and eat). Popular restaurants often have long lines; weekdays during lunch are ideal.