How Far in Advance to Book Japan Experiences
Top 13 experiences most people fail to book and how far in advance you need to snag a ticket.
Tamra Bow
Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Mt Fuji, Shirakawago, Japan
Don’t book these in advance and run the risk of missing out like us.
Think you can wing it in Tokyo?
Been there... missed so many bucket-list experiences because of it
When we went for the first time, we didn’t realise that some of Tokyo’s most popular attractions book out weeks (even months) ahead
We missed out on Shibuya Sky at sunset, Mario Kart through Tokyo, and the Ghibli Museum
So here’s how to avoid that mess...
💡 Top tip:
Lock in the date + time first, then book accommodation around the experience.
That way you don’t miss out just because of a schedule clash
And because I love saving you money:
🎟️ Use code KLOOKGABTK on Klook for 10% off your Tokyo bookings.
🎟️ 13 Tokyo Experiences You NEED to Book in Advance
teamLab Planets (Toyosu) - 1–2 months ahead
Ghibli Museum (Mitaka) - tickets drop on the 10th every month at 10am Japan time (set an alarm!)
Sumo Tournament (Ryogoku) - during tournament season, book 1–2 months out
Mario Kart Street Go-Karting (Akihabara/Shibuya) - 2-4 weeks ahead (don’t forget your international licence!)
Shibuya Sky (Shibuya) - 1-2 weeks ahead for sunset slots
Omakase Sushi Experience (Ginza/Shibuya) - book 1-2 months out (luxury seats go fast)
Kimono Rental + Photoshoot (Asakusa) - 1-2 weeks ahead (2-3 weeks during cherry blossom or autumn)
Traditional Tea Ceremony (Harajuku/Asakusa) - 1-2 (or 2-3) weeks ahead
Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea (Chiba) - book as soon as you know your dates
Mt Fuji Day Tour (from Shinjuku/Tokyo) - 2-4 weeks ahead (especially for weekend or sunrise tours)
Tokyo Skytree (Oshiage) - 2-3 weeks ahead for sunset slots
Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo - The Making of Harry Potter — 1-3 months ahead
Themed Cafés + Pop-Ups (e.g. Pokémon Café) - 1-4 weeks ahead, depending on popularity
💸 Use code KLOOKGABTK on Klookl to save 10%, it works on most of these experiences
Looking for things to do?
Go check out my guide for the best free things to do as well as itineraries and travel tips to make your trip unforgettable.