You've got 48 hours in Tokyo. How can you pack in all those neon lights, the shopping you need to do, crossroads you want to see, and the occasional pocket of zen you’ve longed for?

Read our guide to the best Tokyo districts you need to see, perfect for a whistle-stop tour of the city.

Welcome to Tokyo.

1. Shibuya

Even if you don’t know the Tokyo district Shibuya, you know Shibuya. You’ve seen that crossing before, we all have. But now it’s your chance to walk across it too.

But beyond its famous footpaths, Shibuya is a neighbourhood perfect for people watching, partying, and shopping. It’s what you think of first when you imagine Tokyo. There’s neon-lit signs, buzzing crowds, and trendy kids in out-there outfits.

The best things to do in Shibuya

A visit to Shibuya is all about walking around and enjoying the vibe, but here are some must-dos:

• Shibuya Crossing: This is it. The most famous intersection in the world. There’s giant video screens and huge shopping complexes. Plus, so many pedestrians. Up to 3,000 people cross at every light change. It’s time to be one of them.

• Shibuya Scramble Square: Head to this entertainment complex for shopping, entertainment, and panoramic views from the observation deck.

• Hachiko Statue: Hachiko the dog met its owner every day at Shibuya station and carried on after his death. There’s a statue to commemorate the love between owner and dog.

• Shibuya Parco: If you love Nintendo (who doesn’t), pay a visit to the first ever Nintendo store in this entertainment complex.

Time to party

We mentioned Shibuya was all about partying, right? For live music, make your way to Crocodile just over in Harajuku, where daily gigs run the gamut from rock and blues to jazz-fusion. Club Asia and Womb are ideal for dancing till dawn. For upmarket drinks, it's all about Bellovisto on the 40th floor of the Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel. For finger-clicking live jazz, check out JZ Brat in the same hotel.

Where to eat in Shibuya

The ramen is fantastic at Ichiran and Uoriki, tucked in the basement of the Tokyu department store by the station, is ideal for super-fresh sushi. For soba noodles, head to Fukudaya.

2. Shinjuku

Vibrant, fun and a slice of real-life Tokyo. In Shinjuku, you can’t escape the technicolour lights that have made Japan so instantly recognisable across the world, but who wants to? You’re in Tokyo, it’s all about the neon. This is one of the most supercharged neighbourhoods in the city and both tourists and locals flock here, especially when the sun goes down, as this neighbourhood is home to the red-light district and a thrilling nightlife scene.

To the east of Shinjuku station, you’ll find the crowds, lights, restaurants and bars. To the west of the station are big buildings, government offices and fancy hotels. That’s what they call juxtaposition.

The best things to do in Shinjuku

• Omoide Yokocho: This old-style restaurant lane is one of the best places in the city to experience what Tokyo used to be like. Before the neon.

• Tokyo Toy Museum: If you’re travelling with kids in tow, this is ideal for a rainy day. It’s more of a play space rather than a museum – and we’re sure that’s what your little ones will love.

• Kabukicho: If you’re easily shocked, maybe miss this one off your Tokyo agenda. Kabukicho is the city’s red-light district. You’ll find sex shops, hostess bars, restaurants, and party places.

Where to eat in Shinjuku

Takahashi’s smoky ramen bowl will have you coming back for more. The eels at Kabuto are an alternative option if you love eel. Tsunahachi is an old school tempura place that’s a delight for the tastebuds.

3. Harajuku

On the west side of the city, Tokyo district Harajuku has tree-lined streets, a lack of skyscrapers and a more relaxed atmosphere. Strolling the streets are a mix of fashion-forward locals, goth girls and the sleekly-clad. An intriguing mix, but very Tokyo.

The best things to do in Harajuku

• Meiji Jingu Shrine: This Shinto shrine is a top attraction in Tokyo. The bridge on the way, is where you’ll see the famous goth-girls posing for photos. The surrounding forest is spectacular, and you may even catch a traditional Japanese wedding at the shrine. Stroll to Yoyogi-koen Park after to check out the street performers.

• Nezu Museum: Of the many museums in Tokyo, this is one of the best. It’s the ideal place to view traditional Japanese art. There may be the occasional European exhibit, but this is all about Japan.

Where to eat in Harajuku

Check out Harajuku Gyozaro – it's cheap, cheerful and the gyoza will keep you coming back. We also love the cheese keema curry at Mokubaza, a layer of melted mozzarella and a raw egg yolk over richly spiced minced meat.

When it's time to push the boat out, you can't beat Den. This two-Michelin-starred restaurant serves seasonal Japanese delicacies expertly paired with wine. It's one not to miss. Just make sure you book well in advance.

If you're tired of Japanese food (how could you?) get a taste of Hawaii at Teddy's Bigger Burgers.

4. Akihabara

Manga, toys, software and electronics. Have a geeky side and you’ll love Tokyo district, Akihabara. The signs are bright and the gadgets on offer at the very latest you can find anywhere. A trip here is a real treat for your inner geek.

The best things to do in Akihabara

• Akihabara Electronics Town: Think games galore, computers and tech. This is a haven for gamers. Even if you’re not into games and gaming tech, there is plenty to see here, especially at night when the neighbourhood is all lit up.

Some things on offer round here are a little specialist. Gamers will love a visit to the Final Fantasy Eorzea Cafe, themed on Final Fantasy XIV and decked out like the game's Carline Canopy inn. You may also want to drop in on a maid café – but only if you fancy being served like an old-timey lord. Your best bet is the tourist-friendly @Home Cafe, where the maids will greet you as "master".

For a taste of Japanese curry, head to Joto Curry, where you'll order from a vending machine and get a free raw egg to stir through. Maruka is ideal for noodles with the locals – expect a queue for its thick, chewy Sanuki udon. Kikanbo will have your tastebuds tingling with spicy ramen, with separate dials for chilli heat and numbing sansho pepper. For a taste of the good stuff, make your way to Maltan for Japanese craft beers and whisky – the funky basement bar is in nearby Kanda.

Tokyo prices: what to pack in your wallet

You'll find Tokyo slightly cheaper than the major cities at home. Average prices are:

• Street food snack $5

• Bottle of beer (from a convenience store) $3

• Litre of petrol $1.50

• Meal for two in a fancy restaurant $200

• Night in a hostel $58

Discover more things to do in Tokyo

Now you’re ready to plan your trip to Tokyo, check out how to get around with our Tokyo transport guide and where to get the best fish with our guide to Tokyo’s fish markets. And if you’re ready to make the pilgrimage to Mount Fuji, we can help with that too.