Is it realistic to have a $0 daily budget for activities?

Yes. Tokyo has enough shrines, parks, and public observation decks to keep you busy for two weeks without ever paying an entry fee.

How do I get around without spending much?

Focus your itinerary on specific wards (like staying within Shinjuku/Shibuya) to minimize train rides. Walking is the best way to see the city for free.

How to experience Tokyo on a zero-yen budget

Tokyo offers world-class parks, panoramic city views, and vibrant cultural landmarks that are completely free to enter. Prioritize visiting public observatories, large shrines, and free museum galleries to fill your days without spending on admission fees.

Prioritize the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. Skip the paid Tokyo Skytree or Tokyo Tower. Head to the North Observatory at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku for a 202-meter high view of the city for free. It is open daily until 10:00 PM.
Visit major shrines and temples. Entrance to Meiji Jingu, Senso-ji, and Zojo-ji is free. These sites offer extensive grounds to walk through and are best visited early in the morning to avoid crowds and fully appreciate the architecture.
Take advantage of public parks. Ueno Park, Yoyogi Park, and the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden (some areas have a small fee, but free sections exist) provide miles of walking paths. They are the best spots for people-watching and picnicking.
Explore free art and observation galleries. Visit the Intermediatheque (KITTE building) near Tokyo Station for a unique, free science and history museum experience. Check the websites for POLA Museum Annex in Ginza, which also hosts free rotating art exhibitions.

Is it realistic to have a $0 daily budget for activities?: Yes. Tokyo has enough shrines, parks, and public observation decks to keep you busy for two weeks without ever paying an entry fee.
How do I get around without spending much?: Focus your itinerary on specific wards (like staying within Shinjuku/Shibuya) to minimize train rides. Walking is the best way to see the city for free.