Do I need to carry cash?

Yes. While credit cards are increasingly accepted, many ramen shops, shrines, and small kiosks still only take cash.

Is it rude to eat while walking?

Generally, yes. It's best practice to stand or sit near the shop where you bought the food to finish it.

Planning a 7-Day First-Time Trip to Tokyo

Focus your itinerary by grouping districts by geography to minimize transit time. Spend 7 days split between the modern western hubs, historical eastern districts, and one day-trip to surrounding areas like Kamakura or Hakone.

Choose your home base. Stay near the Yamanote Line (the circular train loop). Shinjuku or Shibuya are best for nightlife and connectivity; Ueno or Asakusa are quieter and cheaper for early-morning temple visits.
Get your transit setup early. Add a Suica or Pasmo card to your Apple Wallet or Google Pay immediately. This allows you to tap-and-go on all subways and buses without buying individual paper tickets.
Map your days by region. Don't jump across the city. Do 'West Tokyo' (Shibuya/Harajuku/Shinjuku) in one block and 'East Tokyo' (Asakusa/Ueno/Akihabara) in another.
Book high-demand attractions 30 days out. Places like the Ghibli Museum or Shibuya Sky sell out instantly. Set a calendar alert for the ticket release dates, usually at midnight Japan Standard Time.

Do I need to carry cash?: Yes. While credit cards are increasingly accepted, many ramen shops, shrines, and small kiosks still only take cash.
Is it rude to eat while walking?: Generally, yes. It's best practice to stand or sit near the shop where you bought the food to finish it.