tokyo recs for 2-3 days

[origami]

I haven't decided how many days we will go to Tokyo's Disney stuff so I'm trying to make an itinerary for 2 and 3 days to see what we'd have to cut out if we did a 2nd day at Disney. What are the must-sees in/near Tokyo? Is a day trip to Mt Fuji worth it? We will have our 3 year olds with us so that limits us somewhat but I still want to see the major sites, even if I have to drag the kids.

[GilliC]

Have you been before? If not, I wouldn't bother making a trip to Fuji. There's plenty to see in the city, and Kamakura is an easier daytrip. However, I don't really feel like Tokyo has a set of overall must-sees. It depends a lot on your interests:

History - If I had to choose a must-see, I'd probably choose Asakusa, because Senso-ji temple is well worth seeing, and the surrounding shopping streets are great for souvenirs or window shopping if you've never been to Japan. I also really like Meiji Jingu shrine. While Shinto shrines tend to be less elaborate than Buddhist temples, I find it interesting to compare the differences.

Nature - Meiji shrine is also a good choice for nature, since the surrounding Yoyogi Park is a great place for a stroll. Consider a daytrip to Nikko if you really want to escape the urban.

Fashion - Wander around Harajuku on the weekend or early evening for the people watching. Pop into some of the famous shopping centers to see the unique assortment of clothing for sale.

Anime - Akihabara. If you have a favorite manga or anime series, you're bound to find it here. However, if you're a serious fan, head to Nakano Broadway instead. It has a much grittier otaku atmosphere.

WTF - Robot Restaurant cabaret show. (We formed most of our Tokyo itinerary around the WTF category, so I have plenty of must-sees but that one tops the list by far.)

[mdgirl]

When I was doing research for my trip I heard Fuji described as the kind of mountain you want to see from a distance, and being on the actual mountain isn't particularly special. If you find pictures from people who did hike it you'll see what I mean.

[origami]

I've never been to japan. Thanks for the recs!

[maddiepaddy]

I was there for just 2 full days, and I agree that planning a day trip out of the city would be a lot. There is a ton to see in the city! The Tokyo Metropolitan Building observatory is a great place to see the bird's eye view of the city. If you go on a clear day, you should be able to see Mt. Fuji from there, too. I also second the rec for the Meiji Shrine - it's beautiful and incredibly peaceful, especially considering that it's right in the middle of the city.

[urbancowgirl]

Ditto the Tokyo Metropolitan Building observatory.

Duck into the basement of a department store if you get a chance! They have awesome food markets.

[Deleted]

Agree with suggestions of Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, Akihabara, and going to the food section of any fancy department store.

Don't miss these either:

(1) Tsukiji Fish Market: Even if you don't go at 5 a.m. to catch the auction, it's worth going in the morning for a gander.  Better yet, have sushi for breakfast while you're there.  Freshest in the world.  Sushi Dai and Daiwa Zushi are right next to the market.  If they are too crowded, head to Sushizanmai (the original location of a good chain that is open 24 hours).

(2) Shibuya Crossing: Watch pure madness while having coffee at the Starbucks that overlooks the busy intersection.

(3) Hama-rikyu Garden: Have tea and mochi in a small traditional tea house.

More than anything, sample all the food that you can!  Sushi!  Teppanyaki!  Tempura!  Udon!  Soba!  Yakitori!  And wonderful baked goods and sweets!