Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo, Japan

A mesmerizing blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge technology, where neon-lit skyscrapers stand alongside serene temples and world-class cuisine awaits at every corner.

Temperate
Climate
Mar-May, Sep-Nov
Best Time
¥12,000-20,000
Daily Budget
JPY (¥)
Currency

Discover Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan's bustling capital, is a city where the ultramodern and the traditional collide in spectacular fashion. From neon-lit skyscrapers and anime shops to historic temples and tranquil gardens, Tokyo offers an unforgettable sensory experience.

As the world's most populous metropolitan area, Tokyo pulsates with energy 24/7. Each district has its own character - from the fashion-forward streets of Harajuku to the electronic wonderland of Akihabara, from the upscale shopping of Ginza to the traditional atmosphere of Asakusa.

Beyond the urban excitement, Tokyo serves as a gateway to Japanese culture, offering world-class museums, Michelin-starred restaurants, efficient public transport, and the famous Japanese hospitality (omotenashi) that makes every visitor feel welcome.

Must-See Attractions

Senso-ji Temple

Senso-ji Temple

Tokyo's oldest temple in historic Asakusa

Shibuya Crossing

Shibuya Crossing

World's busiest pedestrian crossing

Mount Fuji

Mount Fuji

Japan's sacred mountain (day trip from Tokyo)

Tokyo Tower

Tokyo Tower

Iconic red tower with city views

Tokyo Skytree

World's tallest tower with observation decks and shopping

Meiji Shrine

Peaceful Shinto shrine surrounded by forest in Shibuya

Imperial Palace

Home of Japan's Emperor with beautiful East Gardens

TeamLab Borderless

Mind-blowing digital art museum in Odaiba

Districts to Explore

Shinjuku

Tokyo's busiest district with towering skyscrapers, department stores, and vibrant nightlife. Don't miss the view from Tokyo Metropolitan Building and the atmospheric alleyways of Omoide Yokocho.

Harajuku

Youth culture and fashion capital. Explore Takeshita Street for quirky shops, Omotesando for high-end boutiques, and enjoy crepes while people-watching.

Akihabara

Electric Town - paradise for anime, manga, and electronics enthusiasts. Multi-story arcades, maid cafes, and endless gadget shops create a unique atmosphere.

Ginza

Tokyo's most upscale shopping district with luxury brands, art galleries, and some of the city's finest restaurants and sushi bars.

Asakusa

Traditional Tokyo with Senso-ji Temple, rickshaw rides, and shops selling traditional crafts and street food along Nakamise shopping street.

Food & Culture

Must-Try Dishes

Sushi

From conveyor belt to Michelin-starred omakase

Ramen

Soul-warming noodles in rich broths

Tempura

Lightly battered and fried seafood and vegetables

Yakitori

Grilled chicken skewers in izakaya pubs

Tonkatsu

Crispy breaded pork cutlet with cabbage

Matcha Desserts

Green tea flavored sweets and ice cream

Cultural Experiences

  • • Experience a traditional tea ceremony
  • • Stay in a capsule hotel or ryokan
  • • Visit during cherry blossom season (late March-April)
  • • Sing karaoke in a private booth
  • • Watch sumo wrestling at Ryogoku Kokugikan
  • • Relax in an onsen (hot spring bath)

Essential Information

Getting Around

  • • JR Yamanote Line circles the city
  • • Tokyo Metro & Toei Subway extensive network
  • • Get a Suica/Pasmo IC card for easy travel
  • • JR Pass useful for day trips
  • • Taxis expensive but reliable

When to Visit

  • • Spring (Mar-May): Cherry blossoms, mild weather
  • • Summer (Jun-Aug): Hot, humid, festivals
  • • Autumn (Sep-Nov): Perfect weather, fall colors
  • • Winter (Dec-Feb): Cold but clear, fewer crowds

Money Tips

  • • Cash-based society - always carry yen
  • • 7-Eleven ATMs accept foreign cards
  • • No tipping required anywhere
  • • Tax-free shopping for tourists

Etiquette

  • • Bow as greeting, not handshakes
  • • Remove shoes when entering homes/temples
  • • Don't eat while walking
  • • Queue orderly for trains

Sample 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Traditional Tokyo

Asakusa Temple, Tokyo Skytree, Akihabara electronics

Day 2: Modern Tokyo

Shibuya Crossing, Harajuku fashion, Meiji Shrine, Shinjuku nightlife

Day 3: Culture & Gardens

Imperial Palace, Ginza shopping, teamLab Borderless, Odaiba

Day 4: Day Trip

Mount Fuji and Hakone or Nikko temples or Kamakura Buddha

Day 5: Local Experiences

Tsukiji Outer Market, Roppongi Hills, final shopping in Shibuya

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Tokyo Essentials

  • Get a Suica/Pasmo card at the airport
  • Download Google Translate offline
  • Pocket WiFi or SIM card essential
  • Trains stop around midnight
  • Convenience stores (konbini) are lifesavers

Useful Japanese Phrases

Arigatou gozaimasu

Thank you

Sumimasen

Excuse me / Sorry

Eigo o hanasemasu ka?

Do you speak English?

Ikura desu ka?

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