Tokyo – Capital of Japan

Tokyo, the bustling capital of Japan, reigns as one of the world's most populous cities, boasting a staggering population of around 37 million in the Greater Tokyo Area. Situated in the southeast of the largest island, Honshu, within the serene Kanto Plain, Tokyo is the center of political, administrative, financial, industrial, and cultural affairs. It's a vibrant city that never sleeps and requires more than a day or even a week to fully immerse oneself in its captivating atmosphere and explore its vast grounds.

Tokyo's unique charm lies in its harmonious coexistence of modernity and ancient Japanese traditions. A stroll through the streets of Old Town takes visitors on a voyage through time, with palaces, temples, and shrines evoking the era of the shoguns who once ruled the Land of the Rising Sun.

Tokyo city is home to some of the oldest universities, such as the Komazawa University (founded in 1592), the Juntendo University (1836), the Aoyama Gakuin University (1876), and the University of Tokyo (1877). It is also a hub for cultural exploration, with hundreds of art galleries and dozens of museums. The Tokyo National Museum showcases the city's rich heritage, with over 85,000 art pieces, paintings, and sculptures.

Amid the urban bustle, Tokyo features an array of shopping, entertainment, and dining options to suit every taste. Moreover, numerous parks and gardens provide tranquil escapes from the city's crowds and chaos, allowing visitors to find solace and rejuvenation.

With its abundance and diversity, Tokyo is an unmissable destination for travelers seeking an unforgettable experience.

Our comprehensive Tokyo Travel Guide provides all the essential information to plan your trip to Japan and make the most of your time in this extraordinary city.

History of Tokyo

Tokyo, originally known as Edo, traces its origins back to the construction of the Edo Fortification in the 15th century on Japan's Honshu coast. Then, under the leadership of Tokugawa Ieyasu, founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate, Edo ascended to the status of capital in 1590. But Kyoto was still the imperial capital. In 1615, Tokugawa Ieyasu won a big battle, and his family ruled Japan for the next 300 years. Edo saw rapid economic expansion during that time and became one of the biggest cities in the world by the 18th century.

The Meiji Restoration, which unfolded during the 19th century, led to the fall of the shogunate regime and the reinstatement of imperial power. In 1868, the emperor changed Edo's name to Tokyo, which means "eastern capital,” and it became a new capital. The late 19th century in Japanese history marks a tremendous growth in shipbuilding and industry and the development of a railway connecting Tokyo with Yokohama, Kobe, and Osaka.

On September 1, 1923, a catastrophic earthquake struck Tokyo and its surrounding areas, claiming the lives of approximately 90,000 individuals. The city's hardships continued during World War II when it endured devastating aerial bombardment, leading to the deaths of more than 80,000 people on March 8, 1945.

In the second half of the 20th century, Japan experienced an economic boom, emerging as the world's second-largest economy behind the United States in 1966. This remarkable revitalization is renowned as the Japanese Economic Miracle. Remarkably, Tokyo served as the host city for the Summer Olympic Games in 1964.

Today, Tokyo is a principal financial hub on the global stage. The Tokyo Stock Exchange, comparable to the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and the London Stock Exchange (LSE), processes a large volume of financial transactions.

What to Do in Tokyo

Landmarks and Attractions in Tokyo

An incredible adventure awaits anyone in Tokyo. This vibrant city is packed with attractions and experiences that are pure wonder. You'll find towering skyscrapers next to ancient temples and a fantastic food scene. Whether you're a first-timer or a returning visitor, there's something for everyone.

Hanami Spots

Japanese have been celebrating cherry blossoms for centuries. Sakura (the cherry tree in Japanese) season is the most beautiful time of the year in Tokyo when the whole city is adorned with blooming cherries. The best places to enjoy the sight of this short-lived event are parks and gardens. Every year, the Japanese have picnics under the cherry trees in parks and gardens to watch the blossoms while socializing with food and drinks. These gatherings are known as "hanami," meaning "viewing the flowers.”

Here are a few hanami spots to see the awakened Sakura buds in Tokyo.

• Ueno Park is a mecca for cherry blossom viewing and home to over one thousand cherry trees, including those at Ueno Zoo. Sakura trees are illuminated by the lights of the Japanese lanterns at night, creating an elegant atmosphere.
• An oasis in the middle of the capital’s skyscrapers, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is a great site to soak up the spring vibes. The park’s hallmark is the variety of cherry trees called “kawazazakura” that start blooming as early as the beginning of February.
• Sumida Park stretches across the banks of the Sumida River with a row of cherry-blooming trees on both sides. You can also enjoy views of the trees from the SkyTree observation tower in Sumida.
• Located between the Chidorigafuchi moat and the British Embassy on the west side of the Imperial Palace, Chidorigafuchi Park is another popular spot in Tokyo for hanami. Picnics are not allowed, but you can take a boat ride.
• There are around 500 Sakura-blooming trees in Inokashira Park centered around a pond. Watching blossoms descending softly on the pond or reflecting on the water is a stunning view.

The season when Japan becomes awash in pink mostly begins in mid or late March and lasts until early April. We recommend checking out the Japanese forecast websites announcing the exact cherry blossom dates for 47 prefectures.

Temples and Shrines

The Indigenous Shinto and Buddhism imported from China via India are two religions equally respected by the Japanese. During holidays and festivals, Tokyoites attend Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples. For example, people exchange presents on Christmas, ring Buddhist temple bells on New Year’s Eve, and go to Shinto shrines on January 1. There are Buddhist-related festivals and the "mikoshi" celebrations based on Shinto beliefs.

Regardless of religion, travelers are highly welcome to the Japanese sacred sites. Most of these buildings are national gems, surrounded by parklands with lush gardens, waterfalls, and mountains.

Two must-see religious attractions in Tokyo are Senso-ji and Meiji Shrine. Located in the Asakusa district, the Senso-ji temple is dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy. Its five-story pagoda dates to 645 AD and attracts millions of tourists annually. The famed Meiji Shrine in Shibuya is a devotion to the former Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken.

Museums

The abundance of the capital’s many museums may confuse a first-time traveler in Japan. One can find permanent collections and rotating exhibitions from local and international talent. If you are unsure where to go first, here are our picks for some of Tokyo’s museums.

• The Tokyo National Museum is the oldest and biggest museum in the country, with vast collections from Japan's past and present, such as Samurai swords, statues, art, and pottery, including treasures from all around the world. It contains around 120,000 art and historical items. The museum is in Ueno Park.
• The Edo-Tokyo Museum has a decent infrastructure, allowing for a great understanding of Tokyo, Edo, originally, through detailed historical reconstructions. Go back 400 years and walk through the real-size Edo houses, theaters, bridges, and ships with miniatures of then peasants, teachers, kabuki actors, craftsmen, and more.
• The National Art Center is so huge that it requires more than one day to tour all its exhibitions spanning three floors. The center's architecture, inside and out, is another reason to admire it. The display of Japanese calligraphy is an absolute beauty.
• The National Museum of Nature and Science is a place for children and parents to enjoy the displays of ancient humans, dinosaur bones and exhibitions, and plenty of scientific marvels.
• teamLab Planets is the cherry on the icing in our list of museums. This digital museum of interactive visual art will tickle your senses, altering your perception of reality.

Where Can I See Mt. Fuji from Tokyo?

If your travel plans focus solely on Tokyo, fear not about missing out on the iconic Mt. Fuji. Certain spots in the city pride in breathtaking views of this majestic mountain on clear days in winter. The optimal time for capturing Instagram-worthy photos falls between December and February. During these months, cooler temperatures minimize the likelihood of fog, allowing for clearer visibility. Moreover, the snow-covered Mt. Fuji resembles a beautiful bride adorned in a pristine white dress, creating a picturesque scene not to be missed.

• On a sunny day in winter, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building or Tocho can offer the view you are looking for from the 45th floor.
• The Carrot Tower in Sangenjaya is the only tall building in the area and, thus, a perfect place to relax and please your eyes with the Mt. Fuji view.
• Roppongi Hills is a shopping complex with indoor observation on the 52nd floor. It also has an outdoor Sky Deck with a panoramic view of the city and Mt. Fuji.

The only thing to remember is to check the opening hours before you go.

Entertainment, Parks, and Shopping in Tokyo

Shopping

Shopping neighborhoods, such as Shinjuku, Shibuya, Harajuku, Odaiba, and Ginza, are the most sought-after destinations for the average tourist in Tokyo. These and many other shopping districts have virtually almost anything one could ever want to buy.

For example, Shinjuku, the largest shopping and entertainment center, has many exclusive stores, boutiques, electronic chains, and even underground shopping passageways. The same would be true for Shibuya, but it's a youth fashion center at large. Harajuku, Ginza, Marunouchi, and Ropponji are upmarket areas.

Visitors looking for vintage accessories and clothing will find many options in Omotesando, Front 11201 in the Yoyogi Uehara district, and Keshiki stores on Meiji-dori Avenue. Shimokitazawa is considered a bohemian neighborhood for rare and vintage items.

On top of what we've mentioned above, you should check out the Japanese designer shops if you want to return home with the Japanese brand's signature pieces. The boutiques of Kenzo Takada, the first Japanese designer to make his name on the Paris stage, can be found in Shinjuku and Ginza. Kansai Yamamoto dressed Bowie, Elton John, Steve Wonder, and Lady Gaga. His boutiques, known under the name "Yohji Yamamoto," are found in the Aoyama Store, Shibuya, and Shinjuku.

Observation Decks

Viewing Tokyo from its tallest buildings is one of the capital’s best experiences. Something is exciting about looking out across the many landmarks of Tokyo. On a clear winter day, you can even see Mt. Fuji.

There are seven buildings with observation decks currently in Tokyo: Tokyo Tower, Tokyo SkyTree – the highest observation deck in Tokyo, Roppongi Hills, Shibuya Sky, Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, Bunkyo Civic Center, and Sunshine 60. Each of them offers a different perspective and experience.

Nightlife

Tokyo transforms when the sun sets down, and its streets are lit with neon lights. From the brightly illuminated downtown of Shibuya to the graceful skyscrapers of Ginza and Marunouchi to bars, late-night art galleries, lively izakayas, and outdoor activities, anyone can enjoy Tokyo’s nightlife to the fullest.

• Head to the Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Roppongi districts for night bars and clubs.
• See illuminations during the Christmas and Sakura seasons.
• Have a delicious dinner at one of the high-end rooftop bars or restaurants in Ginza.
• Laugh and enjoy great drinks at the Tokyo Comedy Bar.
• Have fun watching showgirls performing in Tokyo Burlesque.
• Feel the magic unfolded on the stage of Tantra Artistic Lounge.
• Try sake for the first time at the Kurand Sake Market Ueno.

These are a few of the activities to get lost in the late-night energy of Tokyo.

Anime and Manga

The fans of Tokyo subculture can’t leave Japan without visiting popular anime and manga landmarks.

Akihabara is not one of Japan's electronic towns only but also a number one spot for anime and manga. Chuo Dori Street is lined up with comic bookstores, game centers, cosplay shops, and more.
The kawai culture enthusiasts should walk along Takeshita Street in Harajuku to experience the real culture of cuteness, featuring Lolita fashion and Japanese pop idol Kyary Pamyu Pamy.

The real-sized statue of Unicorn Gundam in the Odaiba DiverCity Tokyo Plaza is a must-see. The Sunshine City in Ikebukuro has an indoor anime-themed park – Pokemon Center.

Tokyo Disneyland Resort

Opened in 1983, Tokyo Disneyland was the first Disneyland outside the U.S., which has grown into a massive Disney Resort with many attractions, hotels, and a monorail. The resort has a second park, known as the Tokyo DisneySea, home to unique themed parks not found in other Disneyland parks. From exotic lands to the Wild West to futuristic attractions, the entertainment complex offers thrilling rides, attractions, live performances, and special events. You can't possibly see everything in one day. Visitors should set aside a few days to immerse themselves in the magical atmosphere. A special train with Mickey Mouse-shaped windows operates within the resort for added convenience.

Tokyo Famous Food Places

Japanese Food

Tokyo boasts many eateries that offer dishes of local and international cuisine. As a gourmet capital, Tokyo boasts more Michelin-starred restaurants than Paris and New York combined. And, not only that: Tokyo caters to any taste. You get just about anything you want. One can find sophisticated versions here, like kaiseki, and a big choice of street food and vegetarian dishes at different prices.

UNESCO has recognized washoku, a Japanese traditional cuisine, as an Intangible Cultural Heritage due to the high quality and authentic flavor of its dishes. The fans of Japanese food might have already appreciated such dishes as Tempura, Yakitori, Sushi, and Udon Noodles. However, you will have a unique opportunity to try these only in the Tokyo restaurant or from the street stall.

Tsukiji and Toyosu Fish Markets

Japan is one of the major seafood consumers and manufacturers. The country has many fishing ports and markets contributing to its gastronomical scene. Tsukiji is a market that has been operating since 1935. Toyosu is its younger counterpart, taking over from Tsukiji and becoming a bigger and more modern wholesale market. The top-notch chefs source their ingredients from both markets.

In Tsukiji and Toyosu, you can learn how to fillet fish properly and buy various goods. Make sure to try a bowl of rice with sashimi, sushi, and other Japanese specialties. Also, sample the legendary Japanese tea – green tea, sencha, and matcha – or have a cup of coffee at one of the tea rooms or cafes right at the market.

Traditional Culinary Experiences – Kaiseki

In Tokyo, most restaurants offer the traditional kaiseki experience. In select locations, this Japanese fine dining art is complemented by geisha performances, including music and dance. The best geisha districts are Asakusa and Kagurazaka.

The kaiseki originally was served to a royal family. It is an excellent demonstration of omotenashi, Japanese hospitality. Also called kaiseki-ryori, it is a multi-course dinner, including sakizuke (snacks) served with sake. It also includes a slow-cooked dish, sashimi, flame-grilled food, and rice. The dinner’s culmination is always matcha tea.

Vegetarian Dishes

Vegetarian and vegan food can be found in abundant amounts in Tokyo restaurants. These are typically the dishes of Buddhist cuisine, known as shojin ryori.

The term “shojin ryori” alludes to the traditional dining style of Buddhist monks in Japan. It became popular with Zen Buddhism spread to Japan in the 13th century. This dinner tradition is strictly vegan and is increasingly common in restaurants near traditional Tokyo temples.

Various dishes have simple ingredients, like pickles, rice, and miso soup. The shojin ryori dinner might include traditional Japanese salad shira-ae made from mashed tofu, vegetables, and sesame seeds.

Check out the Terra Café restaurant in the Buddhist temple of the Daikanyama district.

The Basement-level Food Halls

You can find sushi, onigiri, and sozai (side dishes) in the basement-level food halls of every department store or shopping mall in Tokyo. In Japan, they are called depachika, from “depa” (department store) and “chika” (basement).

One of the famous depachika is in the Shinjuku Takashimaya, where you can find various Japanese and international delicacies. They are typically split into different gastronomical sections. The assortment of foods includes yakitori, curry, French, and Italian pastries. Your eyes will run wide from the diversity of gift foods like nicely wrapped boxes with cookies, chocolate sweets, and wine. Everything is fresh here.

Tokyo Ramen Street

The Ramen Street in Tokyo is a great place to indulge in Japanese ramen. The street is part of the underground mall of the Tokyo Station. It consists of eight ramen restaurants, and the best among them are Rokurinsha, Tokyo Station Ikaruga, and Oreshiki Jun.

You can order tsukemen in Rokurinsha, a ramen dish where you need to dip noodles in a soup served in a separate bowl before eating them. This restaurant boasts very aromatic ramen, and people stand in long queues to get it. But it is worth it.

Izakaya Alleys in Tokyo

Izakaya alleys have many bars that offer a casual environment with delicious snacks and alcoholic beverages. Reminiscent of American or Spanish-style bars, they are the perfect spots for those seeking a tranquil retreat to sip on a glass of brandy after a long day. More so, the bars in Izakaya serve mouthwatering dishes.

Among the notable bar alleys is Omoide Yokocho or Memory Lane, dating back to 1946. Its eateries pride in traditional food, yakitori, consisting of delicious grilled chicken pieces on skewers paired well with traditional sake.

City Transport in Tokyo

Tokyo's public transport network covers Shinkansen trains, subway, buses, and monorails. The well-developed transportation infrastructure allows for smooth and hassle-free travel in Tokyo Prefecture and between different Japanese regions. The convenient IC card works both for trains and buses. Even more, the same card can be used to buy food and other items at affiliated vending machines and shops.

Here’s a quick handy guide to navigating transportation in Tokyo.

JR Rail Pass (JR East)

The JR Rail Pass is a convenient solution for tourists in Japan, covering any JR Line, including the Narita Express and most bullet trains (shinkansen), except for the Nozomi and Mizuho, for which you will need a separate ticket. This pass suits tourists who plan to travel within Tokyo and beyond. JR Tokyo Wide Pass is a good option for those who plan trips to Nikko and regions adjacent to Tokyo.

Suica and PASMO (IC cards)

If you are going to stay in Tokyo for several days and use the public system, a Suica or PASMO IC card should be first on your list. You can ride almost all Tokyo lines with these rechargeable smart cards. Although not owned by the same company, they are pretty much the same. You can use them for trains, monorails, subways, and buses in the Kanto region. Moreover, Suica and PASMO cards are usable in most regions across Japan, extending beyond Tokyo. The cards are available for a refundable fee of JPY 500 at most train stations and rechargeable at the automated ticket machines with an English menu at every station.

Smartphone users can download the Suica and PASMO mobile apps to pass through the ticket gate or recharge. Welcome Suica is valid for 28 days and doesn't require any deposit.

Railways (Overground)

While many tourists prefer the JR Rail Pass, others may consider getting the Greater Tokyo Pass, offering a 3-day unlimited ride around the metropolitan area, including Nikko in the north, Narita Airport, Chichibu, and Kamakura.

Tokyo Metro and Toei (Subway Lines)

Tokyo Metro and Toei are the two largest operators running Tokyo's underground networks. In 2022, the former had a daily turnover of passengers reaching 5.95 million. Both lines offer discounts on tickets. Although the subway lines are not operated by JR, people still can use the JR IC passes. Visitors just need to present their passports to purchase 24-, 49-, or 72-hour tickets at the Tokyo Metro Pass Offices or tourist information centers throughout Tokyo.

Finding Your Route and Getting a Ticket

For seamless travel in Tokyo, two websites stand out: HyperDia and Jorudan. Simply enter your starting and destination stations on either site to receive a comprehensive list of suggested routes. Plus, these routes are conveniently grouped based on their speed, cost, and ease of use.

Buses

Despite not being the most favored mode of public transportation, buses are an alternative option for visitors to travel between different locations. Toei, a prominent transport company, has a significant presence in the city, operating a portion of the metro, tram, and railways.

Toei buses provide a convenient ride from the city center to the 23 wards of Tokyo, offering easy access to attractions in both downtown areas and suburban neighborhoods.

Each bus stop has a timetable of the buses’ schedules. Passengers should get on the bus through the front door, pay for tickets at the fare machine, and get off through the rear door.

The fare machine comes with two slots (one for coins and one for bills), a bill acceptor, and a plastic card reader. If you have purchased a paper day pass in advance, show it to the driver. Press the designated button located on the handrail to exit the bus. Buses offer Wi-Fi access.

Taxi

Despite being among the world's most expensive, Tokyo taxis offer unparalleled convenience and reliability. Finding a taxi in Tokyo is not a problem since these can be easily found at major attractions, airports, and railway stations.

Passengers can call a taxi or use a mobile booking application. A hallmark of Tokyo taxis is the lights on their rooftops: an illuminated red light indicates it’s vacant, while an illuminated green means the taxi is full.

• Many Japanese drivers don’t speak English, so we recommend showing the taxi driver the destination on a map.
• You should board the taxi through the rear left door, which opens automatically.
• Each taxi has a meter displaying the fare at the end of the trip. It is not customary to leave a tip for the taxi driver in Japan.

Transportation from Tokyo Airport

If you are visiting Tokyo and wondering how to get from the airport to the city, here’s a rundown on getting in and out of the airport.

There are two main airports in Tokyo: Narita International Airport (NRT) and Haneda International Airport (HND). Both offer several transportation modes to get into the city, including trains, buses, and taxis.

Narita International Airport

The Narita Express (NEX) is a speedy bullet train that will whisk you from the airport to Shinjuku Station in central Tokyo in 1 hour and 25 minutes. It's a bit pricey at 3,250 yen. If you're on a budget, the Keisei Skyliner is a limited express train that takes about 1 h 10 min to reach Ueno Station. It costs 2,465 yen and is the best option if you travel to the east side of Tokyo.

The Airport Limousine Bus is a more luxurious alternative. These comfortable buses take you from the airport to various hotels and attractions in central Tokyo. They depart every 15 to 30 minutes and cost 3,100 yen.

Taxis are available outside both terminals at Narita Airport. The fare to central Tokyo is around 20,000 yen, and the journey takes about 60 to 90 minutes, depending on traffic.

Haneda Airport

The Keikyu Line is a regular train service that connects the airport to Shinagawa Station in central Tokyo in about 25 minutes. It's the most affordable variant, with fares starting from 257 yen. The Tokyo Monorail is a driverless train that takes you from the airport to Hamamatsucho Station in just 22 minutes, with fares starting at 500 yen.

And just like Narita Airport, Haneda Airport also has Airport Limousine Buses that take you to hotels and attractions in central Tokyo. They depart every 15 to 30 minutes. Taxis are also available at both terminals, with fares to central Tokyo fluctuating between 5,000 and 10,000 yen.

Spoken Languages in Tokyo

It is important to note that the only official language in Japan is Japanese, and it is the most spoken language in Tokyo and other regions. While younger generations may have some command of English, it is not guaranteed.

You can solve the language barrier by leveraging translation apps for iOS or Android, such as Google Translate, Microsoft Translator, etc. Or, you can learn some essential phrases and basic Japanese to navigate your way around Tokyo.

These phrases cover basic needs and situations you might encounter while traveling, such as asking for directions, shopping, and dining out.

Basic Phrases for Navigating and Requests

• Airport: 空港 (Kuukou)
• Hospital: 病院 (Byouin)
• Police Station: 交番 (Kouban)
• Bank: 銀行 (Ginkou)
• Is it far?: ここから遠いですか (Koko kara tooi desuka?)
• Map, please: 地図をください (Chizu wo kudasai)
• Can I take a photo?: 写真をとってもらえますか (Shashin wo totte morae masuka?)

When Shopping

• Shop/Store: 店 (Mise)
• How much is it?: これはいくらですか (Kore wa ikura desuka?)
• Cheap: 安い (Yasui)
• Expensive: 高い (Takai)

When Eating Out

• Restaurant: レストラン (Resutoran)
• This, please: これをください (Kore wo kudasai)
• Water: 水 (Mizu)
• Bill, please: お会計をお願いします (Okaikei wo onegai shimasu)
• It's delicious!: これはおいしいです (Kore wa oishii desu)

Is Tokyo Safe?

Japan is generally considered a safe country with low crime rates. But, troubles happen, so it's always a good idea to stay aware and prepared.

Petty crime can occur, though it's not common. If you find yourself in this situation, head to the nearest Koban. These are police stations in small, two-story buildings scattered throughout the neighborhoods. Just ask a local if you can't spot one.

If you lose something or get it stolen, call the companies that issued your credit cards, airline tickets, or passports ASAP. They can help you out with replacements. Keep a list of these phone numbers handy to make it easier.

If your passport gets stolen, lost, or mangled in a car wreck or some other mishap, you'll need to file a police report. You can get one at the local police station. If you're staying in a hotel, ask the front desk for help.

In some emergencies, you might need to contact your country's embassy. It's a good idea to have the embassy's address and phone number before you even get to Japan. You'll especially need to contact them if you need a new passport. To be safe, make copies of your passport and keep one with you at all times.

The Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department's website contains helpful info on staying safe in Japan, reporting crimes and accidents, and following the rules when traveling or during natural disasters.

Is Tokyo Friendly to Tourists?

Tokyoites are generally known for their politeness and hospitality, making the city a welcoming destination for tourists. However, as with any other big city, you might come across some locals who may not demonstrate a welcoming sentiment.

Please keep in mind that different cultures can lead to misunderstandings. On the flip side, many tourists have had awesome experiences in Tokyo, with locals helping them out and going the extra mile to make their stay more enjoyable. It's always a good idea to be mindful of Japanese customs and traditions, as this can go a long way in fostering friendly interactions.