Tokyo
Tokyo Travel Guide
Tokyo is the capital city of Japan and one of the most populous metropolis. It is located at the head of Tokyo Bay on the Pacific coast of central Honshu. Tokyo was known as Edo. The city’s history can be appreciated in districts such as Asakusa and many excellent museums, historical temples, and gardens. Tokyo offers an unlimited choice of shopping, entertainment, culture, and dining. The climate is mild in winter and hot and humid in the summer.
Things To Know Before Go To Visit Tokyo
- Japan is primarily a cash-based society
- Tipping is not customary in Tokyo
- Tokyo experiences distinct seasons, each offering unique experiences
- Respect for public spaces and adherence to local customs are crucial
- Getting an IC transport card like Pasmo or Suica is essential for seamless travel on trains, and buses, and even for payments at stores and restaurants.
Where To Stay In Tokyo?
Here’s a quick table of which areas in Tokyo are great for tourists:
| District | Best For | Best Attractions | Average Trip Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shinjuku | Shopping Nightlife | Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden Kabukicho Omoide Yokocho | $100-$200 daily |
| Shibuya | Trendy Shopping | Shibuya Crossing Meiji Shrine Takeshita Street | $150-$250 daily |
| Ginza | Luxury Shopping | Ginza Six Kabuki-za Theater Tsukiji Market | $200-$300 daily |
| Asakusa | Culture History | Senso-ji Temple Nakamise Shopping Street Tokyo Skytree | $100-$200 daily |
| Akihabara | Tech Anime Gaming | Akihabara Electric Town Maid Cafes Yodobashi Akiba | $100-$150 daily |
Best Hotels in Tokyo
| Hotel | District | Affordability | Why To Stay There |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aman Tokyo | Otemachi | Luxury | Stunning city views Impeccable service Luxurious amenities |
| Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel | Shibuya | Midrange | Convenient location near Shibuya Crossing Modern design Great for families |
| Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo | Nihonbashi | Luxury | Excellent dining options Relaxing spa Beautiful city views |
| Imperial Hotel Tokyo | Uchisaiwaicho | Midrange | Historic charm Great location near attractions Renowned restaurants |
| Hilton Tokyo | Nishishinjuku | Midrange | Spacious rooms Indoor pool Close to Shinjuku Station |
| Hotel Livemax Tokyo-Kiba | Koto City | Budget | Affordable rates Convenient location near Tokyo Kiba Station Reasonable prices |
| The Tokyo Station Hotel | Marunouchi | Luxury | Iconic location in Tokyo Station Elegant decor Excellent service |
| Shangri-La Tokyo | Marunouchi | Luxury | Panoramic city views Luxurious amenities Convenient location |
| Hotel Gracery Shinjuku | Shinjuku | Midrange | Godzilla-themed decor Near Shinjuku Station Lively atmosphere |
| Hotel JAL City Haneda Airport | Haneda Airport | Budget | Convenient location at Haneda Airport Modern design Great for early flights |
Find all cheap hotels in Tokyo here!
Best Places to Visit In Tokyo
Be sure to not miss any of these top Tokyo attractions during your stay:
- Tokyo Tower: A famous landmark in Tokyo that offers panoramic views of the city.
- Sensoji Temple: A historical Buddhist temple located in Asakusa, Tokyo, is known for its iconic Kaminarimon Gate and Nakamise shopping street.
- Meiji Jingu Shrine: A calm Shinto shrine located in a forested area, providing a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
- Shibuya Crossing: A busy intersection in Shibuya, Tokyo, known for its iconic pedestrian scramble and neon lights.
- Imperial Palace: The primary residence of the Emperor of Japan, located in the heart of Tokyo. While the palace itself is not open to the public, visitors can explore the surrounding gardens and parks.
- Tsukiji Fish Market: A bustling market known for its fresh seafood and sushi restaurants.
- Tokyo Skytree: A broadcasting tower and observation deck that offers panoramic views of Tokyo from its 634-meter height.
- Ginza: A high-end shopping and dining district with a sophisticated atmosphere and luxury boutiques.
- Odaiba: An area with diverse attractions, including parkland, shopping malls, and entertainment centers, located in Tokyo Bay.
Is Tokyo Safe to Visit?
Tokyo is considered one of the safest cities in the world. The city is well-prepared for natural disasters and has a low crime and a reputation for being safe for solo travelers and foreign residents.
Is Tokyo Expensive To Visit?
Depending on your preferences, Tokyo can be both affordable and expensive to visit. The cost of a trip to Tokyo can vary widely based on factors such as accommodation, dining, and activities. While Tokyo can offer reasonably priced hotels, cheap food, and inexpensive attractions, it ultimately depends on how one chooses to spend money.
Tokyo's Currency
The official currency in Tokyo and throughout Japan is the Japanese YEN (¥, JPY). The Yen is the third-most traded currency in the foreign exchange market, after the USD and Euro.
Tokyo Language
The primary language spoken in Tokyo is Japanese, and it is the only language spoken by the vast majority of the population.
Tokyo Time Zone
The time zone in Tokyo is Japan Standard Time (JST), which is 9 hours of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+9).
How Many Days to Explore Tokyo?
The ideal number of days to spend in Tokyo can vary based on individual preferences. While it is suggested that 3 to 4 days are sufficient to explore the main highlights of the city, others recommend traveling around 5 to 10 days to experience Tokyo more deeply, including visiting nearby areas.
Best Time To Visit Tokyo
The best time to visit Tokyo is between March and April and between September and November.
Here are some seasonal highlights and recommendations:
- Spring (March to May): spring is a popular time to visit Tokyo, with comfortable temperatures and the famous Cherry Blossoms.
- Summer (June to August): Summer is the peak time for Tokyo, with long lines at museums and crowded streets.
- Autumn (September to November): the season is a great time to visit the city, with colorful foliage and comfortable temperature.
- Winter (December to February): winter is a quieter time in Tokyo, with fewer tourists and lower accommodation prices.
What To Pack For Your Visit To Tokyo?
Tokyo is generally humid with lots of rain, unless you are not visiting Japan in winter, go for some breathable and thin layers.
- Comfortable, breathable clothing made of cotton or linen
- Layers for cooler weather
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Hand sanitizer
- An umbrella
- A rain jacket.
Exploring the Culinary Wonders of Japan's Capital
- Sushi: A popular worldwide Japanese dish, sushi is made with vinegared rice, and various types of seafood, such as raw fish, crab, and eel.
- Ramen: Originally Chinese food adapted to Japanese taste, ramen is a staple dish in Japanese cuisine, with various types available throughout the country.
- Tempura: A dish consisting of battered and deep-fried seafood or vegetables, served with a dipping sauce.
- Soba: A type of Japanese noodle made from buckwheat flour, served hot or cold with a dipping sauce.
- Udon: Another type of Japanese noodle, made from wheat flour, served hot or cold with a dipping sauce or in a soup.
- Okonomiyaki: A savory pancake made with a variety of ingredients, such as cabbage, meat, and seafood, topped with a sweet and savory sauce.
- Sashimi: A dish consisting of thinly sliced raw fish, often served with soy sauce and wasabi.
- Sukiyaki: A hot pot dish made with thinly sliced beef, tofu, vegetables, and noodles, cooked in a sweet and savory broth.
Tokyo After Dark: Unveiling the Electrifying Nightlife Scene
This city has a vibrant and diverse nightlife scene, with many options. Some of the most famous Tokyo nightlife areas include Shibuya, Shinjuku, Chiyoda, Golden Gai, Kabukicho, and Koto.
Visitors can find bars, clubs, and restaurants in a variety of types. Tokyo's nightlife scene is not just about pubs and clubs but also includes fine dining, alfresco events, and seasonal festivals.