Tokyo, Japan
Asia

Tokyo

Japan

Where Tradition Meets Tomorrow

Best Time

March to May (cherry blossoms)

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Language

Japanese

Timezone

JST (UTC+9)

Overview

Tokyo is a city of extraordinary contrasts—a place where ancient Shinto shrines stand in the shadow of neon-lit skyscrapers, where centuries-old tea ceremonies exist alongside robot restaurants, and where impeccable tradition meets relentless innovation.

As the world's most populous metropolitan area, Tokyo can seem overwhelming at first. But beneath the surface chaos lies an incredibly organized, safe, and welcoming city. Each neighborhood has its own distinct personality, from the youth fashion of Harajuku to the electronics paradise of Akihabara, from the historic temples of Asakusa to the upscale elegance of Ginza.

Tokyo's culinary scene is unmatched, with more Michelin stars than any other city on earth. Yet some of the best meals can be found in tiny ramen shops, conveyor-belt sushi restaurants, or standing-only noodle bars. Every experience in Tokyo, no matter how small, is executed with care and precision.

Top Attractions

Senso-ji Temple

Tokyo's oldest and most significant Buddhist temple, featuring the iconic Thunder Gate, a bustling shopping street, and beautiful pagoda.

Visit early morning (before 7 AM) to experience the temple without crowds and watch monks perform morning rituals.

Shibuya Crossing

The world's busiest pedestrian intersection, where up to 3,000 people cross simultaneously—an iconic symbol of Tokyo's energy.

Watch from the Starbucks above or Shibuya Sky observation deck for the best view.

Meiji Shrine

A peaceful Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji, set within a tranquil forest in the heart of the city.

Time your visit to witness a traditional wedding procession—they occur throughout the day.

teamLab Borderless/Planets

Immersive digital art museums where you walk through flowing, interactive light installations.

Book tickets weeks in advance as they sell out quickly. Wear comfortable, light-colored clothing.

Tsukiji Outer Market

While the inner market moved, the outer market remains a foodie paradise with fresh seafood, Japanese knives, and street food.

Arrive early (8-10 AM) for the freshest sushi breakfast experience.

Food & Drink

Ramen

Rich, flavorful noodle soup in countless regional styles—try tonkotsu (pork bone) in Shinjuku or shoyu (soy sauce) in traditional shops.

Sushi & Sashimi

From Michelin-starred omakase to conveyor-belt chains, Tokyo offers sushi at every price point and quality level.

Izakaya Experience

Japanese gastropubs serving small plates meant for sharing alongside beer, sake, and highballs.

Wagyu Beef

Melt-in-your-mouth Japanese beef, best enjoyed as yakiniku (grilled) or teppanyaki.

Depachika

Department store basement food halls offering incredible prepared foods, sweets, and bento boxes.

Neighborhoods

Shinjuku

The bustling hub with the world's busiest train station, towering skyscrapers, and vibrant Golden Gai bar alley.

Best for: Nightlife, observation decks, entertainment

Shibuya

Youth culture central with fashion boutiques, the famous crossing, and trendy cafés.

Best for: Shopping, people-watching, nightlife

Harajuku

The epicenter of Japanese youth fashion and subcultures, with quirky shops and Takeshita Street.

Best for: Street fashion, unique shops, crepes

Asakusa

Old Tokyo atmosphere with Senso-ji Temple, traditional shops, and riverside views of Tokyo Skytree.

Best for: History, traditional crafts, temples

Practical Tips

  • 1Get a Suica or Pasmo IC card for seamless train, bus, and convenience store payments
  • 2Download Japan's train apps (Google Maps works well) for navigation
  • 3Cash is still king in many places—ATMs in 7-Eleven accept foreign cards
  • 4Tipping is not customary and can even be considered rude
  • 5Remove shoes when entering homes, some restaurants, and traditional accommodations
  • 6Train etiquette: keep phones on silent mode and avoid talking on phones
  • 7Consider a JR Pass only if you're taking multiple shinkansen (bullet train) trips

Budget Guide

Budget

$70-100

(capsule hotels, convenience store meals, free shrines)

Mid-Range

$150-250

(business hotels, mix of restaurants)

Luxury

$400+

+ (ryokan stays, high-end sushi omakase)

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