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Tōkyō

Tōkyō, Japan

Tokyo, a vibrant metropolis and the capital of Japan, seamlessly blends ultramodern with traditional. Towering skyscrapers like the iconic Tokyo Skytree share the skyline with ancient temples like Sensō-ji. The city is …

#City#Capital#Urban#Metropolitan#Cultural hub

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Tōkyō.

Top Hotels in Tōkyō

Top Flights to Tōkyō

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Tōkyō.

Tours

Explore Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

A beautiful blend of Japanese traditional and western-style gardens.

Visit Meiji Shrine

A tranquil Shinto shrine nestled in a forested area.

Tokyo Skytree

A state of the art broadcasting tower offering panoramic views of Tōkyō.

Asakusa Temple Visit

Experience traditional Japan at the Sensō-ji Temple in Asakusa.

Ueno Park Exploration

A large public park home to museums, a zoo, and cherry blossoms in spring.

Shopping

Shopping in Harajuku

The heart of Tokyo's teenage culture and fashion scene.

Visit Tsukiji Outer Market

Experience the hustle and bustle of Tokyo's famous fish market.

Outdoor

Cycling Tour Around Tokyo

Explore the city on two wheels with guided cycling tours.

Hiking at Mount Takao

Enjoy a day hike with beautiful nature trails and scenic views of Tokyo.

Tokyo Bay Cruise

Relax on a scenic cruise around Tokyo Bay offering views of the city's skyline.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Tōkyō.

Currency
¥ | JPY | Japanese Yen
Population
37.5 million
Languages
Japanese, Japanese

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Tōkyō.

What people love

There are several pros to traveling to Tokyo, Japan. Here are some detailed points:

  1. Cultural Experience: Tokyo is a vibrant city that seamlessly blends traditional Japanese culture with modernity. You can explore ancient temples and gardens alongside futuristic skyscrapers and technology hubs.

  2. Cuisine: Tokyo is a food lover's paradise with a wide range of culinary delights to explore. From Michelin-starred restaurants to street food stalls, you can taste authentic Japanese cuisine at its finest.

  3. Shopping: Tokyo is a shopping haven with a plethora of options ranging from high-end designer boutiques to quirky fashion outlets and traditional markets like Tsukiji Fish Market and Harajuku.

  4. Efficient Public Transportation: Tokyo's public transportation system is known for being efficient, punctual, and extensive. You can easily navigate the city using the subway, trains, and buses.

  5. Safety: Tokyo is considered one of the safest cities in the world, making it an ideal destination for solo travelers and families alike.

  6. Attractions: Tokyo is home to iconic landmarks such as the Tokyo Tower, Senso-ji Temple, Meiji Shrine, and the Imperial Palace. There are also theme parks like Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea for entertainment.

  7. Events and Festivals: Throughout the year, Tokyo hosts various cultural events and festivals that showcase the rich heritage of Japan. From cherry blossom viewing in spring to traditional matsuri (festivals) in summer, there's always something happening in the city.

Overall, traveling to Tokyo offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity, making it a captivating destination for visitors from around the world.

What to know

Traveling to Tokyo, Japan certainly has many advantages, but there are also some cons to consider. Here are some potential drawbacks:

  1. Cost: Tokyo is known to be an expensive city to visit. Accommodation, food, transportation, and entertainment can all come at a higher price compared to other destinations. Travelers should be prepared for higher expenses during their stay in Tokyo.

  2. Crowds: Tokyo is a bustling metropolis with a dense population. As a result, popular tourist spots, public transportation, and streets can be very crowded, especially during peak hours. This may be overwhelming for some travelers who prefer quieter and more spacious environments.

  3. Language Barrier: While many people in Tokyo, especially in tourist areas, can speak some English, the primary language is Japanese. Travelers who do not speak or understand Japanese may face challenges in communication, which can make navigating the city, ordering food, or seeking help more difficult.

  4. Cultural Differences: Tokyo has a unique culture that may be different from what some travelers are accustomed to. Customs, etiquette, and social norms in Japan may vary, and it's important for visitors to be respectful and mindful of these cultural differences during their stay.

  5. Weather: Tokyo experiences four distinct seasons, with hot and humid summers and cold winters. Depending on when you visit, extreme weather conditions like typhoons or heavy snowfall may affect your travel plans and activities.

  6. Limited Space: Tokyo is a densely populated city with limited space. Accommodations, especially in popular areas, may be smaller compared to what travelers are used to. This can be a challenge for those who prefer more spacious accommodations during their travels.

These are some cons to consider when traveling to Tokyo. Despite these drawbacks, Tokyo remains a vibrant and exciting destination with a rich culture, delicious cuisine, and plenty of attractions to explore.

Tōkyō, the capital city of Japan, has a rich and layered history that dates back several centuries. Originally a small fishing village named Edo, it has grown into one of the most influential cities in the world. Below is a detailed history of Tōkyō, including significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks:

Early History

  • Edo Period (1603-1868):
    • 1603: Tokugawa Ieyasu established the Tokugawa shogunate in Edo, marking the beginning of the Edo Period. Edo became the political center of Japan, although the emperor resided in Kyoto.
    • Growth: During this period, Edo grew rapidly and became one of the largest cities in the world. Its population reached over a million by the 18th century.
    • Culture: The Edo period was a time of peace and cultural development, with flourishing arts like Kabuki theater and Ukiyo-e (woodblock printing).

Meiji Period and Modernization

  • 1868: The Meiji Restoration marked the end of the shogunate and the restoration of imperial rule. The emperor moved from Kyoto to Edo, which was renamed Tōkyō, meaning "Eastern Capital."
  • Industrialization: Tōkyō underwent rapid modernization. Railways were built, and Western technologies and ideas were adopted.
  • Landmarks:
    • Tōkyō Imperial Palace: The residence of the Emperor of Japan, located on the former site of Edo Castle.
    • Tsukiji Market: Established in 1935, it became the largest fish market in the world.

20th Century

  • 1923 Great Kantō Earthquake: A devastating earthquake struck Tōkyō and its surrounding areas, killing over 140,000 people and causing widespread destruction.
  • World War II:
    • Tōkyō was heavily bombed during the war, particularly the air raids of 1945, which caused massive fires and destruction.
    • After the war, Tōkyō underwent significant rebuilding and modernization.
  • 1964 Summer Olympics: Tōkyō hosted the Olympics, showcasing its recovery and modernization to the world.

Late 20th Century and Beyond

  • Economic Boom: The 1980s saw an economic boom, with Tōkyō becoming a global financial center. The Tōkyō Stock Exchange became one of the largest in the world.
  • 1995 Sarin Gas Attack: Aum Shinrikyo, a doomsday cult, carried out a sarin gas attack on the Tōkyō subway, killing 13 and injuring over 1,000 people.

21st Century

  • 2011 Tōhoku Earthquake and Tsunami: Although the epicenter was north of Tōkyō, the city experienced strong tremors. The disaster led to nuclear meltdowns at the Fukushima plant, affecting energy policy.
  • 2020 Summer Olympics (held in 2021): Originally scheduled for 2020, the Olympics were postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic and held in 2021 under strict health protocols.

Significant Historical Figures

  • Tokugawa Ieyasu: Founder of the Tokugawa shogunate, which established Edo as the political center.
  • Emperor Meiji: His reign marked the transformation of Japan from a feudal society to a modern state.

Important Landmarks

  • Shibuya Crossing: One of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world, symbolizing Tōkyō's vibrant urban life.
  • Senso-ji Temple: Tōkyō's oldest temple, located in Asakusa.
  • Tōkyō Tower: A communications and observation tower, iconic of Tōkyō's skyline.
  • Skytree: Opened in 2012, it is the tallest structure in Japan and a major tourist attraction.

Tōkyō continues to be a city of cultural, political, and economic significance, blending tradition with cutting-edge technology and modern living.