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About this guide
With a vibrant mix of tradition and innovation, the capital city of Tokyo, Japan highlights the rich tapestry of Japanese culture. From busy neighborhoods adorned with neon lights to serene temples alongside skyscrapers, Tokyo offers an eclectic and unique experience. There’s an incredible fashion scene in Harajuku, where travelers see unique styles, colorful street art, and trendy boutiques. The capital city’s culinary history highlights diverse ingredients that make globally renowned delicious Japanese dishes like Tonkotsu ramen and Tekka Maki sushi. Visitors can groove to live jazz in Shimokitazawa and be mesmerized by the world of Japanese pop culture and anime. Captivate the senses, explore dynamic traditions, and embrace the spirit of adventure among the iconic cherry blossoms of Tokyo.
When traveling to Tokyo, book a direct flight from major international hubs like Los Angeles, New York, or London. Well-connected to the city center, Narita and Haneda airports have airlines with reputable service and comfortable amenities for long-haul flights. Consider the timing of traveling during off peak seasons to snag better deals and avoid crowds.
Exploring Tokyo by renting a car offers flexibility and convenience. Be mindful of the narrow streets and tight parking spaces. It’s best to learn the local traffic rules and driving etiquette, including using GPS navigation systems and smartphone apps. Additionally, parking can be scarce and expensive so consider park-and-ride facilities for a simpler way to get around.
Tokyo's extensive public transit network is the most efficient way to explore the city. Punctual trains and services ensure quick connections between popular areas like Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Asakusa. There’s easy access to trains, subways, and buses by purchasing the Suica or Pasmo IC card.
Tokyo gifts travelers with a unique perspective on the city's dynamic neighborhoods, quaint alleyways, and charming cafes and shops. Travelers enjoy memorable districts and spontaneous detours strolling through iconic districts like Harajuku, Ginza, and Akihabara.
Quick facts
Japan Standard Time (JST)
Japanese yen or JPY (¥)
Japanese
Good For
Japanese Culture Enthusiasts
Tech and Anime Pop Culture Fans
Foodies & Fashionistas
History & Art Lovers
Keep in mind
Gourmet
Gourmet: Places To Eat In Tokyo, Japan
Sarabeth's Restaurant serves beloved American classics in Tokyo with hearty all-day breakfast and lunch menus. Dishes that satisfy diners worldwide include fluffy omelets, thick patty hamburgers, French toast, eggs Benedict, and more.
For deliciously filled onigiri, the chefs at Onigiri Manma skillfully assemble giant rice balls with miso soup and tsukemono. The menu includes grilled salmon with sujiko salmon roe, seasoned ground meat with cured egg yolk, and much more.
The concept restaurant Pizza Marumo, inspired by the "maru", or ring shape, represents a harmonious community space. Artisan hands craft every pizza in the custom-made firewood oven from a long-established kamado shop.
Guests can savor the finest yakitori, grilled seasonal vegetables, and artisanal cheeses at Yakitoriimai. The local wines and seasonal ingredients complement the multi-course fine dining menus at Yamanashi.
Since 2010, Chef Shinobu Namae has crafted a sophisticated farm-to-table menu at the secluded fine-dining restaurant L’Effervescence. Guests savor exquisite dishes like Sasanishiki risotto with Hamaguri clam and Tokachi Royal Mangalica pork wood-fired over local mizunara oak.
Pelican Cafe serves charcoal toast, ham-fried egg toast, and fruit toast with fromage Blanc with hot and cold beverages. It’s all served in a cozy atmosphere just a five-minute stroll from popular neighborhoods in Tokyo.
Play
Play: Things To Do In Tokyo, Japan
Guided by a local expert, this Tokyo nighttime foodie tour in Shinjuku is an adventure through the bustling streets of Kabuki-Cho for authentic Japanese cuisine. The menu includes secret sushi recipes, grilled Wagyu beef, and delectable desserts at a cozy bar.
This food walking tour at the iconic Tokyo Tsukiji Fish Market immerses travelers in the heart of Tokyo's culinary scene. From fresh sushi to sake to traditional Japanese treats, an expert guide shares the history of the local heritage on this intimate tour.
As the Official Street Go-Kart in Shibuya, visitors get to zoom through iconic streets in character costumes. With expert guides for safety, this adventure through Tokyo has great photo ops in the vibrant culture of Harajuku and Omotesando.
For a truly Japanese Samurai experience, this intimate class shares the heart of samurai culture in Tokyo. From authentic samurai attire to a traditional tea ceremony, guests learn the art of real katana handling and experience Zen meditation.
For car enthusiasts, this culture car tour showcases Tokyo's underground culture with a legendary Japanese athlete as your guide. With views of Rainbow Bridge to Roulettezoku, visitors witness Japan's largest car gathering at Daikoku PA with iconic luxury vehicles.
This amazing Akihabara anime tour takes guests into the vibrant world of anime and otaku culture in Tokyo. From exploring hidden historical electronic shops to the iconic Akihabara Radio Kaikan and Mandarake, there are so many games and gachapon capsule toys to splurge on.
Enjoy a night paddling tour at the Tokyo Waterway while floating with an expert local guide through iconic landmarks. Glide through serene residential areas, see the mesmerizing skyline, and take in the illuminated Skytree at sunset.
For those who want to experience the only real Japanese archery Kyudo, this exclusive program in Tokyo is open to travelers. KYUDO, the Japanese art of archery, includes meditative sessions, target practice, traditional attire, and the guidance of a DAN master.