Tokyo
Tokyo is Japan's sprawling capital, a fascinating blend of ultramodern and traditional. From neon-lit skyscrapers to serene temples, it offers endless discoveries in food, culture, and technology.
History
Originally a small fishing village called Edo, it became the seat of the Tokugawa shogunate in 1603. The city was renamed Tokyo (Eastern Capital) in 1868 when the Emperor moved from Kyoto. It was rebuilt after the 1923 Great Kanto Earthquake and WWII firebombing, emerging as a global economic powerhouse.
Famous for
How to reach
By air: Narita International Airport (NRT) and Haneda Airport (HND). By rail: connected to all major cities via Shinkansen (bullet train).
Nearby attractions
Emergency contacts
About
Tokyo is divided into distinct neighborhoods, each with its own character. Shibuya is the vibrant heart with the iconic scramble crossing and youth culture. Shinjuku offers entertainment, skyscrapers, and the atmospheric Golden Gai bar district. Asakusa preserves old Tokyo with Senso-ji Temple and traditional shops.
The city has more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other city in the world. From conveyor belt sushi to multi-course kaiseki, the food scene is extraordinary. Tsukiji Outer Market and the new Toyosu Market offer incredible seafood experiences.
Tokyo's public transport is world-class, with an extensive subway and JR train network. The city is incredibly safe, clean, and punctual. Cherry blossom season (late March to early April) transforms parks into pink wonderlands.