Tokyo Travel Tips

Best of Japan

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1 of 1 in Tokyo Prefecture

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Tokyo (東京, Tōkyō), Japan’s dynamic capital and the most populous urban area in the world, is a city where ancient traditions and modern innovations coalesce in fascinating harmony. Originally known as Edo, Tokyo became the political heart of Japan in the early 17th century when Tokugawa Ieyasu established it as the center of power. Following the Meiji Restoration in 1868, the city was renamed Tokyo, meaning “Eastern Capital,” marking the beginning of its transformation into a modern imperial city. Despite being devastated by the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923 and the destructive air raids of World War II, Tokyo quickly rebuilt itself into a sprawling metropolis. Today, the city comprises 23 vibrant wards, each offering a distinct atmosphere, along with peaceful suburbs and beautiful remote islands like the Izu and Ogasawara Islands, where nature thrives away from the urban buzz.

Modern Tokyo is a sensory overload and a dream destination for travelers seeking diverse experiences. For history enthusiasts, the historic Asakusa district offers the city’s oldest temple, Senso-ji, while the Tokyo Imperial Palace provides a tranquil escape with its serene gardens and ancient stone walls. Tokyo’s modern culture is on full display in districts like Harajuku and Akihabara, where vibrant fashion trends, anime, and gaming culture come alive. The city’s skyline dazzles from observation decks at landmarks like the Tokyo Skytree and Tokyo Tower, while upscale shopping and gourmet dining await in neighborhoods like Ginza and Omotesando. Whether paying respects at the Meiji Shrine, experiencing the electric energy of Shibuya Crossing, or savoring a bowl of ramen in Shinjuku, Tokyo offers a thrilling mix of old and new, making it an unforgettable place to explore.

Getting around

Getting around Tokyo is easy thanks to its extensive network of trains, subways, and buses operated by various companies. For exploring central Tokyo, the JR East lines and subways are particularly convenient. The JR Yamanote Line—a loop line connecting major hubs like Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Tokyo Station—is one of the most useful for visitors. Additionally, Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway operate a total of 13 subway lines, covering most of the city's central neighborhoods, including Ginza. Many suburban train lines also depart from stations along the Yamanote Line, making transfers smooth and efficient.

IC cards like Suica and Pasmo are the easiest and most convenient way to pay for transportation. While they don’t offer fare discounts, they are accepted on nearly all trains, subways, and buses in Tokyo—and even in many other cities across Japan. With just a tap, you can also use them at convenience stores, vending machines, and some restaurants. Day passes are available, but they’re only cost-effective if you plan to travel multiple times in a single day. One popular option is the Tokyo Subway Ticket, which offers unlimited rides for 1 to 3 days, depending on the ticket type and the subway lines it covers.