Tokyo Japan

July 30, 2024

The Ultimate Guide to Traveling in Tokyo, Japan

Introduction

Tokyo, the vibrant capital city of Japan, is a must-visit destination for any traveler. From its bustling streets to its serene gardens, Tokyo offers a unique blend of traditional and modern culture that will leave you enchanted. In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the best places to visit, eat, stay, and experience in Tokyo.

Places to Visit

1. Shibuya Crossing

Address: Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Getting There: Take the JR Yamanote line to Shibuya Station (5 minutes)
Hours: Open 24/7

Witness the famous scramble crossing where thousands of pedestrians cross at the same time.

2. Tokyo Skytree

Address: Sumida-ku, Tokyo
Getting There: Take the JR Sobu line to Asakusa Station (5 minutes) and then take a short walk.
Hours: Open from 8am to 10pm

Experience panoramic views of the city from Tokyo’s tallest tower.

3. Meiji Shrine

Address: Yoyogi-uehama, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Getting There: Take the JR Sobu line to Harajuku Station (5 minutes) and then take a short walk.
Hours: Open from 5am to 7pm

Pay respects at this serene Shinto shrine dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken.

4. Tsukiji Outer Market

Address: 4-16-2 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
Getting There: Take the JR Yamanote line to Shintomicho Station (5 minutes)
Hours: Open from 9am to 6pm

Sample fresh sushi and seafood at this bustling market.

5. Imperial Palace

Address: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Getting There: Take the JR Yamanote line to Otemachi Station (10 minutes) and then take a short walk.
Hours: Open from 9am to 4pm

Explore the majestic palace that served as the main residence of the Emperor of Japan.

Activities

1. Sumo Tournament

Address: Ryogoku, Tokyo
Getting There: Take the JR Sobu line to Ryogoku Station (5 minutes)
Hours: Vary depending on the tournament schedule

Experience the thrill of sumo wrestling at one of Japan’s most famous tournaments.

2. Neon District Walking Tour

Address: Shinjuku, Tokyo
Getting There: Take the JR Yamanote line to Shinjuku Station (5 minutes)
Hours: Open 24/7

Stroll through the vibrant streets of Shinjuku’s neon district and take in the sights and sounds.

3. Tea Ceremony

Address: Various locations throughout Tokyo
Getting There: Vary depending on the location
Hours: Schedule varies depending on the tea house

Participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony and learn about its history and cultural significance.

Where to Eat

1. Sushi Dai

Address: Tsukiji Outer Market, Tokyo
Getting There: Take the JR Yamanote line to Shintomicho Station (5 minutes)
Hours: Open from 9am to 6pm

Enjoy fresh sushi at one of Tokyo’s most famous restaurants.

2. Tonkatsu Maisen Aoyama Honten

Address: Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Getting There: Take the JR Yamanote line to Shibuya Station (5 minutes)
Hours: Open from 11am to 10pm

Sample tonkatsu, a breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet, at this renowned restaurant.

3. Ichiran Ramen

Address: Various locations throughout Tokyo
Getting There: Vary depending on the location
Hours: Open from 11am to 10pm

Indulge in a rich and savory bowl of tonkotsu ramen at this popular chain restaurant.

Where to Stay

1. The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo

Address: Toranomon, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Getting There: Take the JR Yamanote line to Shimbashi Station (5 minutes)
Prices: From ¥50,000 per night

Experience luxury and elegance at this 5-star hotel.

2. Park Hyatt Tokyo

Address: Shinjuku, Tokyo
Getting There: Take the JR Yamanote line to Shinjuku Station (10 minutes)
Prices: From ¥40,000 per night

Relax in comfort and style at this upscale hotel.

3. Hotel Gajoen Tokyo

Address: Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Getting There: Take the JR Yamanote line to Shibuya Station (5 minutes)
Prices: From ¥20,000 per night

Discover a unique blend of art and luxury at this boutique hotel.

Things to Know

1. Language

Japanese is the official language of Japan.
Many Tokyo residents speak some English, especially in tourist areas.

2. Currency

The Japanese yen (¥) is the official currency of Japan.
Credit cards and ATMs are widely available.

3. Culture

Respect for tradition and customs is essential in Japanese culture.
Remove your shoes before entering a traditional Japanese home or temple.

Transportation

1. Subway

The Tokyo subway system is extensive and efficient.
Purchase an IC card, such as Suica or Pasmo, to make traveling easier.

2. Train

Japan’s train network is one of the most reliable in the world.
Take the JR Yamanote line for a convenient way to travel throughout Tokyo.

3. Bus

Buses are an affordable option for shorter journeys.
Purchase a prepaid IC card or cash fare ticket to ride.

Tips and Tricks

1. Learn Some Japanese

Learn basic phrases like "" (konnichiwa), "" (arigatou), and "" (sumimasen).

2. Try Local Cuisine

Be adventurous and try new foods, especially sushi and ramen.

3. Respect Local Customs

Remove your shoes before entering a traditional Japanese home or temple.
Use chopsticks correctly to avoid offending locals.

Other Things of Interest

1. Visit a Robot Restaurant

Address: Shinjuku, Tokyo
Getting There: Take the JR Yamanote line to Shinjuku Station (10 minutes)
Hours: Open from 7pm to 11pm

Experience the bizarre and entertaining world of robot restaurants.

2. Explore a Cat Cafe

Address: Various locations throughout Tokyo
Getting There: Vary depending on the location
Hours: Open from 10am to 10pm

Spend time with adorable cats in a relaxed atmosphere.

3. Visit a Museum

Address: Various locations throughout Tokyo
Getting There: Vary depending on the location
Hours: Schedule varies depending on the museum

Discover Japan’s rich history and culture at one of many world-class museums.

Tokyo, a city that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity, is a destination like no other. With this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate its streets, try its cuisine, and experience all it has to offer.