28 Feb Tokyo – City of Neon Lights
Welcome to Tokyo
Tokyo is a popular travel destination with its fascinating blend of traditional and modern culture, delicious food, and numerous attractions; there’s something for everyone. One of the top reasons to visit Tokyo is its rich cultural heritage. The city has several temples, shrines, and historical landmarks that glimpse Japan’s fascinating past.
Religion is essential to Japanese culture, and Tokyo is no exception. The most commonly practised religion in Tokyo is Shintoism, an indigenous religion unique to Japan. Shintoism focuses on the worship of nature, spirits, and ancestors, and you can experience this by visiting Shinto shrines such as the Meiji Shrine or the Asakusa Shrine. Buddhism is also widely practised in Tokyo and intertwines with Shintoism.
Beyond religion, Tokyo deeply respects etiquette and customs, such as removing shoes when entering homes, bowing as a sign of respect, and observing proper table manners.
Apart from its culture and religion, you will find numerous shopping districts and markets selling everything from high-end designer clothing to unique, one-of-a-kind souvenirs, with the most popular shopping areas including Ginza, Shibuya, and Harajuku. Technology and innovation are at the forefront, from high-speed trains and robots to cutting-edge electronics and gadgets; it is the perfect place for tech enthusiasts. As for entertainment, Tokyo is known for its vibrant and happening nightlife, with various bars and clubs to suit all tastes. You can enjoy live music performances, watch a traditional Japanese tea ceremony and flower arrangement (Ikebana) or experience the thrill of a sumo wrestling match.
How To Get There
By Air: Tokyo has two major airports, Narita International Airport and Haneda Airport. Narita is the main international gateway to Tokyo, while Haneda mainly handles domestic flights and some international flights. Many airlines offer direct flights to Tokyo from major cities around the world.
By Train: With an extensive network of trains and subways it is easy to connect from the city to other parts of Japan. The Shinkansen (bullet train) is the fastest and most convenient way to travel to Tokyo from either Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima.
By Bus: Long-distance buses are a more affordable option for traveling to Tokyo from other parts of Japan. There are also overnight buses that can save you the cost of a night’s accommodation.
By Car: If you prefer to drive, renting a car is a good option for freedom and flexibility. However, Tokyo does have a complex and busy road system, and parking can be expensive.
Once you arrive in Tokyo, you can quickly get around the city using the efficient public transportation system, which includes trains, subways, buses, and taxis.
Places Of Interest
This famous intersection in Shibuya is known for its massive crowds and bright neon lights. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting Tokyo.
Tokyo Tower is a popular tourist attraction that offers visitors stunning panoramic city views from its observation decks at 150 meters and 250 meters above ground level. The tower also has a variety of restaurants, cafes, souvenir shops, a wax museum, an aquarium, and a special illumination show after dark. Book tickets here.
Senso-ji Temple is Tokyo’s oldest and most famous Buddhist temple in the historic Asakusa district. The temple is well-known for its large red lantern, known as the “Kaminarimon” or “Thunder Gate,” leading to its main hall and shopping street. Visitors can explore the temple grounds, which include the main entrance, a five-story pagoda, and a beautiful garden. Book tickets here.
This Shinto shrine, located in the heart of Tokyo, is dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. It’s a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city and a great place to learn about Japanese culture and traditions. Book tickets here.
Shinto Shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, is a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city and a great place to learn about Japanese culture and traditions.
Shinto Shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, is a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city and a great place to learn about Japanese culture and traditions. Book tickets here.
This artificial island in Tokyo Bay offers incredible views of the city skyline and is home to several shopping malls, museums, and amusement parks.
Japan’s oldest and largest museum, the Tokyo National Museum, houses a vast collection of art and artefacts from Japan and other Asian countries. Book tickets here.
Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea
Japan’s versions of the famous theme parks are popular with locals and tourists alike. Book tickets here.
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
A peaceful oasis in the city’s heart, Shinjuku Gyoen is a must-visit for its beautiful gardens and cherry blossom trees.
Here you will find the most famous and popular cherry blossom viewing spot, where the wildest hanami (flower viewing parties) are also held.
Where To Stay
Luxury Hotels
A five-star hotel in the heart of Tokyo’s business district, offering panoramic views of the city, elegant rooms and suites, fine dining options and a rooftop bar.
Mid-Range Hotels
A stylish hotel in the heart of Tokyo, just a few minutes walk from Tokyo Station. The hotel offers modern, comfortable guest rooms and Japanese cuisine.
Budget Hotels
A sleek and modern hotel located in the central Hibiya district of Tokyo. A contemporary hotel featuring compact guest rooms with modern amenities and Japanese cuisine.
This beautiful lavish hotel is on the man-made island of Odaiba in Tokyo Bay. The hotel features 453 guest rooms and suites, each offering stunning views of Tokyo Bay or the city skyline. Enjoy various dining options, including a French or Japanese restaurant.
A modern hotel in Tokyo’s bustling Shinjuku district, featuring spacious, stylish guest rooms with stunning city views and various dining options. It’s an excellent choice for travellers seeking a central location and modern amenities.
This budget-friendly hotel in the Ueno district of Tokyo, just a short walk from Ueno Station, offers compact yet comfortable guest rooms with modern amenities, a communal bath, and a Japanese restaurant.
Where To Eat
Tokyo is a food lover’s paradise, offering various culinary delights, from traditional Japanese cuisine to international flavours and street food stalls. From fresh sushi and sashimi to hearty ramen noodles and crispy tempura, there’s no shortage of mouthwatering dishes to try in Tokyo.
Tsukiji Fish Market: This famous fish market in Tokyo offers a wide variety of fresh seafood, including sushi, sashimi, and grilled fish.
Tokyo Station Ramen Street – Rokurinsha Ramen: Tokyo Station Ramen Street is a popular food destination featuring several ramen shops. Rokurinsha Ramen is one of the most famous shops, known for its rich and flavorful tsukemen (dipping noodles) dish.
Tempura Shinjuku Tsunahachi Ginza: Tempura Shinjuku Tsunahachi Ginza is a popular tempura restaurant in the Ginza district of Tokyo. The restaurant serves crispy and delicious tempura made from fresh and seasonal ingredients.
Uoriki Kaisen Sushi: Uoriki Kaisen Sushi is a popular sushi restaurant in Tokyo’s Tsukiji Fish Market. The restaurant serves fresh and delicious sushi made with high-quality seafood sourced directly from the market.
Final Thoughts
Tokyo is a city that caters to everyone’s interests offering a rich traditional culture and modern and advanced technology, with a unique blend of old and new. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s many museums and temples, indulging in its world-renowned cuisine, or simply experiencing the energy and excitement of its vibrant neighbourhoods, Tokyo will surely leave a lasting impression. With its efficient transportation system, friendly locals, and endless attractions, Tokyo is a must-visit destination for any traveller.
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