With more than 30 million residents, Tokyo’s metropolitan region is the largest population center in the world. This position is especially impressive given that half of Tokyo was destroyed during World War II air raids. The city that was rebuilt after 1945 presents a fascinating blend of ancient tradition and modern leadership.
Go to the top of a skyscraper for impressive views of this seemingly endless city. From the Rainbow Bridge, Tokyo Tower, Mori Tower and Tokyo Skytree, you’ll see iconic landmarks in Japan’s modern skyline and even beyond to Mount Fuji. Back on street level, experience the atmosphere of the city’s liveliest district, Shinjuku, home to many of Tokyo’s tallest buildings and the city’s busiest rail station.
Although a modern city, Tokyo maintains its links to the past. See art and artifacts from ancient Japan and other Asian countries in the Tokyo National Museum. Its collection includes items up to 12,000 years old. The Tokyo Imperial Palace sits on the site that has been home to shoguns and emperors for centuries.
Learn about traditional Buddhist spirituality dating back to 645 at the Sensoji Temple. The Yasukuni Shrine and Yushukan Museum showcase Shinto efforts to commemorate the services of the more than 2 million citizens who died in service to their country over the last century and a half.
Tokyo is constantly rebuilding and reinventing itself. The Roppongi Hills multi-use complex was created in 2003 in the heart of the city and provides some of the trendiest scenes for nighttime entertainment. It’s especially popular with expats.
Although Tokyo is densely populated, it has plenty of green space throughout its 23 wards. Late March and early April feature the famous Japanese cherry blossoms. One of the most popular places to enjoy the flora with a picnic lunch is Shinjuku Gyoen. Parks in every district are carefully designed with detailed landscape architecture to provide oases for Japan’s citizens and visitors to relax and refresh.
Tokyo
Tokyo Travel Guide Video
Where to stay in Tokyo
Shinjuku
Major commercial hub with the bustling Shinjuku Station, Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, and various attractions like Kabukichō, Golden Gai, and Shinjuku Gyoen. Shop at flagship stores and enjoy diverse dining options.
Shibuya
Major commercial and finance hub, Shibuya boasts bustling railway stations, trendy fashion scenes in Harajuku and Omotesandō, and vibrant nightlife. Don't miss the iconic Shibuya Crossing and Hachikō statue.
Ginza
Upscale shopping and luxurious dining await in this elegant district, featuring flagship fashion stores, art galleries, and the renowned Sukiyabashi Jiro sushi restaurant. Catch a kabuki performance at Kabuki-za theater or stroll through pedestrian heaven on weekends.
Ueno
Travelers choose Ueno for its ample dining options. Hop aboard the metro at Ueno-okachimachi Station or Ueno-hirokoji Station and check out top sights like Ameyoko Shopping District.
Asakusa
Discover Sensō-ji, a renowned Buddhist temple, and savor traditional Japanese cuisine at local eateries. Explore Kappabashi-dori for kitchenware, cruise the Sumida River, and stay in a cozy ryokan near the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line subway.
Minato
Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Bay are top sights in Minato, and you should be sure to explore the popular shops. Hop aboard the metro at Sengakuji Station or Shirokane-takanawa Station to see more sights in the area.
Reviewed on Oct. 28, 2024
Reviewed on Oct. 30, 2024
Reviewed on Oct. 29, 2024
Reviewed on Oct. 23, 2024
Reviewed on Sep. 15, 2024
Reviewed on Oct. 27, 2024
Popular places to visit
Tokyo Disneyland®
Ride roller coasters and watch theatrical shows as you witness the magic of Disney come to life at this family-friendly amusement park and resort.
Tokyo DisneySea®
Discover the secrets of the oceans in this magical theme park, where Disney’s sea-dwelling characters will take you on a journey to the world below the waves.
Tokyo Dome
Catch an event at Tokyo Dome during your trip to Tokyo. Amble within picturesque gardens or visit the notable monuments in this vibrant area.
Tokyo Skytree
Marvel at the views from the top of the tallest self-supporting tower in the world then enjoy the shops, restaurants, aquarium and planetarium at its base.
Tokyo Tower
Appearing as if a Paris landmark has been teleported to Tokyo, this Eiffel-inspired structure offers great daytime or evening 360-degree views of the city.
Shibuya Crossing
Guaranteed to overload the senses, this intersection teeming with people is considered to be a symbol of modern Tokyo.
Things to do
Mt Fuji and Hakone 1-Day Tour Return by Bullet Train
Full-Day Sightseeing Bus Tour in Tokyo with Cruise
Tattoo-friendly open-air Onsen & drink
Edo Wonderland Samurai and Ninja Cultural Theme Park Ticket
Tokyo: Mt. Fuji, Lake Kawaguchi,Lake Yamanaka,Onsen Day Tour
Tokyo Sumo Entertainment Show with Chicken Hot Pot and Photo
Reviews of Tokyo
5/5 - Excellent
Delicious food
4/5 - Good
beautiful, clean and people are respectful/disciplined. we will visit again
5/5 - Excellent
Must visit MT FUJI!!! Don't go during an epidemic, most of the stuff is closed S:
5/5 - Excellent
Fell in love with this city. Will be coming back ASAP.
4/5 - Good
Be ready with your google map to locate places in case you get lost.
5/5 - Excellent
If you visit Tokyo but don't have a lot of time to see any other cities in Japan I highly recommend at least visiting nearby Yokohama, particularly Chinatown so you can experience Chinese culture in Japan too! It's only about 45 minutes by train.