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Overview
Tokyo is the capital of Japan.Tokyo forms part of the Kantō region on the southeastern side of Japan's main island, Honshu, and includes the Izu and Ogasawara Islands.
Originally a small fishing village named Edo, the city became a prominent political center of Japan when Shōgun Tokugawa Ieyasu made the city his headquarters in 1603. When Emperor Meiji moved the imperial seat to the city from Kyoto in 1868, Edo was renamed Tokyo, literally "the Eastern Capital".The Tokyo Metropolis formed in 1943 from the merger of the former Tokyo Prefecture (Tōkyō-fu) and the city of Tokyo (Tōkyō-shi). While commonly referred to as a city, Tokyo is a collective entity of multiple smaller municipalities, including 23 special wards and various bed towns in the western area.
Modern Tokyo is categorized as an alpha+ city by the Globalization and World Cities Research Network. As of 2019, the population of Tokyo was estimated to be over 13.9 million, making it Japan's most populous prefecture.The metropolitan area is the world's most populous with over 38 million people as well as the world's largest urban agglomeration economy. As of 2011, Tokyo hosted 51 of the Fortune Global 500 companies, the highest number of any city in the world at that time.The city ranked sixth on the Global Financial Centres Index of 2019.Along with an advanced economy, Tokyo often ranks high among the most expensive cities for expatriates.
Tokyo is a major cultural hub and an international trendsetter in the arts, entertainment, gastronomy, and media. The Michelin Guide has awarded Tokyo by far the most Michelin stars of any city in the world. The city has hosted multiple international events, including the Summer Olympics (1964), the G7 Summit (1979, 1986, and 1993), and will host the 2021 Summer Olympics and the 2021 Summer Paralympics. Tokyo is a leading center for research and development, represented by various universities, most notably the University of Tokyo.
Featured Accommodations
Adventures & Attractions
Our recommended resort highlights.
Tokyo Tower
Tokyo Tower is a striking landmark with panoramic city views. Its observation deck offer stunning views, while its design nods to Paris' Eiffel Tower.
Tokyo Sky Tree
Tokyo Skytree, Japan's tallest structure offers breathtaking city views from its observation decks. It's a modern marvel and key landmark in Tokyo.
Akihabara
Akihabara, Tokyo's electronics and anime hub, is famed for its gadget shops, otaku culture and themed cafes.
Edo-Tokyo Museum
The Edo-Tokyo Museum showcases Tokyo's history with interactive exhibits and detailed models, offering insights into the city's transformation.
Tokyo Disneyland/DisneySea
Tokyo Disneyland has seven themed lands with seasonal events while Tokyo DisneySea unique to Japan caters to all ages with a more mature appeal.
Ginza
Ginza is Tokyo's upscale shopping district, renowned for its luxury boutiques, fine dining and sleek modern architecture, making it a top destination.
Shinjuku
Shinjuku, Tokyo's bustling district is known for its skyscrapers, vibrant nightlife, shopping and the expansive Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden.
Senso-ji
Sensō-ji in Asakusa is Tokyo's oldest temple, famed for its iconic Kaminarimon gate, bustling Nakamise shopping street and rich cultural heritage.
Harajuku
Harajuku, Tokyo's trendy district is famous for its vibrant street fashion, quirky shops and the popular Takeshita Street, offering unique styles.
Tsukiji Outer Market
Tsukiji Fish Market in Tokyo is renowned for its fresh seafood and lively atmosphere. Though the wholesale market has moved, it remains a must-visit.
Tokyo Imperial Palace
Tokyo's Imperial Palace, the Emperor's residence is set in beautiful gardens and historic structures. It's a symbol of Japan's monarchy.
Roppongi
Roppongi, Tokyo's vibrant nightlife district is known for its upscale bars, international dining and art museums and Roppongi Hills.
Meiji Jingu
Meiji Jingu, nestled in Tokyo's lush Yoyogi Park is a serene Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken offering peaceful walks.
Tea Ceremony Experience
Discover the art of Japanese tea ceremonies in Kyoto and Tokyo where tradition meets tranquility in a beautiful cultural experience.
Geisha Performances
Immerse yourself in the elegance of Geisha performances in Kyoto and Tokyo where artistry and tradition come alive in stunning displays.
Private Sushi Making Lessons
Master the art of sushi with private lessons in Tokyo, where you'll learn from skilled chefs and create your own delicious masterpieces!
Sumo Practice Tours
Experience the power of sumo with private guided morning practice tours, witness athletes in training and the rich tradition of this sport!
- How to Reach Tokyo
- Resorts & City Guide
By Air
Tokyo has two major Airports, Narita to the north of the city and Handea on the south side of Tokyo bay.
Both Airport are easily accesable by bus and train and are both about 1hr from the city centre.
By Train
Tokyo is the a center point of the comprehensive Japan Rail System, Tokyo and Shinjuku being amongst the largest stations globally.
From Tokyo it is easy to reach any major city of Japan direct via bullet train.
By Car
Despite the size of tokyo it is quite easy to navigate the relatively unconjested road network, although parking can be a real issue.
There is a substaintial toll road nework throughout Japan that makes it quick and effective to travel via car, all be it a little expensive.
By Bus
The bus netwok much like the train network is very comprehensive. The Major bus terminal in the heart of tokyo is called Shinjuku East Bus Terminal, from here you can bus to pretty much anywhere in Japan.
By Private Transfer
Chou Taxi is the largest taxi company in Japan offering a range of services from regular taxi to private direct airport pick ups and drop offs.
Below are some PDF tourist maps to help you navigate and enjoy your time in Tokyo city.
