Tokyo is a planet apart where impossible contrasts coexist. Silent zen temples steps from crossings with thousands of people, robot restaurants next to millennial tea ceremonies, neon skyscrapers and perfect gardens. The city with the most Michelin-starred restaurants in the world.
📅 Best time to visit
Spring (March-May) for cherry blossoms. Autumn (October-November) for foliage.
🏛️ Why visit Tokyo
🍽️ Local cuisine
Sushi at Tsukiji/Toyosu market, ramen in tiny shops with vending machines, gyoza, tonkatsu, okonomiyaki, wagyu and Harajuku street food. Don't miss a kaiseki dinner (traditional multi-course Japanese cuisine).
🗺️ Neighborhoods to explore
Shibuya for the crossing and shopping. Shinjuku for skyscrapers and nightlife. Asakusa for Senso-ji and traditional Tokyo. Akihabara for manga and tech. Harajuku for alternative fashion. Roppongi for museums.
✈️ How to get there
Narita (NRT) and Haneda (HND). Haneda is closer. Narita Express takes 60 minutes.
💡 Practical tips
- The Japan Rail Pass is essential if visiting other cities (Kyoto, Osaka).
- The Suica/Pasmo card works for trains, metro, buses and even konbini payments.
- Konbini (7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart) offer excellent meals 24/7 at rock-bottom prices.