Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is the world’s largest metropolis with a population of over 37 million people. This cosmopolitan city is a centre of economic, cultural and technological activity, offering a unique experience to visitors from all over the world. From delicious food to historic sites, trendy neighbourhoods, gardens and parks, Tokyo has it all. Here is a guide to explore this exciting city.
Eat in Tokyo
Eating in Tokyo is an unforgettable culinary experience, offering a variety of choices ranging from traditional Japanese cuisine to international flavors. The city is full of world-class restaurants, sushi bars, street markets and small family restaurants that offer a unique experience of local cuisine.
Sushi and Sashimi
Sushi and sashimi are the most famous Japanese dishes. They are prepared from fresh fish and quality rice, with special attention to presentation. There are many sushi bars in Tokyo, offering high-end sushi served by experienced chefs. Sashimi, slices of raw fish, are also popular in sushi restaurants and seafood restaurants.
Soba and udon noodles
Soba and udon noodles are traditional Japanese noodle dishes. Sobas are made from buckwheat flour and are served in hot or cold broth with side dishes such as fish, vegetables and eggs. Udons are thicker and are often served in hot broth. You can find these dishes in neighborhood restaurants and restaurant chains across the city.
Tonkatsu
Tonkatsu is a fried breaded pork dish served with rice, cabbage salad and a special sauce. It is usually served in restaurants specialized in tonkatsu, called “tonkatsu-ya”. This dish is a Japanese specialty that has become popular around the world.
Ramen
Ramen is noodles in a warm, rich broth, served with a variety of side dishes such as meat, eggs, vegetables and spices. Ramen is available in specialized restaurants called “ramen-ya”, as well as in street stalls and chain restaurants.
Izakayas
Izakayas are traditional Japanese pubs that serve a variety of tapas-style dishes. They are popular for their relaxed atmosphere and delicious cuisine. Izakayas offer a variety of dishes such as meat skewers, tempuras, gyoza and fish dishes.
Discover the historical sites
Tokyo is a city rich in history and culture, with a variety of historical sites to discover. If you are interested in Japan’s history and culture, Tokyo is a great place to explore. Here are some of the most popular historical sites in Tokyo.
Imperial Palace
The Imperial Palace, located in the Chiyoda district, is the official residence of the Emperor of Japan. The palace was built on the site of the former Edo Castle, which was the seat of power during the Tokugawa Shogunate. The palace is surrounded by beautiful gardens and parks, including Kitanomaru Park and Hibiya Park. Guided tours of the palace are available, but it is recommended to book in advance.
Senso-ji Temple
Senso-ji Temple is a Buddhist temple located in the Asakusa district. It is the oldest temple in Tokyo, founded in 628. The temple is famous for its large red door, called Kaminarimon, and its Nakamise market with its many shops selling souvenirs and traditional Japanese food. The temple attracts many visitors every year and is an ideal place to discover Japanese culture.
Meiji-jingu Temple
Meiji-jingu Temple is a Shinto temple located in the Shibuya district. It was built in 1920 in honour of Emperor Meiji and his imperial wife. The temple is surrounded by a large forest park, offering a pleasant break from the bustling city. The temple is a popular place for traditional Japanese weddings.
Yasukuni Shrine
Yasukuni Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the Chiyoda district. It is dedicated to the soldiers who died for Japan from the Boshin War of 1867 until the end of the Second World War. The sanctuary is also controversial because it honours class A war criminals, including the Japanese leaders of World War II. Despite the controversy, the sanctuary still attracts many visitors every year.
Tokyo National Museum
The Tokyo National Museum is a museum of Japanese art and history located in the Ueno district. It houses a vast collection of Japanese art, from pottery and sculptures to paintings and prints. The museum also has an Asian art gallery and a Japanese garden.
Exploring trendy neighbourhoods
Tokyo is a city full of trendy neighbourhoods offering unique experiences for visitors from around the world. Whether you are interested in fashion, food, arts or nightlife, there is a neighborhood in Tokyo that will meet your expectations. Here are some of the trendiest neighbourhoods to explore when visiting Tokyo.
Shibuya
Shibuya is a very lively area and famous for its pedestrian crossing of Shibuya, the busiest in the world. The area is a shopping and entertainment center, with many fashion shops, restaurants, cafes and bars. Shibuya is also known to be the cradle of youth culture in Tokyo, with Japanese fashion brands and pop and rock bands.
Harajuku
Harajuku is a fashion district known for its kawaii style, which means “cute” in Japanese. The area is famous for Takeshita-dori Street, a pedestrian street filled with fashion shops, souvenir shops and cafes. Harajuku also attracts emerging Japanese fashion designers, who offer unique and avant-garde clothing and accessories.
Shinjuku
Shinjuku is a very lively area, with vibrant nightlife and a wide variety of restaurants, bars and clubs. The area is also known for its skyscrapers and shopping malls, including the Isetan Mall and the Tokyo City Hall Skyscraper, which offers stunning views of the city. Shinjuku is also home to the famous Shinjuku Gyoen Park, a beautiful garden with traditional Japanese gardens.
Ginza
Ginza is a chic and glamorous neighborhood, famous for its upscale shops, luxury restaurants and theatres. It is one of the oldest and most elegant areas of Tokyo, where international fashion brands such as Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Gucci are concentrated. Ginza is also known for its high-end sushi restaurants, cocktail bars and themed cafes.
Roppongi
Roppongi is a trendy neighborhood offering a lively nightlife, restaurants, bars and clubs. It is also known for its contemporary art museums, including the Mori Art Museum, the National Art Center Tokyo and the Suntory Museum of Art. Roppongi Hills is an upscale shopping mall with stunning views of the city.
Relaxing in gardens and parks
Relaxing in the gardens and parks is a great way to recharge your batteries and enjoy the beauty of nature. Around the world, gardens and parks are popular places for walks, picnics, outdoor activities and just relaxing. Tokyo, the world’s largest metropolis, is no exception. The city has many beautiful gardens and parks, offering visitors a peaceful refuge from the urban bustle.
Yoyogi Park
Yoyogi Park is a popular urban park located in the Shibuya district. It is known for its vast expanses of grass, tree-lined walkways, fountains and sports facilities. It is one of Tokyo’s largest parks and is often used for outdoor events, festivals and concerts. The park is also home to many street artists and musicians, creating a lively and entertaining atmosphere.
Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
Koishikawa Korakuen Garden is a traditional Japanese garden located in the Bunkyo district. It is considered one of the most beautiful gardens in Tokyo, offering spectacular views of cherry blossoms during the sakura season. The garden includes ponds, bridges, waterfalls, hills and pavilions, creating a peaceful and serene atmosphere.
Shinjuku Gyoen Park
Shinjuku Gyoen Park is a large park located in the Shinjuku district. It is known for its beautiful landscaped gardens, which feature traditional Japanese, English and French styles. The park is also a popular place to watch cherry blossoms, and it is particularly beautiful during the sakura season. The park also offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
Ueno Park
Ueno Park is a public park located in the Taito district. It is known for its vast green spaces, ponds and tree-lined pathways. The park also houses many museums and galleries, including the Tokyo National Museum, the National Museum of Nature and Science and the Ueno Zoo. During cherry blossom season, the park is a popular place for picnics and walks.
