Visit Tokyo
Japan's sprawling capital, Tokyo fascinates with its striking contrasts between tradition and modernity. Between peaceful shrines, electric neighborhoods and refined cuisine, the city offers a dense, rich and fascinating urban experience at every single turn.
Why visit Tokyo?
Tokyo brings together centuries-old temples, zen gardens and some of the most modern urban architecture in the world within a single city. Japan's capital offers an exceptional food scene, an influential pop culture and one of the most efficient transport networks in the world.
Must-see
The sights that make Tokyo famous.
Shibuya Crossing
One of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world, a symbol of Tokyo's urban energy.
Senso-ji Temple
The city's oldest Buddhist temple, located in the historic Asakusa district.
Meiji Shrine
A Shinto shrine surrounded by a peaceful forest in the heart of the capital.
Akihabara District
A hub for electronics, manga and Japanese geek culture.
Tokyo Skytree
An observation tower offering panoramic views over the entire metropolitan area.
Tsukiji Market
An iconic market dedicated to seafood and Japanese street food.
What to discover in Tokyo?
Tokyo is best explored neighborhood by neighborhood, each with its own identity: Shibuya and its iconic crossing, Shinjuku and its illuminated skyscrapers, or Asakusa and its history-laden Senso-ji temple. The city constantly alternates between urban buzz and pockets of calm, such as the Imperial Palace gardens or Meiji shrine.
On the food side, Tokyo ranks among the richest culinary capitals in the world, from neighborhood izakayas to sushi counters and ramen shops. The city is also a hub of Japanese pop culture, with districts dedicated to manga and electronics like Akihabara, fashion boutiques in Harajuku and a lively nightlife. Museums, markets and green spaces round out a particularly diverse cultural offering.
Practical information
Region
Kanto
Country
Japan
Population
About 14 million inhabitants
Language
Japanese
Currency
Japanese yen (JPY)
Time zone
UTC+9
Climate
Temperate with four distinct seasons
Best season
March to May and October to November
Tokyo in pictures
Frequently asked questions
How many days do you need to visit Tokyo?
Plan at least 4 to 5 days to discover the main neighborhoods, with more time recommended if you want to explore the city in depth or plan nearby excursions.
What is the best time to visit Tokyo?
Spring, for cherry blossom season, and autumn, for the colors of the maple trees, are the most popular times to visit, with mild and pleasant weather for getting around.
How do you get around Tokyo?
The urban subway and train network is extremely dense and punctual, making it easy to reach almost every neighborhood in the city without a car.
Is Tokyo an expensive city?
The cost of living varies greatly depending on the neighborhood and type of accommodation chosen, ranging from budget capsule hotels to high-end establishments.
Which neighborhoods are best for staying?
Shinjuku, Shibuya and Ginza are well-connected central neighborhoods, while Asakusa offers a more traditional atmosphere close to the main historic sites.
Do you need to speak Japanese to visit Tokyo?
English is not widely spoken outside tourist areas, but signage is often bilingual and translation apps make everyday interactions much easier.
Plan your trip to Tokyo
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