
Before you set your foot outside your hotel door, be aware of Tokyo's complicated address system. Very few streets have names; instead, they are identified by numbers indicating district (Chōme), block (Banchi) and house number (Gō). For example, “1-11-18, Shibuya, Shibuya-ku” would translate as the 18th building of the 11th block of the 1st area of Shibuya in Shibuya ward. Invest in a bilingual map of Tokyo and don’t hesitate to ask the police for directions. Even the locals can get confused! Once you have grasped the navigation system, Tokyo is a delight to get around. The metro is incredibly efficient, the city is clean, and people are courteous and friendly. Though addresses may be confusing, Tokyo is divided neatly into 23 wards ('tokubetsu-ku' or just 'ku'), each with a distinctive characteristic. Visit Taitō (Asakusa specifically) for old-town charm and temples, Chūō (especially Ginza) for shopping, and Akihabara district in Chiyoda ward for electronics galore. Blend old and new to get a taste of Tokyo’s great diversity. Endless variety is Tokyo's trump card. Few other world cities are as wonderfully idiosyncratic. International and local influences intertwine in cuisine, festivals, music, galleries, shopping and even accommodation. Bizarre and fast-moving, yet peaceful and intrinsically religious, Tokyo's identity is above all, distinctly Japanese, despite existing as a world of its own.
Tokyo City: 14.25 million Metro area: 41 million
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Police: 110
Fire & Ambulance: 119
















































The best time to visit Tokyo is during spring (March to May) when cherry blossoms are in full bloom, or in autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and the city is vibrant with fall colors.
Must-see attractions in Tokyo include the historic Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, the bustling Shibuya Crossing, the iconic Tokyo Tower, the serene Meiji Shrine, and the innovative teamLab Borderless digital art museum.
Tokyo's extensive public transportation system, including the Tokyo Metro and JR trains, is the most efficient way to get around. Consider getting a prepaid Suica or Pasmo card for convenient travel across various transit systems.
In Tokyo, be sure to try sushi at Tsukiji Outer Market, ramen in Shinjuku, tempura in Asakusa, and monjayaki in Tsukishima. Don't miss out on street food like yakitori in the bustling streets of Shinjuku and Shibuya.
Spending at least four to five days in Tokyo is recommended to explore its main attractions, experience its diverse neighborhoods, and enjoy its vibrant food scene.
Popular neighborhoods to stay in Tokyo include Shinjuku for its nightlife and shopping, Shibuya for its youthful vibe, Ginza for luxury shopping, and Asakusa for a more traditional atmosphere.
Yes, consider day trips to Nikko for its UNESCO World Heritage sites, Hakone for hot springs and views of Mount Fuji, or Kamakura to explore its historic temples and the Great Buddha.
