Tokyo
Japan's Capital City
Tokyo is the world’s largest metropolis, and one of its most exhilarating — a city where centuries-old temples sit in the shadow of neon towers, where a Michelin-starred meal and a £4 bowl of ramen are equally serious pursuits, and where 14 million people move with a calm, clockwork order that astonishes first-time visitors. It can look overwhelming on a map. It almost never is in person.
For most travellers Tokyo is both the arrival point and the highlight of a Japan trip — the place to land, find your feet, and feel the country’s contrasts at full volume before heading on. This guide covers how to spend your time, where to base yourself, how to get around, and the day trips worth saving a day for.
The Uniqueness of Tokyo
Tokyo’s reputation for being overwhelming is precisely backwards. Yes, it’s vast — but it’s also one of the most orderly, clean and navigable big cities on earth, with English signage in stations, impeccable public transport and a deep instinct for making the visitor’s path smooth. The city rewards both the planner with a packed list and the wanderer happy to get pleasantly lost down a side street.
You will experience an unparalleled blend of hyper-modern innovation and ancient tradition, unmatched culinary excellence, and exceptional safety and efficiency.
Places you don't want to miss
Sensō-ji
Tokyo’s oldest and most famous Buddhist temple, renowned for its striking Kaminarimon Gate, vibrant Nakamise shopping street, and rich cultural heritage.
Shibuya Crossing
Shibuya Scramble Crossing is the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing, where thousands of people converge from every direction in a mesmerizing display of Tokyo’s energy and precision.
Meiji Shrine
A peaceful Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shōken, set within a vast forest in the heart of Tokyo. Experience Japan’s spiritual traditions amid serene natural surroundings.
Tokyo TeamLab
An immersive digital art museum with breathtaking interactive installations that blend light, water, sound, and technology. Designed to engage all the senses.
Tokyo Tower and Skytree
Two of Tokyo’s iconic landmarks. Providing spectacular panoramic views of the city, one echoes an Eiffel Tower design; the other showcases modern engineering as Japan’s tallest structure.
Tsukiji and Toyosu
Huge fish and seafood markets (the latter famous for its tuna auctions). Both offer quality products and a wide selection of places to eat.
A unique city
Tokyo’s reputation for being overwhelming is precisely backwards. Yes, it’s vast — but it’s also one of the most orderly, clean and navigable big cities on earth, with English signage in stations, impeccable public transport and a deep instinct for making the visitor’s path smooth. The city rewards both the planner with a packed list and the wanderer happy to get pleasantly lost down a side street.
Tokyo today
Tokyo has welcomed record numbers of visitors, and the headline spots — Shibuya, Asakusa, the teamLab museums — can be busy. The fix is simple: visit the big sights early or late, and give yourself time in the quieter residential neighbourhoods (Yanaka, Shimokitazawa, Kagurazaka), where the city’s everyday charm really lives.
A Few Myths (and Realities)
Myth: Tokyo is impossible to navigate
Reality: The metro and JR Yamanote loop cover the city superbly, signage is bilingual, and a tap-and-go IC card removes all the friction. You’ll have it figured out by day two.
Myth: Tokyo is punishingly expensive
Reality: It can be, but it needn’t be — some of the best food in the world is cheap here, and budget and mid-range hotels are plentiful.
Getting around Tokyo
Tokyo’s rail network is the best in the world, and the only way to travel. The Tokyo Metro and Toei subway lines cover the centre, while the JR Yamanote line loops past most major districts above ground. Buy a Suica or Pasmo IC card on arrival (or add one to your phone) and simply tap in and out — it also works on buses and for small purchases. A nationwide Japan Rail Pass is not worth buying for a Tokyo-only stay; see our guide to whether the Japan Rail Pass is worth it?
From the airports: Haneda is much closer to the city (around 30 minutes by monorail or Keikyū line) and worth choosing if you can. Narita is further out (about 60 minutes via the Narita Express or Keisei Skyliner).
Tokyo Passes
Many of the attractions in Tokyo are already free. Visitors can buy two different passes: the Tokyo Pass and the Tokyo City Pass. The Tokyo Pass is best value for museum-heavy itineraries, with access to 50+ attractions plus optional subway travel. A 1-day pass currently (July 2026) costs ￥5,600.
The Tokyo City Pass costs vary depending on number of days and the attractions offered. Visitors can expect to pay between ¥4,100–¥7,500.
Information available on the official websites should be read carefully to ensure the pass applies to places on your itinerary.
Day trips from Tokyo
In Tokyo you're perfectly placed for some great days out - shrines, cedar forests, waterfalls, the Great Buddha, coastal temples, views of Mount Fuji and more. Public transport will get you there quickly and easily. Read our Guide - Day Trips from Tokyo. It contains 11 great options to consider.
Where to Stay in Tokyo
For a first visit, base yourself somewhere central and well-connected. Shinjuku and Shibuya put you in the thick of it with superb transport; Tokyo Station / Marunouchi and Ginza are more refined and central for onward travel; and Asakusa offers traditional atmosphere and better value. Review our full guide on Where to Stay in Tokyo. It provides a summary of all the main neighbourhoods and has hotel recommendations for all budgets.
When to Visit
Spring (late March–April) for cherry blossom and autumn (October–November) for crisp air and colour are the loveliest — and busiest — times. June is rainy, and July–August hot and humid; winter is cold but clear and quiet. For comfort and fewer crowds, aim for late spring after the blossom peak, or autumn.
A Final Word
Tokyo asks for three or four days minimum, and rewards every one of them. Base yourself centrally, get an IC card in your hand within the first hour, balance the headline sights with time to wander, and save a day for Hakone or Kamakura. Time it for spring or autumn and it's hard to think of a more thrilling place to begin a trip to Japan.
Visiting Tokyo: FAQs
How many days do you need in Tokyo?
Three to four days suits a first visit — enough for the headline districts, a couple of temples and shrines, the food, and a day trip to Hakone or Kamakura. You could easily fill a week if you slow down.
What's the best area to stay in Tokyo?
For a first visit, somewhere central and well-connected: Shinjuku or Shibuya for energy and transport, Tokyo Station or Ginza for refinement, or Asakusa for traditional character and better value.
How do I get from the airport to central Tokyo?
From Haneda, the closer airport, it's around 30 minutes by monorail or the Keikyū line. From Narita, allow about 60 minutes via the Narita Express or the Keisei Skyliner.
Do I need a Japan Rail Pass for Tokyo?
No. A nationwide Japan Rail Pass isn't worth it for a Tokyo-only stay — a Suica or Pasmo IC card covers the metro, JR lines and buses. The pass only makes sense for longer, multi-city trips, and even then often doesn't pay off.
When is the best time to visit Tokyo?
Spring (late March–April) for cherry blossom and autumn (October–November) for clear, comfortable weather are the best windows. Avoid the June rains and the August heat if you can; winter is cold but quiet.