About tokyo - Culture, History & Character
Tokyo Skytree
Japanese is the official language. English is limited but signage at stations and tourist sites is usually translated. Translation apps are very useful.
Explore the fascinating past of tokyo and discover how it has developed over the centuries.
Originally known as Edo, Tokyo was founded in the 15th century as a small fishing village. During the Edo period (1603-1868), under the Tokugawa shogunate, the city grew to become one of the largest cities in the world, with more than a million inhabitants.
In 1868, with the Meiji Restoration, Edo was renamed Tokyo ('Capital of the East') and became the imperial capital of Japan. During the Meiji era, the city modernized rapidly, adopting Western technologies and architecture while preserving its Japanese cultural identity.
After being devastated by the 1923 earthquake and the bombings of World War II, Tokyo was rebuilt as a modern city. The 1964 and 2020 Olympic Games marked important milestones in its development as a global metropolis, consolidating its status as a global technological and cultural center.
The historical timeline shows the key moments that have defined the development of tokyo through the centuries.
Discover what makes this city special with our comprehensive scoring system
One of the safest cities in the world with very low crime rates.
One of the safest cities in the world with very low crime rates.
Very walkable in most districts with excellent pedestrian connectivity.
Very walkable in most districts with excellent pedestrian connectivity.
The best public transportation system in the world in efficiency and punctuality.
The best public transportation system in the world in efficiency and punctuality.
Expensive destination: accommodation and leisure weigh on the budget; Look for menus of the day and public transportation.
Expensive destination: accommodation and leisure weigh on the budget; Look for menus of the day and public transportation.
Vibrant and diverse nightlife, from karaoke to world-class clubs.
Vibrant and diverse nightlife, from karaoke to world-class clubs.
World capital of pop culture and guardian of ancient traditions.
World capital of pop culture and guardian of ancient traditions.
World gastronomic capital with the highest concentration of Michelin restaurants.
World gastronomic capital with the highest concentration of Michelin restaurants.
Shopping paradise from technology to fashion, with specialized districts.
Shopping paradise from technology to fashion, with specialized districts.
Four seasons marked with humid summers and cold but dry winters.
Four seasons marked with humid summers and cold but dry winters.
Well prepared for tourists with multilingual information and dedicated services.
Well prepared for tourists with multilingual information and dedicated services.
Excellent family destination with activities for all ages and great security.
Excellent family destination with activities for all ages and great security.
Tolerant and open, especially in districts like Shinjuku Ni-chome.
Tolerant and open, especially in districts like Shinjuku Ni-chome.
Polite and helpful locals but there may be a cultural and language barrier.
Polite and helpful locals but there may be a cultural and language barrier.
Urban beauty with parks and gardens, more mountains and nature nearby.
Urban beauty with parks and gardens, more mountains and nature nearby.
Impressive architecture that mixes historic temples with futuristic skyscrapers.
Impressive architecture that mixes historic temples with futuristic skyscrapers.
Rich history from the Edo period to modernity, with well-preserved sites.
Rich history from the Edo period to modernity, with well-preserved sites.
Good urban parks and traditional gardens, although limited by urban density.
Good urban parks and traditional gardens, although limited by urban density.
One of the cleanest cities in the world with exceptional standards.
One of the cleanest cities in the world with exceptional standards.
Growing technological ecosystem with government support and tradition of innovation.
Growing technological ecosystem with government support and tradition of innovation.
Good connectivity but language barrier and bureaucracy can be challenging.
Good connectivity but language barrier and bureaucracy can be challenging.
Comprehensive assessment of this destination
Descubre las mejores épocas para visitar tokyo y qué esperar durante todo el año.
Four seasons marked with humid summers and cold but dry winters.
Ideal spring and autumn
Four different seasons
sunny winters
very humid summer
Heavy rainy season
Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are the best times.
Summer can be very humid and overwhelming.
Ideal spring with mild temperatures and the famous sakura flowering. Perfect for walking and visiting parks.
Hot and very humid, with frequent rains in June-July. Summer festivals and fireworks offset the heat.
Spectacular autumn with gold and red colors. Pleasant temperatures and clear skies.
Cold and dry, but sunny. Little rainfall and spectacular Christmas illuminations.
Plan your expenses and discover the best shopping areas
Daily spending per person
Tokyo is an expensive city, especially for high-end accommodation and restaurants, but it offers budget options such as combini, ramen shops and hotel capsules.
per day
per day
per day
Best Areas
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3 areas
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3 areas
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3 areas
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Explore the most fascinating places this city has to offer
The tallest tower in Japan at 634 meters, it offers spectacular panoramic views of the city and Mount Fuji.
The oldest Buddhist temple in Tokyo, founded in the 7th century, famous for its Kaminarimon Gate and Nakamise shopping street.
Residence of the Emperor of Japan, surrounded by traditional gardens and historic moats.
The most famous pedestrian crossing in the world, a symbol of modern urban life in Tokyo.
Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji, located in a quiet forest in the center of the city.
Large cultural park with museums, zoo and famous for its cherry blossoms during hanami.
District of electronics and otaku culture, world center of anime, manga and technology.
Luxury district with exclusive boutiques, department stores and high-end restaurants.
Famous fish market (now Toyosu), known for its tuna auctions and fresh sushi.
Center of youth fashion and kawaii culture, famous for Takeshita Street and unique styles.
Tower inspired by the Eiffel Tower, an icon of the city with panoramic views and entertainment.
Extensive garden that combines Japanese, English and French styles, perfect for hanami.
International nightlife district with clubs, bars and the famous Roppongi Hills.
Traditional historic district with Sensoji Temple, ancient streets and shitamachi culture.
Futuristic artificial island with shopping centers, technology museums and views of the bay.
Small bamboo forest in the Nezu district, offers tranquility in the middle of the city.
Discover fascinating destinations near tokyo perfect for day getaways
Excursion to the iconic volcano, the highest mountain in Japan, perfect for hiking and spectacular views.
Historic World Heritage city with Toshogu Shrine and beautiful natural landscapes.
Ancient capital with the Big Buddha, historic temples and beaches, perfect cultural getaway.
Hot spring resort with views of Mount Fuji, Lake Ashi and scenic cable cars.
City known as 'Little Edo' for its traditional architecture and preserved historic streets.
Discover the unique character and charm of each city district.
Modern, bustling youth epicenter full of urban energy 24 hours a day.
Business and entertainment district, mix of skyscrapers and vibrant nightlife.
Center of alternative youth fashion and kawaii culture, colorful and unique.
Elegant, sophisticated and exclusive luxury district for high-end shopping.
Traditional and nostalgic, it preserves the atmosphere of historic Tokyo.
Technological and otaku paradise, futuristic and specialized in electronics.
Cosmopolitan and international, known for its nightlife and modern art.
Cultural and family, focused on museums, parks and the zoo.
Discover the best experiences and activities for each time of year
Japan's most iconic tradition: watching and celebrating cherry blossoms with picnics under the trees in parks like Ueno and Shinjuku Gyoen.
Spectacular hanabi (fireworks) festivals along the Sumida River and elsewhere, with people dressed in traditional yukata.
Admire the gold and red colors of autumn in gardens like Rikugien and temples like Meiji, a tradition as popular as hanami.
Tokyo is transformed with spectacular Christmas and winter illuminations in Roppongi Hills, Marunouchi and Shibuya, creating a magical atmosphere.
Experience the vibrant culture and traditions of this city through its unique festivals
One of Tokyo's three major festivals, with parades of mikoshi (portable shrines) through the streets of Kanda and the city center.
Traditional festival in Asakusa with more than 100 mikoshi, considered one of the liveliest and most popular matsuri in Tokyo.
One of the largest fireworks festivals in Japan, along the Sumida River with more than 20,000 fireworks.
The largest Pride event in Japan, with a march, festival and activities in Shibuya and Harajuku.
Traditional festival where children aged 3, 5 and 7 visit shrines dressed in kimono, especially visible at the Meiji Shrine.
Essential advice and local insights to make your trip memorable and safe
Exceptional Security
Tokyo is one of the safest cities in the world. It is normal to see people asleep on trains or with belongings unattended.
Earthquakes
Minor earthquakes are common but the city is very prepared. Familiarize yourself with the evacuation routes in your accommodation.
Emergency numbers
Police: 110, Fire/Ambulance: 119. English helplines are available for tourists.
Avoid Yakuza
Although rarely problematic for tourists, avoid specific areas of Kabukicho late at night.
Essential Dishes
Fresh sushi at Tsukiji, authentic ramen at Ichiran, tempura at traditional restaurants, and wagyu beef at Ginza.
Restaurant Etiquette
Don't tip (it's offensive), don't stick chopsticks into the rice vertically, and say 'itadakimasu' before eating.
Convenience Stores
The 'konbini' (7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson) offer food of surprising quality 24 hours a day.
Necessary Reserves
Popular restaurants require reservations, especially high-end ones. Your hotel can help you.
JR Pass
For multiple train trips, the Japan Rail Pass can be economical. It must be purchased before arriving in Japan.
IC Cards
Suica or Pasmo cards for public transport. Rechargeable and accepted throughout the city and stores.
Rush hour
Avoid 7-9 AM and 5-7 PM if possible. The trains are extremely crowded during these times.
Last Train
The trains stop around midnight. Plan your return or use (expensive) taxis or karaoke to the first train.
Reverences
Tilt your head slightly when greeting. A slight bow is enough for tourists.
Shoes
Take off your shoes when entering homes, ryokans, some restaurants and temples. Sneakers will be available.
Silence in Transportation
Keep conversations low on trains and don't talk on the phone. Silence is valued.
Punctuality
Always arrive on time or a few minutes early. Punctuality is extremely important in Japanese culture.
Smoking prohibited in streets
Smoking on public streets is prohibited in most of Tokyo. Use designated smoking areas.
Do not eat while walking
Avoid eating while walking down the street. Eat where you buy food or in designated areas.
Trash
Take your trash with you as there are few public containers. Separate according to recycling rules.
Photograph
Do not photograph people without permission, especially in temples. Some places prohibit photography.
Masks
It is common and courteous to wear a mask if you have cold symptoms or on public transportation during flu seasons.
Pharmacies
Western medicines can be difficult to find. Bring personal medication. Pharmacies are marked with 薬 (kusuri).
Tap Water
Tap water is safe to drink throughout Tokyo. Excellent quality and flavor.
Avoid Holidays
Golden Week (late April/early May) and Obon (mid-August) are very busy. Reserve in advance.
Local Neighborhoods
Explore less touristy neighborhoods like Kagurazaka, Daikanyama or Shimokitazawa for more authentic experiences.
Public Toilets
The public toilets are spotlessly clean. Many have Japanese bidets (washlets) - buttons with water symbols.
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