Tokyo is the world's most extraordinary city by almost every measure. More Michelin-starred restaurants than Paris, London and New York combined. Ancient Shinto shrines surrounded by neon towers. Safe, clean and — once you learn to navigate it — intimate.
The key to Tokyo is accepting that you cannot see it all. Pick two or three neighbourhoods, eat everything, take the wrong train occasionally, and you'll understand why so many people return.
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Sea urchin on rice, fresh oysters and tuna sashimi from the morning catch.
The famous sweet rolled omelette — queue for Yamachô for the best version.
10-piece omakase from the freshest fish in Tokyo. Counter seating only.
Katsuobushi, dried scallops and seaweed — the best souvenirs from Tsukiji.
The essential experiences that define Tokyo.
Tokyo's oldest temple, founded in 628 AD. Go before 8am to avoid crowds.
58 hectares of French, English and Japanese gardens. Cherry blossom in late March.
The world's second-tallest structure at 634m. Views extend to Mount Fuji on clear days.
The world capital of anime, manga and electronics. Five floors of things you didn't know you needed.
Up to 3,000 people cross simultaneously. Watch from the Starbucks above.
The birthplace of Japan's street fashion culture. Crepes, cosplay and unique clothing.
The only part of the Imperial Palace open to the public. Beautiful gardens.
The basement food halls of Tokyo's department stores are temples to Japanese food culture.
What guidebooks don't tell you — straight from people who know Tokyo well.
IC card that works on every subway, JR train and bus. Also accepted in convenience stores.
Japanese convenience store food is not a compromise — it's a cuisine. The onigiri are excellent.
Japan is shifting to cashless but many small restaurants are cash-only. Always carry ¥5,000-10,000.
You will remove your shoes at traditional restaurants and ryokans. Slip-on shoes save time.
Rent at the airport arrival hall. Google Maps in Tokyo is the difference between confident and bewildered.
Most trains stop around midnight. Miss it and you're in a taxi or manga café until 5am.
Receba os guias de Paris, Tokyo, Nova York e mais 9 cidades antes de chegar — com tudo que importa, sem o ruído.
How to navigate Tokyo like a local.
9 lines. Runs from 5am to midnight. Get a Suica IC card for seamless travel.
¥170-320/journeyThe Yamanote Line loops the city centre, stopping at all major stations.
From ¥140Narita Express (N'EX) to central Tokyo in 60 minutes.
¥3,070Clean, reliable and expensive. Doors open automatically. Tip not expected.
¥730 base + meter