Explore Tokyo

Tokyo: neon nights, quiet temples and everything in between

Explore Tokyo helps you plan a balanced trip with must-see sights, local neighbourhoods, cultural etiquette and simple, practical tips. Whether it’s your first visit or a return journey, use this guide to turn ideas into a clear, realistic itinerary.

Why visit Tokyo?

Tokyo is a city of contrasts: ancient temples and shrines sit next to glass towers and neon streets; quiet residential lanes lie only a few minutes from packed stations. This mix of old and new is what makes the city so memorable. You can spend the morning at a centuries-old temple, the afternoon in a contemporary art gallery, and the evening tasting ramen in a tiny shop under the train tracks.

At the same time, Tokyo is easy to navigate once you understand the basics. Trains are frequent and punctual, most stations have English signs, and there are convenience stores on almost every corner. With a little preparation and a good map, even first-time visitors can move around confidently.

Trip highlights at a glance

Skyline view of Tokyo at sunset

Iconic city views

Watch the city lights from Tokyo Skytree, Tokyo Tower or free observation decks in Shinjuku. On a clear day, you may catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji on the horizon.

Side street with lanterns and small restaurants

Neighbourhood streets

Wander through Shibuya, Asakusa, Shimokitazawa or Kichijoji to find side streets filled with cafés, vintage shops and local bars that rarely appear on quick tour itineraries.

Bowls of ramen and sushi on a wooden table

Food for every budget

From standing sushi counters to casual ramen shops and izakaya pubs, Tokyo caters to every budget. Convenience stores even offer surprisingly good snacks and quick meals.

Temple building with visitors walking towards it

Living traditions

Visit temples and shrines, watch local festivals and learn simple etiquette such as bowing, cleansing at a shrine basin and behaving respectfully in sacred spaces.

Where to base yourself

Shinjuku: busy and convenient

Shinjuku Station is one of the busiest in the world, but this is also what makes it convenient. You have direct access to multiple JR lines and private railways, plus plenty of restaurants and shops. Stay here if you like bright lights, tall buildings and having everything close by.

Asakusa: historic atmosphere

Asakusa is built around Senso-ji, Tokyo’s oldest temple. The area feels more traditional, with narrow lanes, small guesthouses and easy access to the Sumida River. It is a good base if you prefer a slower pace and want to be near classic attractions.

Shibuya and Harajuku: youth and fashion

Shibuya and Harajuku are ideal if you enjoy shopping, cafés and evening energy. You are close to the famous scramble crossing, modern department stores, small side streets full of character, and the calm of nearby Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park.

Quick planning checklist

Before you fly

Check entry requirements, organise travel insurance and confirm where you will stay for the first few nights. If you are using a rail pass, read the latest rules as some passes now need reservations for certain trains.

Decide how you will stay connected: eSIM, local SIM or pocket Wi-Fi. Save important addresses in both English and Japanese where possible so you can show them to taxi drivers or station staff if needed.

When you arrive

At the airport, follow signs to the train or limousine bus counters. Consider picking up an IC card such as Suica or PASMO, which works on most trains, subways and buses, and can sometimes be used in shops and vending machines.

After dropping your bags at your accommodation, start with an easy walk around the local area to get a feel for distances, nearby convenience stores and the closest station entrances.