The Glorious City of Tokyo – Exploring Japan’s Famed Capital.
If you’re looking to experience Japanese culture, unparalleled urban beauty and some of the best cuisine the world has to offer, look no further than Tokyo. As Japan’s capital, this sprawling metropolis serves as a hub of entertainment and industry; with a population of approximately 13.5 million, there’s something for everyone in Tokyo. Visiting Tokyo gives you a rare glimpse into the past and future of Japan. From venerable shrines and traditional temples to modern tech innovation and some of the most fashionable shopping districts around, Tokyo is a mecca for culture, design and art.
Naturally, the cityscape of Tokyo is one of the most recognizable in the world. Vibrant, futuristic skyscrapers and neon signs punctuate the towering skyline, and a visit to some of the most iconic appearances – such as Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree – is an absolute must. While the city may be bustling and ever-changing, there are numerous parks, shrines and temples to be found throughout Tokyo that offer peace and quiet. National and Imperial Gardens such as the Imperial Palace East Garden, Yoyogi Park and Ueno Park are beautiful spots to explore and relax. Tokyo’s many shrines and temples, such as Asakusa, Senso-Ji and Meiji Shrine are serene, dignified havens and the perfect places to participate in unique temple rituals and ceremonies.
If you’re looking to take in some of the latest technology trends, Tokyo has plenty to offer. Akihabara is a must-see destination for gadget enthusiasts and tech geeks, chock full of stores, boutiques and markets that feature the latest and greatest electronics and toys. Odaiba, Roppongi and Shibuya are lively areas for fashionable shopping and entertainment. There’s no shortage of delicious restaurants and cafe, sake bars and karaoke. In the evenings, don a kimono and explore the traditional Izakaya (Japanese Pub) for some sake and tasty eats – be sure to ride the rickshaws too!
No journey to Tokyo is complete without sampling the variety of cuisine that Japan has to offer. Sushi restaurants are present in almost every corner of the city, and exploring the different districts can lead to some delightful surprises. The iconic Japanese Ramen dishes of Kyushu and Tokyo-style Oyakonabe can be found at small-scale specialty restaurants dotted across the city. Other food alleys serve up unique snacks, such as the popular karage (fried chicken) and takoyaki, a deep-fried octopus ball.
Travelers to Tokyo should take advantage of the many neon-lit festivities and events in the city; the Sanja Matsuri festival and Japanese Summer Festival offer a quick glimpse into some of Japan’s most fervent customs and traditions. No matter your tastes and interests, Tokyo will always have something to offer. From the traditional and the modern, to the cultural and the technological, one thing’s for certain – you won’t come away from Tokyo without a few memories that will stay with you for years to come.
