Meiji-Schrein
Im Garten dieses von Wäldern umgebenen, ehrwürdigen Shinto-Schreins blühen je nach Saison die Schwertlinien.
Japan
Tokio
Region
Tokyo is Japan's capital and one of the world's largest metropolitan areas. Between skyscraper districts like Shinjuku and Shibuya are the Meiji Shrine, Sensō-ji in Asakusa, and narrow Izakaya alleys, where old Edo is still palpable.
by Felix Gillen
Tokyo is Japan's capital and one of the world's largest metropolitan areas. Between skyscraper districts like Shinjuku and Shibuya are the Meiji Shrine, Sensō-ji in Asakusa, and narrow Izakaya alleys, where old Edo is still palpable. The prefecture also includes forested Tama Region mountains to its west, and the Izu and Ogasawara Islands out in the Pacific.
Tokyo is an expansive metropolitan region that combines futuristic architecture with Japan's deeply rooted traditions. You'll discover vibrant districts like Shibuya with its famous crossing and the business hub Shinjuku, home to the Government Building for panoramic views. In contrast, Asakusa, with its Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise-Dori, offers a glimpse into historical Edo. The city combines excellent cuisine, from Michelin-starred restaurants to small izakayas, with an efficient infrastructure. A visit to the Imperial Palace or a stroll through Ueno Park reveals further facets of the Japanese capital. The best time to visit is spring for cherry blossom season or autumn for pleasant temperatures and clearer views. Use the excellent subway network to efficiently explore Tokyo's diversity and gather both modern and traditional experiences.
Sights in Tokio
Discover the most important sights and attractions
Shinjuku Gyoen Park
The Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden in Tokyo offers an oasis of tranquility amidst the bustling metropolis. During the Edo period, it was the residence of the Naitō Daimyō family; in 1906, the grounds became an imperial garden, and in 1949, they were opened to the public. Here you'll find a combination of three distinct garden styles: the traditional Japanese landscape garden with its ponds, islands, and carefully placed trees, a symmetrical French garden with rose gardens and plane tree avenues, and an expansive English landscape garden with open lawns.Especially in spring during cherry blossom season and in autumn when the leaves change color, the park attracts numerous visitors. You can stroll for hours through the various sections and enjoy the tranquility. Our Tip: To avoid the largest crowds, visit the park right after opening in the morning. For a view of the Shinjuku skyline rising behind the trees, the area around the large pond in the Japanese garden is recommended.
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
Von Kenzo Tange entworfener Rathauskomplex mit Aussichtsplattformen auf dem höchsten der Gebäude.
Yasukuni-jinja Shrine
Schrein im Shinto-Stil zum Gedenken an japanische Kriegsopfer in einem Garten mit Kirschbäumen.
Essen & Trinken
Eating & Drinking in Tokyo
Edomae-Sushi
The Nigiri style, now globally widespread, originated in Edo, ancient Tokyo. Traditionally, fish from the bay is marinated, aged, or briefly cooked before being placed on the rice.
Monjayaki
A more liquid relative of Okonomiyaki, which you cook yourself at your table on a hot plate. The most famous street for it is Monja Street in Tsukishima.
Tokyo Ramen
Classic Tokyo style means clear shoyu broth with wavy noodles. Yet the city boasts virtually every regional variant.
Izakaya and Yokochō
Pubs with small sharing dishes are the heart of Tokyo's nightlife. Narrow alleys like Omoide Yokochō in Shinjuku or the eateries under the railway arches in Yurakuchō are typical spots.
Tokyo's Cultural Heritage and Modernity
Tokyo, originally known as Edo, is a city that blends its deeply rooted traditions with groundbreaking modernity. From 1603, it served as the seat of the powerful Tokugawa Shogunate and rapidly grew into one of the world's largest metropolises. The Meiji Restoration of 1868 transformed Edo into the imperial capital of Tokyo, ushering in an era of rapid modernization and Western influences.Despite destructive events such as the Great Kanto Earthquake in 1923 and the devastation of World War II, the city has consistently reinvented itself. Its architecture is a fascinating blend of historic sites like the Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa and futuristic skyscrapers that define today's cityscape.Cultural distinctiveness manifests in diverse local traditions, from the delicate tea ceremony and Ikebana to the powerful performances of Kabuki theater and the Sumo ring. These practices are carefully preserved, offering deep insights into Japanese aesthetics and the significance of harmony and respect.
On the way in Tokyo
Rail and SubwayThe rail network is the backbone of the city. The JR Yamanote Line runs in a loop, connecting Shinjuku, Shibuya, Harajuku, Tokyo Station, Akihabara, and Ueno. In addition, there are lines from Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway. Stations and announcements are consistently signposted in English.TicketsIC Cards: With Suica or PASMO, you can pay for trains, buses, and small purchases contactlessly. They can also be added digitally to Wallet on your iPhone.Tokyo Subway Ticket: Day passes for 24, 48, or 72 hours are valid on all Tokyo Metro and Toei lines, but not on JR lines.Peak Hours: On weekdays between approximately 7:30 AM and 9:30 AM, trains are extremely crowded. You should avoid these times if you have large luggage.From the Airport to the CityNarita: Narita Express (JR) to Tokyo Station and Shinjuku, or Keisei Skyliner to Ueno.Haneda: Keikyu Line or Tokyo Monorail; the journey to the city center is significantly shorter than from Narita.
