Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is located on Honshu, Japan’s largest island. Tokyo Metropolis is the most populous city in the world. Although Japan is a fascinating country, I was hesitant about visiting Tokyo for various reasons. I usually have free time during the summer for long trips and this particular summer I had to choose between seaside beach paradises and walking around in a hectic metropolis where no one spoke English! The idea of being pushed in a train cram-full of passenges was quite scary for me. Moreover, Japan is a developed country and the cost of living in the country is quite high. Yet, no one can escape from their destiny and on a hot summer day I arrived in Osaka. I had already booked online a taxi to Kyoto and after staying some days there I took the super fast Shikansen bullet train to Tokyo. I didn’t regret it!
When to visit Tokyo
I visited Tokyo during the summer and the weather was quiet hot. However, I am not fond of cold climates and the the hot weather didn’t affect my stay in this magnificent city. Tokyo is an all year round destination, but the city’s famous cherry blossom season is from the end of March to the beginning of April. Different varieties of cherry blossoms bloom at different times, but most of them decorate Tokyo during these months. Book your flight with Qatar Airways or other airlines now!
Where to stay in Tokyo
I stayed in Shinjuku and I recommend that you do the same, since it will make things much simpler for you. Although it’s easy to get around by train and metro, I prefer to walk where it is possible. Hence, being close to some of the sights and convenient restaurants was very important for me. In Shinjuku lies the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, a beautiful and serene place which I recommend you to visit. Book now your hotel or apartment on Agoda or Vrbo!
What to see in Tokyo
1) Sensoji Temple
Sensoji, Tokyo’s oldest temple, is an ancient Buddhist temple located in Asakusa, Tokyo. The first temple was founded in 645 AD and has a rich history. It is dedicated to Kannon , the bodhisattva of compassion. It is visited by a large number of people and seems always busy. A lot of women wearing the traditional kimono visit the place in order to have their photos taken. Take your time there, wander the site and admire it from every angle. The Skytree is also visible from there. Book your tour now!
2) Tokyo Imperial Palace
The Imperial Palace is the main residence of the Emperor of Japan. It is a huge area which comprises a lot of parks and historical buildings. Some of the gardens are open to the public and they are really magnificent. I had read on the internet that someone should book in advance in order to visit the place. I didn’t book anything, but I had no trouble getting the tour led by a Japanese guide and explore the area.
3) Meiji Shrine
Meiji Shrine is a significant Shinto shrine in Tokyo. It lies in a peaceful and serene forest in the heart of Shibuya and is dedicated to the spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife. Indeed, the person who restored imperial rule in Japan is entitled to his own shrine! Don’t be in a hurry there, stroll around and enjoy the chance to be in a quiet shelter in this huge metropolis.
4) Tokyo National Museum
The Tokyo National Museum is the oldest national museum in Japan. Is is an enticing museum which allows you to explore the history of this enchanting country. Statues, pottery items, samurai armours can be found and admired at the museum. The garden of the museum is also beautiful. Sometimes, special exhibitions take place in the museum. When I visited the place, there was an outstanding exhibition about Mexico.
5) Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
This national park, which has over 20,000 trees, including approximately 1,500 cherry trees, is my favourite place in Shinjuku. There is a small entrance fee to this magnificent park, but the serenity of the place will definitely compensate you. Take your time and wander around slowly. After all, you are in the park because you want to escape from the rumble of the city.
6) Tokyo Tower
Tokyo Tower was the tallest tower in Japan, until Tokyo Skytree was constructed. The antennae of the tower are used for radio and television broadcasting. Japanese people seem to be very proud of their tower and offer tours on the two observation decks where on can have wonderful views of the metropolis. Nonetheless, the ticket is quite expensive for what is offered and I recommend that you choose to visit either this tower or the Tokyo Skytree, but not both, unless you plan to stay many days in the city and you want to visit every single landmark.
7) Hanazono Shrine
The Hanazono Shrine is a small, but historical Shinto shrine in Shinjuku. The shrine, which is one of the most important Shinto shrines in Japan, is easily accessible and the visitor doesn’t need to spend much time there. Therefore, I suggest visiting it, take a break from the noise of the city and enjoy the serenity of the place.
8) Science Museum
This is by no means a boring museum! The wide range of interactive exhibits gives the chance of becoming a child again to every curious mind. Robots, bicycles, vehicles, and strange equipment can be found in the big building in Kitanomaru Park where the museum is located.
9) Shibuya Crossing
Watching a lot of people crossing the road is certainly not my idea of having fun. Nonetheless, Shibuya Crossing is considered the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing and consequently you might want to visit one of the most famous landmarks of the hectic metropolis. Actually, the word hectic discovers its true meaning here! The statue of Hachiko, the loyal dog, can be found at the crossing and has become a meeting place for both locals and tourists.
