Plan your trip to Tokyo with our travel guides.
Did You Know? Tokyo is the most populous metropolitan area in the world, home to over 37 million people. Despite its ultra-modern skyline, the city is also dotted with centuries-old temples, traditional gardens, and hidden shrines.
Seasons
Tokyo has four distinct seasons, each offering a unique experience:
- Spring (March to May) – Cherry blossom season, mild weather.
- Summer (June to August) – Hot, humid, with festivals and fireworks.
- Autumn (September to November) – Stunning fall foliage, comfortable weather.
- Winter (December to February) – Cool but rarely extreme cold, with festive illuminations.
📌 Best Time to Visit:
- March-April (cherry blossoms)
- October-November (autumn leaves)
Getting around
Tokyo’s public transport is one of the best in the world—efficient and clean.
Tokyo Metro & JR Lines
- The fastest and most convenient way to get around.
- Suica or Pasmo cards make traveling easy (tap and go).
- The JR Yamanote Line circles major areas like Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Akihabara.
Shinkansen (Bullet Trains)
- Connects Tokyo to Kyoto, Osaka, and beyond.
- JR Pass is recommended for long-distance travel.
Taxis & Ride-Hailing
- Expensive but useful at night when trains stop.
- Uber is available but local taxi apps like GO Taxi are better.
Bicycles & Walking
- Tokyo is very walkable, and many areas like Asakusa & Ueno are best explored on foot.
- Rent a bike in Shimokitazawa or Yanaka for a different perspective.
📌 Tip: The Tokyo Metro + JR Pass combo is the most efficient way to explore!
Flight Times
Tokyo has two major airports:
- Narita International Airport (NRT) – Handles most long-haul flights.
- Haneda Airport (HND) – Closer to the city, best for domestic & regional flights.
Asia-Pacific
- Bangkok – 6h 15m
- Seoul – 2h 30m
- Singapore – 7h 10m
- Sydney – 9h 30m
Europe
- London – 12h 30m
- Paris – 12h 40m
- Frankfurt – 11h 45m
Americas
- New York – 14h (non-stop)
- Los Angeles – 11h 30m
- Toronto – 13h
📌 Tip: Haneda Airport is closer and more convenient than Narita for reaching central Tokyo.
Popular Events & Festivals
Sakura Season (March-April) – Parks like Ueno, Shinjuku Gyoen, and Chidorigafuchi turn pink with cherry blossoms.
Sumo Tournaments (January, May, September) – Watch Japan’s iconic sport at Ryogoku Kokugikan.
Gion Matsuri (July) – Tokyo’s biggest summer festival with fireworks and traditional processions.
Autumn Leaves (October-November) – Stunning red and yellow foliage at Meiji Jingu, Rikugien Garden, and Mt. Takao.
New Year’s Celebrations (December 31 – January 1) – Visit temples like Senso-ji for a traditional New Year’s blessing.
📌 Tip: Cherry blossom & autumn foliage seasons are the most scenic but also the most crowded.
Where to stay
Top Attractions
Tokyo Tower & Tokyo Skytree
Two of the best observation decks for panoramic views of the city.
Senso-ji Temple (Asakusa)
Tokyo’s oldest and most famous temple, located in a lively district with traditional shops and street food.
Shinjuku Gyoen & Ueno Park
Perfect spots to see cherry blossoms in spring and autumn leaves in fall.
Akihabara (Electric Town)
A paradise for anime, gaming, and tech lovers.
The Imperial Palace
Home to Japan’s royal family, surrounded by beautiful gardens.
Shibuya & Harajuku
- Shibuya Crossing – The busiest pedestrian crossing in the world.
- Takeshita Street (Harajuku) – Quirky fashion, kawaii culture, and fun street food.
Tsukiji Outer Market
Try fresh sushi, ramen, and street food in this world-famous market.
Tokyo Disneyland & DisneySea
A must-visit for theme park lovers, with Japan-exclusive attractions.
Meiji Shrine (Harajuku)
A peaceful Shinto shrine in the heart of Tokyo, great for a break from the city.
Mt. Takao & Day Trips
Escape the city with a hike up Mt. Takao or take a day trip to Hakone or Nikko.
📌 Tip: If it’s your first time, don’t miss Shibuya Crossing, Senso-ji Temple, and Tokyo Tower!