Overview of Tokyo
Tokyo is not just a city; it is the center of the world's largest metropolitan area, home to over 13 million people. Comprising 23 special wards, 26 cities, 5 towns, and 8 villages, each part of Tokyo has its own unique culture and characteristics.
Tokyo is consistently a popular destination for international visitors. According to the latest data, approximately 20 million foreign tourists visited Tokyo in 2023. The most popular areas are as follows:
| Area | Visit Rate | Main Attractions |
| Shibuya | 67.4% | Scramble Crossing, SHIBUYA SKY, Shopping |
| Shinjuku | 57.4% | Kabukicho, Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observation Deck, Shopping |
| Ginza | 50.1% | Luxury Shopping, Traditional Japanese Restaurants |
| Asakusa | 43.7% | Senso-ji Temple, Kaminarimon Gate, Downtown Culture Experience |
| Akihabara | 32.5% | Electric Town, Anime and Manga Culture |
Tokyo has distinct four seasons, with spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) considered the most comfortable and suitable times for sightseeing. Cherry blossoms in spring and autumn leaves in fall color the Tokyo landscape, attracting many tourists.
Guide to Tokyo's Major Areas
Asakusa and Ueno: A Treasure Trove of Traditional Japanese Culture
Asakusa is a district that preserves the atmosphere of Tokyo's oldest downtown area (shitamachi) and is particularly popular with foreign tourists.
Senso-ji Temple and Kaminarimon Gate
Senso-ji Temple, a representative temple of Tokyo, is a major tourist attraction visited by about 30 million people annually. Passing through the Kaminarimon Gate, marked by its large red lantern, you enter Nakamise-dori, a street about 200 meters long lined with about 90 shops selling Japanese sweets, folk crafts, and traditional Japanese souvenirs.
Nearby Attractions
•Asakusa Shrine: Located right next to Senso-ji Temple, famous for the Sanja Matsuri festival.
•Asakusa Hanayashiki: Japan's oldest amusement park, known for its retro atmosphere.
•Skytree Town: A complex centered around the Tokyo Skytree.
Ueno Park, close to the Asakusa area, is a cultural hub with many art museums and museums. At the Tokyo National Museum, you can see masterpieces of Japanese art, and at Ueno Zoo, you can see giant pandas. It is also a famous spot for cherry blossoms in the spring.
Shinjuku and Shibuya: Experience the Dynamism of Modern Japan
Shinjuku
Shinjuku is a central business district and entertainment hub in Tokyo. This area, centered around Shinjuku Station, the world's busiest terminal, is concentrated with skyscrapers, large department stores, restaurants, and bars.
•Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden: A vast Japanese garden in the midst of the city's hustle and bustle.
•Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observation Deck: Enjoy a magnificent panoramic view of Tokyo for free.
•Kabukicho: Japan's largest entertainment district, densely packed with restaurants and entertainment facilities.
Shibuya
Shibuya is known as a center for youth culture. The Scramble Crossing is a world-famous photo spot where over 3,000 people cross at once during peak times.
•SHIBUYA SKY: An open-air observation facility on the rooftop of Shibuya Scramble Square.
•Shibuya 109: A mecca for youth fashion.
•Meiji Jingu Shrine: A shrine located in a tranquil forest, away from the city's noise.
Within walking distance of Shibuya are Harajuku, lined with fashionable shops and cafes, and Omotesando, home to luxury brand shops.
Tokyo Station and Ginza: The Allure of a Sophisticated City
Tokyo Station
Tokyo Station, characterized by its beautiful red-brick station building, is an impressive piece of architecture. Commercial facilities called Tokyo Station City spread both inside and outside the station, offering shopping and dining.
•Imperial Palace: The residence of the Imperial Family, with beautiful gardens open to the public.
•KITTE: A commercial facility renovated from the former Tokyo Central Post Office.
•Marunouchi Illumination: Street trees are beautifully lit up during the winter season.
Ginza
Ginza, one of Japan's leading luxury shopping districts, is lined with global luxury brands, long-established department stores, and historic specialty shops.
•Ginza 4-chome Crossing: The symbolic intersection of Ginza.
•Kabuki-za Theatre: A theater where you can watch Kabuki, a traditional performing art.
•Tsukiji: Many restaurants still remain around the former site of the Tsukiji Market.
GTN Prepaid SIM
The GTN Prepaid SIM is a prepaid SIM for data-only or voice + data, available for periods from a minimum of 7 days to a maximum of 90 days.
It can be applied for with just a passport, features 5G / LTE network access and 8-language customer support, and is a service for short-to-medium-term visitors with the caveat that after use, the speed is reduced and extension is not possible.
GTN Prepaid SIM is a data-only or voice+data prepaid SIM available from a minimum of 7 days to a maximum of 90 days.
You can apply with just your passport, and it features 5G/LTE network and 8-language customer support. Note that speeds slow after data usage, with no extension possible - this service is designed for short to medium-term visitors.
Operating Company: Global Trust Networks Co., Ltd.
Pricing:
Data-Only SIM/eSIM:
- 10GB / 30 days: ¥3,000
- 30GB / 7 days: ¥3,000
- 50GB / 30 days: ¥5,000
- 135GB / 90 days: ¥10,000
Voice + Data SIM:
- 10GB: 30 days ¥8,250 / 60 days ¥14,850 / 90 days ¥21,450
- 30GB: 30 days ¥12,100 / 60 days ¥19,800 / 90 days ¥27,500
*Domestic call charges are ¥22/30 seconds (tax included), SMS is ¥3.3-33 (tax included)/message (domestic), etc., charged separately. *Information as of November 2025.
Official Website: https://www.gtn-mobile.com/
New Tokyo Spots in 2025
Tokyo, a city that is constantly evolving, sees new tourist spots opening one after another. Here is a selection of notable new spots.
Takanawa Gateway City: The largest urban complex centered around JR Takanawa Gateway Station. THE LINKPILLAR 1 and Takanawa Gateway Station opened on March 27, 2025 (Thursday ) as the "town opening." The rest of the buildings are scheduled for completion in the spring of 2026, marking the full opening. It is the birth of a new town where a shopping mall, offices, hotels, and residences converge.
Immersive Fort Tokyo: A fully immersive experience theme park opened in Odaiba. You can enjoy new entertainment experiences utilizing cutting-edge technology.
Ginza Sony Park: A "park-style commercial facility" born on the former site of the Sony Building, which grand opened on January 26, 2025 (Sunday). It features a three-dimensional spatial design connecting the ground and underground, hosting various events and pop-up stores.
Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo – The Making of Harry Potter: A special event commemorating the 20th anniversary of the movie Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire is scheduled to be held from April 18 to September 8.
Tokyo Gourmet Guide
Tokyo is also known as the city with the most Michelin-starred restaurants in the world. You can enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine at various price points, from high-end traditional restaurants (ryotei) to casual street food stalls.
Ranking of Most Popular Japanese Foods Among Foreign Tourists
1.Sushi
2.Tempura
3.Steak/Yakiniku (Grilled Meat)
4.Ramen
5.Udon/Soba (Noodles)
Recommended Gourmet Spots
Tsukiji Outer Market: A restaurant district remaining around the former Tsukiji Market. You can enjoy fresh seafood bowls (kaisen-don) and sushi at reasonable prices.
Tokyo Ramen Street: A food court in the basement of Tokyo Station where famous ramen shops gather. Popular shops from various regions of Japan also have branches here, allowing you to enjoy ramen from all over the country in one place.
Ameya Yokocho (Ameyoko): A shopping street near Ueno Station with about 400 shops selling food, clothing, and other goods. There are many stand-up seafood and deli shops, offering a casual way to experience Japanese food culture.
Japanese Food Experience: Many restaurants offer cooking experience programs for tempura and sushi. You can create a special memory by eating the Japanese food you made yourself.
Tokyo Transportation Guide
Tokyo's public transportation system is one of the most developed in the world, but the complex network of lines may be confusing at first. However, by understanding a few key points, you can move around smoothly.
IC Cards (Suica/PASMO)
IC cards called Suica and PASMO are convenient in the Tokyo metropolitan area. These cards can be purchased at station ticket machines and used on trains, buses, and even at convenience stores. Since they are rechargeable, they save you the trouble of buying tickets, and the fare is slightly discounted.
Tickets for International Visitors
•Tokyo Subway Ticket: An economical ticket that allows unlimited rides on all Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway lines for 1, 2, or 3 days.
•Greater Tokyo Pass: Renewed in January 2025, this pass offers unlimited rides on private railways and subways in the greater Tokyo area for 3 days.
•Japan Rail Pass: A pass exclusively for foreign tourists that allows use of JR lines nationwide. It is especially recommended if you plan to travel across Japan, not just around Tokyo.
Transportation Apps
By utilizing smartphone navigation apps, you don't have to fear Tokyo's complex transportation network. Apps like "Japan Transit Planner" and "Google Maps" suggest the most efficient route by simply entering your departure and destination.
Tokyo Accommodation
Tokyo offers all types of accommodation, from world-class luxury hotels to affordable hostels. Since characteristics and price ranges vary by district, choose one that suits your travel style.
Recommended Hotels by Area
Shinjuku/Shibuya: Ideal for those who want to enjoy shopping and nightlife in the heart of Tokyo.
•Park Hyatt Tokyo: A luxury hotel famous for the movie Lost in Translation.
•Shibuya Stream Excel Hotel Tokyu: A new hotel located near the Shibuya River.
Asakusa/Ueno: Recommended for those who want to experience traditional Tokyo.
•Asakusa View Hotel: Attractive for its spectacular view of Senso-ji Temple and Skytree.
•NOHGA HOTEL UENO: A boutique hotel focused on modern art and design.
Tokyo Station/Marunouchi: A business district with excellent transportation access.
•The Tokyo Station Hotel: A luxury hotel located within the historic Tokyo Station building.
•Hostel Tabi-ji: A cost-effective capsule hotel.
Unique Japanese Accommodation Experiences
Ryokan: Traditional Japanese-style accommodation offering tatami rooms, futons, hot springs (onsen), and Japanese-style hospitality.
•Hoshinoya Tokyo: A luxury facility where you can experience a ryokan in the city center.
•Sawanoya Ryokan: A family-run ryokan with over 100 years of history.
Capsule Hotel: A Japanese-born accommodation style that provides sleeping spaces in capsule-shaped units instead of private rooms.
•Nine Hours Shinjuku: A modern capsule hotel with a sophisticated design.
•Sauna & Capsule Hotel Hokkoku: A popular facility with extensive sauna amenities.
Tokyo's Four Seasons and Seasonal Events
Tokyo is attractive for its beauty in each of the four seasons and the variety of seasonal events that accompany them. Check out the following events according to your visit time.
Spring (March to May)
Cherry Blossom Season: From late March to early April, cherry blossoms bloom in parks and along rivers throughout Tokyo. Ueno Park, Chidorigafuchi, and Meguro River are famous viewing spots.
Chiyoda Cherry Blossom Festival: A cherry blossom festival held around the Imperial Palace. The trees are also lit up at night.
Summer (June to August)
Sumida River Fireworks Festival: Tokyo's largest fireworks display, held every July. About 20,000 fireworks light up the night sky.
Koenji Awa Odori: One of Japan's largest Awa Odori dance festivals, held in late August. It is a vibrant event with about 10,000 dancers participating.
Autumn (September to November)
Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Avenue: The sight of about 146 ginkgo trees turning golden from mid to late November is breathtaking.
Tokyo International Film Festival: Asia's largest international film festival. It features screenings of films from around the world and talk events with directors and actors.
Winter (December to February)
Tokyo Illumination: Illuminations can be enjoyed in various parts of the city, including Marunouchi, Roppongi, and Shibuya.
Hatsumode (First Shrine Visit of the Year): The first visit to shrines and temples like Meiji Jingu and Senso-ji takes place for several days starting January 1st to welcome the New Year.
Information for a Comfortable Tokyo Trip
Wi-Fi and Internet
Free Wi-Fi is provided in many public facilities, cafes, and restaurants in Tokyo. The "Japan Connected-free Wi-Fi" service is also available at major stations and tourist spots. If you want more peace of mind, renting a pocket Wi-Fi at the airport or convenience stores is also recommended.
Language Support
English signage is increasing in Tokyo, especially in tourist areas. Many hotels and major tourist facilities have English-speaking staff, but it is still convenient to have a translation app ready. The Tokyo Tourist Information Center also provides multilingual tourist information services.
Cashless Payments
Japan was once considered a cash-based society, but in recent years, major credit cards such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are accepted at many stores. Digital payments like Apple Pay and Google Pay are also becoming more widespread. However, since small shops and eateries may still only accept cash, it is recommended to carry some cash.
Safety Measures
Tokyo is said to be one of the safest cities in the world, and walking alone at night is relatively safe. However, always be mindful of your valuables and be vigilant against pickpockets and theft in crowded places. It is also important to keep emergency contact numbers handy.
•Police: 110
•Ambulance/Fire: 119
•Tokyo Tourist Information Center: 03-5321-3077
Conclusion
Tokyo is a multifaceted city where tradition and innovation coexist. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a repeat traveler, there are always new discoveries to be made in this city. While visiting famous tourist spots is a wonderful experience, delving into the daily lives of the locals by taking a slight detour will lead to a deeper understanding of Tokyo.
It is impossible to see everything in a single trip. Take your time, go at your own pace, and find your own way to enjoy Tokyo. And create special memories that will make you want to visit again.
Tokyo sincerely welcomes your visit. Now, let's embark on an exploration of Tokyo, one of the world's most alluring metropolises!
