Tokyo Travel Guide: Top Attractions, Local Cuisine & Culture

Tokyo offers something unique in every season:

• March to April (Spring): Best for cherry blossom (sakura) viewing in parks like Ueno and Shinjuku Gyoen.
• June to August (Summer): Hot and humid, but great for festivals like Sumidagawa Fireworks and traditional summer matsuri.
• September to November (Autumn): Mild weather and stunning fall foliage in gardens and temples.
• December to February (Winter): Cool but festive with Christmas lights and New Year celebrations.

• Shibuya Crossing – One of the world’s busiest and most iconic pedestrian crossings.
• Senso-ji Temple (Asakusa) – Tokyo’s oldest temple, surrounded by vibrant market streets.
• Tokyo Tower & Tokyo Skytree – Iconic landmarks with breathtaking city views.
• Shinjuku Gyoen – A serene garden, perfect for cherry blossoms and autumn leaves.
• Meiji Shrine & Yoyogi Park – A peaceful shrine located near trendy Harajuku.
• Akihabara – The center of anime, gaming, and electronic culture.
• Tsukiji Outer Market – A paradise for sushi lovers and Japanese seafood enthusiasts.
• Ginza – Tokyo’s upscale shopping and dining district.
• Odaiba – A futuristic island with unique attractions, including teamLab Borderless and the Gundam statue.
• Shinjuku Golden Gai – A nostalgic area with narrow alleyways and tiny, quirky bars.

• Sushi & Sashimi – Tokyo is home to some of the best sushi restaurants in the world.
• Ramen – Try different styles like Shoyu (soy sauce), Tonkotsu (pork bone broth), or Miso ramen.
• Tempura – Lightly battered and fried seafood and vegetables.
• Yakitori – Grilled skewered chicken, often served in small izakayas.
• Okonomiyaki – A savory Japanese pancake with a variety of toppings.
• Tonkatsu – Breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet served with rice and shredded cabbage.
• Taiyaki – A fish-shaped cake filled with red bean paste or custard.
• Matcha & Wagashi – Traditional Japanese green tea and sweets.

• Tokyo Metro & JR Trains: The most efficient way to travel—get a Suica or Pasmo card for convenience.
• Taxis: Expensive but available—best used late at night when trains stop running.
• Buses: Useful for areas not covered by trains, but not as common for tourists.
• Walking: Many districts, like Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Asakusa, are best explored on foot.
• Bicycles: Available for rent, but not recommended in crowded areas like Shinjuku.

• Visa-free entry for up to 90 days for travelers from the U.S., Canada, U.K., EU, Australia, and others.
• Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay.
• No required vaccinations, but travel insurance is highly recommended.

• The local currency is the Japanese Yen (JPY).
• Exchange some cash before arrival—Japan is still a cash-heavy society in smaller shops.
• ATMs are available, but use 7-Eleven ATMs or post offices for international cards.
• Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and major restaurants, but cash is needed in markets and small eateries.

• Japanese is the official language.
• English is spoken in tourist areas, but not widely in local restaurants or shops.
• Google Translate or the Papago app can be helpful for communication.
• Learning a few phrases like “Arigato gozaimasu” (thank you) and “Sumimasen” (excuse me) is appreciated.

• Bow slightly when greeting someone as a sign of respect.
• Remove your shoes before entering temples, homes, and traditional ryokan inns.
• Speak softly on public transport—phone calls are discouraged.
• Always queue properly at train stations, elevators, and escalators.
• Do not tip—service is included, and tipping can be seen as rude.

• Tipping is not customary in Japan—excellent service is expected as standard.
• Hotels & Ryokan Inns: No tip required, but a small envelope with cash may be accepted in high-end ryokans.
• Taxi Drivers: No tipping required—drivers may refuse a tip.
• Tour Guides: While tipping isn’t expected, a small gift or envelope with cash is appreciated.

• For cherry blossom season (March–April) and autumn foliage (October–November): Book 6–12 months in advance.
• For summer and winter travel: Booking 3–6 months ahead is usually sufficient.
• For themed dining experiences (Robot Restaurant, Ghibli Museum, Michelin-star restaurants): Reservations are required weeks or months in advance.

• COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted, but always check for updates.
• Drones require a permit and are banned in many areas.
• Avoid eating while walking in busy streets—this is considered impolite.
• Japan has strict drug regulations—even common medications like Adderall are prohibited.

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