Tokyo

Overview

Tokyo is really dozens of distinct towns stitched together by one of the world's most efficient train systems. Shibuya's crossing and Shinjuku's neon give way, a few stops away, to the quiet gravel paths of Meiji Shrine or the low wooden houses of Yanaka. The city rewards visitors who pick a neighborhood a day rather than trying to see it all at once.

Getting There

Narita (NRT) and Haneda (HND) airports both connect to central Tokyo by train; Haneda is closer, reaching central stations in about 30 minutes via the Tokyo Monorail or Keikyu Line. A Suica or Pasmo IC card works across nearly all trains, subways, and buses.

Top Things to Do

• Visit Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa at opening time, before the approach street fills with visitors.
• Spend an evening in Shinjuku's Omoide Yokocho, a narrow alley of tiny yakitori stalls.
• Ride the Yamanote Line loop once just to watch the city change character station to station.
• Walk through the quiet, wooded grounds of Meiji Shrine, a short walk from Harajuku's busiest street.

Local Tips

Cash is still widely used, though IC cards and major credit cards are increasingly accepted. Eating while walking is considered impolite in most areas — find a bench or eat near the stall instead.