Tokyo at night

Tokyo
From Wikitravel
Kanto : Tokyo (prefecture) : Tokyo
Discussion on defining district borders for Tokyo is in progress. If you know the city
pretty well, please share your opinion on the talk page.
Tokyo is a huge city with several district articles containing sightseeing,
restaurant, nightlife and accommodation listings have a look at each of
them.
Tky () [1] (http://www.tcvb.or.jp/en/index_en.htm) is the capital of Japan. At
over 12 million people in the official metropolitan area alone, Tokyo is the core of the
most populated urban area in the world, Greater Tokyo (which has a population of 35
million people). This huge, wealthy and fascinating metropolis brings high-tech visions of
the future side by side with glimpses of old Japan, and has something for everyone.
Contents
[+] Districts
Central Tokyo
Old Tokyo (Shitamachi)
Suburbs
[+] Understand
Culture
Expenses
Climate
[+] Get in
[+] By plane
Narita Airport
Haneda Airport
Ibaraki Airport
Chfu Airfield
By train
By car or thumb
By bus
By boat
[+] Get around
[+] By train and subway
Fares and hours
By taxi
By car
By bus
By ferry
By bicycle
By foot
Talk
[+] See
Itineraries
Do
Learn
Work
[+] Buy
Anime and manga
Antiques
Map of Central Tokyo
Antiques
Books
Cameras and electronics
Fashion
Kitchenware
Music
Souvenirs
Street markets
[+] Eat
Budget
Mid-range
Splurge
Drink
[+] Sleep
Budget
Mid-range
Splurge
[+] Contact
Free Wifi
Paid Wifi
Internet cafe
Stay safe
[+] Cope
Healthcare centres
Babysitting
Embassies
Get out
Districts
Huge and varied in its geography, with over 2,000 square kilometers (770 mi) to explore, Tokyo Metropolis ( Tky-to) spans not just the
city, but rugged mountains to the west and subtropical islands to the south. This article concentrates on the 23 central wards ( ku) near the bay,
while the western cities and the islands are covered in a separate article.
The geography of central Tokyo is defined by the JR Yamanote Line (see Get around). The center of Tokyo the former area reserved for the Shogun
and his samurai lies within the loop, while the Edo-era downtown ( shitamachi) is to the north and east. Sprawling around in all directions and
blending in seamlessly are Yokohama, Kawasaki and Chiba, Tokyo's suburbs.
Central Tokyo
Chiyoda (Akihabara)
The seat of Japanese power (both political and economic) that includes the Imperial Palace, the
Ministries near Kasumigaseki, the Parliament in Nagatacho, the corporate headquarters of
Marunouchi, and the electronics mecca of Akihabara.
Chuo (Ginza)
Also includes the famed department stores of the Ginza and the fish markets of Tsukiji.
Minato (Akasaka, Shinbashi, Roppongi, Odaiba, Shiodome)
Including the business centers of Akasaka and Shinbashi and the neighbouring nightclub district of
Roppongi, the port district (at least in name) which includes the artificial island of Odaiba, the
skyscrapers of Shiodome.
Shinjuku
Home to luxury hotels, giant camera stores, futuristic skyscrapers, hundreds of shops and
restaurants, and Kabukicho, Tokyo's wildest nightlife and red-light district.
Shibuya (Harajuku, Ebisu)
The fashionable shopping district which also encompasses the teenybopper haven of Harajuku
(also home to the Meiji Shrine) and the nightlife of Ebisu
Shinagawa (Gotanda)
A major train hub and business center, including Gotanda.
Toshima (Ikebukuro)
Including Ikebukuro, another giant train hub.
Map of Tokyo
Map of Old Tokyo
Including Ikebukuro, another giant train hub.
Meguro
A residential area with a few nice parks and museums.
Old Tokyo (Shitamachi)
Sumida (Ryogoku)
Home of the Edo-Tokyo Museum and Tokyo's main sumo arena (Ryogoku Kokugikan), both in Ryogoku.
Taito (Asakusa, Ueno)
The heart of Old Tokyo featuring the temples of Asakusa and National Museums in Ueno.
Bunkyo
Home to Tokyo Dome and the University of Tokyo.
Koto
Famous for Kameido Tenjin and former woodland in Kiba, but now known for its many new public apartment complexes.
Arakawa
Home to Tokyo's last original tram line.
Suburbs
East
Many suburban wards, including Adachi, where one can visit one of Kanto's Three Great Temples:
Nishi-arai Daishi, Katsushika, known for the charming Showa-era atmosphere of Shibamata and
Edogawa, a quiet eastern suburb.
North
Includes the suburban wards of Kita, Itabashi and the quieter northern Nerima, which contains
some of the 23 wards' last remaining farmland.
Nakano
Home to the otaku paradise known as Nakano Broadway.
Ota
Half industrial complex, half upscale residential area.
Setagaya
An upscale residential area that houses the student drinking spot of Shimokitazawa as well as the
newly revitalized shopping centers of Futako-Tamagawa.
Suginami
Typical Tokyo suburb stretching along the Chuo Line.
Understand
Shinjuku at night
Cherry blossom picnic, Yoyogi
Park
Luggage delivery
Send your bags into town before you arriveTokyo is
crowded. Lugging even a moderately sized suitcase
through the subways and up stairs can be difficult,
particularly during rush hour. Delivery services
(takkyuubin) deliver luggage dependably and quickly to
nearly any address. You can send almost any shape or
size of luggage, even bicycles, from and to the airport.
One exception: if you have bottles of alcohol in your
luggage, you'll have to carry those yourself even if the
airline allowed them in your in checked baggage.
At airports and major train stations, look for a sign that
says "Baggage Delivery" or something similar. The most
common company is called Kuroneko-Yamato, which
has an easy-to-spot black-on-yellow logo of a mother cat
carrying her kitten. Other companies include Nittsu and
Sagawa. Japan Post, the national postal service, also
Understand
Over 500 years old, the city of Tokyo grew from the modest fishing village of Edo (). The city only truly began to grow when it became the seat of
the Tokugawa shogunate in 1603. While the emperor ruled in name from Kyoto, the true power was concentrated in the hands of the Tokugawa shogun
in Edo. After the Meiji restoration in 1868, during which the Tokugawa family lost its influence, the emperor and the imperial family moved here from
Kyoto, and the city was re-named to its current name, Tokyo. The metropolitan center of the country, Tokyo is the destination for business, education,
modern culture, and government. (That's not to say that rivals such as Osaka won't dispute those claims.)
Culture
Tokyo is vast: it's best thought of not as a single city, but a constellation of cities that have grown together. Tokyo's
districts vary wildly by character, from the electronic blare of Akihabara to the Imperial gardens and shrines of
Chiyoda, from the hyperactive youth culture mecca of Shibuya to the pottery shops and temple markets of Asakusa. If
you don't like what you see, hop on the train and head to the next station, and you will find something entirely different.
The sheer size and frenetic pace of Tokyo can intimidate the first-time visitor. Much of the city is a jungle of concrete
and wires, with a mass of neon and blaring loudspeakers. At rush hour, crowds jostle in packed trains and masses of
humanity sweep through enormous and bewilderingly complex stations. Don't get too hung up on ticking tourist sights
off your list: for most visitors, the biggest part of the Tokyo experience is just wandering around at random and
absorbing the vibe, poking your head into shops selling weird and wonderful things, sampling restaurants where you
can't recognize a single thing on the menu (or on your plate), and finding unexpected oases of calm in the tranquil
grounds of a neighbourhood Shinto shrine. It's all perfectly safe, and the locals will go to sometimes extraordinary lengths to help you if you just ask.
Expenses
The cost of living in Tokyo is not as astronomical as it once was. Deflation and market pressures have helped to make costs in Tokyo comparable to most
other large cities. Visitors from San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York, and London will likely not find it any more expensive than back home. Travelers
should budget a similar amount of money for their stay in Tokyo as they would for any other great city in Europe, North America or Australia. Locals will
know the bargains, but experienced cheapskates from anywhere in the world can get by with a little ingenuity. Tokyo is one of the most popular places to
live in Japan. It is also rated the fifth most expensive city to live in, in the world. Rent for a single's apartment could range from $US500 to $US1,000 a
month. Tokyo is so overwhelmingly crowded that apartments are usually no bigger than 175 square feet (16 square meters).
Climate
Tokyo is classified as lying in the humid subtropical climate zone and has four distinct seasons. Summers are usually
hot and humid with a temperature range of about 20-30 C (68-86 F), though it can sometimes climb into the high
thirties. Winters are usually mild, with temperatures generally ranging from 0-10 C (32-50 F), though occasional
cold spells can send temperatures plummeting below zero at night. Snow is rare, but on those rare occasions (once
every few years) when Tokyo is hit by a snowstorm, much of the train network grinds to a halt. The famous cherry
blossoms bloom in March-April and parks, most famously Ueno, fill up with blue tarps and sozzled salarymen.
Get in
In Japan, all roads, rails, shipping lanes and planes lead to Tokyo.
By plane
Tokyo has two large airports: Narita for international flights, and Haneda for (mostly)
domestic flights.
Narita Airport
See also: Narita
Tokyo's main international gateway is Narita Airport () (IATA: NRT) [2]
(http://www.narita-airport.jp/en/), located in the town of Narita nearly 70 kilometers (43
mi) northeast of Tokyo and covered in a separate article. A brief summary of options for
getting there and away:
Easiest: Limousine bus direct to major hotels, ~120 minutes (subject to traffic),
3,500
Fastest: Skyliner (Keisei Electric Railway) to Nippori and Ueno Stations, under
45 minutes, 2,400; Narita Express (East Japan Railway Company) to Tokyo
Sagawa. Japan Post, the national postal service, also
offers luggage delivery called "Yu-Pack". Fees are based
upon distance, expect to pay around 2000 within the
greater Tokyo area. Usually, the delivery is performed the
following day, in a specified time range.
This works the same way on departure. Most hotels and
many convenience stores will take care of the pick-up for
you, but you should check delivery times in advance, so
that your luggage can arrive in time for your flight. Most
services require that you send your luggage to the
airport two days prior to your departure. You can
pick up your luggage in the airport lobby. This makes
getting to the airport a breeze. This service can also be
used for intercity travel.
45 minutes, 2,400; Narita Express (East Japan Railway Company) to Tokyo
Station, Shibuya, Shinjuku, Yokohama, 55 minutes and 2,940 ( 1,500 starting
January 7 2014) to Tokyo Station. Japan Rail Pass valid for Narita Express.
Cheapest: Keisei Limited Express/Access Tokkyu trains to Nippori/Ueno, 60-80
minutes, 1,000-1,200 (Access Tokkyu trains also serve some subway stations);
"Super Shuttle" Bus to Ueno and Asakusa, 1,000
Most expensive: Taxi to the city, more than 30,000; flat-fare cabs
approximately 17,000-19,000
Haneda Airport
Haneda Airport ( IATA: HND) [3] (http://www.tokyo-airport-
bldg.co.jp/english/), officially known as Tokyo International Airport, in Ota is the
busiest airport in all Asia despite a majority of flights being domestic.
Domestic Terminal 1 houses the JAL group including Skymark and Skynet, while
Domestic Terminal 2 is home to ANA and affiliate Air Do. In 2010, Haneda opened a brand new International Terminal Building along with a new
runway. International flights operate into Haneda from 18 cities, with a number of these flights landing and departing during the late evening hours. Free
shuttle buses run every six minutes between 05:00 and midnight, connecting the International terminal with both Domestic terminals. Also, if you are flying
on American Airlines to/from JFK in New York City, you will arrive in Haneda, not Narita International Airport.
The easiest and most scenic way from Haneda to the city is the Tokyo Monorail [4] (http://www.tokyo-monorail.co.jp/english/index.html) running to
Hamamatsucho for 470, from where you can connect to almost anywhere in Tokyo on the JR Yamanote line. The monorail has a station at each of
Haneda's three terminals. From the International Terminal, trains reach Hamamatsucho in as little as 14 minutes on the nonstop services; the domestic
terminals are about 5 minutes farther down the line. JR East maintains a Travel Service Center for foreigners in the International Terminal (11:00 to 18:30
daily) where vouchers can be exchanged for the Japan Rail Pass and JR East Rail Pass. The Tokyo Monorail is fully covered with either pass.
Starting on February 1, 2011, JR East will sell a special Suica fare package, called "Suica & Monorail" [5] (http://www.jreast.co.jp/e/suica-
monorail/index.html), exclusively to foreign visitors. The cost includes a discounted fare on the Tokyo Monorail (one-way or round-trip), 1500 to use on
rail travel in Tokyo or on purchases at locations that accept the Suica card, and a 500 deposit. The "Suica & Monorail" ticket is sold only from the JR
East Service Center at the international terminal, and can be purchased using cash or credit card. It can also be recharged with additional funds, but only
by paying cash. The one-way ticket is 2400, and the round-trip ticket costs 2700; the return trip to Haneda must be taken within 10 days.
The other alternative is the private Keikyu () line, which has two train stations at Haneda: one for the International Terminal and one serving both
Domestic terminals. Keikyu trains run to Shinagawa (15 min, 400) and Yokohama (30-35 min via Airport Express [], 440-470).
Some Keikyu trains from Haneda continue on to the Toei Asakusa Line, providing one-seat rides to Nihonbashi (30-35 min, 550-590) and Asakusa
(40-45 min, 600-640).
JR Passes are not valid on Keikyu Trains. If your final destination is somewhere along the Tokaido Shinkansen (i.e. Odawara, Atami, Shizuoka,
Nagoya, Kyoto, Osaka) then it will be easier to take the Keikyu Line to Shinagawa to pick up the shinkansen, even if you have a Japan Rail Pass. Using
the Tokyo Monorail will require you to take an additional train, the Yamanote Line, to either Tokyo station or Shinagawa.
Limousine Buses connect Haneda Airport with Narita Airport (90 minutes, 3,000). Most Airport Rapid Express [] trains on the Keikyu
Line also run all the way to Narita Airport's terminals; these services are much cheaper than the bus (90 minutes, 1,740), but buses operate more
frequently. Note that the "Airport Terminal 2" station that pops up in some route search engines refers to terminal 2 at Narita Airport, not Haneda!
Normal metered taxis to central Tokyo will cost anywhere from 4,000 to 10,000, plus a 20% surcharge between 22:00 and 05:00. An alternative is
Anzen Taxi's [6] (http://anzentaxi.co.jp/reserve/haneda_fee.html) fixed fare service for 6,000 (8,000 at night) to most of central Tokyo, including
Shinjuku and Shibuya.
If you arrive on a late flight or need to catch an early flight, beware that there are no trains between midnight and 05:00 on either the monorail or the
Keikyu line. Some limousine buses do operate after midnight, but such trips incur an additional "night surcharge".
Ibaraki Airport
Ibaraki Airport ( IATA: IBR) [7] (http://www.ibaraki-airport.net/) in Omitama, Ibaraki, some 85 km north of Tokyo, is an upstart aimed
squarely at low-cost carriers. As of 2010, services are limited to flights from Kobe, Seoul and Shanghai, but the 1.5-hour bus ride to/from Tokyo Station
is only 500 for flight passengers. (pre-booked)
Chfu Airfield
Chfu Airfield ( Chfu hikj) serves only some turboprop flights to the Izu Islands south of Tokyo. The nearest railway station is Nishi-
Chfu on the Kei Line, a 15-minute walk away. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Chofu or Mitaka stations.
By train
Tokyo Station
By train
Tokyo is the nerve centre of railways in Japan, highspeed Shinkansen services arrives at Tokyo Station (
Tky-eki) which is located in the Chiyoda ward. For all trains on the northern route, you can get off at Ueno, while
trains on the western route calls at Shinagawa. Most non-Shinkansen services usually stops at Shibuya and Shinjuku
stations as well. Ueno and Ikebukuro stations connect you to the northern suburbs and neighboring prefectures.
On the western route there are departures every 10-15 minutes from Kyoto and Osaka with two types of Shinkansen
trains, Nozomi is the fastest cutting the journey time down to 2:20 hours while the slightly slower Hikari trains adds an
extra twenty minutes.
The northen route connects with Aomori, Fukushima and Sendai, the fastest services are with the Hayabusa and Hayate trains.
Although Japan is dominated by fast Shinkansen trains there are still a few sleeper trains left. Sunrise Izumo () runs daily to Tokyo from
Izumo while Sunrise Seto () connects with Takamatsu, the largest city on the Shikoku island. Also, the luxurious Cassiopeia (
) overnight train offers an direct route from the northen city of Sapporo three times a week. Fares starts at 27,000 with a journey time of 16 hours.
For those on a smaller budget, the Hokutosei () leaves daily and has a more reasonable price of just over 9,000. Notice that the both trains
from Sapporo arrives in Ueno.
By car or thumb
While you can drive into the city, it's really not recommended as the city can be congested, signs may be confusing and parking fees are astronomical.
Hitchhiking into Tokyo is pretty easy, but hitchhiking out is considerably more difficult. It's definitely possible for determined cheapskates though, see
Hitchhiking in Japan for a detailed list of tested escape routes from the city.
By bus
Highway bus services link Tokyo to other cities, resort areas and the surrounding prefectures. There are JR and private bus companies. Bus service may
be cheaper, but the train is probably more convenient. If you have a JR pass, then you should generally stick with the trains.
Long-distance buses use a number of terminals scattered throughout the city, but the main JR depot is at Tokyo Station's Yaesu-minamiguchi (
) exit, while Keio and some other private companies use the Shinjuku Highway Bus Terminal (), opposite Yodobashi
Camera near the West Exit.
The JR Bus Group [8] (http://www.kakuyasubus.jp). A major operator of bus services to and from Tokyo. Seat reservations for JR Buses can
be made at JR Bus counters in Tokyo and Shinjuku stations, and in JR train stations at the same "Midori-no-Madoguchi" ticket windows used to
reserve seats on trains. Moreover, the Japan Rail Pass is valid on all bus runs between Tokyo and Nagoya, Kyoto and Osaka.
Willer Express [9] (http://willerexpress.com/en/). A company that has nightly bus services to and from Tokyo. Its bus services link many cities in
Japan. Online booking available in English.
Kokusai Kogyo Bus (Japanese Website) (http://5931bus.com/kosoku/).
Keisei Bus (Japanese Website) (http://www.keiseibus.co.jp/).
Keikyu Bus (Japanese Website) (http://www.keikyu-bus.co.jp/).
Keio Bus (Japanese Website) (http://www2.keio-bus.com/).
Kanto Bus (Japanese Website) (http://www.kanto-bus.co.jp/).
Nishi Tokyo Bus (Japanese Website) (http://http://www.nisitokyobus.co.jp/).
Odakyu Bus (Japanese Website) (http://www.odakyubus.co.jp/).
Odakyu Hakone Bus [10] (http://http://www.nisitokyobus.co.jp/).
Seibu Bus (Japanese Website) (http://www.seibu-group.co.jp/bus/).
Tobu Bus (Japanese Website) (http://www.tobu-bus.com/).
Tohoku Kyuko Bus (Japanese Website) (http://www.tohoku-express.co.jp/).
By boat
One of the great ports of the world, Tokyo also has domestic ferry services to other points in Japan. However, none of the regular international ferries to
Japan call at Tokyo.
The main long-distance ferry terminal is Ariake Ferry Terminal [11] (http://www.tptc.or.jp/eng/ferry.htm), located on an artificial island adjacent to
Odaiba in Tokyo Bay. The nearest station is Kokusai-Tenjijo-Seimon on the Yurikamome line, but it's still a bit of a hike. You can also take a direct bus
from Shin-Kiba station on the Metro Yurakucho line. The main services from this terminal are:
Subway lines with transfer stations labeled.
A Yamanote Line train.
from Shin-Kiba station on the Metro Yurakucho line. The main services from this terminal are:
Tokyo-Tomakomai (Hokkaido): Kawasaki Kinkai Kisen, 03-3528-0718. This ferry has no passenger facilities, so it can only be used if you have
a car; fares for a car and driver start at 25,820.
Tokyo-Tokushima-Kitakyushu: Ocean Tokyu Ferry, 03-5148-0109. Tokyo-Kitakyushu passenger fares are 14,000 for second class, 26,600
for first class.
Ferries to the Izu and Ogasawara Islands leave from Takeshiba Terminal (), adjacent to Takeshiba station on the Yurikamome
line. Cruise liners tend to use the Harumi Terminal (), best accessible on bus 05 (To-05) from Tokyo station Marunouchi
South Exit or 12(Tou-12) from Tokyo station Yaesu exit. International ferries and cargo ferries that also take passengers can leave from other terminals
too, enquire with your shipping company.
Get around
By train and subway
Tokyo has one of the most extensive mass transit systems in the world. It is clean, safe
and efficient - and confusing. The confusion arises from the fact that several distinct
railway systems operate within Tokyo - the JR East network, the two subway networks,
and various private lines - and different route maps show different systems. Avoid rush
hours if possible; trains get overcrowded very easily.
The defining rail line in Tokyo is the JR Yamanote Line (), which runs in a loop
around central Tokyo; being inside the Yamanote loop is synonymous with being in the
core of Tokyo. Almost all inter-regional JR lines and private lines start at a station on the
Yamanote. JR's lines are color-coded, and the Yamanote is green. The JR Chuo (
, orange) and Sobu (, yellow) lines run side-by-side, bisecting the Yamanote
loop from Shinjuku on the west to Tokyo on the east. JR's other commuter lines, the
Saikyo and Keihin-Tohoku, run off the rim of the Yamanote loop to the north and south.
JR East has a good English information line, 050-2016-1603 or 03-3423-0111.
Tokyo has an extensive subway network with frequent trains, and these are primarily useful for getting around within the Yamanote loop. The Tokyo
Metro [12] (http://www.tokyometro.jp/e/index.html) runs nine lines: Ginza, Marunouchi, Hibiya, Tozai, Chiyoda, Yurakucho, Hanzomon, Namboku and
Fukutoshin lines. Toei [13] (http://www.kotsu.metro.tokyo.jp/english/index.html) operates the Asakusa, Mita, Shinjuku, and Oedo lines. While the JR
Yamanote Line is not a subway line, due to its importance as a major transportation artery in downtown Tokyo, it is usually featured on subway maps. In
addition, there is a largely underground Rinkai Line, a private line which is operated by Tokyo Waterfront Area Rapid Transit [14] (http://www.twr.co.jp)
(web-site only in Japanese) or TWR, that passes through the island of Odaiba.
Announcements and signs are usually bilingual in Japanese and English, though in some areas frequented by tourists, signs in Korean and Chinese can also
be seen.
A number of private commuter lines radiate from the Yamanote loop out into the outlying wards and suburbs, and almost all connect through directly to
subway lines within the loop. The private lines are useful for day trips outside the city, and are slightly cheaper than JR. Among these, the most important
to visitors is arguably the Yurikamome [15] (http://www.yurikamome.co.jp/en/) which offers great views on the way to the island of Odaiba.
Fares and hours
Most tickets and passes are sold from automated vending machines. Almost all vending machines now have an "English" mode. Keep in mind that JR
trains are free with a Japan Rail Pass [16] (http://www.japanrailpass.net/).
Prepaid fare cards are convenient and highly recommended because they allow you to ride trains without having
to read the sometimes Japanese-only fare maps to determine your fare. There are two brands of prepaid fare
cards, JR East's Suica, and PASMO, offered by private (non-JR) lines. Functionally they are completely
interchangeable and can be used on just about every subway, train and bus line in Tokyo (with the noted exception
of JR's Shinkansen and limited express trains).
The fare cards are rechargeable "smart cards": you simply tap your card on the touch pad next to the turnstile as
you go in, and do the same when going through to exit. There is an initial 500 deposit that you must pay when
purchasing a fare card, but up to 20,000 in value can be stored on each card.
The older Passnet cards are not accepted anymore. If you still own some of these, you can exchange them for a PASMO or Suica card.
There are also some special tickets that allow unlimited travel, but most are unlikely to be useful to tourists unless you're planning to spend half your day
on the train.
The Tokunai Pass () is a one-day pass good for travel on JR lines anywhere in the 23 wards of Tokyo (including the entire
Yamanote Line and many stations surrounding it). It costs 730, making it economical if you plan to make five or more train hops in one day. A
Who is making announcements in English?
In Tokyo, whichever train you take--namely, JR East,
Tokyo Metro, Toei Subway, Tobu Railway, Seibu
Railway, Odakyu Electric Railway, and Keisei Electric
Railway--you will hear English announcements in a similar
voice. Actually, they are all announced by the same voice
actor, Christelle Ciari.[17]
(http://www3.plala.or.jp/christelle/)
In a Japanese interview she said, "Most railway
companies I worked for did not give me any instruction
on how to pronounce the station names in English. So I
decided to read them in the original Japanese accent
because I personally thought it was more natural and
easier to comprehend for non-native speakers of English.
The only exception was JR East, which instructed me to
announce the station names in an American accent."
Therefore, you will hear "Shibuya" on Tokyo Metro while
you will hear "Sheebooyah" on JR trains.
Yamanote Line and many stations surrounding it). It costs 730, making it economical if you plan to make five or more train hops in one day. A
variant is the Tokunai Free Kippu (), which also includes a round-trip into Tokyo from stations in the surrounding
prefectures. The Monorail And Tokunai Free Kippu, which is good for two days and includes a round-trip from Haneda Airport to central
Tokyo, is also sold for 2,000.
The Tokyo Free Kippu () covers all JR, subway and city bus lines within the 23 wards. It costs 1,580 for one day, and
covers a number of areas that are not served by JR, such as Roppongi and Odaiba.
The Holiday Pass () covers the entire JR network in the Tokyo metropolitan area, including Chiba, Kanagawa, Saitama and west
Tokyo. It costs 2,300 for one day, and is only available on weekends, national holidays and during summer vacation (July 20 through August 31).
If you're paying a la carte, subway and train fares are based on distance, ranging from
110 to 310 for hops within central Tokyo. As a general rule of thumb, Tokyo Metro
lines are cheapest, Toei lines are most expensive, and JR lines fall somewhere in the
middle (but are usually cheaper than Metro for short trips, i.e. no more than 4 stations).
Many of the private lines interoperate with the subways, which can occasionally make a
single ride seem unreasonably expensive as you are in essence transferring to another line
and fare system, even though you're still on the same train. E.g. changing between Metro
subway line and Tokyu private line amounts to paying the sum of each fare: minimum fare
Metro 160 + minimum fare Tokyu 120 = 280. In addition, several patterns of transfer
are listed as "Transfer Discount", and the most famous one is 70 discount, that applies to
a transfer between Tokyo Metro and Toei subway lines. When using Suica or PASMO,
you can get all transfer discounts automatically. At some transfer stations, you may need
to pass through a special transfer gate (both for paper tickets and PASMO/Suica) which
is coloured orange - passing through the regular blue gate will not get you your transfer
discount and if you have a paper ticket, you won't get it back. At some transfer points
(e.g. Asakusa station) you may actually need to transfer on street level as the two stations
(Metro Ginza Line and Toei Asakusa Line) are not physically connected and are about
one block apart.
It pays to check your route beforehand. The Tokyo Transfer Guide [18]
(http://www.tokyo-subway.net/english/) by the Tokyo Metro and Toei subway
companies, is an online service that allows you to plan subway and train travel from point
A to point B, based on time, cost, and transfers. This guide provides information for
Tokyo only, and there are other sites which additionally cover the whole country, see the Japan page. Some major stations have terminals providing
information similar to the Tokyo Transfer Guide.
If you can't figure out how much it is to the destination, you can buy the cheapest ticket and pay the difference at the Fare Adjustment Machine
(norikoshi) at the end. Most vending machines will let you buy a single ticket that covers a transfer between JR, subway and private lines, all the way to
your destination, but working out how to do this may be a challenge if you are not familiar with the system. When transferring between systems, whether
paying with tickets or smart cards, use the orange transfer gates to exit. Otherwise, you'll be charged full fare for both separate parts of your trip,
instead of the cheaper transfer fare.
Most train lines in Tokyo run from around 05:00 to 01:00. During peak hours they run about once every three minutes; even during off-peak hours it's less
than ten minutes between trains. The only night when regular passenger services run overnight is for the New Year's Holiday on select lines.
For additional information for train travel in Japan generally, refer to the By rail section in the Japan article.
By taxi
Taxis are very pricey, but may be a value for groups of three or more. Also, if you miss your last train, you may not have another choice.
Fares generally start at 710 for the first two kilometers and can add up rapidly. A 20% night surcharge is tacked on from 22:00-05:00. As a rule of
thumb, a daytime trip across the city from Tokyo station to Shinjuku station will cost approximately 3000, while a daytime trip from Tokyo station to
Haneda Airport costs around 6200. These examples are based on standard routing and traffic conditions, so your actual fare may vary in relation to the
estimated fare.
Do not count on your taxi driver speaking English--or knowing more than the best-known locations, though most taxis have GPS "car navi" systems
installed. The best and easiest thing to do is to prepare a map marked with where you want to go, and point it out on the map to the taxi driver. If you are
staying at a hotel, they will provide a map. If possible, get a business card, or print out the address in Japanese of any specific places you wish to go.
However, because in Japan streets are often unmarked, if the taxi driver does not have GPS he may not be able to do more than take you to the general
vicinity of where you want to go. Also, note that taxis can get caught in traffic jams. No tips are expected or given.
Taxi rear left passenger doors are operated by the driver and open and close automatically. Don't open or close them yourself.
By car
By car
Tokyo is a gigantic warren of narrow streets with no names, with sometimes slow-moving traffic and relatively limited and expensive parking. In this city
with such an excellent mass transit system, you would need a good reason to want to drive around instead, unless you already have some familiarity with
the city and its surroundings. While renting a car does make sense in Japan in some contexts (e.g. travelling between cities, visiting smaller towns or a rural
onsen resort), in general it is neither convenient nor economical to rent a car to get around metro Tokyo. Taxis are much more convenient if your budget
allows it; walking or public transportation is much less expensive and given the difficulties of navigation and finding parking in popular areas, probably
easier too.
If you do decide to plunge in and drive around by car, the main expressway serving Tokyo is the Shuto Expressway, abbreviated to Shutoko ()
[19] (http://www.shutoko.jp/english/). The C1 Loop Line forms a circle around central Tokyo, similar in fashion to how the Yamanote Line does it by rail.
But whereas the Yamanote Line charges 130-250 for a single trip, driving a car onto the Shutoko in Tokyo entitles you to pay either in cash a flat entry
fee of 900 every time you enter the system, or, if your car is equipped with the electronic toll system (ETC), a flexible toll between (500 and 900)
depending on the distance travelled. When driving around, both on Shuto and on the regular streets, try to avoid the rush hour (with traffic moving into the
centre in the morning, and out towards suburbs in the evening). Check with the car rental agency whether English-language navigation system is available,
as it will make a huge difference, and you will be able to use your car to outperform the public transportation on many occasions.
Driving on the Tokyo Expressway at night can be a pleasant and beautiful experience as you whiz through and around the Tokyo nightlife. When driving at
night you should exercise caution and obey speed limits: Street racing over the Shutoko at night became popular in the 80's and 90's and still happens
today, albeit on a less frequent basis. Street racers often concentrate their driving on the C1 Loop Line and the Bayshore (more popularly known as the
Wangan) Line. "Competitors" sometimes hang out at parking and service areas on the Shutoko, especially the large Daikoku Parking Area at the
intersection of the Bayshore Line and the K5 Daikoku Line in Yokohama.
By bus
The few areas within Tokyo that aren't easily accessible by train are served by various bus companies. Buses operating within 23 wards of Tokyo have a
fixed fare regardless of distance (200 on Toei buses [20] (http://www.kotsu.metro.tokyo.jp/english/bus_op.html) and 210 on other private bus
companies), which is paid upon boarding from the front door. The fares are not transferable; however most buses do accept Suica or PASMO fare
cards (see above). If you use a "Suica" or "PASMO" card to board a Toei Bus, you will receive a 100 discount on your next Toei Bus ride as long as it
is within 90 minutes of the previous ride. The fare can also be payed in hard currency of practically any denomination, which can also be used to charge
your electronic fare card if you tell the driver you wish to do so. Compared to the trains, the buses run much less frequently, carry fewer passengers, and
are much slower. This makes them amenable to the elderly residents of Tokyo, but rather inconvenient for travelers, who will also have to deal with lack
of information in English and sometimes very well hidden bus stops.
The bus routes are named by a kanji based on a destination they serve and a number, e.g. "64" for the route between Shibuya () and Nakano.
The routes can be fairly complicated and are often not listed in detail at the bus stops; signs on the buses themselves often list only two or three main stops
in addition to the origin and destination. Finding a bus going towards a main terminal like Shibuya or Shinjuku is therefore pretty easy, the other way
around may be more difficult. You may find several different stops by different companies within a few meters, all sharing the same name; sometimes those
are full-fledged waiting areas and sometimes only a signpost at a street corner. Inside the bus the next stop is usually announced several times, sometimes
by a taped voice and sometimes by a mumbling driver; recently taped announcements in English are used on some lines, but are still rare. In addition the
stop is displayed on an electronic display, but rarely in Latin writing. Some stops may have similar names, you should make sure you know the exact name
of the stop you want to get off at. Drivers are usually very helpful, though aren't typically used to tourists and may be rather busy dealing with fares,
passengers and traffic. Nevertheless, north-south routes are useful in the western side of the city since train lines (Odakyu, Keio, Chuo, and Seibu) tend to
run east-west. Google Maps [21] (http://www.google.com/maps?ie=UTF8&ll=36.664739,136.71386&spn=20.943012,19.6875&dirflg=r) has begun
adding bus transit information and is possibly the easiest way of planning a trip by bus.
By ferry
The Tokyo Cruise Ship Company operates a series of Water Bus [22] (http://www.suijobus.co.jp/english/) ferries along the Sumida River and in Tokyo
Bay, connecting Asakusa, Hinode, Harumi and Odaiba. The ferries feature a recorded tour announced in English as well as Japanese and a trip on one
makes for a relaxing, leisurely way to see the waterfront areas of Tokyo. Of particular note is the super-futuristic Himiko ferry [23]
(http://www.suijobus.co.jp/english/cruise_e/index_asa_line.html) designed by anime and manga creator Leiji Matsumoto , which runs on the Asakusa-
Odaiba Direct Line. You might want to arrive well before the departure time just in case tickets on the Himiko sell out!
By bicycle
Bicycles are very commonly used for local transport, but amenities like bicycle lanes are rare, drivers pay little heed to bikes and traffic can be very heavy
on weekdays, so if you use a bicycle, do not be afraid to cycle on the sidewalk (everyone does). Keep in mind, however, that parts of Tokyo are
surprisingly hilly, and it's a sweaty job pedaling around in the summer heat. Central Tokyo can still be covered fairly comfortably by bike on the
weekends. Tokyo Great Cycling Tour [24] (http://www.tokyocycling.jp) offers a one day guided tour for biking around major tourist spots in Tokyo, like
Marunouchi, Nihonbashi, Tsukiji, Odaiba, Tokyo tower, Imperial palace and so on.
Renting a bike is possible from some youth hostels, particularly around Asakusa, although it's not common. However, buying a simple single-speed
roadster is fairly cheap, and comes complete with a built-in bicycle wheel lock system (this is what most Tokyoites use). An imported multiple-geared
bike will be much more expensive so get a good lock, as bike theft is a common threat, although the problem is nowhere near as serious as in other
countries.
Sensoji Temple, Asakusa
Tokyo National Museum,
Ueno
Koishikawa Korakuen Park,
Bunkyo
countries.
By foot
In this large city with such an efficient public transportation system, walking to get from point A to point B would seem a bit stupid at first glance.
However, as the city is extremely safe even at night, walking in Tokyo can be a very pleasant experience. In some areas, walking can be much shorter
than taking the subway and walking the transit (the whole Akasaka/Nagatacho/Roppongi area in the center is for instance very easily covered on foot). If
you have the time, Shinjuku to Shibuya via Omotesando takes roughly one hour, Tokyo Station to Shinjuku would be a half a day walk, and the whole
Yamanote line Grand Tour takes a long day.
Talk
It's possible for English speakers to navigate their way around Tokyo without speaking any Japanese. Signs at subway and train stations include the
station names in romaji (Romanized characters), and larger stations often have signs in Chinese and Korean as well. Though most people under the age
of 40 have learned English in school, proficiency is generally poor, and most locals would not know more than a few basic words and phrases. Some
restaurants may have English menus, but it does not necessarily mean that the staff will speak much English. Reading and writing comes much better
though, and many people can understand a great deal of written English without actually knowing how to speak it. That being said, staff at the main hotels
and tourist attractions generally speak an acceptable level of English. While it is possible to get by with only English, it will nevertheless make your trip
much smoother if you can learn some basic Japanese. It should also be noted that the Japanese are much more willing to speak English if you make some
attempt to speak Japanese. At the very least learn to say common greetings and "which train to...".
Overpronouncing the Y in names like Tokyo make it difficult for the native Japanese speaker to understand. It's not silent, but it's not a separate syllable
either. "Toh-qyo"
See
Tokyo has a vast array of sights, but the first items on the agenda of most visitors are the temples of Asakusa, the
gardens of the Imperial Palace (in Chiyoda) and the Meiji Shrine (, in Harajuku).
Tokyo has many commercial centres for shopping, eating and simply wandering around for experiencing the modern
Japanese urban phenomenon. Each of these areas have unique characteristics, such as dazzling Shinjuku, youthful
Shibuya and upmarket Ginza. These areas are bustling throughout the day, but they really come into life in the
evenings.
If you're looking for a viewing platform, the Tokyo Tower is the best known and offers an impressive view, even if it's
rather overpriced. The highest spot in Tokyo is the Tokyo Metropolitan Government building (in effect, Tokyo's
City Hall) in Shinjuku. Its twin towers have viewing platforms that are absolutely free, and offer a great view over Tokyo and beyond. However, the best
option would probably be from the World Trade Center Building (10:00-20:00, or 21:00 in July and August, 620) at JR Hamamatsucho station
which, although not as high, offers stunning views of Tokyo Tower and the waterfront due to its excellent location, especially at dusk. A recent addition to
the viewing platforms around Tokyo is Tokyo City View in Roppongi Hills, Roppongi -- admission is a steep 1500, but includes admission to the
Mori Art Museum. Another good option, if you don't mind traffic noise and smell, is the Rainbow Bridge at Odaiba, whose pedestrian walkways are
free. The night-time view across Tokyo Bay is impressive but the walkways close at 20:00. Also, on a clear day, the Bunkyo Civic Center (next to the
Tokyo Dome) offers an iconic view of Shinjuku against Mt. Fuji (especially great at sunset), also free.
The city is dotted with museums, large and small, which center on every possible interest from pens to antique clocks
to traditional and modern arts. Many of the largest museums are clustered around Ueno. At 500 to 1,000 or more,
entrance fees can add up quickly.
Riding Sky Bus Tokyo (http://skybus.jp/explains/index/00033), an open-top double-decker operated by
Hinomaru Limousine (every hour between 10:00 and 18:00), is a good option to take a quick tour around the city
center. The 45 minutes bus ride on the "T-01 course" will take you around the Imperial Palace via Ginza and
Marunouchi district, showing the highlight of Tokyo's shopping and business center. The fare is 1,500 for adults of 12
years old and over, and 700 for children between 4 and 11 years old. You can borrow a multi-language voice guide
system free of charge upon purchasing a ticket, subject to stock availability. Four other bus courses are offered,
including a night trip to Odaiba, but those trips are conducted in Japanese with no foreign language guidance.
Itineraries
Classic Tokyo, Modern Tokyo a one-day tour of the old and the new
One day in Tokyo a hectic whirlwind tour of the many faces of the city
Do
Eat a sushi breakfast at the Tsukiji Fish Market.
Rollercoaster at Tokyo Dome
City, Bunkyo
Eat a sushi breakfast at the Tsukiji Fish Market.
Take a boat ride on the Sumida River from Asakusa.
Lose yourself in the dazzling neon jungle outside major train stations in the evenings. Shibuya and east Shinjuku
at night can make Times Square or Piccadilly Circus look rural in comparison it has to be seen to be
believed.
Enjoy a soak in a local "sento" or public bath. Or one of the big "super sento" onsen such as LaQua at the
Tokyo Dome (Bunkyo) or Oedo Onsen Monogatari in Odaiba.
Go to an amusement park such as Tokyo Disney Resort, which consists of Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo
DisneySea which are Asia's most visited and second most visited theme parks respectively, or the more
Japanese Sanrio Puroland (in Tama), home to more Hello Kitties than you can imagine.
Check out the hip and young crowd at Harajuku's Takeshita-Dori (Takeshita Street) or the more grown up
Omotesando.
Explore Tokyo's nightlife with a boisterous crowd of thirsty locals and expats on the Tokyo Pub Crawl[25]
(http://www.tokyopubcrawl.com/).
In the spring, take a boatride in Kichijoji's lovely Inokashira Park, and afterwards visit the Ghibli Studios
Museum (well-known for their amazing movies, like Spirited Away, and Princess Mononoke), but you will need to buy tickets for these in advance
at a Lawson convenience store.
Take the Yurikamome elevated train across the bay bridge from Shimbashi station to the bayside Odaiba district, and go on the giant ferris wheel
the largest in the world until recently.
Watch a baseball game; the Yomiuri Giants at the Tokyo Dome, or the Tokyo Yakult Swallows at Jingu Stadium. Nearby Chiba hosts the Chiba
Lotte Marines, Saitama has the Seibu Lions, and Yokohama has the DeNA BayStars.
Take a stroll through the Imperial Palace's East Gardens (open to the public daily at 09:00, except Fridays and Mondays); or you can join a free
guided walking tour by volunteer tour guides[26] (http://www.tokyofreeguide.com/), [27] (http://tcgc.5.pro.tok2.com/english/)
Have a picnic in a park during the cherry blossom (Sakura). Unfortunately Sakura only lasts for about a week in Spring. But be warned, parks are
usually very crowded during this time.
A beautiful weekend afternoon is best spent in Yoyogi Park, where young people from all walks of life gather to socialize, practice their hobbies
(devoid of any fear of public humiliation), join a drum circle, play sports, etc. Afterwards, take a stroll down the trendy Omote-sand ()
shopping street nearby.
Ghibli Museum, Shimorenjaku, Mitaka (15-min walk from Mitaka Stn), [28] (http://www.ghibli-museum.jp/en/). 10:0018:00. For die-hard
Anime fans, the Ghibli Museum is a must. For international visitors tickets need to be purchased before leaving home. edit
Learn
The curious can study traditional culture such as tea ceremony, calligraphy, or martial arts such as Karate, Judo, Aikido and Kendo. There are also
many language schools to help you work on your Japanese. Several universities in Tokyo cater to international students at the undergraduate or graduate
level.
Keio University ( Kei Gijuku Daigaku), [29] (http://www.keio.ac.jp). Japan's top private university (unless you ask a Waseda
student). Established in the samurai days of yore and has a stuffier rep than Waseda, with alumni including former prime minister Junichiro Koizumi.
Main campus in Mita.
Sophia University ( Jchi Daigaku), [30] (http://www.sophia.ac.jp). A prestigious private, Jesuit university well-known for its foreign
language curriculae and large foreign student population. Main campus in Yotsuya.
Tokyo Institute of Technology ( Tky Kgyo Daigaku), [31] (http://www.titech.ac.jp/home.html). Tokyo's top technical
university. Main campus in Ookayama.
University of Tokyo ( Tky Daigaku), [32] (http://www.u-tokyo.ac.jp/index_e.html). Japan's uncontested number one university,
especially strong in law, medicine and literature. For locals, passing the entrance exams is fiendishly difficult, but exchange students can enter much
more easily. Five campuses are scattered around the city, but the main campus is in Hongo.
Waseda University ( Waseda Daigaku), [33] (http://www.waseda.jp). Japan's top private university (unless you ask a Keio
student), famous as a den of artists and partiers. Former prime minister Yasuo Fukuda is an alum. Main campus in Waseda.
Work
Teaching English (or to a lesser extent, other foreign languages) is still the easiest way to work in Tokyo, but the city also offers more work options than
other areas of the country: everything from restaurant work to IT. Certain nationalities are eligible for working holiday visas: for others, work permits can
be very hard to come by without a job offer from a Japanese company. Consult your local Japanese consulate/embassy as far in advance as possible.
Buy
Kitsch-o-rama at the Nakamise
arcade, Asakusa
If it is for sale anywhere in the world, you can probably buy it in Tokyo. Tokyo is one of the fashion and cosmetic
centers in the Eastern world. Items to look for include electronics, funky fashions, antique furniture and kimono, as
well as specialty items like Hello Kitty and Pokemon goods, anime and comics and their associated paraphernalia.
Tokyo has some of the largest electronic industries in the world, such as Sony, Panasonic, and Toshiba etc.
Cash payment is the norm. Most Japanese ATMs do not accept foreign cards, but post office, 7-Eleven and Citibank
ones do and usually have English menus as well (more recently, Mitsubishi-UFJ has opened its ATMs to UnionPay
and Discover card users, while Mitsui-Sumitomo allows the use of UnionPay cards for a 75 surcharge regardless of
time of day). *NOTE* As of June 2013, most Japanese bank ATM do not accept MasterCard, therefore you will not
be able to withdraw cash from them. Citibank ATM is an exception. However, purchase using MasterCard is
accepted anywhere.
Although credit cards are more and more widely accepted, they are far less widespread than in most other developed countries. The crime rate is very
low, so don't be afraid of carrying around wads of cash as the Japanese do. The average Japanese citizen will carry a month's worth of expenses on them
(around 40,000 give or take). See Buy under Japan. for general caveats regarding electronics and media compatibility.
There are numerous convenience stores throughout Tokyo, which are open around the clock and sell not only food and magazines, but also daily
necessities such as underwear and toiletries. Supermarkets are usually open until 22:00, while drugstores and department stores usually close at 21:00.
Anime and manga
Akihabara, Tokyo's Electric Town, is now also the unquestioned center of its otaku community, and the stores along Chuo-dori are packed to the rafters
with anime (animation) and manga (comics). Another popular district for all things manga/anime is the Nakano ward and its Broadway Shopping arcade.
Check out the mandarake shop for loads of used and rare mangas.
In recent years there has been an "otaku boom" in Akihabara. A lot of attention in particular was paid to the town thanks to the popular Japanese drama
"Densha Otoko", a love story about an otaku who saves a woman on a train and their subsequent courtship.
Akihabara was previously known for its many live performances and cosplayers, some of which had drawn negative attention due to extremist
performers. These have become increasingly scarce following the Akihabara massacre in 2008, although girls in various maid costumes can still be seen
standing along the streets handing out advertisement fliers to passers by for Maid Cafes.
Antiques
Serious collectors should head for the Antique Mall in Ginza or the Antique Market in Omotesando, which despite the rustic names are collections of
small very specialist shops (samurai armor, ukiyo-e prints, etc) with head-spinning prices. Mere mortals can venture over to Nishi-Ogikubo, where you
can pick up scrolls of calligraphy and such for a few thousand yen.
The Antique Festival () [34] (http://www.kottouichi.jp/heiwajima.htm) is held over the weekend about 5-6 times a year at the
Tokyo Ryutsu Center, on the Tokyo Monorail line, and is well worth a visit.
Books
Jinbocho is to used books what Akihabara is to electronics. It's clustered around the Jinbocho subway stop. The Blue Parrot is another shop located at
Takadanobaba on the Yamanote line, just two stops north of Shinjuku.
Cameras and electronics
Ever since Sony and Nikon became synonymous with high-tech quality, Tokyo has been a favored place for buying electronics and cameras. Though the
lines have blurred since the PC revolution, each has its traditional territory and stores: Akihabara has the electronics stores, including a large number of
duty-free shops specializing in export models, and Shinjuku has the camera stores. Unfortunately, local model electronics are not cheap, but the export
models are similar to what you'll pay back home. you can sometimes find cheap local models if you avoid big shops and check smaller retailers. It's also
surprisingly difficult to find certain things e.g. games machines.
Fashion
Shibuya and neighboring Harajuku are the best-known shopping areas for funky, youthful clothes and accessories. Note that, almost without exception,
clothes are sized for the petite Japanese frame.
Department stores and exclusive boutiques stock every fashion label imaginable, but for global labels prices in Tokyo are typically higher than anywhere
else in the world. The famous Ginza and Ikebukuro's giant Seibu and Tobu department stores (the largest in the world) are good hunting grounds.
Recently, Roppongi Hills has emerged as a popular area for high-end shopping, with many major global brands. Other department stores in Tokyo are
Mitsukoshi, Sogo, Marui (OIOI), and Takashimaya. Mitsukoshi is Japan's biggest department store chain. Its anchor store is in Nihonbashi. Marui
Men store in Shinjuku has eight floors of high-end fashion for men only.
Red lanterns beckoning
customers in Tsukishima
Stand-and-eat (tachigui)
noodle shop with ticket
vending machine
Men store in Shinjuku has eight floors of high-end fashion for men only.
Kitchenware
The district for this is Kappabashi Street near Asakusa, also known as Kitchen Town. The street is lined with stores selling all kinds of kitchen wares
this is where the restaurants of Tokyo get their supplies. It's also a great place to find cheap Japanese ceramics, not to mention plastic food!
Music
Ochanomizu is to the guitar what Jinbocho is to used books. There, youll find what must be the worlds densest collection of guitar shops. Plenty of other
musical instruments (though not traditional Japanese ones) are also available.
Souvenirs
For touristy Japanese knickknacks, the best places to shop are Nakamise in Asakusa and the Oriental Bazaar in Omotesando, which stock all the
kitschy things like kanji-emblazoned T-shirts, foreigner-sized kimonos, ninja outfits for kids and ersatz samurai swords that can be surprisingly difficult to
find elsewhere. Both also have a selection of serious antiques for the connoisseur, but see also Antiques above.
Street markets
Bustling open-air bazaars in the Asian style are rare in Tokyo, except for Ueno's Ameyoko, a legacy of the postwar occupation. Yanaka Ginza in the
Shitamachi Taito district, a very nice example of a neighborhood shopping street, makes for an interesting afternoon browse.
There are often small flea and antique markets in operation on the weekend at major (and minor) shrines in and around Tokyo.
Eat
The sheer quantity and variety of food in Tokyo will amaze you. Department stores have food halls, typically in the
basement, with food which surpasses top delicatessens in other world cities. Some basements of train stations have
supermarkets with free taste testers. It's a great way to sample some of the strange dishes they have for free. Tokyo
has a large number of restaurants, so see the main Japan guide for the types of food you will encounter and some
popular chains. Menus are often posted outside, so you can check the prices. Some shops have the famous plastic
food in their front windows. Don't hesitate to drag the waiting staff out to the front to point at what you want. Always
carry cash. Many restaurants will not accept credit cards.
Tokyo has literally tens of thousands of restaurants representing more or less every cuisine in the world, but it also
offers a few unique local specialties. Nigirizushi (fish pressed onto rice), known around the world around simply as
"sushi," in fact originates from Tokyo. Another is monjayaki (), a gooey, cabbage-filled version of
okonomiyaki that uses a very thin batter to achieve a sticky, caramelized consistency. It is originally from the Tsukishima area of Chuo and today there
are many restaurants near Asakusa offering monjayaki.
Hot Pepper Available in various editions, by region, around Tokyo, this free magazine offers a guide to local restaurants in Japanese but provides
pictures and maps to the restaurants. Some restaurants even offer coupons. Most restaurants within this magazine are on the mid-range to high end
scale.
Budget
Go to a convenience store (konbini), there is one on every second corner. Really, the options may surprise you.
You can get rice balls (onigiri), bread-rolls, salads, prepared foods (like nikuman and oden), and drinks (both hot
and cold) for 100-150, bento lunch boxes for around 500 and sandwiches for 250-350. At most convenience
stores, microwaves are available to heat up your food for no additional cost. Supermarkets (suupaa) are usually
cheaper and offer a wider choice, but more difficult to find. (Try Asakusa and the sidestreets of Ueno's Ameyoko
market for local--not big chain--supermarkets.) Also, the 100 yen shop (hyaku en), have become very common, and
most have a selection convenient, ready to eat, items. There are 100 yen shops near most minor train stations, and
usually tucked away somewhere within two or three blocks of the big stations. In particular, look for the "99" and
"Lawson 100" signs these chains are essentially small grocery stores.
Also, look for bent shops like Hokka-Hokka-Tei which sell take-out lunch boxes. They range in quality and cost,
but most offer good, basic food at a reasonable price. This is what students and office workers often eat.
Noodle shops, curry shops, and bakeries are often the best option for people eating on the cheap. They are everywhere. The noodle bars on every
corner are great for filling up and are very cheap at 200-1000. You buy your meal ticket from a vending machine at the door with pictures of the dishes
and hand it to the serving staff. The one question you will typically have to answer for the counterman is whether you want soba (thin brown buckwheat)
or udon (thick white wheat) noodles. Some offer standing room only with a counter to place your bowl, while others have limited counter seating. During
peak times, you need to be quick as others will be waiting.
Propaganda, a bar in Roppongi
Kabuki za theater
peak times, you need to be quick as others will be waiting.
Fast food is available just about everywhere, including many American chains like McDonald's and KFC. But if you are visiting Japan from overseas, and
wish to sample Japanese fast food, why not try MOS Burger, Freshness Burger, Lotteria, or First Kitchen? If you're looking for something more
Japanese, try one of the local fast food giants, Matsuya, Yoshinoya or Ootoya. For under 500, you can get a giant bowl of meat, rice, and vegetables,
sometimes with egg thrown in for good measure. Drinking water or hot ocha (Japanese green tea) is usually available at no extra cost.
Raw fish enthusiasts are urged to try kaitenzushi (conveyor belt sushi), where the prices are very reasonable. Prices are depending on the color of the
plate, so be sure to check before they start to pile up.
Many of the larger train and subway stations have fast, cheap eateries. Around most stations, there will be ample choices of places to eat, including chain
coffee shops (which often serve sandwiches, baked goods, and pasta dishes), yakitori places, and even Italian restaurants.
Mid-range
By tradition the basement of almost any department store, including Mitsukoshi, Matsuzakaya, or Isetan, is devoted to the depachika (), a
huge array of small shops selling all kinds of prepared take-out food. You can assemble a delicious if slightly pricey picnic here or, if you're feeling
really cheap, just go around eating free samples! The very largest department stores are Tobu and Seibu in Ikebukuro, but Shibuya, Ginza and in fact any
major Tokyo district will have their fair share. Shinjuku Station is home to several famous department stores, such as the Keio and Odakyu department
stores. Many stores begin discounting their selections at about 19:00 each night. Look for signs and stickers indicating specific yen value or percentage
discounts. You will often see half-price stickers which read (hanne). This discounting is also common at supermarkets located near the smaller
stations, although the quality may be a notch or two down from the department stores, it's still perfectly edible.
The ubiquitous izakaya, a cross between a pub and a casual restaurant, invariably serve a good range of Japanese dishes and can be good places to fill
up without breaking the bank: in most, an evening of eating and drinking won't cost more than around 3000 per person. See Drink for details.
Splurge
Tokyo has the world's highest number of Michelin-starred restaurants priced to match, but one splurge is worthwhile even if you're on a limited budget:
the best sushi in town, if not the world, can be found in Tsukiji, fresh from the famous fish market. Figure on 3000 for a set meal, which is a bargain
compared to how much sushi of similar caliber would cost elsewhere, even in Tokyo. A sushi breakfast in Tsukiji, after exploring the fish market, is a
great option for the jet-lagged traveler's first morning in Tokyo. Arrive on or before the first train to avoid waiting up to two hours for a place at the sushi
bar.
For upmarket Japanese eats, Ginza is guaranteed to burn a hole in your wallet, with Akasaka and Roppongi Hills close behind. You can limit the damage
considerably by eating fixed lunch sets instead of dinner, as this is when restaurants cater to people paying their own meals instead of using the company
expense account.
Drink
The party never stops in Tokyo (at least in the karaoke bars), and you will find good little bars and
restaurants everywhere.
The most Japanese way to spend a night out would be at Japanese-style watering holes called izakaya (
), which offer food and drink in a convivial, pub-like atmosphere (see Japan for details). Cheaper chain
izakaya like Tsubohachi () and Shirokiya () usually have picture menus, so ordering is
simple, even if you don't know Japanese - but don't be surprised if some places have Japanese only
touchscreen ordering systems.
Visiting clubs and western-style night spots can get expensive, with clubs and live houses enforcing weekend
cover charges in the 2000-5000 bracket (usually including a drink coupon or two). For a splurge on a
beverage or two, Western Shinjuku's Park Hyatt Tokyo houses the New York Bar on level 52. Providing
stunning views day and night across Tokyo, it was also the setting for the movie Lost in Translation.
Cocktails here start around 1400 - single malt whiskies are upwards of 2000.
If you're new in town, Roppongi is home to a number of vibrant clubs and establishments which specialize
in serving non-Japanese - but it's also overflowing with hostesses and 'patrons' who will occasionally hassle
you to visit their gentlemen's clubs, where drinks cost 5000 and up. Nonetheless, the party scene thrives
in Roppongi, in which case it might be a good idea to check out one of the many independently produced
events such as the Tokyo Pub Crawl. As an alternative, some Japanese and foreign nationals instead
prefer the clubs and bars in Shibuya, or trendy Ginza, Ebisu, or Shinjuku.
The Hub [35] (http://pub-hub.com/), a chain of British-style pubs, has branches in Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Roppongi (as well as near most major stations)
and is reasonably priced, but is often used by foreigners and Japanese who want a bit of "action". Other British/Irish pubs can be found in Roppongi,
Shinjuku and Shibuya. Expect to pay around 1000 a pint, although happy hours can reduce this by a few hundred yen.
In Shibuya, the bar area behind 109 (not 109-2) and next to Dogenzaka ("Love Hotel Hill") has a large number of clubs. Unlike those in Roppongi and
Shibuya's Gas Panic, these clubs have entrance fees, but clubs without entrance fees often hassle you all night to buy drinks which ends up just as
expensive and without people who are actually there to enjoy the music. Shinjuku is home to Kabukicho, Japan's largest red-light district. Also in Shinjuku
is the gay bar district of Shinjuku-nichome. A little further from the city center are Shimokitazawa, Koenji and Nakano, full of good bars, restaurants and
"live houses" offering underground/indie music popular with students and 20/30-somethings.
Sleep
There are thousands of hotels in the Tokyo area, ranging from cheap to very expensive. They are distributed throughout the city, with some of the high end
and the low end almost everywhere. Many Western-style hotels, especially those affiliated with American hotel chains, have English-speaking staff.
Budget
Much of Tokyo's budget accommodation can be found in the Taito area, especially Asakusa and Ueno. But if you are not afraid of being a little bit off-
center, you may have a look to the surroundings: Yokohama, etc.
Do note that most of the cheap accommodations in the Taito area (near JR Minami-senjuu) have curfew times around 22:00 to 23:00, so be sure to
check that in advance if it bothers you. One hotel that does not have a curfew is Kangaroo Hotel [36] (http://www.kangaroohotel.jp/), rooms starting at
3200. There's also Economy Hotel Hoteiya [37] (http://www.e-conomyhotels.jp/hotels/hoteiya.html), rooms starting at 2500. You can also find a bed
in a dormitory at TokyoBackpackers Hotel in Minami-Senju, from 2100 a night, with weekly or monthly discounts [38] (http://tokyo-
backpackers.com/en/). A list of economy hotels in Tokyo is [39] (http://www.e-conomyhotels.jp/list.html).
Capsule hotels are generally the cheapest option. They may be reluctant to play host to foreigners as there are quite a few rules of behavior which may be
difficult to explain; see the Japan article for the full scoop. Most capsule hotels are men-only. Asakusa Riverside [40] (http://www.asakusa-
capsule.jp/english/) and Akihabara Capsule Inn [41] (http://www.capsuleinn.com/index.html) are among the very few to have women-only floors.
24-hour comic book library/internet cafes known as manga kisa, have become common around Tokyo. This is one of the cheapest ways to crash if you
miss your last train and need to wait for the early morning transit service to get started. No bed, but you have a comfy chair and a PC and/or DVDs if you
can't sleep. Later in the evening, karaoke boxes often offer discounted prices for the whole night, they usually have a couch you can sleep on. Most of
these cyber cafes charge 15002500 for 8 hours.
One of the cheapest ways to stay can be also a youth hostel, prices start at 1200, e.g. in the Shinjuku area.
If you are truly on a budget, it is possible to go homeless and camp in public parks, for free. You can do this with a tent, if you want to carry one, and
you can also sleep on benches, as exhausted workers and students do. It is also possible to do this all over Japan ; by doing nojuku (as the Japanese call
it) and eating in convenience stores or making your own sandwiches from the food you buy in supermarkets, you can stay in Tokyo for around the same
price as it would cost you in Kathmandu, Nepal !
Mid-range
There is a wide range of choices in hotels while at Tokyo, most of the hotels are rated 3 stars or more. Tokyo is among most of the other cities when it
comes to hotels because their services and hotel locations are the best of the best.
Keep an eye out for what is called a business hotel. The rooms are usually tiny, but they are conveniently located near stations and rates start from
around 6000. Staff may speak minimal English, but it's not too hard to figure out. These are the best options for solo travelers. Affordable chains found
throughout Tokyo include Tokyu Stay [42] (http://www.tokyuhotels.co.jp/en/index.html), which offers free internet access and breakfast, Chisun [43]
(http://www.solarehotels.com/english/chisun/) and Sunroute [44] (http://www.sunroute.jp/SunrouteTopHLE.html).
Tokyo has some self-proclaimed ryokan (Japanese inns) that cater largely to foreign tourists, mostly concentrated around Ueno and Asakusa. While not
as opulent as the real thing, they offer a sample of Japanese home life at affordable rates.
Japan's infamous love hotels can be a reasonable (and interesting) option in Tokyo. Shibuya's Dogenzaka ("Love Hotel Hill") offers the widest selection
in the city. If you're really going to spend the night, be sure to check in for a "stay" rather than a "rest". Be warned that some love hotels (at least around
Shinjuku) have a 'No Japanese, no stay' policy, presumably to avoid confusion over billing; others lock you into your room until you pay into a slot by the
door to leave.
If you plan to stay more than one week, you can try Weekly-Mansion Tokyo [45] (http://www.wmt.co.jp/en/). These are flats you can rent for short
periods of time for affordable prices. Rates are around 5000 per day for one person or a little more for two people. Sometimes you can find deals for as
low as 4000 per day (Various promotional deals are available for online reservations). You can also make online reservations in English.
Splurge
You can spend a fortune on accommodation in Tokyo. Most of the high-end international chains are well represented. Particular concentrations of luxury
hotels can be found in western Shinjuku (including the Park Hyatt Tokyo, featured in Lost in Translation), around Tokyo station (best here are Shangri-
La Hotel, Tokyo,[46] (http://www.shangri-la.com/tokyo/shangrila). Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo, Seiyo Ginza and Four Seasons Marunouchi), and in
Akasaka.
Akasaka.
Beware of hotels marketing themselves as being located at "Tokyo Bay". At best, this means you'll be in or near the Odaiba district, built on reclaimed
land half an hour away from the city center; at worst, you'll end up somewhere on the coast of the adjacent prefecture of Chiba, which is handy for visiting
Tokyo Disneyland but quite inconvenient for touring Tokyo itself.
Contact
Free Wifi
Starbucks Coffee [47] (http://www.starbucks.co.jp/en/) Most (but not all) of the prolific Starbucks Coffee stores now offer Free Wifi service,
commonly along with charging stations. Customers will need an internet connection to register for the service in advance, however.
Wired Cafe (Japanese Website) (http://www.cafecompany.co.jp/brands/wired/index.html%7C) A chain of trendy, technology-orientated cafes
complete with full food menu and free WiFi. Usually hard to find a power outlet.
7 SPOT (Japanese Website) (http://webapp.7spot.jp/%7C) Seven-Eleven convenience stores and Dennys restaurants offer Free Wifi service.
"7SPOT" to take advantage of member registration (free) can be used for up to 60 minutes per one login is required, you can access up to three
times a day. Registration Page(Japanese) (https://webapp.7spot.jp/internets/members/register_form%7C)
FreeSpot [48] (http://freespot.com/) FreeSpot offering free wireless Internet access. Check out their maps of service areas. Tends to be
somewhat unreliable nowadays.
Paid Wifi
HOTSPOT [49] (http://www.hotspot.ne.jp/en/index.html) NTT Communications WiFi Service. 500/24h
Internet cafe
Good connections are available at Internet cafes everywhere. Expect to pay 400-500 per hour. "Gera Gera" is a popular chain. Paid WiFi service is
also taking off in Tokyo with reasonable coverage - at a price. WiFi services are probably not convenient for those just visiting.
If you bring your own computer with a WLAN card, it is possible to find wireless connections in fast food outlets like McDonald's or Mos Burger. You
also have a good chance to find a connection in one of the numerous coffee shops. Just look for a wireless connection sign in the front window or
computers within the shop. Note that free wireless is not nearly as prevalent in Japan as it is in the West.
Stay safe
Tokyo is probably one of the safest big cities you will ever visit, and Japan in general is one of the safest places to visit in the world. Most people,
including single female travellers, would not encounter any problems walking along the streets alone at night. Street crime is extremely rare, even late at
night, and continues to decrease. However, "little crime" does not mean "no crime", and common sense should still be applied as anywhere in the
world. Often the biggest risk is travellers taking Japan's visibly apparent lack of crime too close to heart and doing things they would never do back home.
The most common crime is sexual harassment on crowded trains -- when people are pressed up against each other, hands wander. This is more of a local
problem as westerners are considered more aggressive and more likely to stick up for themselves. The best way to deal with any wandering hands is to
yell "chikaan" which is a widely publicized Japanese term for sexual harassment, specifically groping on trains.
Small police stations, or Koban, can be found every few blocks. If you get lost or need assistance, by all means go to them; it's their job to help you!
They may, however, have difficulties with English, so some knowledge of the Japanese language helps.
Take the usual precautions against pickpockets in crowded areas and trains. Also be aware that theft is more likely to occur in hangouts and bars popular
with travellers and non-residents.
The red-light and nightlife districts can be a bit seedy, but are rarely dangerous. Note some small, back-street drinking establishments in red-light districts
have been known to charge extortionate prices. Similar problems exist in the seedier upscale clubs in Roppongi, where it may be wise to check cover
charges and drink prices in advance.
Still in a jam? Call Tokyo English Life Line [50] (http://www.telljp.com/services/ourservice.html), tel. , daily 09:00-23:00.
If you make it as far out as the Izu Islands, note that visitors to Miyakejima Island have in the past been required to carry a gas mask, due to volcanic
gases. Those in poor health are advised against travelling to the island.
Cope
Healthcare centres
Healthcare centres
Tokyo Metropolitan Health and Medical Information Center, +81 (0)3-5285-8181, [51]
(http://www.himawari.metro.tokyo.jp/qq/qq13enmnlt.asp). 09:00-20:00. Information about medical institutions as well as about the medical and
health insurance system in Japan. (English/Chinese/Korean/Thai/Spanish) edit
Emergency Translation Services, +81 (0)3-5285-8185. Weekdays:17:00-20:00,Weekends and Holidays:09:00-20:00. Interpretation
service through phone is also available for foreign patients visiting a hospital if their treatment is not going to be carried out smoothly because of
language difficulty. (for medical purpose.English/Chinese/Korean/Thai/Spanish) edit
Babysitting
chezvous, [52] (http://www.chezvous.co.jp/english/). edit
Kinder-Network, +81 (0)3-6415-8271 (info@kinder-network.com), [53] (http://www.kinder-network.com/english.html). edit
Babysitters, +81 (0)45-507-1888 (info@babysitters.jp;), [54] (http://www.babysitters.jp/). edit
Embassies
Being the national capital, Tokyo hosts a large number of embassies. A number of them are located in Minato-ku (the financial district), Shinjuku-ku,
Shibuya-ku, & Chiyoda-ku (seat of government) in the central part of town. Several embassies are also located within the same building at 38 Kowa
Building 4-12-24 Nishi-Azabu, Minato-ku. They can be elsewhere too, see below:
Afghanistan, 2-2-1 Azabudai Minato-ku,
+81 3 5574-7611, [55]
(http://www.afghanembassyjp.org/en/). edit
Albania, 6-4-8 Tsukiji Chuo-ku, +81 3
3543-6861, [56] (http://emb-al.jp/). edit
Algeria, 2-10-67 Mita Meguro-ku, +81
3 3711-2661. edit
Angola, 2-10-24 Daizawa Setagaya-ku,
+81 3 5430-7879. edit
Antigua & Barbuda, 8F 2-19-3 Nishi-
Gotanda Shinagawa-ku, +81 3 3779-1341.
edit
Argentina, 2-14-14 Moto-Azabu Minato-
ku, +81 3 5420-7101/5, [57]
(http://www.embargentina.or.jp/). edit
Armenia, 1-11-36 Akasaka Minato-ku,
+81 3 6277-7453, [58] (http://japan.mfa.am/).
edit
Australia, 2-1-14 Mita Minato-ku, +81
3 5232-4111, [59] (http://www.australia.or.jp/).
edit
Austria, 1-1-20 Moto-Azabu Minato-ku,
+81 3 3451-8281/2, [60]
(http://www.bmeia.gv.at/en/embassy/tokyo.html).
edit
Azerbaijan, 1-9-15 Higashigaoka Meguro-
ku, +81 3 5486-4744. edit
Bahrain, 1-11-36 Akasaka Minato-ku,
+81 3 3584-8001. edit
Bangladesh, 4-15-15 Megro Meguro-ku,
+81 3 5704-0216, [61]
(http://www.bdembjp.com/). edit
Belarus, 4-14-12 Shirogane Minato-ku,
+81 3 3448-1623. edit
Belgium, 5-4 Nibancho Chiyoda-ku,
+81 3 3262-0191, [62]
(http://www.diplomatie.be/tokyo/). edit
Belize, 4-9-7 Nishi-Shinjuku Shinjuku-ku,
+81 3 5365-3407. edit
Benin, 4F 1-2-2 Hirakawa-cho Chiyoda-
Ecuador, 38 Kowa Bldg 806 4-12-24 Nishi-Azabu Minato-ku, +81 3 3499-
6020, [76] (http://www.ecuador-embassy.or.jp/e/index.html). edit
Egypt, 1-5-4 Aobadai Meguro-ku, +81 3 3770-8022/3, [77]
(http://www.mfa.gov.eg/english/embassies/Egyptian_Embassy_Japan/Pages/default.aspx).
M-F 09:00-17:00. edit
El Salvador, 38 Kowa Bldg 803 4-12-24 Nishi-Azabu Minato-ku, +81 3
3499-4461. edit
Eritrea, 401 4-7-4 Shirokanedai Minato-ku, +81 3 5791-1815, [78]
(http://www.embassy-avenue.jp/eritrea/index.html). edit
Estonia, 2-6-15 Jingu-mae Shibuya-ku, +81 3 5412-7281, [79]
(http://www.estemb.or.jp/index.html?lang=4). edit
Ethiopia, Takanawa Kaisei Bldg. 2F 3-4-1 Takanawa Minato-ku, +81 3 5420-
6860/1, [80] (http://www.ethiopia-emb.or.jp/e-front/). edit
Iceland, 4-18-26 Takanawa Minato-ku, +81 3 3447-1944 (fax: +81 3 3447-
1945), [81] (http://www.iceland.is/iceland-abroad/jp/). edit
India, 2-2-11 Kudan-Minami, Chiyoda-ku, +81 3 3262-2391 to 97
(embassy@indembassy-tokyo.gov.in, fax: +81 3 3234-4866), [82]
(http://www.indembassy-tokyo.gov.in/). edit
Indonesia, 5-2-9 Higashi Gotanda, Shinagawa-ku, +81 3 3441-4201
(info@indonesianembassy.jp, fax: +81 3 3447-1697), [83]
(http://www2.indonesianembassy.jp/). edit
Ireland, 2-10-7 Kojimachi Chiyoda-ku, +81 3 3263-0695, [84]
(http://www.irishembassy.jp/). edit
Korea, 4-4-10 Yotsuya, Shinjuku-ku, +81 3 33452-7611/9, [85] (http://jpn-
tokyo.mofat.go.kr/jpn/index.jsp). edit
Mexico, 2-15-1 Nagata-cho, Chiyoda-Ku, +81 3 3581-1131 (fax: +81 3
3581-4058), [86] (http://embamex.sre.gob.mx/japon/). edit
Netherlands, 3-6-3 Shibakoen, Minato-ku, +81 3 5776-5400 (fax: +81 3
5776-5535), [87] (http://japan.nlambassade.org//). M-F 09:00-17:30. edit
New Zealand, 20-40 Kamiyama-cho, Shibuya-ku, +81 (03) 3467-2271
(tkyconsec@mfat.govt.nz, fax: +81 (03) 3467-2278), [88]
(http://www.nzembassy.com/japan/about-embassy/contact-us). edit
Panama, (4-12-24 Nishi Azabu, Minato-ku), +81 3 3499-3741
(panaemb@gol.com, fax: +81 3-5485-3548), [89]
(http://www.embassyofpanamainjapan.org/). edit
Philippines, (5-15-5 Roppongi Minato-ku), +81 3 5562-1600 (fax: +81 3-
5562-1603), [90] (http://tokyo.philembassy.net/). edit
Benin, 4F 1-2-2 Hirakawa-cho Chiyoda-
ku, +81 3 3556-2562. edit
Bhutan, 3-2 Kanda-nishiki-cho, Chiyoda-
ku, +81 3 3295-9288. edit
Bolivia, 804 4-12-24 Nishi-Azabu Minato-
ku, +81 3 3499-5442. edit
Bosnia and Herzegovina, 5-3-29 Minami-
azabu Minato-ku, +81 3 5422-8231. edit
Botswana, 6F 4-5-10 Shiba Minato-ku,
+81 3 5440-5676, [63] (http://www.embassy-
avenue.jp/bots/index.html). edit
Brazil, 2-11-12 Kita-Aoyama Minato-ku,
+81 3 3404-5211, [64]
(http://www.brasemb.or.jp/). edit
Brunei, 6-5-2 Kitashinagawa Shinagawa-
ku, +81 3 3447-7997. edit
Bulgaria, 5-36-3 Yoyogi Shibuya-ku,
+81 3 3465-1021, [65]
(http://www.mfa.bg/en/76/). edit
Burkina Faso, Hiroo Glisten Hills 3F 3-1-
17 Hiroo Shibuya-ku, +81 3 3400-7919,
[66] (http://www.embassy-
avenue.jp/burkina/index.html). edit
Cambodia, 8-6-9 Akasaka Minato-ku,
+81 (0)0-5412-8521/2, [67]
(http://www.cambodianembassy.jp/). edit
Cameroon, 3-27-16 Nozawa Setagaya-ku,
+81 3 5430-4985. edit
Canada, 7-3-38 Akasaka Minato-ku,
+81 3 5412-6200, [68]
(http://www.canadanet.or.jp/english.shtml). edit
Central African Republic, 4-38-9
Nakamachi Setagaya-ku, +81 3 3702-8808.
edit
Chile, Nihon Seimei Akabanebashi Bldg. 8F
3-1-14 Shiba Minato-ku, +81 3 3452-
7561/2, [69] (http://www.chile.or.jp/). edit
China, 3-4-33 Moto-Azabu Minato-ku,
+81 3 3403-3380, [70] (http://www.china-
embassy.or.jp/chn/). edit
Colombia, 3-10-53 Kami-Osaki
Shinagawa-ku, +81 3 3440-6451, [71]
(http://www.colombiaembassy.org/). edit
Congo (Democratic Rep), 1-2F 5-8-5
Asakusabashi Taito-ku, +81 3 5820-1580/1.
edit
Costa Rica, No.38 Kowa Building 9F 901
4-12-24 Nishi-Azabu Minato-ku, +81 3
3486-1812. edit
Cote D'Ivoire, 2-19-12, Uehara, Shibuya-
ku, +81 3 5454-1401/2/3, [72]
(http://www.ahibo.com/ambaci-jp/). edit
Croatia, 3-3-10 Hiroo Shibuya-ku, +81
3 5469-3014. edit
Cuba, 1-28-4 Higashi-Azabu Minato-ku,
+81 3 5570-3182, [73] (http://www.embassy-
avenue.jp/cuba/index.html). edit
Cyprus, Hibiya Marine Bldg 7F 1-5-1
Yurakucho Chiyoda-ku, +81 3 3592-0611.
edit
Czech Republic, 2-16-14 Hiroo Shibuya-
Poland, +81 3 5794-7020 (tokio.amb.sekretariat@msz.gov.pl, fax: +81 3
5794-7024), [91] (http://www.tokio.polemb.net/). edit
Singapore, +81 (3) 3586-9111/2 (singemb_tyo@sgmfa.gov.sg, fax: +81 (3)
3582-1085), [92] (http://www.mfa.gov.sg/content/mfa/overseasmission/tokyo.html). M-
F 09:30-12:00, 14:00-17:00. edit
Tajikistan, 1-4-43 Nishi-Azabu Minato-ku, +81 3 6804-3660/1. edit
Tanzania, 4-21-9 Kamiyoga Setagaya-ku, +81 3 3425-4531, [93]
(http://www.embassy-avenue.jp/tanz/index.html). edit
Thailand, 2-2-1 Kudan-Minami Chiyoda-ku, +81 3 3222-4101. edit
Turkey, 2-33-6 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, +81 3 6439-5700. edit
Uganda, 9-23 Hachiyama-cho Shibuya-ku, +81 3 3462-7107, [94]
(http://www.uganda-embassy.jp/). edit
Ukraine, 3-5-31 Nishi-Azabu Minato-ku, +81 3 5474-9770, [95]
(http://www.mfa.gov.ua/japan/en/). edit
United Arab Emirates, 9-10 Nanpeidai-cho Shibuya-ku, +81 3 5489-0804,
[96] (http://www.uaeembassy.jp/). edit
United Kingdom, 1 Ichiban-cho, Chiyoda-ku, +81 3 5211-1100, [97]
(http://ukinjapan.fco.gov.uk/en/). edit
United States, 1-10-5 Akasaka Minato-ku, +81 3 3224-5000, [98]
(http://tokyo.usembassy.gov/). edit
Uruguay, No.38 Kowa Bldg 908 4-12-24 Nishi-Azabu Minato-ku, +81 3
3486-1888. edit
Uzbekistan, 5-11-8 Shimomeguro Meguro-ku, +81 3 3224-5000. edit
Venezuela, No.38 Kowa Bldg 703 4-12-24 Nishi-Azabu Minato-ku, +81 3
3409-1501/4. edit
Vietnam, 50-11 Moto-yoyogi-cho Shibuya-ku, +81 3 3760-5625, [99]
(http://www.mofa.gov.vn/vnemb.jp/). edit
Yemen, No.38 Kowa Bldg 807 4-12-24 Nishi-Azabu Minato-ku, +81 3 3499-
7151/2. edit
Zambia, 1-10-2 Ebara Shinagawa-ku, +81 3 3491-0121/2, [100]
(http://www.zambia.or.jp/contacts1.html). edit
Zimbabwe, 5-9-10 Sirokanedai Minato-ku, +81 3 3280-0331/2. edit
Czech Republic, 2-16-14 Hiroo Shibuya-
ku, +81 3 3400-8122/3/5, [74]
(http://www.embassy-
avenue.jp/czech/index.htm). edit
Denmark, 29-6 Sarugaku-cho Shibuya-ku,
+81 3 3496-3001, [75]
(http://www.ambtokyo.um.dk/da). edit
Djibouti, 5-18-10 Shimo-Meguro Meguro-
ku, +81 3 5704-0682. edit
Dominican Republic, No.38 Kowa Bldg
904 4-12-24 Nishi-Azabu Minato-ku, +81 3
3499-6020. edit
.... or see http://www.mofa.go.jp/about/emb_cons/protocol/index.html (Ministry of Foreign Affairs website, written in English) for an extended list of
countries with embassies in Tokyo.
Get out
From Tokyo, the entire surrounding Kanto region is your oyster. Particularly popular destinations nearby include:
Hakone for hot springs and views of Mount Fuji
Kamakura home to dozens of small temples and one Big Buddha
Nikko grandiose shrine and burial site of Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu
Odawara houses the only Japanese castle in greater Tokyo area
Tokyo Disney Resort with Tokyo Disneyland (just like the ones everywhere else) and Tokyo Disney Sea (an only-in-Japan theme park
which includes some unique rides and some imported rides from Disney parks outside of Japan)
Yokohama Japan's second-largest city and a suburb of Tokyo
The Tokyo area also has some less-famous destinations that are easy day trips from central Tokyo:
Ashikaga historical hometown of a famous shogun clan
Hachioji a refreshing climb up Mt. Takao through a forest to a shrine and beer garden
Kawasaki home to the Nihon Minka-En park with 24 ancient farmhouses (more interesting than it sounds), not to mention the annual Festival of
the Iron Penis (Kanamara Matsuri)
Kinugawa home to Edo Wonderland, a kitschy theme park recreating 1800's Japan
Fujino a small town popular with locals and foreigners alike interested in the arts. Beautiful scenery and very refreshing after the bustle of Tokyo.
And don't forget the islands to the south of Tokyo:
Izu Islands easily accessible seaside and hotspring getaways
Ogasawara Islands 1000 km away from big-city bustle, for whale watching, diving and those who want to get away from it all
Routes through Tokyo
Niigata miya N S END
Aomori miya N S END
Osaka Shin-Yokohama W E END
Nagoya Hachioji W E END
END W E Ichikawa Narita
Iwaki Misato N S END
Nagaoka Tokorozawa N S END
Aomori Urawa N S END
Nagoya Kawasaki W E END
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