Tokyo (東京, Tōkyō) is Japan's capital and the world's most populous metropolis. It is also one of Japan's 47 prefectures, consisting of 23 central city wards and multiple cities, towns and villages west of the city center. The Izu and Ogasawara Islands are also part of Tokyo.
This house turned museum belonged to famous Japanese sculptor Asakura Fumio known for his carvings of famous personalities. The house is wonderful in itself- antiques adorn various rooms. The house comprises a courtyard, a tea room, a rooftop garden and a library. A delight to visit. Timings: Tues- Thurs & Sat-Sun 9 30 A.M- 4 30 P.M
This is one of Tokyo’s most gorgeous gardens. It is located near the Imperial Palace and spread across over 50 acres of land. Traditionally known as Higashi Gyoen, the garden looks splendid when cherry blossoms, irises and other beautiful flowers and trees are in full bloom. Like other traditional Japanese gardens; ponds, cobblestone pathways, winding tracks dot the garden. Honmaru or the inner citadel is the site at which the Edo castle: once the highest building in Tokyo and from where the Shogun ruled the rest of Edo. Timings: Daily, except Monday and Friday 9 A.M- 5 P.M
This museum showcases the evolution of the city of Tokyo through the ages; in particular from 1590- 1964 spanning almost four centuries from the era in which Tokyo was made the capital by the Shogun to when the Olympics were held in this amazing city. The history, geography, culture and social life of the city are showcased here. Edo literally means Old Tokyo and the Museum shows how the city as it is today radiated from the nucleus that was Old Tokyo. The Nihombashi Bridge which connects the old and new parts of the city and a model of this very bridge is presented in the museum. Exhibits educated visitors as to how the different strata of Japanese society- the Shoguns, Merchant class, feudal lords and the common people lived. Others showcase the great earthquake of 1923 and its aftermath, yet others showcase the air raids during WWII. This museum makes for a very interesting afternoon indeed. Timings: Tues- Sun 9 30 A.M- 5 30 P.M
For the Beatles and John Lennon fans in particular this museum will be a rare treat. Opened in 2000 under the patronage of Lennon’s wife Yoko Ono- the Museum showcases the life of this musician; his personal life as a husband and father, as well as his life as a musician and as a protestor. Pieces include lyrics hand-written by Lennon himself, his jacket, passport, his glasses and guitars.
This shrine was built in honor of the Emperor and Empress Meiji in 1920. These royals were credited with making Japan more extroverted and opening it up to foreigners. This Shinto shrine is magnificent- the gates leading to the shrine known as Torii in Japanese are 1700 years old and are made of extravagant cypress. The structure itself is also composed of Japanese cypress with green copper roofs sitting atop the temple. The gardens contained within the gates are beautiful- trees, shrubs, and beautiful flowers adorn the gardens. Timings: Daily, sunrise-sunset
This museum is very interesting and caters to all age groups. It is fascinating in terms of the technologies that are showcased here- ultra-modern, revolutionary, and environmentally friendly. Moreover, most exhibits are interactive. Visitors can engage with robots and embark on virtual reality rides. They can also use touch screens to learn more about nanotechnology and genetic engineering. This visit will be both educational and a great deal of fun.
This museum, located only half an hour away from Tokyo, is delightful. It showcases the architecture of the past rural Japan. The setting is beautiful; historic/traditional houses are perched amidst or atop of wooded hilly areas. The houses are simple and often comprise of thatched roofs. Interesting features of this museum include a gate to the home of a Samurai, a Kabuki stage and a water wheel from centuries ago.
Japan is famed for the rapid technological advances it has made and the high-quality electronics that its numerous factories churn out. The Panasonic Center allows tourists to witness firsthand the sheer progress Japan has made in this department. Visitors are allowed to interact and use the various exhibits including Nintendo games on gigantic TV screens, checking out various cameras, camcorders, and other gadgets. The tour can also be quite educational and visitors can learn/ are shown environmentally friendly technologies being developed and how they work. RiSuPia is a kind of museum within the center allowing visitors to indulge in various fascinating activities including playing air hockey scoring only in prime numbers, a pillows puzzle, probability-based games, computerized artwork, and many more. The Eco and Ud House is the most interesting exhibit of all which showcases an ultramodern household with ultra-modern gadgets that use energy efficiently. Timings: Tues- Sun 10 A.M- 6 P.M
This is arguably Tokyo’s most popular temple. It has stood at this very location since 628 A.D. despite having been destroyed during WWII in 1945 during a bombing raid, it was rebuilt soon after. The myth surrounding this temple is that two fishermen catching fish in the Sumida river caught instead a golden statue of the goddess of Mercy and Happiness namely Kannon. The temple is said to house this priceless statue in whose honor the temple was erected. Thousands pay tribute to the goddess daily praying for good fortune.
Tokyo National Museum is a grand museum and is well worth a visit. It showcases the marvelous history and culture of Japan. The pieces on display are stunning, some archaic all allowing visitors to appreciate the richness of Japanese heritage. The museum comprises the Japanese gallery which contains Japanese arts and crafts; Samurai swords and armory, ceramics, Buddhist sculptures, textiles and calligraphy. The Asian gallery contains archaeological finds from all over Asia especially China but also from Cambodia, Vietnam, India, Iran, Turkey even Egypt. These relics include some statues of Buddha, some jewelry, paintings, frescoes and ceramics. Some objects date as far back as 2000 B.C. The Heiseikan gallery showcases archaeological finds from within Japan itself with relics dating back to various periods in Japans history including the Jomon Period and Yayoi period, therefore displaying pieces dating as far back as 10000 B.C. The Horyuji Treasures gallery showcases Buddhist statues and ornaments from the Horyuji temple in Nara. A fifth building of the museum known as the Hyokeikan houses special exhibitions.
Cuisine: Japanese/ International Address: 5-51-8 Jingumae, Harajuku and Aoyama Tel: 03-5485-7353 Website: www.casita.jp The ambience of this restaurant is best described as being intimate. The seating is comfortable, the lighting is dim; the staff is more than helpful. The food is excellent as well; a variety of dishes are served; seafood as well as chicken and beef.
Cuisine: Japanese/ International Address: 4-1-28 Toronomon, Asakasa Tel: 03-5733-0070 Website: www.nobutokyo.com This is another one of Tokyo’s popular extravagant joints. The food served here makes use of the freshest of ingredients and has the most unforgettable taste. The menu comprises mostly of sea-food dishes but with a twist; for instance shrimp tempura with creamy spicy sauce; sushi and avocado; yellowtail served with jalapeno dressing, squid served with ginger dip etc. Tourists should definitely stop for a meal here. Also try Nobu’s Chocolate Bento Box.
Cuisine: Japanese Address: 1-7-1 Yurakucho, Ginza and Hibiya Tel: 03-3201-3021 Website: none The food here is delicious. A diverse range of Japanese dishes are available here. These include sushi, sashimi, grilled fish/meat, noodles and obento.
Cuisine: Italian Address: 3-6 Maruyama-cho, E-Space Tower, Shibuya Tel: 03-5784-2121 Website: www.legato-tokyo.jp This is a lovely eatery popular amongst the residents of Tokyo for the delectable Italian dishes served here. Dishes include pastas such as steamed chicken with chive spaghetti, spaghetti with Japanese Mentaiko, and Arrabiata with cherry tomatoes and basil. Fish and meat are also served; the sirloin steak is delicious. Try the home made marble ice cream as well.
Cuisine: Japanese Address: 6-5-8 Ginza, Behind the Sony Building Tel: 03-3585-6600 Website: none The food here is delightful; seafood, chicken and beef dishes are normally grilled. The décor too is wonderful mimicking the style of a traditional Japanese farmhouse.
Cuisine: Italian Address: 6-16-7 Nishi Shinuku Tel: 03-5339-7123 Website: none Down to earth best describes the ambience of this restaurant. Italian cuisine is showcased in the menu with traditional pastas, steaks and sea-food dishes being served here. Fresh ingredients are used in churning out these high quality dishes.
Cuisine: Japanese Address: 1-13-11 Nishi Azabu Tel: 03-5771-0170 Website: www.gonpachi.jp This restaurant serves excellent quality dishes at more than reasonable prices. Their menu comprises of a diverse range of dishes from salads (seafood salad as well as spinach and spicy jyako salad) to noodles, to sea-food (grilled tiger prawn and snow crab croquettes) to tempura to yakitori as well as meat dishes such as sirloin steaks. The sushi rolls are exceptional.
Cuisine: Japanese Address: 2-4-1 Nishi Shinjuku, N.S Building Tel: 03-3345-1848 Website: none This restaurant is extremely popular especially amongst the youth. The atmosphere is vivacious and the guests are treated to beautiful views of the surrounding city. The salads are excellent; as are the grilled fish/ meats, the noodles and the sashimi and yakitori.
Cuisine: Japanese (Noodles) Address: 2-11-9 Kaminarimon, Asakusa Tel: 03-3841-1340 Website: none This is one of Tokyo’s most well known noodle house. A variety of noodles are available as well as noodle soup.
Cuisine: Malay Address: 5-1 Saki, Chuo-ku, Ginza Tel: 03-6280-6777
Loading local prayer times…
Calculated times. Confirm congregation times with your local masjid.
This is one of Tokyo’s most lavish hotels housed in the Nihonbashi Mitsui Tower. This hotel is also located near the Mitsukoshi Mall. The architecture and the décor are contemporary- what is most unique about this hotel is that all the textile products used within have been produced expressly for this hotel by artisans from across Japan. Rooms are extremely large and spacious affording guests with the most stunning views of the city of Tokyo. In room facilities comprise of wireless internet, a DVD player, cable TV plasma screen, hairdryer, safe, coffee maker and a mini-bar. Hotel facilities include restaurants, bars, a fitness club and spa babysitting services, massage services, laundry services and a business center.
This hotel has a good location with Takashimaya Times Square Shopping Mall close by. The décor is contemporary. Rooms are comfortable affording decent views of the surrounding city. In room facilities include cable TV, a fridge, hot water pot and tea, hairdryer and safe. Hotel facilties include restaurants, a gym, convenience store and laundry services.
This hotel has an excellent location with Matsuzakaya Shopping Mall close by. The décor is practical and down to earth. Rooms are not very big but are comfortable. In room facilities include cable TV, a fridge, hot water pot and tea, hairdryer and safe. Hotel facilties include restaurants, laundry and massage services.
This hotel has a decent location. Although a ryokan this hotel’s architecture and décor is contemporary. The furnishings are simple and minimalist. In room facilities include a TV, fridge and hot water pot with tea. Hotel facilities include internet access and coin operated washing machines and dryers.
This hotel does not have the ideal location, however, it is extremely charming and this charm lies primarily in the rich history and traditional architecture embodied in the three buildings that make up this hotel. Guests will learn about authentic traditional Japanese culture. The décor is beautiful- wood, bamboo, stone and pebble pathways, gardens and ponds adorn the area. In room facilities include a TV, safe, mini bar and hot water pot with tea. Address: 5-10-5 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Ueno Tel: 03-3811-1187 Website: www.homeikan.com
This is another of Tokyo’s extravagant hotels. It is located near the American embassy and is popular amongst tourists. The architecture and the décor unlike, other lavish hotels in and around Tokyo, are more on the traditional side- dark wood and traditional Japanese screens have been used extensively. The staff is helpful and friendly. Rooms are extremely large and spacious. In room facilities comprise of wireless internet, cable TV, hairdryer, coffee maker and a mini-bar. Hotel facilities include restaurants, bars, a gym and spa, swimming pools, sauna, babysitting services, massage services, laundry services, a salon, a shopping arcade and a business center. In addition there is a pharmacy and an in-house dentist. Moreover shuttle service to the nearest subway stations is also provided.
This is one of Tokyo’s most extravagant hotels housed in the Shinjuku Park Tower- a glass architectural marvel in itself. The architecture and the décor is contemporary. Rooms are extremely large and spacious affording guests with the most stunning views of the city of Tokyo. Everybody who’s anybody comes and stays here. In room facilities comprise of wireless internet, a DVD player, cable TV plasma screen, printer, hairdryer, safe, coffee maker and a mini-bar. Hotel facilities include restaurants, bars, a fitness club and sauna, a swimming pool, a salon, babysitting services, massage services, a business center, a library and shuttle service to the nearest metro station.
This is one of Tokyo’s most popular hotels. The location of this hotel is excellent- it is located near the Tokyo station and the Tokyo City Air Terminal. The staff is helpful and efficient too. In room facilities comprise of wireless internet, a DVD player, cable TV, hairdryer, safe, coffee maker and a mini-bar. Hotel facilities include restaurants, bar, a fitness club, a swimming pool, a shopping arcade; babysitting services, massage services, and a business center. Address: 2-1-1 Nihombashi-Kakigara-Cho, Chuo-ku Tel: 03-3667-1111 Website: www.rph.co.jp
This is another of Tokyo’s extravagant hotels. It is located within the tallest building of Tokyo. The architecture and the décor are contemporary- minimalist furnishing, marble floors, modern art, glass sculptures dot the hotel lobby. Rooms are extremely large and spacious. In room facilities comprise of wireless internet, cable TV, hairdryer, safe, coffee maker and a mini-bar. Hotel facilities include restaurants, bar, a gym and spa, a swimming pool, babysitting services, massage services, laundry services and a business center. Address: 9-7-1 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Roppongi and Akasaki Tel: 03-3423-8001 Website: www.ritzcarlton.com
This hotel has a good location. The décor is lovely with an emphasis on all things natural and organic. Room are small but comfortable and clean. In room facilities include cable TV, hot water pot and tea, hairdryer and safe. Hotel facilties include restaurants, bar, laundry and massage services and a business center. Address: 1-7-1 Higashi Shimbashi, Shiodome Media Tower, Minato-ku Tel: 03-6252-1111 Website: www.parkhoteltokyo.com
Japan’s currency is the Japanese yen, abbreviated JPY. Exchange rates change over time; a historical conversion in an archived guide is not a current quote.
-Location
1st January- New Years Day 2nd Monday in January- Coming of Age Day 11th February- National Foundation Day 20th March- Vernal Equinox Day 29th April- Showa Day 3rd May- Constitution Memorial Day 4th May- Greenery Day 5th May- Children’s Day 3rd Monday in July- Maritime Day 3rd Monday in September- Respect for the Aged Day 23rd September- Autumn Equinox Day 2nd Monday in October- Health Sports Day 3rd November- Culture Day 23rd November- Labor Thanksgiving Day 23rd December- The Emperor’s Birthday
Japan has recently entered into agreements with 62 countries the globe over waiving visa requirements. American, British, Australian, New Zealand, Canadian, Irish Nationals among others only require a valid passport to travel to Tokyo. No visa is required so long as the intended stay is no more than 90 days except for Brunei whose nationals can only stay for 14 days without obtaining a visa. Nationals of other countries do require visas to enter Tokyo. There are a number of different visas available for those wishing to travel to Japan including a working visa, a general visa, a transit visa, a temporary visitor’s visa or a specified visa which differ in the duration that one is allowed to stay in Japan and the activities travelers can engage in. People intending to travel to Japan must hold passports valid for the next 6 months and must provide authentic and complete applications. They should provide 2 passport sized pictures, documents certifying the purpose of visit, 2 copies of the application form. Travelers must also provide proof of return tickets and sufficient funds to cover their stay.
Tokyo has a massive population of 13 million. Most are of Japanese origin; however a large number of expatriates are also present from other regions of Asia such as China, North and South Korea, the Philippines. A large number of people from America and Europe also work and reside here. The populace is not extremely religious; however they have a deep rooted respect for their culture and still visit shrines and partake in Japanese customs. Life in Tokyo is extremely fast paced; Tokyo’s residents have little time for anything other than work which they take extremely seriously. However, they do know how to party as well as seen by the numbers of bars and clubs around.
The best time to visit Tokyo is in the spring season from March to April and from September to November. The climate during both these periods is fantastic- cool days and nights without rainfall, humidity or the usual hot temperatures that characterize Tokyo for the rest of the year.
Tokyo started out as Edo; a little known traditional fishing village. In the beginning of the 17th century Edo was made a capital of sorts by the Shogun Ieyasu. Under his rule, Edo became larger in terms of population size and in terms of the power it wielded undermining Kyoto (the traditional imperial capital). After the middle of the 19th century when Shogun rule came to an end the Emperor Meiji settles in Edo ushering in imperial rule once again after a long lapse of almost 300 years. Tokyo was struck by the tragedy of the Great Kanto Earthquake in the 1920s which left hundreds of thousands of people dead, and soon after by WWII bombings in 1945 which again left 200,000 people dead. After that period Tokyo was resurrected and has only been on the rise since then.
Tokyo is the capital of Japan and one of the major global cities of the world. The divergence in architectural styles shows just how far Tokyo has come from being a traditional Japanese village to becoming one of the major power centers of the world both politically and economically. Traditional ryokans and buildings such as the Imperial Palace and other temples are flanked by ultra-modern glass and steel towers that dot the skyline of the city. Tokyo has a huge subway and rail system making the city one of the busiest in the world. Construction projects are a constant in this city; restaurants, shopping complexes and other estates are flourishing.
This department store caters to the well to do residents of Tokyo. International as well as local labels and big names in fashion exhibit their collections here. These include the likes of Ferragamo, Marc Jacobs, Issey Miyake and Yohji Yamamoto.
This is a must stop for any tourists visiting Tokyo. As evident from the name this store specializes in the production and sale of swords. A diverse range of these swords and accessories accompanying the swords are placed here. The original swords dating back to as far back as Samurai presence in Japan are exorbitantly priced but there are replicas which are relatively inexpensive. The range of swords exhibited here is truly fascinating. Address: 3-8-1 Toranomon, Minato-ku Tel: 03-3434-4321 Website: www.japansword.co.jp
This center is huge and sells a vast variety of beautiful Japanese arts and crafts. These include both traditional as well as modern pieces. Items sold here include textiles, ceramics, calligraphy, bamboo and paper objects, brushes, lanterns, furniture etc. These are of excellent quality and reflect beautiful craftsmanship. Prices are very high but worth it. Address: 1-11-1 Nishi Ikebukuro, Metropolitan Plaza Building Tel: 03-5954-6066 Website:
This is one of Tokyo’s oldest department stores. Its grandeur is still reflected in its architecture. Its origins can be traced back to the latter half of the 17th century in its humble beginnings as a store selling kimonos. Today, in addition to the traditional Japanese dress, it houses renowned international labels such as Chanel, Christian Dior, Fendi- you name it. Address: 1-4-1 Nihombashi Muromachi, Chuo-ku Tel: 03-3241-3311 Website:
This shop comprises of three buildings, two of which house apparel and the third of which houses furniture items and decoration pieces. The collections of local and international well established designers including Vivienne Westwood, Yamamoto and Chisato are on display here in addition to those of up and coming designers who have produced clothes and accessories catering to the youth of Tokyo.
This department store is colossal with ten floors containing everything from apparel, shoes, accessories, music, electronics, bookstores, arts and crafts as well as food courts. This is a very popular shopping complex amongst the wealthy citizenry of Tokyo. Prices are sky high.
This department store is a delight to visit. It meets the needs of the wealthier citizenry of Tokyo. Housed in a beautiful old dwelling dating back to the 1930s; the store provides the customer with well known labels specializing in apparel, accessories, shoes, cosmetics and other luxury items. Prices are very high but worth it. Address: 4-5-11 Ginza, Chuo-ku Tel: 03-3562-2111 Website:
This is a wonderful small shop, and very easy to miss. It specializes in chopsticks and chopstick holders. It’s quirky, but delightful. Address: 5-4-2 178 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku Tel: 03-3403-6033 Website:
This shop specializes in Kimonos and has been present in Tokyo since the early part of the 20th century. A variety of Kimonos of differing design and in varying materials are sold here. From every day Kimonos in cotton, to wedding kimonos in silk- this is the place to choose one for yourself. Address: 2-1-1 Yurakucho, Chiyoda-ku Tel: 03-3501-4012 Website:
Tourists are advised to pick up souvenirs of the city of Tokyo from here. A number of products are available from kimonos, to chopsticks, fans, dolls, and jewelry and furniture items.
This museum showcases Japanese art- both traditional and Western styles. Exhibits include paintings, sculptures and prints. All art pieces date back to the 1900s i.e. the Meiji period. Timings: Tues-Sun 10 A.M- 5 P.M
Much of the palace is closed, however, tourists can stroll the grounds of the palace where the once magnificent Edo Castle stood. The palace houses the royal family and the foundations of the castle are open to public viewing. Edo Castle became in effect the ruling seat of the Shogun in the early 1600s. Nearly 300 years later when the Shogunate fell and imperial rule was restored the royal family moved here. A lot of Japan’s history is embodied in this building, from the years of the Shogun to Imperial rule to the fate suffered by the Palace much of which was razed during WWII. Timings: Daily; all day
Tokyo Sea Life Park Children will love the park’s aquarium, containing many marine creatures brought from Tokyo Bay and the world’s largest oceans, such as the Pacific and Atlantic. Many creatures are displayed at the sea life park, including hammerhead sharks and ocean fish. The park also has bird houses, ponds and beaches. Visiting hours: Tuesday–Thursday, 9:30 until 5 pm. Admission: 700 yen for adults, 250 yen for children, and free for children under 12 Address: 6-2-3 Rinkai-cho, Kasai Rinkai Park, Edogawa-ku Telephone: 0338695152 Ueno Zoo Ueno Zoo is a wonderful zoo dating to the late 19th century. It has birds, reptiles (including crocodiles, snakes and Komodo dragons), pandas, sea lions, polar bears, penguins, lions, zebras and giraffes. Visiting hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 9:30 until 5 pm Admission: 600 yen for adults, 200 yen for children, and free for children under 12 Address: Ueno Park, Taito-ku Telephone: 0338285171 Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea Disneyland and the DisneySea water park are near one another and are considered replicas of the original Disneyland. Tokyo Disneyland has various adventure rides, including Pirates of the Caribbean, the Jungle Cruise, the Haunted Mansion and Star Tours. DisneySea is exclusive to Tokyo and features attractions for characters who lived in or travelled across the sea, such as the Little Mermaid, Sindbad and Indiana Jones. The adventures at both places are wonderful and will remain in visitors’ memories, especially children’s. Visiting hours: daily from 9 am until 10 pm Admission: 5800 yen for adults, 3900 yen for children (12-17 years) and (4-11 years), and free for children under 4 Address: 1-1 Maihama, Urayasu-shi Telephone: 033100733
This event refers to the Japanese New Year. This festival is held annually at the various temples in and around Tokyo. This is supposed to be a very significant day and celebration. The residents of Tokyo after having a traditional breakfast head to their religious and spiritual temples/ shrines to pray for good fortune.
This event takes place annually in the month of July. The venue is Sumida Gawa. The Hananbi (Japanese for fireworks) display at this time of the year all along the river is absolutely brilliant. The atmosphere is electric too with food stalls set up here and there for spectators to indulge in local delights while enjoying the breathtaking display. These aren’t just any old fireworks- companies compete with each other to see whose display is best using advanced technologies.
This festival lasts one whole month and is held annually. It is characterized by a vast array of performing arts. There are a number of venues around the city commemorating the occasion, including concerts, dance shows and plays. The city comes to life during this one month and residents and tourist’s alike look forward to it.
This event takes place annually in the month of August. The venue is the Asakusa district but the parade visits other parts of the city too. The residents of Tokyo have taken to this dance form most commonly identified with Latin America. Groups from all over Japan converge on Tokyo to perform the Samba. The costumes worn by the girls are beautiful and the parade is grand.
Tokyo hosts the finals of this important international event every year in the month of August. This is one of the most prestigious tournaments in women’s volleyball and many countries participate in it.
Address: 2nd Floor A.S Building, 3-129 Kobu, Kanazawa, Ishikawa Tel: 81-76-225-5644 Website: www.atlas-japantour.com These operators take tourists all over Japan, however, if visitors wish they can simply opt for the Tokyo leg of the tour. This normally lasts about 4 days (tourists can extend or shorten the length) and takes tourists to Tokyo National Museum, the Imperial Palace, Yokoyama Taikan Memorial Hall, Tsukiji Fish Market, Tsukiji Honganji Temple, the Edo-Tokyo Museum, Asakusa, Odaiba, Panasonic Center, Meiji Shrine, Oriental Bazaar, One of Tokyo’s beautiful gardens, Ginza and a Kabuki Show.
Address: JTB Bldg. 2-3-11, Higashi-Shinagawa, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo Tel: 81-3-5796-5759 Website: www.japanican.com These tour operators offer a variety of packages including morning tours costing from 4000 to 5000 JPY., The afternoon tours are usually themed; for e.g. a Sumo tour, a Museum tour, an Architecture tour and a seaside tour; these can cost from anywhere between 3500 and 13800 JPY. The night tours (including Tokyo nightlife, Mukojima Geisha Tour and Yakatabune Dinner Cruise) cost from 6500 JPY to 14000 JPY. The full day tour takes guests to the Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace, Asakusa and the Sensoji Temple, the Hamarikyu Gardens and Odaiba; a waterfront city and popular area of Tokyo. The full day tour costs from about 6000 JPY TO 12000 JPY per person.
Address: 203 Jindaiji Heights, 3-15-4 Jindaiji Higashi Machi Chofu-shi, Tokyo Tel: 81-50-3682-1141 Website: www.mytokyoguide.com The half day tour of Tokyo lasts about four hours and takes visitors to the Tokyo Metropolitan Observatory, Meiji Shinto Shrine, Imperial Palace, Asakusa for shopping and to the Sensoji Temple. The guide speaks English. The Tokyo Spectacular tour lasts one whole day about seven hours. Tourists are taken to Tsukiji Fish Market, Tokyo Tower, Hamarikyu Gardens, Sumida River cruise and Asakusa for shopping and to visit the Sensoji Temple. The Tokyo Edo Romance tour also lasting a day takes guests to the Tokyo metropolitan Observatory, Happo-en Edo Romance gardens and Edo-Tokyo Museum.
Tel: 81-3-6909-0601 Website: www.tctour.co.jp Email: [email protected] These tour operators offer a variety of packages. Guides speak Japanese, English, Russian as well as Spanish. The full day sightseeing tour takes tourists to Tsujiki Fish market, Tokyo tower, Imperial Palace and then to Asakusa to some shopping complexes and the Sensoji temple. The price of this package is about 12,800 JPY per person. The Tokyo Complete Tour also lasting one full day takes tourists to Tokyo Tower, the Imperial Palace, a tea ceremony, the Asakusa kannon temple and Odaiba. This package costs 15000 JPY. Other tours are theme based and very interesting for example the cherry blossom tour, Sumo stable tour, Karate tour, etc.
Address: 1-19-2 Higashi Asakusa, Taito-ku Tel: 03-3871-6061
Address: 3-4-18 Moto-Azabu, Minato-ku Tel: 03-3404-6622
Address: 5-22-11 Yotsuki, Katsushika-ku Tel: 090-9235-6411
Address: 3-42-7, Minami Otsuka, Toshima-ku Tel: 03-3971-5631
Address: 1-16 Oyama-cho, Shibuya-ku Tel: 03-5790-0760
１丁目-３１−１３ Hayabuchi, YokohamaTsuzuki Ward, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
Using buses in Tokyo can be tedious at times. Bus routes are difficult to grasp, moreover these are often not printed in English. The bus drivers too are not always well-versed in English. However, buses indicate what the end destination is; the fare can be paid once the bus is boarded, to get off passengers must press the button.
Renting a car in Tokyo is not advisable. First of all it is extremely expensive costing anywhere between 6000 and 15000 JPY per day. Furthermore, traffic jams are commonplace; reaching destinations will be time consuming. Thirdly, Tokyo’s public transport is superb; it is better and quicker to use the subway. A number of service providers are available. These include:
Driving yourself around in Tokyo is not advisable. It is difficult to understand which street is which, since they often do not have names but rather numbers assigned to them. Traffic jams are also commonplace. Tourists require an international driving permit as well as a translation of driving licenses from their home countries.
Narita International Airport is located on the outskirts of Tokyo about 60 kilometers away. Tourists can go via JR Narita Express on an hour long train journey to Tokyo station. This ride costs about 3000 JPY. Alternatively tourists can go to Tokyo station via the JR Airport Narita Line which takes a bit longer; almost 90 minutes. The cost is much cheaper at approximately 1300 JPY. Alternatively tourists can go by the Keisei Limited express; this is a 75 minute bus ride into central Tokyo costing a very reasonable 1000 JPY. The bus leaves every 20 minutes from the airport. It is not advisable to take a taxi into central Tokyo as this can take much longer and is extremely expensive costing as much as 20,000 JPY. In addition, many hotels arrange for picking and dropping of guests.
The subway system in Tokyo is world famous for its efficiency. This is a popular mode of travelling in Tokyo amongst locals and tourists alike. The letter “M” indicates stations located nearby. Tickets can be bought at the stations where vending machines are numerous. The 13 lines are opearted by two companies: The Tokyo Metro and Toei. The 13 lines are visibly marked in 13 different colors making it easier for passengers to understand which line covers which part of the city. All announcements are made in English and there is always a screen dispalying the previous and next stops in English. Avoid using the metro during rush hour when the subway is extremely busy making rides rather unpleasant.
Taxis are plentiful, dotting every corner of the city, however, the fares are terribly expensive. Taxis can be hailed outside hotels;at any roadside. If the green light is flashing above the taxi; it indicates that it is occupied. Passengers can hail those with red lights flickering above them which are unoccupied. The taxi door is automatic-opening and closing itself. Taxi drivers sometimes only speak Japanese so be sure he knows/ understands where exactly you wish to be dropped. Price: 640- 680 JPY for first 2 km travelled; an additional 80 JPY for additional 290 m travelled therafter (Charges are 30% more from 11 P.M- 5 A.M)
Trains in Tokyo are operated by East Japan Railways. There are a number of lines covering the city of Tokyo. These include the Yamanote, Chuo, Sobu lines among others. Similar to the Metro, these lines correspond to different colors: green, orange and yellow respectively. Tickets can be bought using the vending machines present at the stations. Price: 130 JPY (cheapest fare); 730 JPY (day pass) Timings: 5 A.M- Midnight Tel: 050-2016-1603 Website: www.jreast.co.jp
Tokyo is an extremely safe city and has enjoyed this reputation for a long time now. However, for those travelling in Tokyo there are some points worth remembering. Avoid dark places, especially deserted places at night. If it is necessary to walk at night be sure to walk in big groups. There a number of pickpockets who plague the city especially at busy tourist attractions and subway stations. Watch out when crossing roads as people drive recklessly on the streets of Tokyo. Because temperatures in Tokyo are known to soar especially in the summer months travelers should drink plenty of fluids and wear a cap/ hat In case of emergencies always carry the following numbers with you:
