Discover Tokyo
Hotels, halal food, prayer spaces, things to do, and itineraries in Tokyo.
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Must-see attractions in Tokyo
From headline landmarks and heritage icons to parks, waterfronts, and major museums, discover 12 standout sights to build into your time in the city.
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.
Explore Tokyo
Muslim travel planner
Plan a Muslim-friendly trip in Tokyo
Halal restaurants in Tokyo
Tokyo’s food scene is part of the city experience. Choose from 21 restaurants and food districts with location notes and planning tips.
tokyoCasita
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.
tokyoNobu Tokyo
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.
tokyoDonto
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.
tokyoLegato
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.
tokyoOhmatsuya
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.
tokyoFungo
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.
Tokyo masjids and Muslim travel
Landmark masjids and prayer-aware notes for visitors planning salah, family movement, and halal-friendly days.
Where to stay in Tokyo
Choose where to stay by trip style, from landmark luxury and family bases to central, airport, and neighborhood-led stays.
tokyoMandarin Oriental Tokyo
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.
tokyoHotel Century Southern Tower
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.
tokyoGinza Washington Hotel
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.
tokyoAnnex Katsutaro
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.
tokyoHomeikan
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
History and today in Tokyo
Read the city today, its history, residents, culture, and character before planning your route.
Exchange Rates
The currency used in Tokyo is the yen, denoted by ¥.
City Information
Fast Facts
-Location
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Public Holidays
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
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Visa Information
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.
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Tokyo’s Residents
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.
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When to go
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.
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Tokyo History
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.
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Tokyo Today
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.
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Shopping in Tokyo
Explore 18 shopping stops, from malls, markets, and book bazaars to fashion streets and souvenir finds.
tokyoIsetan
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.
tokyoJapan Sword
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
tokyoJapan Traditional Craft Center
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:
tokyoMitsukoshi
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:
tokyoParco
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.
Signature sights in Tokyo
A curated pick of the city's standout sights, led by the strongest editorial recommendations.
Festivals and events in Tokyo
Plan around 14 festival seasons, public events, Ramadan/Eid periods, book fairs, art cycles, and winter food activity.
tokyoO-Shogatsu
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.
tokyoSumida River Fireworks Display
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.
tokyoTokyo Summer Festival
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.
tokyoAsakusa Samba Carnival
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.
tokyoFIVB World Grand Prix Volleyball Women’s Finals
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.
Tokyo tours and experiences
Heritage walks, food crawls, coastal trips, museum circuits, family days, and guided ideas for an easier day out.
tokyoAtlas Japan Tour
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.
tokyoJTB Tours
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.
tokyoMy Tokyo Guide
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.
tokyoTokyo City Tour
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.
The Irhal city file
Tokyo travel guide sections
Focused sections for articles, directories, maps, and trip planning.
