Tokyo (prefecture) Travel Guide
Plan your trip to Tokyo Prefecture with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover top attractions, hiking and biking routes, local foods and drinks, where to stay, and culture and customs.
- Introduction to Tokyo (Prefecture)
- List of Places to Visit in Tokyo (Prefecture)
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Tokyo (Prefecture)
- Yamanote Line Walk
- Arakawa Cycling Road
- Best Things to Do in Tokyo (Prefecture): Activities and Tours
- Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea
- Sake Brewery Tour
- Week-Long Itinerary for Tokyo (Prefecture)
- Food and Drink Scene of Tokyo (Prefecture)
- Where to Stay in Tokyo (Prefecture): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Luxury Hotels
- Mid-Range Hotels
- Budget Hostels
- What to Buy in Tokyo (Prefecture): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Japanese Knick-Knacks
- Traditional Crafts
- Local Culture and Customs of Tokyo (Prefecture)
- Bowing
- Shoes
- Best Time to Visit Tokyo (Prefecture)
- Do’s and Don’ts of Tokyo (Prefecture)
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Tokyo (Prefecture): Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Tokyo (Prefecture)
- Where to Go Next from Tokyo (Prefecture): Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Nikko
- Mount Fuji
- Kamakura
- Conclusion
Introduction to Tokyo (Prefecture)
Tokyo Prefecture, located in the Kanto region of Japan, comprises 23 special wards and 26 cities, towns, and villages. The prefecture is known for its modern and traditional culture, beautiful natural attractions, delicious cuisine, advanced technologies, and bustling nightlife. Tokyo is a great destination for solo travelers, couples, families, and adventure enthusiasts alike.
List of Places to Visit in Tokyo (Prefecture)
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
Tokyo National Museum
The Tokyo National Museum is a must-visit destination for art and history lovers. It boasts the largest collection of Japanese art and artifacts in the world, including pottery, paintings, samurai swords, and kimono. The museum also features exhibitions that showcase other Asian cultures such as China, Korea, and India.
Senso-ji Temple
Senso-ji Temple, located in Asakusa, is Tokyo’s oldest and most famous temple. It was founded in the 7th century and is a significant cultural symbol of Tokyo. The temple is famous for its spectacular entrance gate, Nakamise Shopping Street, traditional architecture, and festivals such as Sanja Matsuri in May.
Meiji Jingu Shrine
Meiji Jingu Shrine is a peaceful oasis in the middle of Tokyo. It is dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, the first emperor and empress of modern Japan. The shrine complex includes a beautiful forest, a museum, and a hall for weddings and other ceremonies. Visitors can take part in traditional ceremonies such as Shinto weddings and New Year’s Day prayers.
Natural Attractions of Tokyo (Prefecture): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Mount Takao
Mount Takao, located in Hachioji, is one of Tokyo’s most popular hiking destinations. It offers a range of hiking trails with different levels of difficulty, stunning views of the city and beyond, and a range of flora and fauna. At the top of the mountain, visitors can visit a temple, have a meal, or relax in natural hot springs.
Ogasawara Islands
The Ogasawara Islands, also known as the Bonin Islands, are a group of islands located about 1,000 km south of Tokyo. They are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are known for their unique ecosystem, including many endemic species such as the Bonin flying fox and the Bonin petrel. Visitors can enjoy activities such as snorkeling, diving, and hiking, and also learn about the island’s culture and history.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Tokyo (Prefecture)
Yamanote Line Walk
The Yamanote Line is a loop line that circles central Tokyo, making it easy to explore the city’s different neighborhoods. A popular activity among locals and tourists alike is to walk the entire Yamanote Line, which takes about 3 hours and covers 29 stations. Along the way, visitors can explore Tokyo’s diverse architecture, shops, and cafes.
Arakawa Cycling Road
The Arakawa Cycling Road is a 90-km long cycling path that runs along the Arakawa River from Saitama Prefecture to Tokyo Bay. The trail is mostly flat and well-maintained, making it ideal for both leisure and serious cyclists. Along the way, visitors can enjoy parks, gardens, and museums, and stop for a meal or a drink in one of the many cafes and restaurants.
Best Things to Do in Tokyo (Prefecture): Activities and Tours
Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea
Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea are two of the most popular theme parks in Japan. They offer a wide range of rides, attractions, and shows that cater to all ages and interests. Visitors can meet their favorite Disney characters, watch parades and fireworks, and enjoy delicious food and drinks.
Sake Brewery Tour
Tokyo has several sake breweries that offer tours to visitors. A sake brewery tour is a great way to learn about the history and process of making sake and taste different types of sake. Some breweries also offer workshops where visitors can learn how to make sake or pair sake with food.
Week-Long Itinerary for Tokyo (Prefecture)
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Visit Senso-ji Temple, Nakamise Shopping Street, and Asakusa Shrine |
| Day 2 | Explore the Tsukiji Outer Market, Hamarikyu Garden, and Tokyo Bay |
| Day 3 | Visit the Tokyo National Museum, Ueno Park, and Zoo |
| Day 4 | Hike Mount Takao and enjoy natural hot springs |
| Day 5 | Enjoy a sake brewery tour in Ome City |
| Day 6 | Spend a day at Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea |
| Day 7 | Explore the Odaiba Waterfront and Rainbow Bridge |
Food and Drink Scene of Tokyo (Prefecture)
Must-Try Dishes
Sushi
Tokyo is an ideal place to taste authentic sushi, which is made from fresh, locally caught seafood. Some of the best sushi restaurants in Tokyo include Sushi Saito, Jiro Sushi, and Sukiyabashi Jiro.
Ramen
Ramen is a popular and affordable dish in Tokyo, with many local and regional variations. Some of the best ramen restaurants in Tokyo include Ippudo, Afuri, and Ichiran.
Local Beverages
Sake
Sake is a traditional Japanese rice wine that is made from fermented rice. Some of the best sake breweries in Tokyo include Kikusui, Sawanoi, and Otokoyama.
Matcha
Matcha is a type of powdered green tea that is famous for its health benefits and unique flavor. Some of the best places to enjoy matcha in Tokyo include Tsujiri, Nana’s Green Tea, and Higashiya Ginza.
Where to Stay in Tokyo (Prefecture): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Tokyo offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Some of the best places to stay in Tokyo include:
Luxury Hotels
- The Peninsula Tokyo
- Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo
- Aman Tokyo
Mid-Range Hotels
- Dai-ichi Hotel Tokyo
- Hotel Gracery Shinjuku
- Hotel Niwa Tokyo
Budget Hostels
- Kaisu Hostel
- Nui. Hostel and Bar Lounge
- Grids Tokyo Asakusa-Bashi Hotel and Hostel
What to Buy in Tokyo (Prefecture): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Japanese Knick-Knacks
Tokyo has many shops that sell unique and quirky Japanese souvenirs such as stationery, keychains, and figurines. Some of the best places to find these items include Tokyu Hands, Loft, and Village Vanguard.
Traditional Crafts
Tokyo is also known for its traditional crafts such as pottery, lacquerware, and textiles. Some of the best places to shop for these items include Oriental Bazaar, Okura, and Gotoh Museum Shop.
Local Culture and Customs of Tokyo (Prefecture)
Bowing
Bowing is a common form of greeting and showing respect in Japan. In Tokyo, people usually bow longer and deeper than in other parts of Japan. It is important to return the bow to show respect and acknowledge the person.
Shoes
In Japan, it is customary to remove shoes before entering a home, temple, or other indoor spaces. Visitors should follow this rule and look for a designated place to store their shoes.
Best Time to Visit Tokyo (Prefecture)
The best time to visit Tokyo is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). The weather is mild and pleasant, and the city is less crowded than during peak season (July to August and December to January). Spring is also the cherry blossom season, when Tokyo’s parks and gardens are filled with beautiful pink flowers.
Do’s and Don’ts of Tokyo (Prefecture)
Do:
- Bow as a sign of respect.
- Use polite language and gestures.
- Remove shoes before entering a home or other indoor spaces.
- Carry a handkerchief or tissue for sneezing or coughing.
Don’t:
- Tip at restaurants or other service establishments.
- Eat while walking or on public transportation.
- Talk loudly or make noise in public places.
- Touch or point at people with chopsticks.
Safety and Health
Safety in Tokyo (Prefecture)
Tokyo is a relatively safe city with a low crime rate. However, visitors should be aware of pickpockets and scam artists, especially in crowded places. It is also important to cross the street at designated crosswalks and follow traffic signals.
Health in Tokyo (Prefecture)
Tokyo has excellent medical facilities and services, both public and private. Visitors should have health insurance that covers medical expenses abroad. It is also advisable to carry prescription medicine in its original container and carry a small first-aid kit.
Getting to Tokyo (Prefecture): Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Tokyo (Prefecture)
Tokyo has two main airports: Narita International Airport and Haneda Airport. Narita is located about 70 km east of central Tokyo and serves mainly international flights, while Haneda is located about 14 km south of central Tokyo and serves mainly domestic flights.
Bus Stations Near Tokyo (Prefecture)
Tokyo has several long-distance bus terminals that connect it to other parts of Japan. Some of the most popular ones include Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal, Tokyo Station Yaesu Exit Bus Terminal, and Ikebukuro Bus Terminal.
Other Options
Tokyo also has an extensive train and subway network that covers most parts of the city and the wider Kanto region. The Japan Rail Pass is a cost-effective way to travel by train in Tokyo and other parts of Japan.
How to Get Around in Tokyo (Prefecture)
Tokyo’s train and subway system is the most convenient and efficient way to get around the city. The trains and subways run from early morning until midnight, and some lines run 24 hours a day. Taxis and buses are also available, but they can be more expensive than the trains and subways. Visitors can also rent bicycles or join guided tours.
Where to Go Next from Tokyo (Prefecture): Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Nikko
Nikko is a small town located about 150 km north of Tokyo. It is famous for its UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Toshogu Shrine and Nikko National Park. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, hot springs, and local cuisine.
Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji, located about 100 km southwest of Tokyo, is Japan’s tallest mountain and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can hike, climb, or admire the mountain from a distance, and also enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding area.
Kamakura
Kamakura is a coastal town located about 50 km south of Tokyo. It is famous for its ancient temples and shrines, including the Great Buddha and Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. Visitors can also enjoy the beach, local cuisine, and shopping.
Conclusion
Tokyo offers something for everyone, from vibrant city life to tranquil nature, from delicious food to rich culture and history. With proper planning and research, visitors can make the most of their trip to Tokyo and create unforgettable memories.
