The capital city of Japan, Tokyo is one of the largest and most famous cities of the world. The political, economic and cultural hub of the country, Tokyo was formerly known as Edo and was established in 1868. With a population of nearly 13 million people, this city is the largest prefecture in the country. An exciting and vibrant place to visit, Tokyo is one of the world’s most expensive cities. A great holiday destination for all, this city is filled with many historical landmarks and attractions that make it the prefect holiday getaway. Some popular places to visit in Tokyo include;
Asakusa
A marshy area where some of Tokyo’s poorest residents lived, Asakusa used to be the city’s licensed pleasure quarter. Today however this part of town is a popular place to buy tourist souvenirs and is home to many old city temples. With its narrow cobbled streets and traditional architecture, Asakusa is a must visit when in Tokyo. Located here are the Asakusa-Kannon Temple, the Sensoji Temple, the Five Storied Pagoda and popular Nakamise shopping arcade.
The Asakusa-Kannon Temple is one of the most popular temples in the city and has been in existence since the foundation of Tokyo though it has been rebuilt several times. Sensoji Temple which dates back to 645 was also rebuilt in 1958 after the original temple was destroyed in an air raid. The Five Storied Pagoda was built in 1973 and stands in honor of comedians.
Imperial Palace
Built on the site of Edo Castle, the Imperial Palace is a very popular tourist attraction in Tokyo. The reason is because the Japanese Royal family lives here. Located in the center of the city a short walk form Tokyo Station, the Imperial Palace is open to the general public only two days a year; January 1st and December 23rd, the Emperor’s birthday. The Music Room of the Palace is open to the public in April and October, however one has to request for tickets in advance. The Imperial Palace East Gardens are open to public access throughout the year except on Mondays, Fridays and on special occasions and festivals. The palace itself is surrounded by a moat, and is heavily guarded. To get a superb view of the palace you need to stand near Nijubashi Bridge.
Meiji Shrine
The Meiji Shrine was built in 1920 in honor of Emperor Meiji and his beloved wife Empress Shoken. Emperor Meiji is considered to be the first emperor of modern Japan; he played an instrumental role in transforming and westernizing the country making it one of the world’s major powers. Destroyed during World War II, this shrine was later restored to its former glory, and is one of the most popular Shinto places of worship in the city. Located next to Yoyogi Park, various festivals and events are celebrated here throughout the year.
Tokyo Tower
Perhaps one of the most famous sights in Tokyo is the Tokyo Tower. Standing at 333 meters high, this tower is taller than the Eiffel Tower by just 13 meters. As the world's highest self-supporting iron structure, the Tokyo Tower is lit up daily with 164 lights, silver in the summer and orange in the winter. A relay tower for 9 TV channels and 5 radio stations, the Tokyo Tower also houses an earthquake/seismic detection system. It has two main observation galleries one at 150 meters high and the other at 250 meters. Inside the tower, there are also a number of attractions, such as an aquarium containing 50,000 fish; the Mysterious Walking Zone of Hologram Technology; the Wax Works Museum and a Trick Art Gallery.
Shinjuku
One of the trendiest and most popular nightspots in the city, Shinjuku is located in the west of Tokyo. This area of the city also houses Tokyo’s second largest shopping center, including an underground mall and a number of department stores. One of the best parks in the city the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is also found here, which is a great example of Japanese landscaping.
Ginza
Perhaps the most famous shopping, entertainment and dining district in all of Japan is Ginza. This area is one of the most expensive areas of the city and is often frequented by the wealthy older Japanese crowd. Famous around the world for its exclusive designer shops and bright lights, Ginza is most attractive on Saturday and Sunday afternoons, when Chuo Street becomes a large pedestrian zone. Also located in Ginza is the Kabukiza Theater where regular Kabuki performances are held.
Other noteworthy places:
Kanda is most famous for its bookshops with over 100 secondhand shops located here. If you prefer you want to be where all the action is, then Roppongi quarter is for you. This area of the city is where most of Tokyo’s night life takes place. It also houses several foreign missions and embassies.
