Tokyo, Japan’s capital, is a vast and dynamic metropolis with a population of approximately 35 million people in the greater Tokyo area. The city offers an incredible blend of modern and traditional Japanese culture, spread across its many diverse suburbs and districts.
Modern vs. Traditional Tokyo
To experience modern Japan, visit the fashionable streets of Ginza or the trendy youth hubs of Shibuya and Shinjuku. Meanwhile, old Japan can be found in the shrines and parks of Shibuya, Roppongi, and Asakusa. Tokyo seamlessly blends the past and the future, offering visitors a unique travel experience.
A perfect example of this fusion is Shinjuku’s famous yakitori alley, officially known as Shōben Yokocho, but often referred to as “Piss Alley.” Despite being located in one of the world’s most expensive real estate areas, this collection of tiny, rustic food stalls serving grilled skewers coexists alongside towering skyscrapers in Shinjuku’s bustling business district.
For a deeper dive into Tokyo’s historic side, take a stroll through Yanaka, one of the few districts that survived the bombings of WWII, where old wooden houses, temples, and artisan shops still remain.
Tokyo After Dark – A Neon Wonderland
Tokyo comes alive at night, with its iconic neon-lit streets and an endless array of bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Many establishments span multiple floors, which explains the overwhelming vertical neon signage throughout the city.
To experience Tokyo’s vibrant nightlife, explore Ginza, Shibuya, Roppongi, and the Kabukicho district in Shinjuku. Some of these glowing cityscapes were said to have inspired the futuristic aesthetic of the movie Blade Runner.
For something uniquely Japanese, visit an izakaya (Japanese-style pub), try a themed café, or sing your heart out at a karaoke bar—which is a must-do experience for visitors. Tokyo also has a thriving jazz scene, with hidden bars in Shinjuku’s Golden Gai and Ginza’s underground lounges hosting world-class musicians.
For technology enthusiasts, Tokyo is home to leading global electronics and automobile brands, many of which have showrooms displaying their latest innovations. Akihabara, also known as Electric Town, is a must-visit for its massive selection of electronics stores, ranging from cutting-edge gadgets to retro tech. The area is also a hub for manga and anime culture, making it a paradise for fans of Japanese pop culture.
If you love gaming, check out themed arcades like Taito Station, or visit Odaiba, home to teamLab Borderless, an immersive digital art museum that will transport you into a world of interactive light and color.
Tokyo’s Green Spaces – A Break from the Hustle
While Tokyo is known for its skyscrapers and high-energy streets, it also has plenty of tranquil green spaces. The Imperial Palace Gardens offer a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city, while Shinjuku Gyoen is famous for its cherry blossoms in spring and stunning autumn foliage.
For a taste of traditional Japanese garden design, head to Rikugien Garden or Koishikawa Korakuen, where you can experience a slice of Edo-period Japan with scenic bridges, ponds, and tea houses.
Shopping in Tokyo – From High-End to Hidden Gems
Tokyo is a shopper’s paradise, offering everything from luxury fashion boutiques in Ginza to quirky vintage finds in Shimokitazawa. For something uniquely Japanese, explore Ameya-Yokocho (“Ameyoko”), a lively street market in Ueno where you can find everything from fresh seafood to sneakers.
Looking for otaku culture and collectibles? Head to Nakano Broadway, a multi-floor treasure trove packed with rare manga, anime figurines, and retro gaming gear.
