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City GuideJuly 13, 2026

About Tokyo

Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is one of the most extraordinary cities on Earth — a seamless blend of ancient tradition and cutting-edge modernity. With a population of over 13 million people, it is one of the world's most densely populated cities, yet it functions with remarkable order, cleanliness, and efficiency.

A Brief History

Originally a small fishing village called Edo, Tokyo rose to prominence in the 17th century when the Tokugawa shogunate established its seat of power there. The city was renamed Tokyo, meaning "Eastern Capital," in 1868 when Emperor Meiji moved the imperial seat from Kyoto. Despite being devastated by the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923 and Allied bombing during World War II, Tokyo rebuilt itself to become a global powerhouse.

Iconic Landmarks

Tokyo Tower, modeled after the Eiffel Tower but painted in white and international orange, has been a symbol of Japan's post-war rebirth since 1958. The newer Tokyo Skytree is one of the tallest structures in the world, offering panoramic views of the city. The Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa is Tokyo's oldest temple and draws millions of pilgrims and tourists each year. Shibuya Crossing, often called the world's busiest pedestrian intersection, is an iconic image of urban energy.

Food Culture

Tokyo has more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other city in the world. From world-class sushi at Tsukiji Outer Market to steaming bowls of ramen in tiny back-alley shops, the city is a paradise for food lovers. Convenience stores — known as konbini — serve surprisingly delicious meals around the clock, and the variety of cuisine available is simply staggering.

Pop Culture and Technology

Tokyo is the global epicenter of anime, manga, and video game culture. Akihabara, the city's "Electric Town," is packed with multi-story arcades, manga shops, and electronics stores. Harajuku is famous for its outrageous youth fashion and the pedestrian street Takeshita-dori. Meanwhile, Tokyo's transport system — the most complex and punctual in the world — is a marvel of engineering in its own right.

Why Visit Tokyo?

Tokyo is a city that constantly surprises. Whether you are exploring a serene Shinto shrine tucked between glass skyscrapers, sampling street food in a covered market, or watching cherry blossoms drift over a crowded park, Tokyo offers experiences unlike anywhere else on Earth.