Japan

Tokyo

Metropolis of Contrasts, a blend of ultramodern and traditional

Photo of Tokyo, Japan (4 Chome-2-8 Shibakōen, Minato-ku, Japan by Louie Martinez)

Tokyo, the bustling capital city of Japan, is a unique blend of ancient tradition and cutting-edge innovation, characterized by its impressive skyscrapers, historic temples, and vibrant pop culture.

About Tokyo

The history of Tokyo, formerly known as Edo, is marked by transformation. It rose to prominence when Tokugawa Ieyasu established his shogunate in 1603. As the seat of the Tokugawa shogunate, Edo expanded into a major city. The Meiji Restoration in 1868, which transitioned imperial rule to Japan, was a pivotal moment in Edo’s history, leading to its renaming as Tokyo and setting the stage for gradual industrialization.

Despite adversities like the 1923 Great Kanto Earthquake and the bombings in World War II, Tokyo has continually rebuilt and reinvented itself, rising as a global economic powerhouse in the latter half of the 20th century.

Historical sites in Tokyo offer glimpses into its past, including the Imperial Palace, the Meiji Jingu Shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, and the Sensoji Temple, with origins tracing back to 628 AD. These sites provide a window into traditional Japanese religious practices amid the city’s modernity.

Tokyo’s arts and culture scene is rich and diverse. The National Museum of Western Art, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a creation of Le Corbusier, displays a significant collection of European art. Tokyo’s gardens, such as Koishikawa Korakuen and Rikugien, exemplify the Japanese aesthetic of natural beauty.

Iconic modern landmarks like the Tokyo Skytree, the tallest structure in Japan, and the Tokyo Tower, a symbol of the country’s post-war regeneration, define the city’s skyline. Shibuya Crossing captures the essence of Tokyo’s fast-paced urban life.

Each of Tokyo’s neighborhoods, from the fashion-centric Harajuku to the electronic paradise of Akihabara, reveals a different aspect of the city’s culture. The culinary scene reflects Tokyo’s status as a gourmet destination, with options ranging from casual street food to prestigious Michelin-starred dining.

The Zojoji Temple, the family temple of the Tokugawa shoguns, and nearby traditional Japanese landscape gardens like Kyu Shiba Rikyu and Hamarikyu, offer peaceful retreats within the city.

Tokyo’s evolution from Edo to a global city continues to attract and intrigue visitors. Offering a journey through Japanese history and society, Tokyo bridges its rich heritage with its progressive present.

Upcoming Events what's happening around Tokyo

🌸 Cherry Blossom Predictions
Tuesday, 19 March - Monday, 1 April 2024 (predicted)

Cherry blossoms (sakura) are predicted to start blooming in Tokyo around March 19 and reach their peak around March 25.

Petals typically fall within about 1 week of the full bloom unless the weather causes them to drop earlier.

For more information, see our complete Cherry Blossom Predictions 2024 guide.

Special events are also being held around Tokyo, including:

Sakura Evening Illumination at Rikugien Garden (16 - 24 Mar)

Updated 11 Mar 2024
Event listings are sourced from public information, and may be incorrect or outdated. Always consult the official website for full details.

Around Tokyo

Neighbourhoods of Tokyo explore the variety that Tokyo has to offer

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