Tokyo, Japan’s bustling capital, sits on the east coast of the island of Honshu, a place where the old and new live side by side. This lively cosmopolitan city, ringed by Tokyo Bay, offers visitors sacred ancient shrines, soaring skyscrapers, peaceful imperial gardens and legendary city districts.
Key Landmarks and Top Attractions
Senso-ji Temple (Asakusa) – Tokyo’s oldest temple, featuring the Kaminarimon Gate, Nakamise shopping street and a five-storey pagoda.
Meiji Jingu Shrine – A serene Shinto shrine in the forest just beyond Harajuku, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken.
Shibuya Crossing & Hachiko Statue – The famous scramble crossing surrounded by bright neon and modern commercial buildings.
Stone bridges, old moat ruins and landscaped gardens of Edo on the site of the former emperor's residence. East Gardens, Tokyo Imperial Palace
Tokyo Skytree & Tokyo Tower: Ascend these iconic towers for panoramic views of the city and, on a clear day, Mount Fuji from the observation decks.
Getting here and opening times Visitor information
How to get there: fly into Narita International Airport or Haneda Airport and take the train, either the JR Yamanote Line or the extensive underground system, into central Tokyo.
Best time to visit: spring (March-May) for cherry blossoms Autumn (October-November) for good walking weather and colourful autumn leaves
Visitor Tips: Purchase a Suica or Pasmo IC card (or similar contactless card) to make your rail travel easier. If you're going to smaller stalls, bring cash. Shoes to wear when going to temples.
Lodging Near Mt. Fuji & Hakone: Beautiful mountain and lake areas, known for their hot spring resorts, cable car rides and views of Mt. Fuji.
Kamakura is a historic beach town south of Tokyo, famous for its Great Buddha bronze statue, zen temples, and forest hiking trails.
Nikko Historical Park: Just north of Tokyo, this mountain resort is a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to ornate Toshogu Shrine, waterfalls and alpine lakes.
Things to Know Before You Visit
What's best to see in Tokyo?
Among highlights are the Meiji Shrine, Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, Shibuya Crossing, Tokyo Skytree and the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace.
When is the best season to visit Tokyo for sightseeing?
Spring (Mar-May) and Autumn (Oct-Nov) are nice with moderate temperatures and beautiful seasonal scenery.
Why is it easy to get around the city for visitors?
Tokyo has a great public transit system, and it’s user-friendly. The JR Yamanote loop line. Below, a vast underground network.
Tokyo is an unforgettable destination, with its ancient heritage, iconic architecture and vibrant city culture. Skanda Holidays – Book your itinerary for one-of-a-kind Japan holiday today!
