A large number of visitors come to Tokyo every year to take a look at its huge architectural marvels, beautiful gardens and parks, and numerous historic sites. The capital city of Japan is filled with a large number of shrines, temples, theatres and parks, which are worth paying a visit. Tourists can check out the Meiji Shrine and Sensoji Temple. One can check out the flowers and trees in the Hibiya Park or the Yoyogi Park. You can check out the cherry blossom trees and roses in these parks.
There are a large number of historical sites also in this city. Travelers can check out the Imperial Palace or the Yasukuni Jinja historical site. Moreover, one can also get to check out the numerous modern architectural marvels like the Tokyo Tower over here. A visit to Tokyo means checking out the theatre and dance performances in Kabuki-Za and the National Theatre. These cultural performances and shows are major components of Tokyo's tourism and hence play a major role in promoting this city as a major tourist destination of the world.
Tourism in Tokyo is also promoted through its numerous festivals and events held during different times of the year. These events are extremely colorful and are known for their lavishness. Some of the major festivals include the Azaria Festival, Wisteria Festival, Kachiya Festival and others.
When on a visit to Tokyo, shopping is a major activity that one can embark upon. The growth of the tourism industry has led to the emergence of a number of shopping districts in the city like Shibuyu, Harajuku, Ginza, Budokan and others. One can find both traditional as well as modern garments in these places.
Tokyo tourism has played a major role in the development of the city. The government has taken major steps to protect its historical heritages and beautify the city with gardens and monumental structures, so as to attracts more and more tourist to this place.
The Tokyo tourism industry is extremely prosperous. The city, with its several natural and man-made attractions, continues to attract more and more travelers from all across the globe every year.History of Tokyo
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The history of Tokyo goes back to nearly 400 years. The city was a small fishing village known as Edo. The city was actually constructed in the year 1457, when Ota Dokan, a vassal of Uesugi Mochitomo, built the Edo Castle. The city however gained importance and started to flourish from 1590 onwards under the rule of Tokugawa Leyasu, who set up the Tokugawa Shogunate in the 1603. During the Edo period, the Great fire of the Meireki destroyed a major part of Asakusa and the Edo Castle. During the eighteenth century, the city grew and became the cultural and political center of Japan.
The shogunate came to an end in 1867 after Tokugawa Yoshinobu surrendered his powers to the emperor. In 1868 after the Meiji restoration, Emperor Meiji took over the city and renamed it Tokyo, which means the 'Eastern Capital'. It became the permanent home of the imperial dynasty of Japan. In 1871, the emperor abolished the feudal han system and set up the prefectural system in Tokyo. It was in this year 1889, when Tokyo city was established with 15 wards. The Great Kanto earthquake was a major natural disaster in the history of Tokyo, which occurred in the year 1923 and killed nearly 70,000 people.
During World War II, the city experienced heavy bombing, which damaged major portions of the city. During that period the city was under military occupation and was controlled by the Allied forces. It became a major military base during this time. Between 1950 to 1960, the city experienced extensive economical development. Industries grew and infrastructure was developed. From 1970 onwards, the city grew at an alarming rate and by late 1980, it became one of the most developed cities of the world. The modern history of Tokyo is filled with tales of growth and development. In the year 1995, the city gained international focus after the Aum Shinrikyo cult terrorist organization attacked the Tokyo subway.
The history of Tokyo traces the growth of the city into a major financial and advanced city of the world.
Tokyo Popular Destinations
Tokyo is the largest city and the capital of Japan. Known as Edo before 1868, it is today one of the most advanced and most beautiful cities of the world. Though Tokyo was once destroyed by earthquake and bombing, today it has raised from ashes to riches. You're bound to fall in love with it at your very first visit. Tokyo popular destinations like Akasaka, Akihabara, Asakusa, Chiyoda, Ginza, Odaiba, etc are crowded with tourists during spring (March to May). Spring is the time of clear sky and cherry blossoms in Japan. Autumn is also a pleasant time to visit Tokyo. So pack your bags during this time and get ready to visit the beautiful Tokyo.
Tokyo is the city of vast propositions where the new and the old merge into a fantastically detailed cityscape. You are bound to get spell bound by the charm of the city. From marvelous cityscapes of Odaiba or Roppongi Hills to the hustling shopping and entertainment centers of Shibuya and Shinjuku, Tokyo will certainly enthrall you. The wonderful architecture, bright and sparkling lights will surely move you. It also has a vast array of sights and scenes.
Ginza on the other hand is a famous shopping and entertainment district in Tokyo. You can even watch a movie in the famous Kabuki-za theatre. Ikebukuro has many attraction instore for the tourists visiting this place. Chiyoda is the seat of Japanese power and houses the Imperial Palace, the electronics Mecca of Akihabara and the business center of Akasaka. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government building in Shinjuku has twin towers that have viewing platforms and give an excellent view of the city. Don't forget to see the Roppongi Hills in Roppongi district and the Rainbow Bridge at Odaiba. You can also visit some of the largest museums in Japan in Ueno.Sightseeing in Tokyo
Tokyo in Japan is replete with a large number of tourist attractions like monuments, temples, parks, gardens, shops and historical sites. The presence of these tourist spots makes sightseeing in Tokyo a major activity that one can go for when on a holiday to this fantastic city.
One can find a large number of temples and shrines in Tokyo, which are worth visiting. Some of these temples also double up as major pilgrimage destinations of the city. Some of the temples worth visiting include Meiji Shrine and the Sensoji Temple.
Tokyo is filled with a large number of beautiful gardens and parks, which are home to numerous cherry blossom trees and different varieties of flowers. Sightseeing in Tokyo is almost incomplete without a visit to these grand and fantastic parks like the Rikugien and the Hama Rikyu. There are a large number of natural wonders also which serve as major tourist spots of the city. Travelers can marvel at the view of Mount Takao or walk along the lush green surroundings of Todoroki Valley.
Sightseeing in Tokyo implies a visit to the numerous historical sites of the city like the Imperial Palace and the Hayashi Memorial Hall. Besides these, travelers can pay a visit to the numerous entertainment and shopping centers and areas of the city like Odaiba, Omotesando, Tokyo Dome City and others. One can find a large number of shopping malls, departmental stores, restaurants and cafes in these areas. You can find a large number of shops malls, like Saka Plaza, and international brand outlets like Louis Vuitton over here. Besides, one can also find a large number of theme parks in these places, which serve as major crowd pullers.Tokyo Museums
The culture of Tokyo is the crystallization of the opulent culture of the common mass that flourished in the Edo period from 1603 to 1867. Furthermore there is much contemporary art to be found, from "modern" to "innovative" to "futuristic". Tokyo has many enriching museums. You are sure to find whatever you need to stimulate your creativity in these museums. The Tokyo museums will give you direct and in depth introduction of the city. The city of Tokyo itself may be called a giant "museum" which is filled with people, things and events.
There are a number of famous museums in Tokyo. Some of them are Tokyo National Museum, Tokyo National Science Museum, National Museum of modern art, Edo- Tokyo Museum and others.
Of all the museums, the Tokyo National Museum is the oldest and the largest museum in Japan. It houses 90, 000 cultural treasures of art and archeological items, extensively covering the various regions of Asia, centering on Japan. Set up in 1872, the Tokyo National museum is worth seeing. The museum houses 87 Japanese National Treasures, 610 important cultural property and others. The museum also holds research and conducts educational events related to its assemblage. The major thrusts on the collections of the museum are on the ancient Japanese art and Asian art along the Silk Road. You will also find a huge collection of Greco-Buddhist art. The museum consists of five Exhibition Buildings. They are:
- Honkan or the Japanese Gallery
- Toyokan or the Asian Gallery
- Hyokeikan
- Heiseikan
- Horyu-ji Homotsukan or the Gallery of Horyu-ji Treasures, as well as the Shiryokan or the Research and Information Center
The Tokyo National Museum was inaugurated in 1871. The Science Museum concentrates chiefly on the evolution of life on Earth. But its comprehensive permanent displays and exhibitions cater to nearly all aspects of scientific endeavor.
The National Museum of Modern Art is the foremost museum of collecting and exhibiting coeval Japanese art. The museum houses the works of many notable Japanese artists sine he Meiji period. It also houses the works of a few contemporary artists as well. The museum has Arts museum, a Crafts Gallery and a National Film Center.
The museums of Tokyo are frequented by tourists throughout the year. There are even restaurants in many museum premises like Tokyo National Museum, Edo- Tokyo Museums, Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum and many others.Tokyo Parks & Gardens
In case of Japanese garden there are two basic types which are Tsukiyama" and "Karesansui". While Tsukiyama features tiny hills and stones, in "Karesansui" white sand represents the sea, and the stones stand for hills. Though Tokyo is not known for its greenery, however, Tokyo Parks & Gardens have been one of the prime attractions for the visitors of this city.
Are you looking for river, cliff edge, and green of grass in Tokyo? Just visit Nogawa Park. Besides, in this city you will also find one of the oldest parks in Japan. Tokyo parks and gardens determine historic path full of greenery; for example you can have a walk along the Tamagawa service water. However, there are also parks and gardens, which bear the fact that Tokyo's greenery under construction.
A view of Nakagawa Park would urge you to think of an oasis built on a sewage treatment plant. And from Naganuma Park, you will have better views of Okutama Mountains.
Tokyo gardens stand for down town green plaza as a natural disaster shelter as Higashi Shirahige Park. An oasis of rich nature and green is Higashimurayama Chuo Park. Besides, there are also sports parks with acorns and full of nature. Gardens in Tokyo mean green shade in summer, sunny spots in winter where families spend their holidays getting surrounded by greenery.
Moreover, one can learn how to grow seedlings in Tokyo parks and gardens. If you are seeking for a bit relaxation on the grass, Tokyo parks are ready to bid you a hearty welcome. Spend your day in Ryonan Park, a sunny garden overlooking Takao and Jinba mountains.Tokyo Festivals & Events
Tokyo, the largest city in Japan, is among the largest in the world too. Being one of the prefectures of the country, Tokyo covers an area of 223 square miles which is home to a population of around eight and a half million people. One of the most developed cities of the world, Tokyo boasts of a culture which is about 2000 years old. The city showcases a brilliant blend of the modernity of the fast moving world and an ancient and devout culture. The fervor of the culture in Tokyo is very nicely exhibited at the Tokyo Festivals & Events.
The history of Japan beckons an ancient civilization which incorporates many customs and traditions. Bowing, tea ceremony and ikebana are the commonest of them all. Japanese are among the most polite people of the world. As a matter of fact politeness is a part of the Japanese culture. In Tokyo, do not feel amazed if people bow in front of you. That is the way to greet someone in Japan. Japanese are very sensitive about their etiquettes. The festivals and events that takes place in Japan all through the year truly showcases the rich heritage of their culture.
Tokyo, being the capital city of the country is no exception. The same cultural traits are followed in this cosmopolitan too. Friendly people all around, warm atmosphere and an environment filled with the fragrance of celebrations. Yes, celebrations. Celebrations through the numerous Festivals and the Events that occurs in Tokyo all round the year. In other words, its always a time to celebrate in Tokyo. Be it the Seijin-no-hi, the festivals of the youths or the Doll Festival, Japanese celebrate each of them with great passion.How to Get in
Being the capital of Japan, getting to Tokyo is very smooth and easy. The city is well linked with the outside world through every means of transport, such as Air, Sea or Road transport.
The country has invested a lot to make it convenient for tourists to get in to Japan. Air transport is an important part of Tokyo transportation. The airports are main international gateways with Nippon Airways and Japan Airlines as the two major carriers.
Tokyo is well connected to every corner of the world by air. More than a hundred airlines operate their direct flights to and from Japan. Nippon, Fly Emirates, Gulf Air, British Airways and all major airlines have their flights to all major cities of Japan. Tokyo has world class airports with ultramodern structural designs and equipments. You can also reach Tokyo by the Sea, Train and Road transport.Entertainment in Tokyo
Tokyo is the capital city of Japan and is one of the greatest mega cities of the world. it has a huge population with some of the important regions like that of Ginza, Ueno, Asakusa, Shinjuku and many more. There are several bars, clubs, restaurants and visiting spots in this city attracting the locals as well as the visitors around the globe. The region of Ginza is a costly area of shopping and also comprises of some awesome restaurants and eating places with some bars and night clubs. The region of Shinjuku has the most attractive night life in Tokyo. Great restaurants are located all over the city and starting from international cuisine till the local ones, mouth watering food is available in a hospitable atmosphere. This city is proud to have a multitude of cinemas and film events happening here along with a number of screening rooms and the display of many international films. Theatres are also a common attraction in Tokyo and the people are quite interested in visiting these important theatres.
What Where to Eat
Surfing the list of restaurants in Tokyo, one is sure to see how the city delights in tucking in a variety of tastes from across the world. It is natural for the city to serve the traditional Japanese food, but what is marvelous is that the city is equally adept when it comes to serving authentic international cuisines. Be it French, Italian, American, Indian, or Thai, Tokyo has options for all. The streets are dotted with eateries serving food to tickle any taste bud. As the city buzzes with its crowd of tourists and locals, the restaurants are forever packed with the food buffs trying to taste flavors from the continent and beyond. Jotted below are some of the options for the diners in Tokyo:
Japanese Food: Tokyo has some of the best restaurants for savoring Japanese food. The restaurants perfect the traditional cuisine to serve an authentic dish. The Japanese have their own distinct style of dining, which is well preserved by the restaurants which serve a delicious blend of seafood and other traditional Japanese ingredients.
Where to eat Japanese food in Tokyo:
The best places for Japanese food are:
- Daidaya
- Daigo
- Jidaiya
- Fujimamas
- Robata
- Fukuzushi
- Yoshinoya
- Mo-Mo Paradise
- Maisen
- Tonki
American Food: Tokyo has quite a few restaurants serving American food. The places have mastered the art of serving steaks and barbeques, and dish out the typical American items in a distinctly American style.
Where to eat American food in Tokyo: Some of the best American restaurants of Tokyo are:
- Hard Rock Cafe
- New York Grill
- Farm Grill
- Homework's
- Starbucks
- Mos Berger
- Luncheon Bar and Grill
- Las Chicas
- Bamboo Sandwich House
- Johnny Rockets
Asian Food: Tokyo has several restaurants specializing in food from the other parts of Asia. Indonesian, Thai, Vietnamese and Korean dishes are modified to bring a delicious spread to the Japanese tables.
Where to eat Asian Food in Tokyo: The most reliable Asian restaurants of the city are:
- Monsoon Café
- Rakuraku
- Okonomiyaki Madonna
- Sherpa
- Hyakunincho Yataimura
- Buddha Bar
- Peppermint Cafe
- Miss Saigon
- Singapore Night
- Gonpachi
Chinese Food: The culinary skills of China have long been popular across the globe, and Tokyo too is no exception. The Chinese restaurants of the city serve delicious blends of authentic Chinese ingredients.
Where to eat Chinese food in Tokyo: Chinese food is cooked to its best in restaurants like:
- Toh-Ka-Lin
- Den-En Kyo
- Heichinrou
- Hong Kong Garden Chinese Restaurant
- Chinois
- Kishosaikan
- Yang Yuan Zhai
- Suho No Shiroi Uma
- Orient Express
- Hakuho
Indian Food: Tokyo does not deprive itself from the spicy delicacies of India too! Specialties from different corners of the Indian subcontinent are transported to the city to tingle the Japanese taste buds with a truly Indian meal.
Where to eat Indian food in Tokyo: The following are some of the best Indian restaurants of Tokyo:
- Ajanta
- Moti
- Tandoor
- Ganges
- The Taj
French Food: Strangely enough, Tokyo ranks next to France in appreciating French food. The city has a number of restaurants that bring the true taste of France to the tables. The restaurants are designed with an elegant yet informal air to bring the truly French feeling.
Where to eat French Food in Tokyo: The following are some of the most popular French restaurants of Tokyo:
- Aux Bacchanales
- Chenonceaux
- La Tour d'Argent
- La Provence
- Palazzo
- Maison Blanche
- Restaurant L'Osier
- Les Saisons
- Qahwa
- L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon
Italian Food: Tokyo has a variety of options for the ones seeking to taste Italian food. The Italian restaurants of Tokyo use real Italian spices to serve food brimming with the typical Mediterranean warmth. The restaurants particularly draw the wine lovers who fleet in to taste some of the best wines of the Mediterranean coast.
Where to eat Italian Food in Tokyo: These are some of the best Italian restaurants of Tokyo:
- La Granata- La Boheme
- La Ranarita Azumabashi
- Ristorante II Bianco
- Restorante Carmine
- Trattoria-Pizzeria Sabatini
- Selan
- Sabatini di Firenze
- Attore
- Liana Padella
Hotels in Tokyo
