Did you know Tokyo is the largest metro area in the world, with almost 40 million residents? With so many people packed into such a small space (Japan is also one of the most densely populated countries in the world), it’s no wonder that Tokyo feels like a labyrinth of hidden alleys, underground restaurants, and shops that sell all things weird and wonderful. We think Tokyo is one of the most fascinating cities in the world and definitely one of our favorites to visit. It’s unapologetically futuristic, with technology so advanced that it frequently feels like you’ve stumbled onto a set from a science fiction movie. There’s so much to see and do in Tokyo; it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why we created this handy guide for first-time visitors to answer all your questions about visiting Tokyo.

Tokyo is Epic

Tokyo is a huge city, and you’ll probably spend most of your time in central Tokyo, which we’ll talk about in more detail later. To get the most out of your visit, you’ll want to get familiar with the city’s districts. – Shinjuku – Shinjuku is the city’s business center, with skyscrapers and high-end shopping, as well as a few interesting museums. – Shibuya – If Shinjuku is the city’s business center, then Shibuya is its center of culture and youth. The iconic Shibuya Crossing is one of the city’s most famous sights. – Ginza – Ginza is Tokyo’s luxury shopping district, with designer shops and upscale restaurants. – Roppongi – Roppongi is home to some of the city’s best bars and clubs. – Asakusa – Asakusa is a traditional district full of temples and souvenir shops. It’s also home to one of Tokyo’s oldest neighborhoods.

What to Bring With You

First and foremost, you’ll want to bring your phone/camera. You’ll want to be able to document your trip, after all. You will want to bring some cash. You can use a credit card in most places, but it’s always helpful to have a few thousand yen on hand, just in case you find yourself needing to pay for something without your card. In terms of clothes, Tokyo is a pretty casual city. Shorts and jeans are perfectly fine, and T-shirts are a perfectly acceptable top. You’ll want some comfortable shoes (you’ll do a lot of walking), and you might want to bring a light jacket or sweater, as the weather tends to be a little chilly from time to time. Winters get cold and some hotels and restaurants will expect you to dress up, so pack accordingly.

The Best Things To See & Do In Tokyo

Tokyo has a lot to offer visitors, and it’s tough to narrow it down. We’ve picked what we think are the best things to see and do in Tokyo for first-time visitors. – Tokyo Skytree – If you’re looking for something a little out of this world, the Tokyo Skytree is probably the best place to start. It’s the second-tallest structure in the world and offers amazing views of the city from its observation decks. – Sensoji Temple – One of the most famous temples in Japan is Sensoji Temple in Asakusa. It’s a beautiful building, and it’s worth popping inside to see the gardens and the massive red gate that welcomes visitors. – The Imperial Palace – The Imperial Palace is a pretty touristy attraction, but it’s still worth a visit if you’re in Tokyo. The gardens are beautiful, and the palace itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. – Shibuya Crossing – This is one of the most famous sights in Tokyo, and it’s worth going out of your way to see it. The Crossing is a busy intersection with a pedestrian crossing that lights up like a giant digital billboard. – Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building – If you want to get a good view of Tokyo’s skyline, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building is a good place to start. Its observatory deck is one of the highest points in Tokyo, and it gives you a nice view of the city.

Final Words

Visiting Tokyo for the first time is a fantastic experience and one that all travelers should have at least once in their lives. It’s a truly unique place that you won’t find anywhere else in the world, and it’s worth exploring at length. If you’re visiting Tokyo, don’t be afraid to go off the tourist trail and get lost in the maze of alleys and side streets. You’ll find treasures there that most tourists don’t, and that makes the experience all the more memorable.