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Tokyo, Japan

 

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B&B, Hotels and Hostels in Tokyo, Japan

 

  
 

 

  

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Although not a single city, Tokyo is considered the capital of Japan since it is home to the Japanese government and emperor. About 12 million people—10 percent of the country's population—live in Tokyo, while approximately 33–35 million people live in the entire Greater Tokyo conurbation, making it effectively part of the most populated urban area on earth. The sheer level of energy is the most striking aspect of Japan's capital city. Tokyo is a place where the urgent rhythms of consumer culture collide with the quieter moments that linger from older traditions. It's hectic madness leavened by the most Zenic of calms. While it's true the exciting vibe has a somewhat depressing flip side - shoebox housing estates and office blocks traversed by overhead expressways crowded with traffic - Tokyo remains a glittering example of the 'miracle' of post-WWII Japan.
 		  
     
  Tokyo has many tourist attractions. It would indeed take weeks to see all the major ones. Thanks to a very convenient train and subway system (with signs in English), it is easy to visit most of these attractions. The Imperial Palace, Meiji Shrine, and Sensoji Temple are the three most popular ones in Tokyo. Tokyo has various shopping districts famous for specific products. Akihabara is well-known for electronics stores, Shinjuku for camera and book shops, Ginza for department stores and luxury goods, Shibuya and Harajuku for teenage fashion, and Jinbocho for used (and new) books.

Blooming cherry blossoms should be reason enough to visit Tokyo in spring. Likewise, the mellow hues of autumn also provide a poignant example of the Japanese aesthetic. The muggy summer is not for everyone; just remember there's roughly 5500 persons per sq km (over 14,000 per sq mi)! It might also be wise to avoid an even more crowded Tokyo during the Golden Week national holiday, from 29 April to 5 May.