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🇯🇵 Japan

Tokyo travel guide

Tokyo, Japan's bustling capital, blends ultramodern skyscrapers with historic temples. From the neon-lit streets of Shibuya to the serene Meiji Shrine, the city offers incredible food, cutting-edge technology, and rich cultural experiences.

Language

Japanese (English limited outside tourist areas)

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Timezone

JST (UTC+9)

Best time

March to May, September to November

Budget/day

JPY 10000-30000/day ($67-200)

When to visit

Jan

1°C - 10°C

Feb

2°C - 11°C

Mar

5°C - 14°C

Apr

10°C - 19°C

May

15°C - 23°C

Jun

19°C - 26°C

Jul

23°C - 31°C

Aug

24°C - 32°C

Sep

20°C - 27°C

Oct

14°C - 22°C

Nov

8°C - 17°C

Dec

3°C - 12°C

Very High season High season Moderate season Low season

Safety

safe

Tokyo is extremely safe. Crime virtually nonexistent. Earthquakes possible — know exit routes.

Women travellers

Very safe. Women-only train cars available during rush hours. Low crime rate.

Culture & etiquette

Clean, modest attire. Remove shoes where required. Cover tattoos at onsen/public baths.
  • + Bow slightly when greeting - deeper for formal occasions
  • + Remove shoes when entering homes, temples, some restaurants
  • + Queue orderly - Japanese value proper lines
  • + Be quiet on public transport - phone calls are frowned upon
  • - Don't tip - it can be seen as insulting
  • - Don't eat or drink while walking
  • - Don't talk on phone in trains
  • - Don't blow your nose in public loudly

Food to try

Sushi

Fresh raw fish on seasoned rice - try Tsukiji Outer Market

Ramen

Noodle soup in various broths - tonkotsu, shoyu, miso

Tempura

Light battered and fried vegetables/seafood

Wagyu Beef

Premium marbled Japanese beef

Matcha desserts

Green tea flavored sweets, ice cream, and more

Izakaya food

Japanese pub fare - yakitori, edamame, karaage

Hidden gems

Yanaka Cemetery and Yanesen neighbourhoodTodoroki ValleyNezu Shrine (the original Fushimi Inari)Koenji vintage districtHama-rikyu estuary gardens at dawn

Details are indicative and may change. Verify visa, safety, and entry requirements before travel.