By Discover the secrets of Tokyo
Discover Tokyo, the capital of Japan – where the past and the future meet. In this blog post, I will guide you to the most exciting and unique places in Tokyo that you should not miss when visiting this fascinating city with the Victoria Residential Ship.
Originally known as Edo, the city was founded as the center of the Tokugawa shogunate in 1603 and quickly developed into the political and cultural center of Japan. After the Meiji Restoration in 1868, the name of Edo was changed to Tokyo and the city became the capital of Japan. In the 20th century, Tokyo faced many challenges, including World War II. World War II bombings and rapid industrialization. Since then, Tokyo has grown into a world-class financial, cultural and technological center that combines rich history with dynamic modernity. Today, Tokyo is a vibrant metropolis where traditional Japanese culture meets futuristic technology.
Tokyo is the heart of Japanese culture, where traditional values and modern lifestyles mix dynamically.
- Traditional Churches and shrines: for example, Senso-ji in Asakusa and Meije-shrine in Harjuku play an important role in its religious heritage.
- Military and samurai heritage: the city’s history is closely intertwined with samurai culture and the time of the Tokugawa shogunate.
- Pop culture: Tokyo is the center of pop culture, especially in the Akihabara district, where anime, manga and electronic novelties are located
- Cuisine and gastronomy: Tokyo is at the heart of Japanese cuisine, the city’s offer ranges from the world’s best sushi and ramen restaurants to special street food.
- Traditional forms of entertainment: Kabuki and Noha theaters represent the traditional forms of Japanese theater art.
7 must-see sights in Tokyo
1) Shibuya Crossing: the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing
It is one of the most recognizable symbols of the city, where thousands of people cross the road at the same time when the lights turn green. This iconic sight gives a fascinating picture of the vibrancy and dynamism of life in Tokyo
Tipp: Would you like to see Shibuya Crossing from above? Head to Shibuya Sky (must book in advance) admission is ¥2,200, or MAGNET by SHIBUYA109, an observation deck at the top of the mall, tickets cost about ¥1,500 including a drink
Shibuya Historical Guided Photshoot Tour
2) Asakusa and the Senso-ji temple: the heart of traditional Japan
Senos-ji, one of Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temples, is one of the most important attractions. The traditional red temple, which houses an impressive 5-story pagoda, is especially important to Japanese and Tokyo residents. The huge paper lantern in front of the church and the smell of incense create a special atmosphere.
Please note that the inside of the pagoda is fenced off and photography is not allowed
Admission and opening hours: admission is free. The large hall is open every day from October to March from 6:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., in summer the opening hours are extended until 5:30 p.m.
Tipp: the church is illuminated at night from sunset to 11 p.m., and the church grounds are always open, making it a pleasant place to relax in the evening
3) Tokyo Skytree: Discover the tallest tower in the world!
It is not only the tallest structure in Japan, but also the tallest tower in the world with a height of 634 meters. From the top of the building, a breathtaking panorama unfolds before us. On a clear day, you can even see Mount Fuji in the distance
Start your journey to the top via the 4 different elevators (traveling to the top at a speed of 50 seconds per stage!) The Tembo deck is the first observation deck that can be experienced at a height of 350 meters. At 450 meters you reach the Tembo Gallery, the highest viewing point of the Skytree, where you will find a 360-degree panoramic view
Entrance and opening hours: it is best to book tickets in advance, so you can get a little cheaper. Please pay attention to the weather as strong winds may lead to closure. The floors are open from 10:00 to 21:00 (last entry 20:20)
Book your ticket in advance to the Tokyo Skytree
4) Shinjuku Gyoen: One of the most beautiful and largest parks in Tokyo
The park occupies a special place among Tokyo’s green oases and is a great place to relax and enjoy nature in the heart of the city. The park area contains a combination of 3 main garden styles: traditional Japanese garden, English landscape garden and French formal garden.
In spring, especially at the beginning of April, the park is famous for its beautiful cherry blossoms.
The park has many rare and valuable plant species that add color and diversity to the landscape throughout the year.
Admission and opening hours: the park is usually open from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., but opening hours may vary depending on the season. It is closed on Mondays. Entry is subject to a fee, you can buy tickets on the day at the entrance or you can also buy them here in advance
5) Tokyo: the Tokyo Imperial Palace
The official residence of the Imperial Family of Japan. It was built on the site of the original Edo castle and is one of the most important and symbolic locations in the city.
The main building is not open to the public, but twice a year on January 2 (New Year’s greeting) and December 23 (the emperor’s birthday), the imperial family appears on the balcony and the public is allowed to enter the courtyard.
The Nijubashi Bridge, the famous stone bridge, is one of the palace’s best-known attractions,
Admission: The garden is free to visit, but it is closed on Mondays and Fridays.
Tipp: Imperial Palace Historical Walking Tour
6) Shnjuku: offers the real Tokyo experience
It is one of the most well-known and busiest districts of Tokyo. Streets full of flashing neon lights, shiny 3D advertisements, small alleys.
Head to Kabukicho district, home to many bars, clubs, Japan’s famous karaoke bars and the brightest lights in town. It is full of restaurants and bars. The restaurants here specialize in yakotori and other traditional dishes.
Tipp: try one of the most well-known Japanese dishes, sushi, or perhaps tempura, a dish fried in light batter made from vegetables and fish. Try Ramen, a popular Japanese noodle soup, or Miso soup, the quintessential Japanese soup made with fermented soybean paste, dashi stock, and tofu.
7) Mount Fuji: Japan’s highest and one of the most famous mountains
The mountain is located on the island of Honsuhu, about 100 km from Tokyo. Mount Fuji is considered a sacred place and iconic symbol not only in Japan, but worldwide. According to the Japanese, the mountain symbolizes beauty, purity and strength.
In 2013, Mount Fuji and the surrounding cultural site were declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
The incredible area around Mount Fuji is home to 5 beautiful lakes with stunning views of the active volcano, which last erupted in 1707 and has been dormant ever since.
See tickets and contact information for the Fuji tour from Tokyo
The best restaurants and cafes in Tokyo
Tokyo, as one of the culinary capitals of the world, abounds in excellent cafes and restaurants that offer both traditional Japanese flavors and modern international (Italian, French). Below I recommend some places that are absolutely worth visiting if you want to discover the rich gastronomic world of the city:
- % Arabica Tokyo
- Blu Bottle Coffe
- Cafe Kitsuné
- Sukiyabashi Jiro ( *** Michelin- star)
- Inchiran Ramen
- Tsukiji Outer Market
- Tonkatsu Maisen
Top tip: It’s no secret that Tokyo is expensive, so if you want a quick snack, I recommend visiting 7-Eleven, Family Mert.
Be sure to bring the reusable water bottle from the Victoria Residential Ship as you can get water from the taps at most places! This is a good way to travel plastic-free.
The best time to visit Tokyo
You can visit Tokyo at any time of the year. However, the most beautiful season is spring, when the cherry blossoms open and cover the city with pink flowers. This is the most popular time to visit, lucky those traveling on the Victoria Residential Ship, as the ship is scheduled to arrive in Japan in the month of May.
Note: Although many attractions in Tokyo can be crowded during this period, it is rarely crowded due to the fantastic organization and good manners of the Japanese people.
Tip: It is worth booking tours and tickets in advance to avoid disappointment
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Tokyo is a city where tradition and modernity meet in perfect harmony, offering visitors a fascinating experience. The unique cultural heritage, vibrant city life and outstanding gastronomy contribute to make Tokyo an unforgettable destination aboard the Victoria Residential Ship. The city offers endless opportunities for discovery, whether it’s historical sights or innovative restaurants. Tokyo is truly a place where visitors can look into both the past and the future