More about Tokyo

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At A Glance

Tokyo, like any other travel destination, has a lot of attractions that are uniquely theirs. Being a part of the Kanto Region, there are many places to visit in Tokyo depending on its location. Central Tokyo has skyscrapers, shopping stalls, and busy markets. Museums, the Tokyo Skytree, and magnificent temples can be found in Northern Tokyo. If you're after majestic parks, the awesome Shibuya crossing, and peaceful shrines, visit Western Tokyo. Finally, if you're up for luscious greens contrasting the cold gray of buildings, travel to Southern Tokyo and you'll be greeted by those. Tokyo can be quite expensive. But if you how to travel on a budget, you'll survive this beautiful city and still have a good time.

How to Get to Tokyo

Direct flights from Manila to Tokyo are available daily. You can choose from the following airlines to take you to the Land of the Rising Sun and start your journey: Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, Jetstar, Japan Airlines, and All Nippon Airways. These offer both day and night trips to and from Tokyo. From the airport, several buses that can take you to the city. You can also board the train and alight at the nearest station to your hotel.

Getting Around

Japan has a beautiful and efficient network of trains. The places to visit in Tokyo are much easier to access when you take the train. It's comfortable and fast, so you'll arrive at your destination in no time. Most of the tourist spots are near the stations, so you only have to walk for a few meters until you reach it. Buses can also be an alternative. Metered taxis are also available and can be convenient especially for the places that can't be easily accessed by trains or buses.

Tourist Attractions

If it's your first time to travel to Japan, it may be convenient to concentrate on one city first, so you can thoroughly explore it. But of course, it's still gonna be up to you. To help you kickstart your vacation, here are some of the places you can include in your Tokyo tour itinerary.

• Tsukiji Outer Market

Here you'll find one of the best stores for fresh produce like seafood and other kitchen-related items. You can also find some of the best restaurants with Japanese cuisine. The sushi is a must-try in this place because it's one of the best places to enjoy fresh seafood.

• Tokyo National Museum

Being one of Japan's oldest and best museums, the Tokyo National Museum is a sight to behold. It features one of the largest and best collections of art and archeological artifacts including national treasure. Travel back in time and get an idea of what Japan was like all those years ago as you visit their national museum.

• Harajuku

Japan is known for animes, mangas, and cosplay. And here is Harajuku, you can find the center of teenage fashion and cosplay culture. Its streets are lined with plenty of trendy shops, fashion boutiques, used clothes stores, crepe stands, and food outlets. If you're a thrifty shopper, spending several hours in this place can result in additional weight for your baggage.

• Sumida Aquarium

This modern aquarium is one of the main attractions of Tokyo Skytree Town. It houses over 10,000 sea creatures and in its centerpiece is a 350 thousand-liter tank-- the largest open indoor tank in Japan. Here you can observe penguins and several fur seals from any angle, without any obstruction.

• Meiji Shrine

The Meiji Shrine is dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meijo and his consort, Empress Shoken. The emperor was the first one of modern Japan. During his period, Japan was modernized and westernized to be globally competitive. The shrine has a tranquil forest that's perfect for a leisurely walk. There are also Shinto activities in which visitors can take part like making offerings at the main hall, buying charms and amulets, or writing one's wish on an ema.

Travel Seasons

Tokyo's weather, like anywhere in Japan, is characterized by its four seasons. Spring is a beautiful season because that's when Japan's legendary cherry blossoms are in full bloom. The temperature is cool but is starting to rise and evenings may still be cold. Summer can be very hot and humid but the good thing is that there are fewer rainfalls. Autumn is the best time to visit Tokyo but take note that the typhoon season is around this time as well. Winter in Tokyo is cold and dry. The snowing can be experienced in the northern part of Tokyo and it's a beautiful time of the year.

Tokyo Travel Tips

• Purchase a prepaid transportation pass to save time lining up the booth and purchasing a ticket.
• Keep your phone in silent mode when traveling and don't answer calls. These are some of Japan's transportation etiquettes.
• Always keep a small garbage bag in your purse. Garbage bins are few in Japan. Most Japanese put their trash in their bags until they can find a place to throw it away.
• Keep a stash of tissue or wipes in your bag. Some public restrooms use a squat toilet, so you might need to provide your toilet paper.