Everything You Need To Know About The Charm Of Tokyo

Where else but in Tokyo can you chance upon an ancient temple situated barely a stone’s throw away from an immersive world of manga and anime? Here’s a city that brims with endless possibilities, dazzles with its neon-lit labyrinth of skyscrapers and narrow streets, and fascinates with its symphony of technical and modern innovations while staying firmly rooted in traditions. If Japan is the hub of innovation and creativity, Tokyo is its beating, pulsating heart. 

Nestling on the eastern coast of the Land of the Rising Sun, Tokyo’s unique culture is reflected in its arts and crafts, festivals and celebrations and performing arts. As you walk down its beautiful gingko-lined streets, shop at some of the most luxurious stores in one of the world’s largest fashion districts and gaze in wonder at the high-rises, you can never forget that here’s a city which soaks up history and heritage like a sponge.  

Slip into one of the cozy cafes for a hot cuppa with the server thanking you with a gracious bow and softly uttered ‘arigato’. Hop on to one of the convenient trains, take a tour of the Imperial Palace, check out a show at the Kabukiza Theatre, take a walk across the Shibuya Crossing and have a glass of cocktail at one of its Michelin-starred fine-dines. Is it still a wonder that it ranks among one of the most popular destinations for travellers? With the number of foreign visitors to the city touching a record high of approximately 19.54 million in 2023, here’s why you need to pack your bags and board a flight to Tokyo!  

How to reach Tokyo 

Tokyo is accessible from two major international airports – Narita International Airport and Haneda International Airport. Air India operates four weekly flights to Tokyo. Japan Airline also operates flights from India to Tokyo. 

What makes Tokyo a hot tourist destination for Indians?  

With Japan riding a wave of popularity among Indians for its thriving culture and culinary scene, Tokyo being at the center of all the action, is where a symphony of contrasts lies waiting to be discovered. A shopper’s paradise and luxury retail haven, it also abounds in a superior transport system that makes commuting a piece of cake. And on the topic of cake, there is a world of sweet and savoury delicacies waiting to be indulged in. Culturally and historically rich with museums, parks and scenic beauty, its progressive and modern outlook makes Tokyo a red-hot destination to visit in 2025.       

Tokyo visa procedure 

Early this year, Japan has commenced the issuance of e-visas for Indian tourists, the newly introduced system that eliminates the need for physical visa stickers in passports. Visit the official website, fill out the form and schedule an appointment.  

The best time to visit Tokyo

It’s always a good time to visit Tokyo! Each season brings with it its own charm – whether it is spring with its gorgeous cherry blossoms from March to April and the many traditional festivals (known as matsuri) during the summer season which extends from June to August. The gingko trees brighten up the city with their yellow hues during the autumn months. December to February is the perfect time to see the popular winter illuminations that light up the city.

What to do in Tokyo  

There is a world of discoveries waiting to be made in every nook and corner of Tokyo. Take a modern outing in Akihabara, Tokyo’s ‘electric town’ for its array of anime, manga and electronic shops. The streets of Harajuku are your playground if you are looking to incorporate some kawaii fashion into your wardrobe or if you want to indulge in sweets such as rainbow cotton candy, rainbow grilled cheese and colourful crepes, just perfect for the ‘Gram. Shibuya’s nightlife, popular for its quirky little bars and shopping, is the ideal place to be after dark – not to forget the famous Shibuya Crossing. If tradition and culture are on your mind, drop in at Asakusa to visit the Senso-ji Temple and for souvenir shopping in Nakamise Shopping Street, or indulge in local eateries and crafts at Ningyocho.

Need a break and just want to soak up a bit of nature? Tokyo has an array of beautiful parks and gardens, as well as a number of hiking trails for an adrenaline rush of a different kind. Art museums and cultural spaces offer a side of Tokyo not many are aware of.    

Luxury hotels & resorts 

Fancy a cup of afternoon tea on the 45th floor of a hotel’s lobby? Then The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo is where you need to be. On a clear day, the spectacular views of Mount Fuji and a bird’s eye view of the city are a bonus. Whether for business or leisure, this urban oasis atop a dramatic skyscraper offers an experience par excellence. 

The business district of Otemachi comes alive with the HOSHINOYA Tokyo. Offering a peek into the past with its modern comforts – think French-inspired dishes, tatami-lined tea rooms and clean-designed spaces – HOSHINOYA is traditional hospitality, steeped in modern luxury.  

A classic, luxurious experience awaits in the middle of a forested oasis at Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo. Explore one of the largest mist gardens in Japan, rejuvenate with spa therapies and indulge in the many fine-dining restaurants on the property. 

Best restaurants 

From cozy little Instagrammable cafes and street food joints where you can indulge on a budget to Michelin-starred restaurants offering the best of world cuisine, Tokyo is easily a foodie’s haven. If you are looking for authentic Japanese cuisine, then look no further as restaurants here offer everything from Yakitori to Tempura, Udon, Sushi and more. Vegans rejoice as eateries such as T’s Restaurant, Komaki Shokudo and Sougo have plenty of vegetarian and vegan dishes on their menus.

Tokyo Tokyo Official Website
tokyotokyo.jp

Official Tokyo Travel Guide GO TOKYO
gotokyo.org

This article was brought to you by Tokyo Convention & Visitors Bureau

Related: Tokyo Shopping Guide: The Best Malls And Streets To Shop For Every Kind Of Product

Note:
The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Is it easy to get a visa for Indian citizens?

Indians and foreign nationals residing in India can now apply for e-Visas via Japan Visa Application Centers.

How does one commute in Tokyo?

The easiest way to commute within Tokyo is by train or subway networks and you can buy prepaid cards to pay for the transport. Taxis are available on apps such as Uber. Elevators and escalators are a common sight providing barrier-free accessibility.

What are some of the souvenirs one should buy from Tokyo?

Traditional Japanese sweets called Wagashi, traditional crafts such as Edo Kiriko, stationary, Omamori charms, tea and beauty products.

Is it safe to travel alone in Tokyo?

Considered one of the safest cities in the world, Tokyo is great for travelling alone, even for women.

What are some of the apps one can download to make one’s stay in Tokyo more convenient?

Google Maps comes in handy anywhere in Tokyo. Translation apps, apps for currency conversion, train and subway apps for ease of commute.

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