The best time to visit Tokyo is during the spring (March to May) when the cherry blossoms are in bloom, and the fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and the autumn colors are vibrant. The summer can be hot and humid, while winter is cold but generally dry and sunny.
Tokyo has a highly efficient public transportation system that includes trains, subways, buses, and a monorail. You can purchase a reloadable Suica or Pasmo card for convenience. Taxis are available but can be expensive. Many areas are also walkable and biking is a popular option.
Must-visit attractions include the historical Asakusa district with Senso-ji Temple, the bustling Shibuya Crossing, Tokyo Tower or Tokyo Skytree for views of the city, the Meiji Shrine, the vibrant neighborhood of Harajuku, and the Imperial Palace grounds. Don't miss Akihabara for electronics and anime culture, and visit one of Tokyo's many museums and gardens.
You can find traditional Japanese food all over Tokyo - from high-end sushi restaurants to casual izakayas and ramen shops. Some famous areas include Tsukiji Outer Market for fresh seafood, the streets of Asakusa for traditional snacks, and many places in Shinjuku and Shibuya that offer a variety of Japanese cuisines.
While it is helpful to know some basic Japanese phrases, it is not necessary to be fluent in Japanese to visit Tokyo. Many signs, especially in public transportation and major tourist areas, are in English. Additionally, many locals understand basic English, and you can also find information centers and services that cater specifically to tourists.
Tokyo is consistently ranked as one of the safest cities in the world for tourists. Crime rates are generally low, and the city is clean and well-organized. However, as with any major city, it's always a good idea to stay aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.
Major credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, department stores, and many restaurants and shops in Tokyo. However, it's important to carry some cash, as smaller establishments and many vending machines may not accept credit cards. It's also a good idea to notify your bank before traveling to avoid any issues.
In case of an emergency, dial 110 for police assistance or 119 for fire and ambulance services. Tokyo has a number of English-speaking operators to assist foreigners. It's also a good idea to have your embassy's contact information on hand and to know the address of your accommodation in case you need to communicate it to an emergency responder.
Tokizo offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, including luxury hotels, business hotels, traditional ryokans, capsule hotels, guesthouses, and short-term apartment rentals. It's recommended to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Some etiquette tips include taking off your shoes when entering someone's home and some traditional accommodations, not tipping as it's not customary in Japan, being respectful of local customs and traditions, keeping quiet on public transportation, and queuing orderly for trains and services.
