City break activities in Tokyo
A city like no other
A visit to Tokyo is often described as something of an assault on the senses. Prepare yourself for bright neon lights, lots of noise, bumper-to-bumper traffic and crazily busy pavements. Impressive architecture is everywhere and it's worth visiting Tokyo Sky Tree, a building declared the world's tallest free-standing tower at 634m when it opened in 2012. Make your way up to the two observation towers to enjoy stunning views across the city, especially once the sun has gone down.
No city break to Tokyo would be complete without a visit to the Tokyo National Museum, which houses a wonderful collection of Japanese art, including paintings, sculptures and even samurai swords. You might also want to stop by Sensō-ji, one of Tokyo's most important and most visited temples. For a spot of evening entertainment, try and get tickets for a sumo wrestling tournament.
Natural beauty
While it's easy enough to get the impression that Tokyo is all about metal skyscrapers and high technology, the reality is quite different. There are some stunning natural sights in and around the capital to take in during your short break in the city.
Find time to visit the Shinobazu-no-ike Pond in Ueno Park or head to the lush Todoroki Valley, a kilometre-long path lined by trees and shrubs that stretches along the Yazawa-gawa River. While not quite natural, the artificial beach in Odaiba is certainly worth a look. It's the ideal place to cool off if you're visiting during the summer when temperatures can soar. Unfortunately, visitors with tattoos will be refused entry.
Tokyo Imperial Palace
Set amidst lush gardens and ancient stone walls, the Tokyo Imperial Palace is a fascinating blend of history and modernity, making it a highlight of any city break to Japan's capital. Once the site of Edo Castle, the palace serves as the main residence of the Emperor of Japan and is surrounded by a peaceful moat and extensive grounds. While the inner grounds are only open to the public on special occasions, visitors can explore the picturesque East Gardens, which offer a glimpse of the grandeur of Japan's feudal past. A visit here is a step back in time and a relaxing contrast to the energetic pace of the city.
Festivals
The residents of Tokyo love nothing more than a festival, and there are cultural events taking place in the city throughout the year. Sanja Matsuri, which occurs each May, is one of the city's wildest parties. Millions of people come to enjoy the three-day event, taking part in everything from dancing and street parades to live music events.
During the Sumidagawa Hanabi Taikai festival in late July, the skies over Tokyo are filled with light as thousands of fireworks are set off. Film buffs should aim to visit during November when the Tokyo International Film Festival is held.
Tasting Tokyo
Sampling Tokyo’s culinary delights is a highlight of any city break to the Japanese capital. From slurping steaming bowls of ramen in cosy noodle bars to savouring delicate sushi prepared by master chefs, the city offers a feast for the senses. Don’t miss the bustling Tsukiji Outer Market, where you can try fresh sashimi or grilled seafood skewers. For something truly unique, indulge in a traditional kaiseki meal, a multi-course dining experience that showcases the finest seasonal ingredients. Whether grabbing street food or dining in Michelin-starred restaurants, Tokyo is a food lover’s paradise.
