Tokyo holidays

How to reach Tokyo

• Flight time: Direct flights to Tokyo from London take around 13 hours. Other major UK airports, like Manchester and Birmingham, offer flights with a stopover that take upwards of 14–15 hours.

• Transfer time: From Narita International Airport, the fastest way into central Tokyo is the Narita Express (N’EX) train, which takes around 1 hour to Tokyo Station. Haneda Airport is closer, and the Tokyo Monorail connects to Hamamatsucho Station in about 20 minutes.

• Price: A one-way ticket on the Narita Express costs ¥3,020 (£15), while the Tokyo Monorail from Haneda is ¥490 (£2.50).

Weather and best time to visit Tokyo

The perfect time for holidays to Tokyo depends on what you want to experience. Here’s a breakdown by season:

• March to May: Spring is one of the best times to visit, especially for the cherry blossoms in late March and early April. Average temperatures range from 10 to 20°C, rainfall is moderate, and this season is perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

• June to August: After the rainy month of June, summer temperatures are often well above 30°C, with high humidity levels making it feel even warmer. Despite the heat, summer festivals and fireworks make it an exciting time to visit.

• September to November: Autumn offers mild and pleasant weather, with temperatures ranging from 25°C in September to 15°C in November, ideal for exploring. The changing colour of the autumn foliage in Tokyo’s parks can make it especially picturesque.

• December to February: The low season has cool but manageable weather, with the winter illuminations and seasonal events making it a magical time to visit. Temperatures hover between 5°C and 10°C, and rainfall is at its lowest.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Japanese is the primary language, but many people in the tourist areas speak some English. It’s handy, though, to learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience and interactions.

• Local habits and customs: Shoes are generally removed when entering someone's home, as well as some traditional accommodations and restaurants. When visiting temples and shrines, follow the customs, such as cleansing your hands and mouth at the purification fountain before entering.

• Health and safety: Tokyo is generally very safe, with a very low crime rate. However, staying aware of your surroundings is always wise, especially in crowded areas. Tap water is safe to drink, and medical facilities are excellent.

• Currency: The currency is the Japanese yen (¥). ATMs are widely available, but not all accept international cards, so look for ones at post offices or major convenience stores. Credit cards are taken at most hotels and larger restaurants, but cash is still king in many smaller shops and eateries.

• Getting around: Tokyo’s public transport is efficient and extensive. The subway system is the easiest way to navigate the city, with fares starting from ¥170 (£0.85). Consider the Tokyo Metro 24-hour Ticket to save money on travel.

• Electricity and plug types: Japan uses a 100-volt power supply with two-pin flat plugs (Type A and Type B). UK travellers will need an adaptor.

• Time zone: Tokyo is 9 hours ahead of GMT, and does not observe daylight saving time.

• Required travel documentation: UK tourists do not require a visa to enter Japan for stays of up to 90 days.

Where to Stay During Your Tokyo Holiday

Tokyo offers a variety of neighbourhoods, each with its unique charm and attractions. Here’s a guide to some of the best areas to stay in Tokyo, tailored to different interests and preferences.

Shinjuku

Shinjuku is a bustling district known for its skyscrapers, vibrant nightlife, and extensive shopping options. It's ideal for first-time visitors due to its central location and excellent transport links.

• Best for: First-time visitors and nightlife enthusiasts.

• Highlights: Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Golden Gai, and Kabukicho.

• Accommodation Options: Budget accommodation, hotels for couples, and luxury hotels.

Shibuya

Shibuya is famous for its trendy fashion, youth culture, and the iconic Shibuya Crossing. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a lively atmosphere and vibrant nightlife.

• Best for: Young travellers and fashion enthusiasts.

• Highlights: Shibuya Crossing, Hachiko Statue, and Centre Gai.

• Accommodation Options: Boutique hotels, budget accommodation, and mid-range hotels.

Ginza

Ginza is Tokyo’s upscale shopping district, known for its luxury boutiques and sophisticated dining options. It’s ideal for those looking for a more refined and luxurious stay.

• Best for: Luxury travellers and shoppers.

• Highlights: Ginza Six, Kabuki-za Theatre, and the upscale department stores.

• Accommodation Options: Luxury hotels, boutique hotels, and mid-range options.

Asakusa

Asakusa offers a glimpse into traditional Tokyo with its historic temples and old-fashioned streets. It’s a great budget-friendly option with plenty of cultural experiences.

• Best for: Budget travellers and cultural enthusiasts.

• Highlights: Sensoji Temple, Nakamise Shopping Street, and Tokyo Skytree nearby.

• Accommodation Options: Budget accommodation and mid-range hotels.

Ueno

Ueno is known for its expansive park, numerous museums, and cultural sites. It’s a fantastic area for families and those interested in history and culture.

• Best for: Families and history buffs.

• Highlights: Ueno Park, Tokyo National Museum, and Ameyoko Market.

• Accommodation Options: Family-friendly hotels, budget accommodation, and mid-range hotels.

Akihabara

Akihabara is the go-to district for tech enthusiasts and anime fans. It's packed with electronics shops and themed cafes, making it a unique place to stay.

• Best for: Anime and technology enthusiasts.

• Highlights: Akihabara Electric Town, anime and manga stores, and themed cafes.

• Accommodation Options: Budget accommodation, boutique hotels, and themed stays.

Roppongi

Roppongi is known for its vibrant nightlife, international dining options, and cultural attractions. It's perfect for those looking to enjoy Tokyo's nightlife and art scenes.

• Best for: Nightlife and art lovers.

• Highlights: Roppongi Hills, Mori Art Museum, and the Roppongi Art Triangle.

• Accommodation Options: Luxury hotels, mid-range hotels, and boutique hotels.

Choosing the right area to stay in Tokyo depends on your interests and what you want to experience during your holiday. Each neighbourhood offers unique attractions and amenities, ensuring your Tokyo holiday is both memorable and enjoyable.

When it comes to gastronomic experiences, few places can compare to Tokyo. The number, range and quality of restaurants is breathtaking, with practically any cuisine you can think of alongside all the usual (and many unusual) Japanese dishes. Here’s what you should look out for:

Typical Japanese dishes

• Sushi: Sushi is a must-try in Tokyo at the renowned Tsukiji Outer Market or one of the city’s many sushi restaurants. Popular varieties include nigiri (slices of fish atop rice) and maki (rolled sushi with seaweed, rice and fillings).

• Ramen: Tokyo boasts a rich ramen culture, with everything from the thick, pork-based tonkotsu to light, soy-based shoyu. Try popular spots like Ichiran and Ippudo, or lesser-known shops for unique flavours.

• Tempura: This dish features seafood or vegetables lightly battered and deep-fried to perfection. Tempura is often served with a dipping sauce and grated daikon radish.

Street food

Tokyo’s street food scene is vibrant and diverse, perfect for quick bites while exploring the city.

• Takoyaki: Bite-sized balls of batter filled with diced octopus, topped with brown sauce, mayonnaise and bonito flakes.

• Yakitori: Skewers of grilled chicken, often enjoyed with a cold beer. You can find them at yakitori stalls and izakayas (pubs) throughout Tokyo.

• Taiyaki: Fish-shaped cakes filled with sweet red bean paste, custard or chocolate, popular at street stalls and festivals.

Sweets and desserts

Tokyo’s desserts range from traditional Japanese sweets to modern creations.

• Mochi: Sticky rice cakes that come in various flavours and fillings, such as sweet red bean paste or ice cream.

• Dorayaki: Small pancakes sandwiched with red bean paste. A favourite among locals and visitors alike.

• Matcha-flavoured treats: From matcha (green tea) ice cream to cakes and pastries, and even Kitkats, these treats offer a unique taste of Japan.

Local drinks

• Sake: Japan’s traditional rice wine can be enjoyed hot or cold. Tokyo has many sake bars where you can sample different varieties.

• Shochu: A distilled spirit often made from barley, sweet potatoes or rice. It’s typically stronger than sake and can be enjoyed on the rocks, with water or mixed in cocktails.

Best things to do in Tokyo

With its sushi and sumo, geisha and gardens, neon and noodles… ticking off a bunch of travel clichés is rarely this much fun. Whether you're drawn to towering skyscrapers, bustling shopping and entertainment districts or serene temples and gardens, Tokyo holidays offer something for everyone.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Tokyo Skytree: At 634m, Tokyo Skytree is the tallest tower in the world. Its observation deck, at 450m, offers breathtaking views of the city and, on clear days, even Mount Fuji.

• Tokyo Tower: Inspired by the Eiffel Tower, Tokyo Tower provides classic panoramic views from its observation deck at 250m and is especially enchanting at night when the city lights up.

• Shibuya Sky: Located in Shibuya Scramble Square, this observation deck offers a 360-degree view from 229m high. It's an ideal spot to witness the famous Shibuya Crossing from above.

The best districts

• Shinjuku: A microcosm of Tokyo, Shinjuku offers everything from the tranquil Shinjuku Gyoen garden to the bustling nightlife in Kabukicho. Don't miss the tiny bars of Golden Gai and the atmospheric Omoide Yokocho alley.

• Shibuya: A vibrant district filled with shops, cafés and nightlife, plus the calm serenity of Meiji-jingū and Yoyogi Park. Home to the famous scramble crossing, Shibuya also has one of the city’s most influential fashion centres in Harajuku.

• Asakusa: The historic Senso-ji temple is at the heart of Asakusa, which retains an old-town charm. Explore Nakamise Street for traditional snacks and souvenirs.

• Ginza: Tokyo’s luxury shopping district, Ginza, boasts high-end boutiques, art galleries and fine dining. It's an excellent place for an upscale shopping experience.

Parks and gardens

• Shinjuku Gyoen: Tokyo's largest and arguably most beautiful garden offers a mix of Japanese, English and French landscaping.

• Ueno Park: Known for its museums and cherry blossoms, Ueno Park is a cultural hub. The Tokyo National Museum and Ueno Zoo are highlights within the park.

• Yoyogi Park: Adjacent to the Meiji Shrine, this is a popular spot for picnics, jogging and people-watching. It's especially lively on weekends with various events and activities.

Historical monuments

• Senso-ji Temple: Tokyo’s oldest temple, Senso-ji, is located in Asakusa. The temple complex includes a beautiful pagoda, vibrant shopping streets and traditional gardens.

• Meiji Shrine: Situated in a forested area in Shibuya, Meiji Shrine is dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken and is a peaceful retreat from the city's bustle.

• Imperial Palace: The primary residence of the Emperor of Japan, the Imperial Palace is surrounded by moats and massive stone walls. While the inner grounds are closed to the public, the East Gardens are open and free to visit.

Day trips in the area

• Mount Fuji and Fuji Five Lakes: Just a couple of hours from Tokyo, this area offers stunning views of Japan’s highest peak and the countryside surrounding the five lakes. Enjoy activities like hiking, boating and hot springs.

• Nikko: About 2 hours north of Tokyo, Nikko is renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed shrines and beautiful natural scenery. The Toshogu Shrine is a must-see.

• Kamakura: This coastal city, 1 hour from Tokyo, offers serene temples, the Great Buddha statue and scenic hiking trails.

Activities for families in Tokyo

Tokyo offers a wide range of activities perfect for families, ensuring everyone, from toddlers to teens, has a great time. Here are some of the best options:

• Theme parks: Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea are top attractions for families, offering a magical experience with rides, shows and Disney characters.

• Interactive museums: The Miraikan (National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation) features hands-on exhibits on robotics, space exploration and more, while the weird and wonderful teamLAB Borderless digital museum is a fascinating place to visit, with constantly morphing immersive art exhibits.

• Shopping and entertainment: For older kids and teens, Akihabara is the go-to district for all things anime and electronics. It's a paradise for tech enthusiasts and those into Japanese pop culture.

Free things to do in Tokyo

Exploring Tokyo doesn’t have to be expensive. The city offers plenty of free activities that provide a rich cultural experience.

• Free events: Whenever you visit Tokyo, chances are there’ll be a matsuri (festival) taking place somewhere in the city, which is free to watch. July's Sumida River Fireworks are also worth catching.

• Free museums and galleries: At the Panasonic Center Tokyo, you can try out the latest Nintendo games and check out the company’s technologies of tomorrow, all for free. Art galleries such as 3331 Arts Chiyoda and Design Festa often offer free access to their range of eclectic art.

• Free temples and shrines: Head beyond Tokyo's modern, bustling areas, and you’ll discover charming fragments of the old city, such as Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines wreathed in wisps of smoking incense.