TOKYO

The word “large” is hardly a broad enough term to describe sprawling Tokyo. The capital and political, economic and cultural center of Japan is vast — the largest metropolitan area in the world, in fact, and home to more than 9 million people. It’s a worldwide leader for commerce, ranking with London and New York City. But while the mega metropolis can seem overwhelming, the city, in the running to host the 2020 Summer Olympic Games, is also serene. A study in contrasts, Tokyo offers a blend of tradition and modernity, urban and natural, large and small, chaotic and calm worth experiencing.

GETTING THERE

Two major international airports service Tokyo. Narita International Airport (NRT) is nearly 40 miles outside the city. It can be a burdensome — and expensive — airport transfer. Taxis typically cost $168–255, plus tolls. Every hour, nine-seat omnibus taxis depart the airport at a cost of $30–55. Be sure to purchase tickets before departing the airport. Three bus services are also available. Haneda (HND), formerly mainly a domestic airport, is now served by several international flights. Monorail service is about 20 minutes to city center for $5; the Keikyu Airport Line, at 31 minutes, is about $4.50.

GETTING AROUND

Taxis in Tokyo are expensive (about $7.50 for the first 1.25 miles, and $1 for each 100 feet or 40 seconds wait time after). Luckily, the public transportation channels, while challenging to navigate, are clean, modern and efficient. Tokyo Metro operates nine underground lines, and Toei runs four, at about $1.70 for the shortest ride. The subways operate 5 a.m.–midnight every three to five minutes. A one-day unlimited pass on the JR Train — its most popular being the Yamanote Line with 29 stops — can be purchased for about $8.

TOP ATTRACTIONS

Imperial Palace
In the center of Tokyo, tree-covered grounds surround the residence of Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress. Kokyo Gaien (Imperial Palace Outer Garden), Kokyo Higashi Gyoen (Imperial Palace East Garden) and Kita-no-maru-koen Park are open to the public free of charge. Reservations can be made to visit the area around the palace. The inner palace grounds are open to the public yearly on Jan. 2.

Mori Arts Centre
Located in the Roppongi Hills, Mori Arts Centre houses one of the largest spaces for contemporary art in Asia. In addition to checking out the art, patrons can take in the views of Tokyo. The museum is open every day but Tuesdays from 10 a.m.

Tsukiji Fish Market
Riverside fish markets date back to the 16th century, and the Tsukiji Fish Market will give visitors an early-morning glimpse at the tradition. Stroll the rows of rare and unusual fish and absorb the fervor of the staff and patrons before digging into a fresh sushi breakfast.

EVENTS AND FESTIVALS

Antique Jamboree
The largest antiques show in Japan, the annual event draws more than 500 vendors selling items from all over the world. Antiques craftsmen also present on restoring various antiques and more.

Kanda Matsuri
Approximately 100 portable shrines converge on Tokyo for Kanda Matsuri, one of the three largest festivals in Japan and the most famous in Tokyo. Festivals held in odd-numbered years are much larger than the even-numbered ones and include a Saturday parade where 300 people march through central Tokyo.

Ueno Sakura Matsuri
Also known as the Cherry Blossom Festival, 1,000 lanterns illuminate Ueno Park, the best place for savoring the beauty of cherry blossoms in springtime. Hundreds of thousands of visitors per year view the cherry blossoms.

RESOURCES

For more information, visit gotokyo.org