Tokyo is the capital city of Japan and the largest metropolitan area in the world. It is a bustling city with a population of over 14 million people, which makes it a vibrant destination for tourists from around the world. Tokyo Prefecture is the administrative district that encompasses the city of Tokyo as well as the surrounding areas.
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Best Season to Visit Tokyo
The best time to visit Tokyo Prefecture is during spring and fall. March, April, and May are the perfect months to see cherry blossoms around the city. It is a beautiful sight to behold and is one of the main reasons why tourists flock to Tokyo during this period. The fall season, from September to November, is also a great time to visit Tokyo Prefecture, as the leaves of the trees turn into a beautiful orange and red color.
Must-See Places in Tokyo
Tokyo Skytree
Standing at 634m, the Tokyo Skytree is the tallest tower in the world. It offers visitors stunning panoramic views of the city from its observation deck. The Skytree is open year-round and attracts visitors from around the world.
Meiji Shrine
The Meiji Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Shibuya. It is dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken, and covers an area of 175 acres. It’s a great place to step back from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some peace and quiet.
Asakusa
Asakusa is one of the oldest districts in Tokyo and is famous for the Sensoji Temple. The temple is a popular tourist attraction, and there are many traditional shops and restaurants in the area, making it a great place to experience traditional Japanese culture.
Tokyo Tower
The Tokyo Tower is an iconic landmark in Tokyo Prefecture. It was built-in 1958, and at 333m, it is the second-tallest structure in Japan. Visitors can take an elevator to the observation deck to see a breathtaking view of the city.
Mount Takao
Mount Takao is a mountain in Hachioji City, Tokyo. It is one of the closest natural recreation areas to central Tokyo, and it takes only 50 minutes by train from Shinjuku Station. Mount Takao has beautiful scenery, an interesting temple and attractive hiking trails. You can choose from eight different trails to reach the peak at 599 meters.
Tsukiji Market
Tsukiji Market is a famous food market in Tokyo. It used to have two parts: the Inner Market and the Outer Market. The Inner Market was a wholesale fish market that had the largest fish auction in the world. The Outer Market is a retail market that sells all kinds of traditional Japanese foods and restaurants. The Inner Market moved to Toyosu in 2018, but the Outer Market is still open.
Cuisines you can enjoy in Tokyo
Sushi
Tokyo Prefecture is known as the birthplace of sushi. You can find the best sushi restaurants in the city that use fresh and top-quality ingredients.
Monjayaki
Monjayaki is a type of Japanese pan-fried batter with various ingredients, such as cabbage, seafood, meat, cheese, etc. It is similar to okonomiyaki, but it has more liquid ingredients and a thinner texture. It is a popular dish in Tokyo, especially in Tsukishima area. People usually cook monjayaki on an iron plate at the table and eat it with a small spatula.
Recommended Accommodations in Tokyo
The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo
This is a 5-star hotel located in the heart of Tokyo, just steps away from the famous Tokyo Tower. The Ritz-Carlton offers luxury rooms, each with panoramic city or Tokyo Bay views. In addition, the hotel features an exclusive Club Level, which offers exceptional personalized service, including a private lounge and daily complimentary food and beverage offerings.
Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Marunouchi
Situated in one of the most sophisticated neighborhoods in Tokyo, this luxury hotel occupies the top six floors of a skyscraper, offering spectacular views of the city. It features a spa, fitness center, and top-class restaurants, all catering to every indulgence.
The Peninsula Tokyo
The Peninsula is an iconic luxury hotel in Tokyo situated in the heart of the city, near several famous tourist attractions, including the Imperial Palace and the Ginza shopping district. The hotel features large-sized guest rooms, exceptional dining experiences, and tantalizing spa treatments that make your stay unforgettable.
Mandarin Oriental Tokyo
Commanding great views of the city skyline, this luxurious, 5-star hotel stands tall in Nihonbashi, one of Tokyo’s popular commercial destinations. This hotel is designed according to the Japanese concept of wa (harmony), to offer unobtrusive, discreet service, and a relaxing atmosphere for its guests.
Tokyo Station Hotel
As the name suggests, this luxury hotel is located within Tokyo Station, making it easy for travelers to hit the city’s hot spots. This 100-year-old building was renovated in 2012 with a blend of traditional Japanese and contemporary design that recreates its old charm in a modern context.
Shangri-La Hotel, Tokyo
Towering high above Marunouchi business district, this beautiful hotel offers stunning views of Tokyo’s skyline from its 202 luxurious guest rooms. The hotel’s amenities include a spa, a fitness center, and excellent dining options.
Park Hyatt Tokyo
This iconic 5-star hotel in Shinjuku features elegant guest rooms and suites, each with floor-to-ceiling windows, offering breathtaking views of Tokyo. The hotel is home to some of the city’s best restaurants, including the Michelin-starred New York Grill, made famous after its appearance in Lost in Translation.
Aman Tokyo
This hotel is located in the prestigious Otemachi district, between Tokyo Station and the Imperial Palace. This luxury hotel in Tokyo features a wellness center, outdoor bath, and a Michelin-starred fine dining restaurant that serves Japanese cuisine.
Conrad Tokyo
This luxury hotel is centrally located in one of Tokyo’s most cosmopolitan neighborhoods, Shiodome. Conrad Tokyo features a full-service spa, an indoor pool, and an on-site Michelin-starred restaurant with panoramic views of the city.
Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills
This 5-star boutique hotel located in the hip Toranomon Hills district offers 164 luxurious rooms, all with stunning views of the city. The hotel features a spa, swimming pool and fitness center and three dining options, including an award-winning Japanese restaurant.
Conclusion
Tokyo Prefecture is a diverse and exciting destination for tourists from around the world. With its towering skyscrapers, historic temples, and traditional culture, visitors are sure to find something that appeals to them. Whether you are visiting for the first time or returning for another trip, Tokyo is a must-visit destination.
ピンバック: Kanto – You have a friend in Japan