Tokyo
Plan your trip to Tokyo with our insider guide, from design-centric hotels and enthralling art to intimate izakaya restaurants and centuries-old tea houses
The world’s most populous metropolis moves to a tempo that is entirely its own. Ancient traditions collide with modern innovation, Shinto shrines crouch beneath towering skyscrapers, and tiny listening bars, yakitori joints and Michelin-starred restaurants jostle for position along narrow alleyways and thronging streets.
Hotels
From pocket-sized, perfectly formed crash pads to ryokan-style offerings with onsen baths, discover where to bed down in Tokyo
Tokyo is one of the safest and most dynamically creative urban centres on the planet
A local writer pens an ode to Tokyo
Restaurants
Tokyo’s dining scene is eclectic and expansive, from tiny standing-only izakaya to more Michelin-starred establishments than any other city in the world. Slurp on bowls of ramen, graze on sizzling yakitori skewers and sample hand-rolled sushi, served with sake and natural wine.
Bars & nightlife
From master mixology to listening bars; clubs in gleaming skyscrapers to J-hip-hop and booming basement DJs – Tokyo has a nightlife like no other
Museums & galleries
Japan’s capital is home to fascinating museums, galleries, and art foundations, many of which are a feat of architecture in themselves.
Shopping
From statement department stores to entire districts dedicated to specialist shops spanning fashion, folk art, records and stationery, Tokyo’s distinctive retail scene ranks among the world’s best.
Coffee shops and co-working
From the erudite charm of a local bookshop to dedicated workspaces, Tokyo’s co-working offerings reflect the city’s samurai work ethic, while traditional kissaten and third wave coffee roasters encompass the city’s percolating coffee scene.
Weekend guides
Japan’s rapid Shinkansen (bullet train) network means much of the country is accessible for a quick trip away
