Tokyo
Tokyo is where most visitors to Japan begin, and for good reason. Two international airports, the world's most efficient rail network radiating outward, and enough to fill a week before you even think about leaving. The practical question is not whether to include Tokyo - it is which airport to fly into, which neighbourhood to base yourself in, and how to use the transport system without overcomplicating it.
Twenty-plus years of visiting gives a clear picture of what actually matters versus what is overhyped. The Metro map looks intimidating but you will use maybe five or six lines. The neighbourhood you choose genuinely shapes your experience. And the difference between arriving at Haneda versus Narita is the difference between being in your hotel in thirty minutes versus ninety.
Getting there
Most long-haul flights arrive at Narita (NRT) or Haneda (HND). Haneda is significantly closer to central Tokyo - roughly twenty minutes by monorail versus sixty to ninety minutes from Narita. If your airline offers a choice, Haneda wins every time. JAL's London service uses Narita, so UK travellers on the best direct option face the longer transfer. For the detailed comparison, see my Narita vs Haneda guide. For full routing options by origin, see the Japan country guide.
From within Japan
If you are already in the country, this is how Tokyo connects to the other big stops.
| From | Method | Journey time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Osaka/Kyoto | Shinkansen Nozomi | 2h 15m | The flagship route. Covered by JR Pass (Nozomi excluded, use Hikari instead). |
| Hiroshima | Shinkansen Nozomi | 3h 50m | Direct. Or break the journey at Osaka/Kyoto. |
| Sapporo | Domestic flight | 1h 35m | ANA/JAL multiple daily. Budget option: Peach/Jetstar to Narita. |
| Okinawa | Domestic flight | 2h 40m | No realistic rail alternative. Multiple daily frequencies. |
| Kanazawa | Hokuriku Shinkansen | 2h 30m | Direct to Tokyo Station. Covered by JR Pass. |
Getting around
Tokyo's rail network is dense, punctual, and covers everywhere you will want to go. The system looks intimidating on a map but in practice you will use maybe five or six lines. Get a Suica or Pasmo IC card immediately on arrival - it works on everything and saves fumbling with tickets.
The Tokyo Metro (thirteen lines) and JR East (including the Yamanote loop) handle almost all tourist movement. The Yamanote Line connects major hubs: Shinjuku, Shibuya, Tokyo, Ueno, Akihabara. Single rides from 170 yen.
Taxis are expensive for distance but useful late at night when trains stop around midnight. First trains resume around 5am. GO is the local rideshare app. And Tokyo is more walkable than it looks - many neighbourhood explorations are best on foot, particularly Asakusa, Yanaka, Shimokitazawa, and the smaller streets of Shinjuku and Shibuya.
Neighbourhoods & hotels
Where you stay in Tokyo matters more than in most cities. Pick a neighbourhood for detail and hotel picks.
The most practical base for first-time visitors. Shinjuku Station is the busiest in the world and connects to virtually everywhere - Yamanote Line, multiple Metro lines, and the airport bus terminal. The west side has big hotels and the Metropolitan Government Building (free observation deck). The east side has Kabukicho, Golden Gai, and Omoide Yokocho. It is loud, busy, and efficient. You will not be bored.
Old Tokyo around Senso-ji temple and the Nakamise shopping street. Lower-rise, cheaper, and quieter at night - characterful, if less central.
The young, high-energy heart of the city, built around the Scramble Crossing. Excellent rail links and lively until very late.
Tokyo's polished retail and dining district. Central, calm in the evenings, and priced to match.
Museum district around Ueno Park, with the Skyliner running straight to Narita. Good value and practical, quieter after dark.
Worth the trip
Day trips and experiences worth the time, with availability.
Mount Fuji day trip
Multiple operators run day trips from Shinjuku. The Fuji Five Lakes area is accessible by direct bus (2h). Go on a clear day or do not bother - check the forecast.
Check availability →Kamakura & the Great Buddha
Under an hour from Tokyo Station by JR. The Daibutsu, Hase-dera temple, and Komachi-dori street make a full day. Less touristy than Nikko.
Check availability →Tsukiji & Toyosu market tour
The outer market at Tsukiji still thrives. A guided food tour gives you context and access to the best stalls. Early morning start.
Check availability →teamLab Borderless
The immersive digital art museum. Book tickets well in advance - they sell out. Moved to Azabudai Hills in 2024. Allow 2-3 hours.
Check availability →More on Tokyo
Good to know
IC Cards
Get a Suica (JR) or Pasmo (Metro) at any station. They work on all trains, buses, and many convenience stores. 500 yen deposit, refundable.
Connectivity
Rent a pocket WiFi at the airport. Free WiFi exists but is unreliable outside stations and convenience stores.
Cash
Japan is more cash-dependent than you expect. 7-Eleven ATMs accept foreign cards reliably. Carry at least 10,000 yen.
Language
English signage is excellent in stations and tourist areas. Google Translate camera mode handles menus and signs well.
Tipping
Do not tip. It can cause confusion or offence. Service charges are included where applicable.
Late nights
Last trains run around midnight. First trains resume around 5am. Plan accordingly or budget for a taxi.