With over 30 million inhabitants, the metropolitan area of Tokyo has the largest population centre in the world. This is made more impressive by the fact that half of Tokyo was reduced to rubble during the air raids in World War II. The city that arose after 1945 is a fascinating mix of ancient tradition and modern innovation.
If you go to the top of a skyscraper you can enjoy impressive views over this seemingly endless city. Climb Rainbow Bridge, Tokyo Tower, Mori Tower or Tokyo Skytree Tower and you’ll see all the iconic landmarks that make up the modern skyline of Tokyo - and you can even see in the distance the grand silhouette of Mount FujiOpens in a new window. Back at street level you’ll experience the atmosphere of city’s most lively district, ShinjukuOpens in a new window. Here is where many of the tallest buildings in Tokyo can be found, along with the city's busiest railway station.
Although Tokyo is a modern city, tradition and history is still very important. In the National Museum of Tokyo you can peruse art and objects from ancient Japan and historic pieces from other Asian countries. The collection includes ancient objects that are up to 12,000 years old. There’s also the Imperial Palace Opens in a new window where for centuries the powerful Shoguns lived and which has housed the Emperor since the time of the Meiji Restoration.
In the Sensoji Temple you will discover traditional Buddhist spirituality that goes back to the year 645. At the controversial Yushukan Museum and Shrine you’ll find a memorial and exhibits that commemorate the more than 2 million people in the last century and a half that have fallen in the service of their country – including during World War II.
Tokyo is constantly working to build itself again and again. The versatile Roppongi Hills complex was built in 2003 in the heart of the city and is one of the trendiest entertainment centres in the city, particularly popular among expats.
Although Tokyo is densely populated, counting the 23 districts, the city still has many green areas. In late March and early April the famous Japanese cherry blossom start to bloom and folks head to Shinjuku Gyoen, one of the most popular places to picnic and enjoy the flora. A great way to relax in this face-paced city.
