Luxury Serviced Apartments in Tokyo

Facts About Tokyo

Tokyo is one of the largest cities and an iconic district of Japan. With a population of over 13 million people, Tokyo stands as an epicentre of pop culture, history, and industrial agglomeration.

Apart from the thriving industrial and wholesale sector, the Metropolitan area of Tokyo is a celebrated centre of finance and commerce as well. Some facts that set the city apart include:

• Tokyo is the celebrated capital city of Japan.
• With 37.393 million residents (2020), the Metropolitan Area of Tokyo is the most populated in the world. 
• The Tokyo Stock Exchange is the third-largest in the world and the largest in Japan itself.
• Based on the Global Financial Centers Index 2020, the city enjoys the 4th rank from the top across the globe.
• Tokyo was once a popular fishing village in the country, named Edo. 
• An Alpha+ City, Tokyo boasts of being the largest urban economy with the highest GDP in the world. 
• The Tokyo National Park showcasing traditional art in the city is the largest in the country. 

Also Read: 10 Fascinating Facts About Tokyo

Cost of Living in Tokyo

It is interesting to note that Tokyo remained the most expensive city around the world back to back for 14 odd years. While that series ended in the year 2006, the cost of living here still isn't the lowest.

When calculated separately, rents, monthly utilities, and basic expenses are quite high. The good news is that the costs get quite balanced when clubbed in our fully-equipped serviced apartments in Tokyo. The restaurant prices for a three-course meal for 2 go up to $48. Thanks to the lavish kitchen that comes with each accommodation, eating out can be conveniently ignored altogether based on any potential budget constraints.

Tips for Visiting Tokyo

Tokyo is complicated and very daunting for outsiders. While it might take a lot of time to get a hang of Tokyo otherwise, some of the top tips to remember have been listed right below: 

• It is advisable to learn at least some basic Japanese words. The smallest parts of the country don't use English as much as the suburbs.
• Do not tip when in Japan. In restaurants, hotels, and valets, nobody accepts tips as it is considered very rude. 
• Do not wear black when in Tokyo. The colour is strictly associated with death. 
• Apps like Hyperdia make planning routes amidst the seemingly complicated Tokyo transportation system quite easy. 
• Japanese are very particular about their ways and rules. Some of the polite rules go like this; take your shoes off when on a tatami mat, give or receive anything with both your hands and more.
• The deeper the greeting bow, the more is the level of respect. 
• Carry cash (preferably both bills and coins) at all times as most Japanese restaurants and shops accept only cash. 
• Last but not least, expect a mix of the most hi-tech and squat bathrooms when in Japan. 

Things to Do in Tokyo

Tokyo thrives on its eclectic experiences. No wonder tourists from around the world flood Tokyo in such huge numbers. Skim through a quick list of picks ideal for all kinds of travellers visiting:

What are the most popular things to do in Tokyo?

Tokyo is a dream come true for lovers of anime. Marvel at the Samurai swords at the Tokyo National Museum and head straight to Ryoguku Kokugikan to witness Tokyo’s famous Sumo wrestling. After getting slightly familiar with the city, marvel at its view from the incredible Tokyo Skytree. Don’t forget the ultra-modern toy shops.

What are some free things to do in Tokyo?

Begin with one of the finest fireworks fests in the world when the Tokyo skyline lights up during the Hanabi season (July-August) which is free to see. While parks like Yoyogi Park with Meiji Shrine are free to enter, watching a sumo practice session for free is quite fascinating too. The Omatsuri Museum, Crafts Museum, Origami Gallery in Ochanomizu, and several observatories are surprisingly free. 

Does Tokyo have many romantic attractions?

Of course! Tokyo has the most romantic waterfronts, bridge views, and experiences to welcome couples. Begin with a free wasen boat ride on the Yokojikkengawa Canal. As unbelievable as it may sound, Odaiba or the rainbow bridge glows in the dark. Couples can always hop on to the floating restaurants to end the day. 

What are the most family-friendly things to do in Tokyo?

The iconic Senso-Ji temple located just at the end of a street market is a great start to the vacation. Families highly recommend taking an origami class together when in Tokyo. Most families when in Tokyo are on a perpetual lookout for parks ideal for picnics; Yoyogi Park is the best to consider. Families love spending time in Nakamise-Dori, the country's oldest shopping street. 

What are the more unusual things to do in Tokyo?

Tokyo has a lot of interesting experiences to offer. One unusual one is to visit the age-old Tsukiji Market which has a history of being the largest fish market in the world.

What is fascinating is that most experts recommend crossing the jam-packed Shibuya Crossing at least once in Tokyo. The idea of physically crossing each other’s path at least once in a lifetime is one of a kind. 

Places to Visit in Tokyo

Tokyo is composed of equal parts of art, history, and a magnetic shopping scenario. With museums tracing history that goes back to over 400 years to parks calling for the most happening time with the local community, the list of attractions lets travellers make the most of Tokyo even on a short trip. A crisp handful of selections near to holiday apartments in Tokyo include:

• Akihabara - Ideal to grab the first spot, this busy area is the world’s epicentre for anime, manga, and the overall Otaki culture.
• Tokyo Skytree - A deserving Tokyo showstopper, this marvellous tower is the highest tower across the globe. It offers the most memorable view of the city standing tall at an unbelievable 2,080 feet. 
• Tokyo National Museum - Spot some ancient Samurai swords, Jap art, a whole selection of Kimonos to large Buddha sculptures making this oldest Japanese museum a national treasure. 
• Yoyogi Park - From Zelkova trees to drummers and dancers, this lush park in all its 134 acres is great to experience the community vibe in Tokyo. 
• Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden - It is spread in a magnificent 144-acre land full of serene green landscapes with the stunning Taiwan Pavilion loved by tourists. 
• Senso-Ji - Home to the 2nd largest pagoda, this iconic temple is known for its cultural vibe and authentic Japanese experience. 
• Cat Cafe Mocha - Worthy of being a must-visit attraction for every car lover. With over 20 adorable cats flooding the cafe, guests and especially kids have their best time here. 
• Edo-Tokyo Museum - This is the perfect spot for history buffs looking forward to exploring the entire background of Tokyo City. It covers a surprising span of 400 years. 

Also Read: Top Tokyo Tourist Attractions and Sightseeing

Places to Eat in Tokyo

No matter what, just don't miss the quintessential Japanese Ramen when in Tokyo. While Nakiryu and Haru are the best places to try Jap Ramen, a tip to remember would be to slurp while having the noodles.

The louder the slurp means the better compliment to the chef. Pepper Lunch is a great chain for some quick bowls and bites on the go. Sushi Tokami in Ginza is a great pick for the best sushi here. 

Tokyo also boasts of some very unusual dining experiences. When in Akihabara, do look for restaurants where waitresses are dressed as French Maids, it is quite a different experience. Another fascinating option is the iconic robot restaurant chain which is a whole food show with lights flashing and big robot dress-ups performing around the tables. 

For a more reasonable eating experience that doesn't cost a bomb, consider your nearest departmental stores and their food floor. While most stores offer discounts post-evening sorting food budgets, Yoshinoya with their excellent beef bowls is another great spot to try for inexpensive eats.

Also Read: Best Places to Eat Japanese Food in Tokyo

For drinks and desserts, go for the quintessential Matcha flavor for puddings, teas, drinks, and whatnot. No matter where you go to eat, just don't tip them. Tipping her is considered very rude and a form of showing off money and pitying.

Street Food in Tokyo

Tokyo can be very cheap when the places to eat are chosen wisely. While the grilled squid or Ikayaki is the Tokyo street staple, Crepes and crispy Taiyaki are quite loved as well.

Enjoy the dough balls of Octopus called Takoyaki at smaller restaurants like or taste the specialty bowls that Tokyo offers at places like Tempura Tendon Tenya and Pepper lunch.

Smaller easier to try street food includes the rice Dango dumplings given on a stick, Yakitori, and chestnuts. This whole flavorful culinary experience can be summed by the delicious ice-flavored Kakigōri.

Shopping in Tokyo

Tokyo is full of things worth every traveler’s hard-earned money. From vintage housewares, ceramic dinnerware, and celebrated antiques in Oedo Market to economical replicas of the ancient sampuru, Tokyo sure is heaven for homemakers and chefs. Why just chefs, the city is equally fun for budget shoppers with its Boho flea markets like Takeshita-dori and Mottainai Flea Market.

Head to Akihabara for the latest tech goodies and marvel at the anime and manga merch like nowhere else. Toys are another obsession for Tokyo locals. Street markets like Ameyoko are all the more fascinating with its post-war history of being a black market for candies. 

Some of the top traveler choices that can be blindly trusted include:

• Oedo Antique Market
• Kappabashi Street
• Baro-Ichi Street Market (Antique Kimonos)
• Yamashiroya
• Bohemian Tokyo in Shimokitazawa
• Akihabara
• Nakano Broadway Shopping Complex
• Ameyoko
• Nakamise-Dori
• Ginza on Sundays

Transportation in Tokyo

To begin with, no single pass can be used to travel across multiple transport mediums in Tokyo. While the Japan Railways runs the trains above the ground, especially the Yamanote Line, private companies manage the subway.

It is suggested to keep the route map for both separately to avoid confusion. Based on round trips on bullet trains outside Tokyo, travelers can consider buying the most preferred JR Pass. When traveling within the city, the pass isn't very convenient.

Water boat is another popular medium that runs through the canal in Osaka. Overall, with the world’s busiest train station Shinjuku Station right here, Tokyo’s transportation is quite reliable and very efficient. 

Some of the key subway and train stations along with popular railway lines are:

• Yamanote Line
• Shinkansen Trains
• Shibuya Station
• Shinjuku Station (Biggest)
• Imperial Palace
• Ikebukuro Station
• Ginza
• Tokyo Station 
• Yokohama Station 
• Shinagawa Station 

Weather in Tokyo

Japan is one of these countries falling in the temperate zone. As it welcomes tourists all year round, the weather is surprisingly pleasant throughout the year.

While it has all 4 distinct seasons, each comes with its respective cons. The spring here is blossoming with cherry blossoms but it rains a lot. The summer is bright enough but the humidity can be a problem.

Autumn is preferred but risky because of the increased risk of typhoons while winter is quite chilly. While January is the coldest month, September to November and March to May are the best times to visit the blooming Tokyo.