Tokyo Hotels

Visiting Tokyo for the first time can feel like visiting another planet. Tokyo is very different from Western capitals, but what really sets it apart are its people. With a growing population of over 12 million within 1,300 square kilometres, Tokyo is Japan’s largest and most densely populated city; a bustling, state-of-the-art marketplace full of energy, humanity and astonishing contrasts.

Tokyo Tower
Japan’s tallest building, Tokyo Tower, resembles the Eiffel Tower, yet at a soaring 333 metres, it is 13 metres taller than the Paris monument. There are two observatories offering spectacular panoramic views of Tokyo and Mount Fuji on a clear day. Also inside the Tokyo Tower, is the Tokyo Tower Wax Museum, the Mysterious Walking Zone and the Trick Art Gallery, offering children and parents hours of amusement.

Dezome-shiki is an impressive festival held at Tokyo Big Sight Convention Centre on 6 January. Firemen dressed in Edo-period costumes go on parade, later performing acrobatic stunts on top of bamboo ladders at Harumi Pier in Chuo dori.

The Imperial Palace provides a historical and tranquil space in the heart of the city. Located on the former site of Edo Castle, the Palace (named Kokyo) is a large park area surrounded by moats and massive stone walls just, a short walk from Tokyo Station. It is also the current residence of Japan's Imperial Family. Guided tours of the palace are offered in Japanese, with an English pamphlet and audio guide provided. Tours must be reserved in advance at the Imperial Household Agency. Visitors can enter the inner grounds on 23 December and 2 January, when members of the Imperial Family make several public appearances on a balcony. The Imperial Palace East Gardens (Kyoko Higashi Gyoen) are open to the public throughout the year except on Mondays, Fridays and special occasions. It is a pleasant formal garden, surrounded by a section of the original castle moat. Special features include a teahouse, pond and waterfall.

Tokyo has two airports: The New Tokyo International Airport (commonly known as Narita Airport), located 60 km outside of central Tokyo, while the domestic Haneda Airport is more centrally located.

Banks: Open Monday–Friday 09:00-15:00 Closed weekends & holidays
Post Offices: Open Monday–Friday 09:00-17:00 Closed weekends & holidays. Some main post offices are open seven days a week. 
Department Stores and shops: Open every day 10:00-20:00. Most department stores are closed for two to three weekdays per month.
Museums: Open every day 10:00-17:00. Most museums are closed on Mondays.
Business Offices: Open Monday-Friday 09:00-17:00 Closed on weekends & holidays.