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Tokyo, Japan

Japan’s capital fuses neon shopping hubs with temple courtyards and pocket parks. For a first visit, base yourself near the JR Yamanote loop, then balance headline sights with ramen counters, depachika food halls, and unhurried neighborhood wandering.

Best months to compare

May, June, September

Budget

Mid-range destination

Safety

75 safety index

Weather

Best from late March to May and late September to early November, when days are mild and humidity low. Summer is hot and muggy, June brings a rainy season, and typhoon risk peaks around September.

Where to stay

Stay on or near the JR Yamanote Line for quick cross-city rides. Shinjuku suits night owls and shoppers, with direct airport trains and broad transport under the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. Shibuya is compact for dining and late nights, two stops from Harajuku and Meiji Jingu. Ginza and Marunouchi place you by Tokyo Station for shinkansen day trips and quieter evenings. For lower costs and old-town streets, Asakusa sets you beside Sensō-ji with fast subway links.

Neighborhoods to compare

• Shinjuku: nightlife, shopping, major transport hub
• Shibuya: dining, youth fashion, late nights
• Ginza: upscale shopping, galleries, refined dining
• Asakusa: temples, old-Tokyo streets, budget stays

How long to spend

Three full days cover essentials such as Sensō-ji, Meiji Jingu, a museum or two, and an evening food crawl. Add time for day trips to Nikko, Hakone, or Kamakura, or to dive into subcultures in Nakameguro, Koenji, and Shimokitazawa.