Tokyo Travel Guide: First-Timer's Planning Guide

Tokyo is less overwhelming than it first appears — once you know how to use the trains and which neighbourhood fits your trip, the city opens up quickly.

Neighbourhoods at a glance

• Shinjuku — the classic Tokyo: neon, izakayas and incredible logistics
• Shibuya — the crossing, fashion and young energy
• Asakusa — temples, crafts and old-Tokyo atmosphere
• Ginza — department stores, galleries and high-end dining

Moving around

The JR Yamanote loop line connects nearly everything you'll want. An IC card (Suica or Pasmo) is the easiest way to pay — tap on and off, reloadable at any station.

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