Tokyo, the capital since the late 1800’s, is a vibrant, fast moving and sprawling city. However, it is made up of many neighbourhoods, each one with its own character. It has survived a huge earthquake in 1923 and the devastations brought about by the 2nd World War. However, it has been totally rebuilt and is still growing fast.
Spend a complete day visiting the Tokyo Tower observation platform with wonderful views of the city, the beautiful and imposing Imperial Palace Gardens (unfortunately the Palace itself is out of bounds but viewable from the gardens) and the old quarter of Asakusa with its functioning Kannon Temple and colourful street markets.
Continue next to the district of Ueno which shows the more traditional side of the city. Ueno Park is a complex that includes shrines, temples, the Art Academy, Tokyo University of Arts, National Science Museum, the Museum of Western Art and a zoo. Later, you will have time, if desired, to visit the lively shopping and entertainment areas of the Ginza and Harajuku.
