Tokyo, the capital of the East.

Tokyo is the most populated city in the world, and it is the capital of Japan since 1868, and the Meiji restoration.

The Tokugawa Shogunate

Even if the city existed past to the 12th century, the shoguns of the Tokugawa clan decided to make Edo (now known as Tokyo) their home in the 17th century for several reasons:

• Strategic Location: Edo was located on the eastern coast of Japan and was a key port city, which gave the shoguns easy access to trade routes and the ability to control the flow of goods and people coming in and out of the city.
• Political Control: Edo was far away from the traditional power centers of Kyoto and Osaka, which made it easier for the shoguns to maintain control over the country and to keep an eye on potential rivals.
• Economic Development: The shoguns’ decision to make Edo their home led to the development of the city as a center of trade, industry and culture. The shoguns invested in infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, and canals, which helped to fuel the city’s growth.
• Military Purposes: Edo was also a strategically important location for military purposes, as it was protected by natural barriers such as Tokyo Bay and the Sumida River, and it was easily defensible.

The shoguns’ decision to make Edo their home transformed the city from a small fishing village into a bustling metropolis and the political and cultural center of Japan for more than 250 years.

 

The new capital, Tokyo.

Tokyo became the capital of Japan in 1868 after the Meiji Restoration, when the ruling shogun returned power to the emperor. The Meiji government decided to move the capital from Kyoto to Tokyo as part of its modernization efforts and to establish a new center of politics and culture that could help to unify the country and promote its modernization. The city of Edo, which was renamed Tokyo, was well-suited for this purpose because of its strategic location and its existing infrastructure, including ports and transportation networks.

Traveling in Tokyo nowadays

Tokyo is a city that truly has it all! From its rich history and cultural heritage to its cutting-edge technology and bustling energy, Tokyo offers something for everyone. The city is a perfect blend of tradition and modernity, where you can experience ancient temples and shrines just minutes away from the latest fashion and technology.

One of the most exciting things about Tokyo is the sheer variety of things to see and do. Whether you’re interested in art and architecture, food and drink, shopping or entertainment, there’s something here for you. Take a stroll through the colorful streets of Asakusa, where you can find traditional Japanese souvenirs and delicious street food. Explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Shinjuku, Shibuya and Harajuku, where you can find the latest fashion and trends. Food is also eveywhere ! Never forget the sushi was invented in Tokyo in the 18th century.

Beyond the city, Tokyo is also a great base for exploring the wider region. Whether you’re interested in hiking in the beautiful countryside or visiting nearby cities like Yokohama or Kamakura, Tokyo is the perfect starting point for your adventure.

Overall, Tokyo is a vibrant and dynamic city that will leave you with a lifetime of memories. It’s a city that will never get boring, and you’ll always find something new to explore and discover.

There are many great places to visit in Tokyo, depending on your interests :

• Asakusa, which is home to the Senso-ji temple and the Nakamise shopping street and where you can see the biggest festival in Japan named the Sanja matsuri the 17th of May gather 1.5 to 2 millions people.
• Shinjuku, a bustling business and shopping district that is also home to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, which offers great views of the city from its observatory. Also famous for its red district the Kabukichô.
• Shibuya, famous for its scramble crossing and shopping district & Harajuku, known for its trendy fashion and the Meiji Shrine.
• Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea, which are popular theme parks.
• Roppongi Hills, which is a modern complex with shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The district is plebiscited by richs expatriates.
• Chuo-ku, where live the emperor of Japan.
• Odaiba, where giant Gundam are exhibited.
• Akihabara, the gathering point of the “Otaku”, also challenged now by Nakano.

It’s ultimately depend on your personal preferences, but these places are considered as popular tourist destinations and good starting point to explore the city.

Akihabara, an injection into Otaku Culture

Akihabara, also known as “Akiba,” is a popular district in Tokyo known for its electronics shops, anime and manga stores, and otaku culture. It is considered by many as a must-see destination for fans of anime, manga, and technology.

One of the main attraction in Akihabara is the wide variety of electronics stores, from large department stores to small specialty shops, where you can find the latest gadgets and appliances at competitive prices. Additionally, there are many anime and manga stores, where you can find a wide variety of merchandise, including anime figures, manga, and other collectibles.

Akihabara is also known for its “maid cafes,” where young women dressed in maid costumes serve customers and perform skits. This is a unique cultural experience, but it’s worth noting that these cafes are not for everyone and it may not be to everyone taste.

Furthermore, the district offers a lot of arcade games, and some of the best known arcades in Tokyo are located in Akihabara, you can find a lot of different games, from classic arcade games to the latest rhythm games, fighting games and VR experiences.

And around Tokyo ?

• Yokohama: Located just 30 minutes from Tokyo by train, Yokohama is Japan’s second-largest city and offers a glimpse into the country’s modernization. You can visit the famous China Town and the Landmark Tower, one of the tallest buildings in Japan.
• Nikko: Located about 2 hours from Tokyo, Nikko is a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its beautiful temples and shrines, including the Toshogu Shrine, which is the final resting place of the first Tokugawa Shogun.
• Kamakura: Located about 1 hour from Tokyo, Kamakura is a charming seaside town that was once the political capital of Japan. You can visit the famous Great Buddha statue, the Hasedera Temple and the Tsurugaoka Hachiman Shrine.
• Mount Fuji: Located about 2 hours from Tokyo, Mount Fuji is Japan’s highest mountain and a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can take a tour to see the mountain and even hike to the summit during the hiking season.
• Hakone: Located about 2 hours from Tokyo, Hakone is a popular hot spring and mountain resort town. You can take a dip in the hot springs, enjoy the beautiful views of Mount Fuji, and visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum.

Find out our Shibuya Shop to enjoy a vibe of this amazing city.