Why visit
Tokyo is the world's largest city. 37 million in the metro area. Shibuya's scramble, Asakusa's temples, Shinjuku's nightlife, and Tsukiji's food all sit on the same Yamanote loop.
Tokyo at a glance
City population
14.0 million
Metro: 37.7 million
Elevation
40 m
131 ft
Time zone
UTC+9
Asia/Tokyo
Airport
HND
Haneda International (inner-city); Narita for many intl flights
Founded
1457 (Edo)
Getting around
Tokyo Metro (9 lines) + Toei + JR East: world's busiest system
Signature dish
Sushi, ramen (every district has a style), tonkatsu, monjayaki
Neighborhoods for travelers
ShinjukuShibuyaGinzaAsakusaShimokitazawa
Japan at a glance
Country center
36.0°, 138.0°
Coast
Has coastline
Country area
377,930 km²
145,920 mi²
Country population
123.3 million
326/km²
Subregion
Eastern Asia
Currency
Japanese yen (¥)
JPY
Dial
+81
Language
Japanese
Demonym
Japanese
Internet
.jp
UN
Member state
ISO code
JP / JPN
Where in the world
36.0° · 138.0°
Japan
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Did you know
- Tokyo is the largest metropolitan area by population (~37 million).
- The Shibuya Crossing sees up to 3,000 people cross at once with every light change.
- Tokyo has more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other city in the world (200+).
- Japan has 6,852 islands: only 430 are inhabited.
- There are more vending machines per person in Japan (1 per 23 people) than anywhere else on earth.
Traveler notes
- JR Yamanote Line circles all major districts
- Sumida River hanami spots in early April
- Cash still matters; carry yen
Plan checks
- Choose a neighborhood first: many capitals have tourist centers that are not the best places to stay.
- Public transport passes usually beat taxis and rideshares for multi-day visits.
- Reserve top restaurants 2–4 weeks out and plan two standout meals per city.
- Check opening days. Major sites close on Mondays or Tuesdays in many countries.
Explore more
Frequently asked about Tokyo
What currency is used in Tokyo?
Tokyo uses the Japanese yen (¥), ISO code JPY.
What languages are spoken in Japan?
The primary language is Japanese.
What is the international calling code for Japan?
The calling code is +81.
What airport serves Tokyo?
Haneda International (inner-city); Narita for many intl flights (IATA: HND).
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