Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is situated at the head of Tokyo Bay on the Pacific coast of central Honshu. It is the focus of the vast metropolitan area often called Greater Tokyo, the largest urban and industrial agglomeration in Japan. The site of Tokyo has been inhabited since ancient times; the small fishing village of Edo existed there for centuries. Edo’s development into a city did not occur until the Tokugawa period (1603–1867), when it became the capital of the Tokugawa shogun ate. During this period, however, the imperial family remained in Kyōto, the ancient imperial capital. With the Meiji Restoration of 1868, which ended the shogun ate, the capital was moved to Edo. The city was renamed Tokyo, meaning “eastern capital.” Edo had been Japan’s largest city since the 17th century. Tokyo’s population exceeded one million in the late 19th century, and as Japan’s political, economic, and cultural centre it became one of the world’s most populous cities in the 20th century. The metropolitan area is the largest industrial, commercial, and financial centre in Japan. Many domestic and international financial institutions and other businesses are headquartered in central Tokyo.
Tokyo is Japan’s major cultural centre. Displays depicting the art and history of Japan and Asia are featured at the Tokyo National Museum in Ueno Park. Ueno Park is also the site of a science museum, a zoological garden, and two major art museums. Art and science museums are located close to the Imperial Palace, and museums of various types are located elsewhere in the city. Theatrical works, including everything from traditional Kabuki to modern drama, are performed regularly, as are symphonic works, operas, and other Western forms of dance and music.
Rail Network
- JR (Japan Railways): The main JR East lines include the Yamanote Line, which circles central Tokyo, and the Chuo, Sobu, and Keihin-Tohoku lines.
- Metro: Tokyo has two primary metro systems: Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway, covering almost all parts of the city.
- Private Railways: Major private lines such as the Odakyu, Keio, Tokyu, Tobu, and Keikyu lines connect Tokyo to nearby suburbs and other cities.
- Shinkansen (Bullet Train): Shinkansen lines like the Tokaido and Tohoku lines connect Tokyo with other major cities across Japan at very high speeds.
Buses
- Toei and Private Buses: Operated by Toei and other companies, buses are commonly used in areas without metro access, particularly in neighborhoods and suburban areas.
Taxis and Ridesharing
- Taxis: Available throughout Tokyo and can be hailed on the street or booked through apps. Taxis are known for their cleanliness, but fares can be high.
- Ridesharing: Ride-sharing services like Uber operate in Tokyo, though they are limited due to strict regulations.
Bicycles
- Tokyo is a bicycle-friendly city, with dedicated bike parking spaces and rental options like Docomo’s Bike Share system.
Walking
- Many areas of Tokyo are highly walkable, especially popular districts like Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Asakusa. Pedestrian crossings, walkways, and sidewalks are well-maintained and prioritized in busy areas.
Airports
- Narita International Airport: Located outside Tokyo, primarily serving international flights.
- Haneda Airport: Closer to the city center, handling domestic and some international flights.
- Both airports are well-connected by train and bus services to central Tokyo.
Water Transport
- Water Buses: Tokyo also has water buses along the Sumida River and Tokyo Bay, offering scenic transportation and an alternative way to travel between locations like Asakusa, Odaiba, and Tokyo Big Sight.
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