Japan is high on the ‘bucket list’ for many travellers. It offers a gorgeous aesthetic and can seem quite exotic to Western eyes. It’s safe, efficient, friendly and a very approachable ‘experience’ of another way of life. Here’s a sample of Tokyo, and separately Outside Tokyo.
Tokyo – energetic, crowded, buzzing, intense, efficient, pulsing with life. And fun! Tell us what you thought of Tokyo or what you’d like to see in Japan via ideas@travelsampler.world
According to the World Population Review, greater Tokyo’s population is +37 million (2024), and the city +13 million. A lot of people either way. Originally called ‘Edo’ Tokyo has always been Japan’s largest city, and today is home to approximately 25% of the Japanese population. The numbers go some way to explaining the Shibuya crossing.
‘During its busiest times, an estimated 1,000 to 2,500 people forge their way across this intersection every two minutes… Shibuya Crossing walks the line between manic chaos and perfect synchronisation.’ Japan Travel has more about the crossing, why it’s so busy and where best to view it. We took their advice and felt part of the heartbeat of Tokyo for those brief moments it takes to cross.
‘The line between manic chaos and perfect synchronisation’ is an apt description of Tokyo more broadly. It can feel like that! But somehow Tokyo works and is a wonderful, unique experience for travellers. Tokyo is intense – but also retains parks and customs of the past. Its not unusual to see women in traditional dress out and about, particularly on religious or festival days when locals pay respects to ancestors and their gods. Parks and temples can be found scattered throughout Tokyo and provide a still, contemplative counterpoint to the more modern face of Tokyo.
Mt Fuji is visible from Tokyo. This active (but not erupting) volcano is located ~150km from Tokyo and is accessible by road and rail. Fuji-san holds religious, almost mythical significance for Japanese travellers. On a clear day, the mountain provides a stunning backdrop to Tokyo. Try Tokyo Tower for views over Tokyo, and of Mt Fuji. Wikipedia provides historical, geological, and other information about Mt Fuji, as a starting place to find out.
Sumo Wrestling was not on our ‘must see’ list in Tokyo. However, with a tournament being held, it was an opportunity to experience this uniquely Japanese sport. It was captivating! Long-standing rituals, associated with the Shinto religion, frame the sport and each bout. Wrestlers are formidable in size and strength. Weight is part of the secret to pushing an opponent out of the ring or forcing any body part (other than the soles of his feet) to the ground to win. The most successful wrestlers are widely celebrated. We’d definitely recommend sampling this Japanese national sport. Would you? Tell us why at ideas@travelsampler.world – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
Unfortunately, the Edo-Tokyo Museum is currently closed for renovations, which are planned to last through until 2025. Hopefully, once it reopens the miniature displays of traditional Japanese life will again feature – excellent, especially if you are travelling with children.
With so much to see and sample in Tokyo, what else would you recommend to fellow travellers? Share with us at ideas@travelsampler.world
