Tokyo

Tokyo is one of the safest cities in the world. Lost wallets are regularly returned. The biggest risk is overdrinking in Golden Gai or Roppongi. Earthquakes are common but buildings are designed to withstand them.

Bow when greeting. Never tip — it's considered rude. Remove shoes when entering homes, temples, and many traditional restaurants. Don't eat while walking. Speak quietly on trains. Stand on the left side of escalators (right in Osaka).

Japanese is the primary language. English signage exists on trains and major stations but conversational English is limited. Google Translate with the camera feature is essential. Learn basic phrases like 'sumimasen' (excuse me) and 'arigatou gozaimasu' (thank you).

Japanese Yen (JPY). Japan is still relatively cash-heavy, especially at small restaurants, izakayas, and vending machines. IC cards (Suica/Pasmo) work for transit and convenience stores. Credit cards increasingly accepted at larger establishments.

Never tip in Japan — not at restaurants, taxis, or hotels. It can be seen as insulting. Excellent service is the standard and is included in the culture.

Shinjuku

A sensory overload district with the world's busiest train station, neon-lit skyscrapers, the intimate Golden Gai bar alley, and Kabukicho entertainment district.

Best for: Nightlife, department stores, and city views from the Metropolitan Government Building

Shibuya

The iconic youth culture hub with the famous scramble crossing, Hachiko statue, Center Gai shopping street, and cutting-edge fashion. Shibuya Sky offers rooftop panoramas.

Best for: Shopping, street fashion, and the iconic crossing

Asakusa

Old Tokyo at its most charming — Senso-ji temple (the city's oldest), Nakamise shopping street for traditional snacks, and views of the Tokyo Skytree across the Sumida River.

Best for: Temples, traditional culture, and street food

Harajuku & Omotesando

Harajuku's Takeshita Street is a wild kaleidoscope of kawaii fashion, crepe shops, and youth culture. Omotesando, the adjacent boulevard, is Tokyo's Champs-Elysees with luxury brands.

Best for: Street fashion, people-watching, and designer shopping

Akihabara

The electric town for anime, manga, gaming, and electronics. Multi-story arcades, maid cafes, and hobby shops make this otaku culture's world capital.

Best for: Anime, gaming, electronics, and geek culture