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Tokyo is the capital of Japan and also one of the largest cities in the world. This 400 year old city has the world's largest metropolitan economy. This city has numerous skyscrapers and underground shopping malls and has become a favorite tourist destination. It is also regarded as one of the safest cities to visit. I would like to present a brief account of the most popular things that tourists in Tokyo do.
One of the most interesting places in Tokyo is the 'Ginza'. This hot spot was established in the 17th century and has an array of modern commercial complexes, shops, dance clubs, bars and art galleries. There are more than 4,000 restaurants in these expensive streets and language won't be a barrier here. Enjoy the high-tech animation shows and engage in some shopping at the Sony Center or try your photography skills in the Nikon gallery. To experience the dance, music, and folklore of this great country visit the Kabuki-za theatre. Even though the plays are a bit lengthy and slightly difficult to follow even with English translations, the colorful costumes, elaborate sets and the dramatic narrations will surely entertain all. Additionally, making the extra effort to understand the context of the play will give an even more accurate depiction of their significance.
Visiting Meiji-Jingu shrine, Tokyo's most famous shrine, is an essential part of all tourist packages. The imperial palace features lots of lovely gardens, bridges, the renowned Edo Castle and courtyards. This location narrates the history of feudal Japan in a soothing environment. Generally, only the East Gardens of the palace are open to the public. Asakusa is one of the oldest areas of the city where the first photography studio and public cinema of the country can be found. The renowned attraction here is the old Sensoji Temple. The city has many arts festivals, street fairs and parades.
Tsukiji market is the largest fish market in Japan. Visit this wonderful market with closely kept stalls and shops and enjoy every seafood variety you have ever heard of. It is particularly famous for sushi, the traditional Japanese fish dish. Have a sushi breakfast at the busiest market and you will realize that it is more than just a fish market.
The Shinjuku-ku national garden has innumerable varieties of tropical trees, plants, bridges, paths and koi ponds and is spread across 150 acres is. Ueno Park is located on the northeast side of the Yamanote Line and is another huge park in Tokyo. Remember that you can watch Sumo wrestling match at Kokugikan. This is an ancient and unique form of hand to hand combat. If you want to see more sports, go and watch the baseball game at Tokyo Dome or Jingu Stadium.
A Tokyo trip won't be complete without travelling in a Japanese train. The bullet trains are the most advanced trains and are faster than you can imagine. Arrange a train trip at Tokyo's Post Town to avoid the morning and afternoon rush hours. You can also try the Yurikamome elevated train from the Shimbashi station, across the bay bridge. The well-known Edo-Tokyo museum presents the history and development of the country through realistic models.
Another center which is a must see for your kids is the wax museum at the Tokyo tower. This museum has models of historical figures as well as rock stars. Another outing the children will enjoy is a visit to the most visited amusement park of the world, Tokyo Disney Resort. Visit Akihabara to see and purchase every new electronic device at an affordable price. Tokyo Tower is actually taller than the Eiffel Tower and offers a good viewing platform. The Rainbow Bridge at Odaiba also provides a great view over the city. If possible, plan your visit to Tokyo during spring so that you can see the cherry blossoms in parks (hanami) and take a boat ride in the beautiful Inokashira Park in Kichijoji. Belle Kay
