BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN TOKYO

　Tokyo, the capital of Japan and one of the world's great cities, is located on the eastern coast of Honshu, the largest of the chain of islands that form the country. It is situated within the Kanto Administrative Region. Tokyo is a densely populated metropolitan area (over 11,000,000 inhabitants).

　　Founded in the early 17th century, the city was originally called Edo, a name it retained until the mid-19th century when the Emperor Meiji renamed it Tokyo.

　　Tokyo's history has been turbulent. In 1923, a major earthquake destroyed parts of Tokyo and its suburbs. Near the end of World War II, Tokyo was firebombed. The number of deaths was high and large areas of the city were destroyed. The Japanese people responded to both tragedies by rebuilding and Tokyo's status, as one of the world's leading cities, is a result of this diligence and dedication.

　　Tokyo is a city that blends the old and the new in a seamless manner. The country's religious and feudal past are represented by temples and palaces that might seem as if they belong in a different era, but are considered an integral part of their culture by most Japanese. Conversely, the proliferation of zany

trends among Japan's youth is more widespread and startling in Tokyo than in many of the world's major cities.

　　Tokyo is so large and diverse that it is difficult to tour on your own. In addition, it is an expensive place to visit and you need to optimize your time by pre-planning your visit. We provide a brief overview of the most popular attractions in Tokyo, but advise you to buy a quality guidebook and plan your itinerary, before you depart.

　　Tokyo is a challenge for English speakers, has a wacky address system (often no street signs) that makes it hard to find places (even for taxi drivers). The city's mass transit system is one that visitors from other countries may prefer to avoid during the morning and evening rush hours unless you idolize sardines packed in a tin. The Japanese transit teams find ways to fit so many people into subway cars that most westerners will feel uncomfortable riding during peak hours.

　　The very best way to visit Tokyo is to take a tour. Either hire a guide or join a tour group. Both alternatives are good ways to optimize your time in Tokyo. In either case, you should study Japanese customs and Tokyo attractions before you depart.