The Area

By day, downtown Tokyo is all business and purposeful movement. But squeezed within this busy modern city are the historical and artistic sites - centuries-old shrines, temples and parks. Museums and art galleries are also prominent throughout.

By night, Tokyo comes alive with exotic and glittering entertainment from traditional Kabuki and Noh dramas to modern discotheques and all-girl revues.

Sightseeing Nearby

If you just want to stroll, shop or sightsee, there is much to explore within walking distance or a short subway ride away.

• Tokyo Tower - The 333-meter Eiffel Tower look-alike has two observatories offering a fine view of the city. (1-minute walk)
• Zojoji Temple - Constructed in the 14th century, this was the family temple of Ieyasu Tokugawa, founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate. (1-minute walk)
• Imperial Palace - Set within the extensive grounds in the heart of Tokyo's business center, this famous landmark is the residence of the reigning Emperor of Japan and his family. (10 minutes by subway)
• Hama Imperial Villa - The Imperial Park by Tokyo Bay was where the Shogun once hunted with his hawks. Now it is an oasis for urban dwellers. (5 minutes by car)
• Rainbow Bridge - Spanning Tokyo Bay, the bridge is one of the new symbols of contemporary Tokyo. (10 minutes by car)
• Fireworks display on the Sumida River, Asakusa (late July) - This is the grandest one of its kind in Japan.
• Azabu Ju-Ban (late August) - Traditional Japanese Festival.

Shopping and Entertainment

• Ginza - The most famous shopping and entertainment district in Japan is also an important commercial center, home to some of the country's most prestigious companies. (10 minutes by subway)
• Roppongi - A sophisticated entertainment area with bars and discos that attract young people and foreign residents. (5 minutes by car )
• Tokyo International Forum - One of downtown's most state-of-the-art buildings featuring a curved glass-enclosed cultural center plus shops, cafes, restaurants and Tokyo's main Tourist Information Center. (5 minutes by subway)