Tokyo holidays

How to reach Tokyo

• Flight time: Direct flights to Tokyo from Dublin take about 13 hours. Other Irish airports, such as Cork or Shannon, typically require at least one stopover, bringing the total travel time to around 15–17 hours.

• Transfer time: From Narita International Airport, the Narita Express (N’EX) takes about 1 hour to reach Tokyo Station. If you arrive at Haneda Airport, which is closer to the city, the Tokyo Monorail connects to Hamamatsucho Station in roughly 20 minutes.

• Price: A one-way ticket on the Narita Express costs around ¥3,020 (approximately €18), while the Tokyo Monorail from Haneda costs about ¥490 (around €3).

Weather and best time to visit Tokyo

The best time to take holidays to Tokyo depends on what you’re looking for – seasonal scenery, festivals or comfortable temperatures.

• March to May: Spring is a top choice for many travellers. Temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C and cherry blossom season brings parks and streets to life, particularly in late March and early April.

• June to August: Summer begins with a rainy season in June, followed by very hot and humid months in July and August, with temperatures regularly exceeding 30°C. Despite the heat, this is when Tokyo buzzes with fireworks festivals and summer events.

• September to November: Autumn is another great time to visit, thanks to its mild weather (25°C in September dropping to 15°C in November) and stunning autumn foliage in places like Yoyogi Park and the Imperial Palace gardens.

• December to February: Winter in Tokyo is generally dry and sunny, with daytime temperatures between 5°C and 10°C. This is the least crowded season, and the city sparkles with winter illuminations and festive events.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Japanese is the official language. English is spoken in many tourist-friendly areas, but learning a few key phrases in Japanese will go a long way.

• Local habits and customs: Always remove your shoes before entering homes and traditional accommodations. When visiting shrines or temples, follow etiquette such as bowing and using the purification fountain.

• Health and safety: Tokyo is one of the safest major cities in the world. Tap water is safe to drink, and healthcare is excellent. Pharmacies and convenience stores are widely accessible.

• Currency: The Japanese yen (¥) is the local currency. Credit cards are accepted in most hotels and chain stores, but cash is still widely used, especially in small eateries or markets. Look for international ATMs at post offices or convenience stores like 7-Eleven.

• Getting around: Tokyo’s train and subway network is efficient and punctual. Fares start at ¥170 (€1). For unlimited travel, consider a 24-hour Tokyo Metro Pass or a prepaid IC card like Suica or Pasmo.

• Electricity and plug types: Japan uses a 100V supply with Type A and B plugs (two flat pins). Irish travellers will need a plug adaptor and may need a voltage converter for certain appliances.

• Time zone: Tokyo is 9 hours ahead of GMT and does not observe daylight saving time.

Best things to do in Tokyo

With its sushi and sumo, geisha and gardens, neon and noodles… ticking off a bunch of travel clichés is rarely this much fun. Whether you're drawn to towering skyscrapers, bustling shopping and entertainment districts or serene temples and gardens, Tokyo holidays offer something for everyone.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Tokyo Skytree: At 634m, Tokyo Skytree is the tallest tower in the world. Its observation deck, at 450m, offers breathtaking views of the city and, on clear days, even Mount Fuji.

• Tokyo Tower: Inspired by the Eiffel Tower, Tokyo Tower provides classic panoramic views from its observation deck at 250m and is especially enchanting at night when the city lights up.

• Shibuya Sky: Located in Shibuya Scramble Square, this observation deck offers a 360-degree view from 229m high. It's an ideal spot to witness the famous Shibuya Crossing from above.

The best districts

• Shinjuku: A microcosm of Tokyo, Shinjuku offers everything from the tranquil Shinjuku Gyoen garden to the bustling nightlife in Kabukicho. Don't miss the tiny bars of Golden Gai and the atmospheric Omoide Yokocho alley.

• Shibuya: A vibrant district filled with shops, cafés and nightlife, plus the calm serenity of Meiji-jing≈´ and Yoyogi Park. Home to the famous scramble crossing, Shibuya also has one of the city's most influential fashion centres in Harajuku.

• Asakusa: The historic Senso-ji temple is at the heart of Asakusa, which retains an old-town charm. Explore Nakamise Street for traditional snacks and souvenirs.

• Ginza: Tokyo's luxury shopping district, Ginza, boasts high-end boutiques, art galleries and fine dining. It's an excellent place for an upscale shopping experience.

Parks and gardens

• Shinjuku Gyoen: Tokyo's largest and arguably most beautiful garden offers a mix of Japanese, English and French landscaping.

• Ueno Park: Known for its museums and cherry blossoms, Ueno Park is a cultural hub. The Tokyo National Museum and Ueno Zoo are highlights within the park.

• Yoyogi Park: Adjacent to the Meiji Shrine, this is a popular spot for picnics, jogging and people-watching. It's especially lively on weekends with various events and activities.

Historical monuments

• Senso-ji Temple: Tokyo's oldest temple, Senso-ji, is located in Asakusa. The temple complex includes a beautiful pagoda, vibrant shopping streets and traditional gardens.

• Meiji Shrine: Situated in a forested area in Shibuya, Meiji Shrine is dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken and is a peaceful retreat from the city's bustle.

• Imperial Palace: The primary residence of the Emperor of Japan, the Imperial Palace is surrounded by moats and massive stone walls. While the inner grounds are closed to the public, the East Gardens are open and free to visit.

Day trips in the area

• Mount Fuji and Fuji Five Lakes: Just a couple of hours from Tokyo, this area offers stunning views of Japan's highest peak and the countryside surrounding the five lakes. Enjoy activities like hiking, boating and hot springs.

• Nikko: About 2 hours north of Tokyo, Nikko is renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed shrines and beautiful natural scenery. The Toshogu Shrine is a must-see.

• Kamakura: This coastal city, 1 hour from Tokyo, offers serene temples, the Great Buddha statue and scenic hiking trails.

Activities for families in Tokyo

Tokyo offers a wide range of activities perfect for families, ensuring everyone, from toddlers to teens, has a great time. Here are some of the best options:

• Theme parks: Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea are top attractions for families, offering a magical experience with rides, shows and Disney characters.

• Interactive museums: The Miraikan (National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation) features hands-on exhibits on robotics, space exploration and more, while the weird and wonderful teamLAB Borderless digital museum is a fascinating place to visit, with constantly morphing immersive art exhibits.

• Shopping and entertainment: For older kids and teens, Akihabara is the go-to district for all things anime and electronics. It's a paradise for tech enthusiasts and those into Japanese pop culture.

Free things to do in Tokyo

Exploring Tokyo doesn't have to be expensive. The city offers plenty of free activities that provide a rich cultural experience.

• Free events: Whenever you visit Tokyo, chances are there'll be a matsuri (festival) taking place somewhere in the city, which is free to watch. July's Sumida River Fireworks are also worth catching.

• Free museums and galleries: At the Panasonic Center Tokyo, you can try out the latest Nintendo games and check out the company's technologies of tomorrow, all for free. Art galleries such as 3331 Arts Chiyoda and Design Festa often offer free access to their range of eclectic art.

• Free temples and shrines: Head beyond Tokyo's modern, bustling areas, and you'll discover charming fragments of the old city, such as Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines wreathed in wisps of smoking incense.

When it comes to gastronomic experiences, few places can compare to Tokyo. The number, range and quality of restaurants is breathtaking, with practically any cuisine you can think of alongside all the usual (and many unusual) Japanese dishes. Here's what you should look out for:

Typical Japanese dishes

• Sushi: Sushi is a must-try in Tokyo at the renowned Tsukiji Outer Market or one of the city's many sushi restaurants. Popular varieties include nigiri (slices of fish atop rice) and maki (rolled sushi with seaweed, rice and fillings).

• Ramen: Tokyo boasts a rich ramen culture, with everything from the thick, pork-based tonkotsu to light, soy-based shoyu. Try popular spots like Ichiran and Ippudo, or lesser-known shops for unique flavours.

• Tempura: This dish features seafood or vegetables lightly battered and deep-fried to perfection. Tempura is often served with a dipping sauce and grated daikon radish.

Street food

Tokyo's street food scene is vibrant and diverse, perfect for quick bites while exploring the city.

• Takoyaki: Bite-sized balls of batter filled with diced octopus, topped with brown sauce, mayonnaise and bonito flakes.

• Yakitori: Skewers of grilled chicken, often enjoyed with a cold beer. You can find them at yakitori stalls and izakayas (pubs) throughout Tokyo.

• Taiyaki: Fish-shaped cakes filled with sweet red bean paste, custard or chocolate, popular at street stalls and festivals.

Sweets and desserts

Tokyo's desserts range from traditional Japanese sweets to modern creations.

• Mochi: Sticky rice cakes that come in various flavours and fillings, such as sweet red bean paste or ice cream.

• Dorayaki: Small pancakes sandwiched with red bean paste. A favourite among locals and visitors alike.

• Matcha-flavoured treats: From matcha (green tea) ice cream to cakes and pastries, and even Kitkats, these treats offer a unique taste of Japan.

Local drinks

• Sake: Japan's traditional rice wine can be enjoyed hot or cold. Tokyo has many sake bars where you can sample different varieties.

• Shochu: A distilled spirit often made from barley, sweet potatoes or rice. It's typically stronger than sake and can be enjoyed on the rocks, with water or mixed in cocktails.