One of the planet's largest cities, Tokyo is also quite possibly its most high tech. With countless palaces and temples tucked away in leafy gardens behind forests of neon-clad high-rises, the capital of Japan fluctuates between the adrenaline rush of the mega-metropolis of tomorrow and the Zen traditions of ancient Japanese culture without ever batting an eye. Navigated by one of the speediest, most thorough transportation systems in the world and populated by some of the most polite and accommodating people you'll ever encounter, Tokyo is a cyber-charged contemporary destination with an Eastern ancestral soul.
Most dramatically visited during cherry blossom season in early April or in the soft light of early fall, Tokyo is a delight in all seasons.
From its imposing Imperial Palace in central Hibiya to the exclusive shops, galleries, and restaurants of neighboring Ginza, the geographical heart of Tokyo is also a great place to start exploring. Attend a performance at the Kabuki-Za Theater for a glimpse at one of Japan's most venerable traditions brought to life before your very eyes.
Get up at the crack of dawn for a tour of the Tsukiji fish market, the largest of its kind in the world, and enjoy a fresh sushi breakfast at one of the market's many fresh catch restaurants. Hop on a river boat to the north to explore the Sensoji Temple in Asakusa before strolling among the district's many shops. Neighboring, Ueno is home to the Toshogu Shrine; and the Tokyo National Museum is home to the largest collection of Japanese art in the world; while techies will love Akihabara with its hundreds of electrical appliance stores flashing all the latest gadgets in their windows.
But it's in Shinjuku that you'll find the flashy Tokyo popularized in recent films and Japanese car commercials. Packed with more discos, karaoke bars, and neon signs than the human mind can fathom, the district, along with neighboring Shibuya resembles the set of a futuristic sci-fi fantasy more than the business center of an Asian capital. Disappear down some of the side streets to discover peaceful temples, or wander through idyllic Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, just steps away from the cacophony of Tokyo's busiest streets yet light years away in spirit.
Hipsters will find their home in Harajuku, where the tree-lined central Omotesando Dori avenue is so densely packed with trendy shops and cafés that all but the most cutting edge will feel at least a trifle outdone. Chic Roppongi, meanwhile, is a favorite stomping ground for Western ex-pats, with more bars and discos than any other Tokyo district. Steps away stands the bright orange Tokyo Tower, the city's answer to Paris' beloved landmark, immortalized in countless films like Mothra and Godzilla: Tokyo S.O.S. The hilltop Hie Shrine in the embassy-studded Akasaka district, meanwhile, offers an oasis of calm to anyone looking for respite from the frantic pace of the postmodern city.
United offers daily flights to and from Tokyo's NaritaInternationalAirport (NRT). Book your next flight to or from Tokyo onunited.comand find out how to earn bonus miles when you stay at any Mileage Plus partner hotel or dine at any Mileage Plus partner restaurant in the city. For vacation packages to Tokyo including air and accommodation, visitUnited Vacations.
