Tokyo is known for blending ultramodern life — neon-lit districts, cutting-edge technology, and world-class dining — with deep tradition, from Edo-era temples to centuries-old neighborhoods. It's Japan's capital and one of the world's largest, safest, and most walkable megacities.
Discover Authentic Tokyo: A Local Travel Guide by Mercure
Sandwiched between the polish of Ginza and the calm of the Imperial Palace grounds, the team at Mercure Tokyo Hibiya has learned that this city rewards curiosity over checklists. Skip the third department store and let us point you toward the tiny izakaya alley and the old shitamachi neighborhood that still feel like Tokyo before the skyscrapers.
Our map pins local favourites such as the Imperial Palace East Gardens, Kabukiza Theatre and Tsukiji Outer Market.
Top 5 Things to Do in Tokyo
Walk the Imperial Palace gardens
The East Gardens of the Imperial Palace offer a peaceful, manicured escape in the heart of the city, built on the site of the old Edo Castle.
Catch Kabuki at Kabukiza Theatre
Ginza's grand Kabukiza Theatre stages traditional Kabuki performances year-round, with single-act tickets available for a quick taste of the art form.
Eat your way through Tsukiji Outer Market
The wholesale auctions moved to Toyosu, but Tsukiji's outer market lanes are still packed with knife shops, tea sellers and sushi-for-breakfast stalls.
Feast on yakitori in Shinbashi
Shinbashi's smoky alleys are where Tokyo's office workers unwind over charcoal-grilled skewers and cold beer after work.
Spin records at Record Bar 33 1/3rpm
This tiny listening bar pairs a serious whiskey list with vinyl spun on request, the kind of low-key spot locals love to share.
Explore Tokyo's Best Local Spots with Our Interactive Map
What's on the map in Tokyo
We've mapped local spots in Tokyo, from Edo-era gardens to vinyl bars.
Culture
Imperial Palace East Gardens
Open to all: lawns, pines, ponds and the stone walls and moat of the original Edo castle. Walk in from Otemachi or Nijubashimae stations.
Chiyoda · Palace gardens · Perfect for a peaceful walk
Kabukiza Theatre
Built for kabuki in the 1880s, this Ginza theatre stages the art of elaborate costumes and make-up. Try a single-act ticket and rent an English audio guide.
Ginza · Theatre · Made for Japanese culture
Record Bar 33 1/3rpm
Shigeru and Mayumi Itoh's little bar plays 60s to 80s rock, jazz and soul on vinyl. Write your request on a slip of paper – and book ahead.
Tokyo · Listening bar · Great for music and whisky
Food
Tsukiji Outer Market
Narrow lanes of seafood stalls, sushi counters and street food. Come for breakfast or lunch – many shops close by 2pm.
Tsukiji · Market · Perfect for seafood
Toyosu Senkyaku Banrai
Next to Toyosu Market, an 'old Tokyo'-style village of seafood eateries and shops – with a free rooftop footbath overlooking the bay. Shoes off.
Toyosu · Food hall · Made for seafood and views
Shinbashi Torishige Azabujuban
Part of a chain founded in 1971, a cosy 30-seat spot grilling carefully selected chicken yakitori in an open kitchen. Ask your hotel to book.
Azabujuban · Yakitori restaurant · Perfect for yakitori
Mod
A tiny standing-only whisky bar, one of the smallest in the city. One dram, then onwards.
Bar · Ideal for a quick drink
Usagiya
A century-old confectioner famous for dorayaki pancakes filled with red bean paste.
Ueno · Sweet shop · Great for a treat
FAQ
Tokyo's train and subway network is extensive, punctual, and the easiest way to get almost anywhere; a rechargeable IC card works across nearly all lines and buses. Walking is also a great way to explore individual neighborhoods once you arrive.
Late March to April brings cherry blossoms, while October to November offers crisp weather and autumn color — both are popular but rewarding. Spring and autumn generally offer the most comfortable temperatures, avoiding summer's heat and humidity.
Yes. The East Gardens are open to the public, a short walk from Otemachi station.
For breakfast or lunch; many shops close by 2pm.
Yes, at Kabukiza Theatre in Ginza; single-act tickets and English audio guides are available.
Where to Sleep in Tokyo
See Mercure hotels in Tokyo, all within reach of these picks.