Things to Do in Nikko, Tochigi: 2 Places From The City Guru

Planning notes for Tokyo

Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is located in the Kantō region on the island of Honshu. The city originated as a fishing village named Edo, which became the seat of the Tokugawa shogunate in 1603. In 1868, the city was renamed Tokyo and became the imperial capital. Historical Heritage and Traditional Culture Tokyo maintains several sites dating to the Edo period. The Imperial Palace occupies the former site of Edo Castle and remains the primary residence of the Emperor of Japan. Sensō-ji.

Must-try foods nearby

• Edomae Sushi
  The gold standard of Tokyo dining. Unlike modern sashimi, Edomae (Old Tokyo) style involves curing, marinating, or steaming fish to enhance umami.
• Yuzu Shoyu Ramen
  While heavy tonkotsu remains popular, Tokyo's 'light broth' movement is peaking in 2026.
• Monjayaki
  Often called the 'soul food' of Tokyo, this is the runny, savory cousin of okonomiyaki.
• Edo-style Tempura
  Traditional Tokyo tempura is distinguished by the use of toasted sesame oil for frying, giving the batter a golden hue and a nutty aroma.
• Sago & Fruit Desserts
  The standout sweet trend for 2026 is the resurgence of Sago (small tapioca pearls) used in sophisticated fruit-based desserts.

When to go: The best times to visit Tokyo are spring (late March to April) for cherry blossoms and autumn (October to November) for vibrant foliage and mild, dry weather. Summers are intensely hot and humid with a rainy season in June.

Local tips

• Purchase a Suica or Pasmo digital IC card on your phone for seamless tap-to-pay access on all trains, buses, and at most convenience stores.
• Refrain from talking on your mobile phone or speaking loudly while using public transportation to respect the quiet environment.
• Avoid leaving a cash tip at restaurants or in taxis, as exceptional service is already included in the price and tipping can be seen as confusing or rude.
• Carry a small bag for your trash throughout the day, as public garbage cans are extremely rare on Tokyo streets.

What travelers are noticing

• PokéPark Kanto: The world's first permanent outdoor Pokémon theme park, featuring immersive zones like the 'Pokémon Forest' at Yomiuriland.
• Tokyo Dream Park: A massive new entertainment complex in Ariake housing digital art installations by Atelier des Lumières and a dedicated Doraemon exhibition.
• MoN Takanawa (Museum of Narratives): A cutting-edge cultural landmark in the new Takanawa Gateway City that fuses Japanese tradition with high-tech storytelling.