Travel Guide TOKYO.

PopulationApp. 12,678,000 (June, 2006)
Currency
Japanese Yen, 1 ¥ = 100 sen

Opening hours
Banks 9am-3pm Mon-Fri, major banks/branches are closed also on Sat. and Sun. Closed national holidays.
Shops generally open 10am-8pm Mon-Sun, but depends on each shop.

Internet
www.jnto.go.jp
www.tcvb.or.jp
www.kanko.metro.tokyo.jp/public/

Publications
Japan Times, Yomiuri Daily and the Asahi/International Herald Tribune are English-language newspapers available at newsstands.
Tokyo Journal is a good events magazine sold in bookstores
Metropolis magazine is weekly and free, available ever Friday at cafes and bookstores

Emergency numbers110 Police
119 Fire & Ambulance

Tourist Office
Tokyo TIC
Tokyo Kotsu Kaikan 10F
2-10-1 Yurakucho
Chiyoda-ku
Open: 9am-5pm daily
Tel: +81 (0)3 3201 3331

Tokyo skyline
Welcome to Tokyo
Previously a relatively hidden destination Tokyo’s technological leaps and passion for everything new has made the rest of the world sit up and take notice. A city of smaller cities, Tokyo’s neighbourhoods are individual and unique in what each can offer, from cultural sights to vast shopping malls. Get ready for a whirlwind of modernity and tradition – this is Tokyo!
THE CITY | do & see

THE CITYBefore you set foot out the door of your hotel, be aware of Tokyo’s complicated address system. Very few streets have names and instead are identified by numbers indicating building, block and area. 1-11-18, Shibuya, Shibuya-ku would therefore translate as the 18th building of the 11th block of the 1st area of Shibuya in Shibuya ward. Invest in a bilingual map of Tokyo and don’t hesitate to ask police for directions as even the locals get confused.

Once you have grasped the navigation system, Tokyo is a delight to get around. The metro is super efficient, the city is clean and people are courteous and friendly. Though addresses may be confusing, Tokyo is divided neatly into 23 wards, each with a certain distinctive characteristic. Visit Asakusa for old-town charm and temples, Ginza for shopping mecca and Akihabara for electronics galore. Blend old and new to get a taste of Tokyo’s great diversity.

Variety is Tokyo’s key. Few other world cities are as wonderfully idiosyncratic. International and local influences intertwine in cuisines, festivals, music, galleries, shopping and even accommodation. Bizarre and fast-moving, yet peaceful and intrinsically religious, Tokyo’s identity is above all, distinctly Japanese, despite existing as a world of its own.
DO & SEE
Whether you’re a techno buff or want to take in some of Tokyo’s more traditional Japanese sights and sounds, this city can offer it all. Visit splendid Shinto shrines or indulge in some shopping on Tokyo’s equivalent of Fifth Avenue. Here are the highlights.

Meiji-Jingu
This nationally recognised Shinto shrine is recognised as one of Japan’s primary symbols of the country’s major religion. Take in the huge 11-metre cypress tree torii (gate) before wandering peacefully along winding paths to the wonderful inner buildings.
Admission: Free (garden & museum ¥500)
Address: 1-1 Yoyogi, Kamizono-cho, Shibuya-ku
Metro/train: Harajuku (Omotesando exit)
www.meijijingu.or.jp

Tsukiji Produce and Fish Market
Getting to Tsukiji Fish Market early is essential in order to make the most of this memorable sight. At Tokyo’s biggest and noisiest market tuna auctions start at 5am followed swiftly by fruit and veg, all sold by some 50,000 workers and wholesalers.
Admission: Free, Address: 5-2 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku
Metro/train: Tsukiji (exit 1), Tel: +81 (0)3 3541 2640
www.tsukiji-market.or.jp

Tokyo National Museum
For a taste of Japanese history this is where you’ll find Japan’s largest collection of Asian artefacts. The main gallery, Honkan, displays an impressive assortment of swords, masks, wood-block prints and kimonos while other ‘don’t miss’ features include the 7th century bronze-seated Buddhas in the Horyu-ji Homotusukan.
Admission: ¥420/130 concessions
Address: 13-9 Ueno-koen, Taito-ku
Metro/train: Ueno (Park exit), Tel: +81 (0)3 3822 1111
www.tnm.jp

Kabuki-za
This stylised theatre performance consists of elaborate choreography and make-up combined with colourful traditional nagauta music. The plays are dramatic and exciting, though in the 17th century female kabuki performers were banned – men now play the roles of both genders most convincingly.
Tickets: ¥600-16,800, Address: 4-12-5 Ginza, Chuo-ku
Metro/train: Higashi-Ginza (exit 3)
Tel: +81 (0)3 5565 6000
www.shochiku.co.jp/play/kabukiza/theater

Sumo Wrestling
Possibly Japan’s most recognised cultural event, you’d be mad to miss this spectacle. Dating back 2000 years, Sumo is Japan’s national sport and as such combines religious, athletic and traditional features.
Tickets: ¥500-45,000
Address: 1-3-28 Yokoami, Sumida-ku
Metro/train: Ryogoku, Tel: +81 (0)3 3623 5111
www.sumo.or.jp/eng/index.html

Senso-ji
The Senso-ji temple is an old-town institution. Though a major tourist attraction, this is primarily a traditional, local site where worshippers cast coins, clap ceremoniously and bow in respect to an image of Kannon, the Goddess of Compassion.
Admission: Free, Address: 2-3-1 Asakusa, Taito-ku
Metro/train: Asakusa (exit 1), Tel: +81 (0)3 3842 0181

Mori Art Museum
At the top of Mori Tower in the vast Roppongi Hills, this contemporary art museum combines breathtaking views with fresh artistic talent.
Admission: Approx. ¥1500
Address: 52 & 53F, Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku
Metro/train: Roppongi (Hibiya line, Roppongi Hills exit)
Tel: +81 (0)3 6406 6100, www.mori.art.museum

Edo-Tokyo Museum
Situated close to the sumo stables, there’s a chance you could bump into the odd wrestling professional on your way to the Edo. Inside, a more thorough glimpse of Tokyo’s history is revealed, with exhibits depicting events like the 1923 Great Kanto earthquake and traditional scenes from everyday life.
Admission: ¥600, Address: 1-4-1 Yokoami, Sumida-ku
Metro/train: Ryogoku (Sobu line)
Tel: +81 (0)3 3626 9974, www.edo-tokyo-museum.or.jp
Tokyocrossroads Foto: AndrewChong
do & see | EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
You’ll be spoilt for choice in terms of national and neighbourhood events in Tokyo, as festivals are celebrated for everything from the beginning of the harvest, to religious ceremonies and historical events.

FEBRUARY
Setsubun
3 Feb
Japan welcomes spring in this annual celebration. The holiday is set according to the lunar calendar and will always take place on either the 3rd or 4th February. Crowds storm the Sensoji Temple and hurl soybeans. The soybeans are meant to have the power to destroy the eyes of the demon when hurled. If you want to enhance the fortitude, eat equally many beans as your age!
www.tcvb.or.jp

Tokyo Disneyland
Daily
Hit Tokyo’s own Disneyland park with the kids! The amusement park is divided into seven zones and offers all the Disney attractions similar to the American parks. Fly with Peter Pan over London, meet cowboys in Westernland and enjoy the numerous parades, shows, concerts and fireworks that is Disneyland park. A special attraction is Meet the World in Tomorrowland, which takes a tour through time to record Japan’s encounters with other countries.
www.tokyodisneyresort.co.jp

MARCH
Hina Marsuri (Girl’s Festival)
This traditional ceremony at the Meiji Shrine come to view decorated figurines of the Imperial Court and the Nagashi-bina doll-floating ceremony. This festival brings together families and a prayer is made for happy and healthy growth for the females.
www.meijijingu.or.jp

Hamarikyu Garden
The Hamarikyu Japanese garden lies by the Sumida river and offers a relaxing break from the hustle and bustle of inner city life. The whole park is surrounded by water and the only entrance is via the Nanmon Bridge or by boat from Asakusa.
www.tcvb.or.jp

APRIL
Buddha’s Birthday
8 April
Ceremonies are held at all Buddhist temples where a small image of Buddha is displayed and doused with a sweet tea in an act of devotion.

Cherry-Blossom Viewing
Late March to Mid-April
Watch Tokyo spring to bloom in a sea of cherry-blossoms. Ohanami flower viewing parties are found wherever cherry trees are in bloom.

MAY
Tokyo’s Shrine Markets
Every Sunday
Why not go to the antique/flea markets held every Sun...........day? Apart from finding various knick-knacks, the shrines in themselves are worth a look and entrance is free. Be sure to throw a “lucky” five yen coin in the collecting box and ring the bell to tell the deities your wish!

eating
EatingBoasting more than 300,000 restaurants, cafés and food stalls, the only problem when going for dinner in Tokyo, is too much choice. Japanese food is famous for its clean and fresh tastes, but here you can really delve into the depths of this oriental cuisine. Sample the best sushi before moving on to more adventurous fare in an izakaya or yatai street stall. High-end dining can be expensive but in restaurants such as the New York Grill and Luxor, there can be no doubt you are paying for the very best in terms of cuisine and, in the former, spectacular views. Many of the more pricey venues offer great deals for lunch, so it is worth making the most of these culinary delights earlier in the day. Book ahead for most places, especially at the weekends and watch out for a particular eating etiquette. Sticking your chopsticks into your rice vertically is a funerary custom!

Chinese Café Eight
Café Eight’s Peking Duck has become legendary in Tokyo. Overflowing with expats and Japanese patrons, this restaurant has won people over with its irresistible combination of unbeatable prices and delicious food.
Address: 3-2-13 Nishi Azabu, Minato-ku
Metro/train: Roppongi, Tel: +81 (0)3 5414 5708
www.cceight.com

Seigetsu
Dinner at a traditional izakaya is not to be missed. Primarily serving as bar space (see Bars), these ‘sake places’ are also renowned for their tapas style Japanese food. Seigetsu is a large izakaya but has been cleverly divided with delicate bamboo screens to give it a cosy feel. Relax in the comfortable surroundings under subdued lighting in an interior that is pure Tokyo.
Address: 6-77-1 Kagurazaka, Izakaya
Metro/train: Kagurazaka, Tel: +81 (0)3 3269 4320

New York Grill
Dine with the stars at the top of the Park Hyatt hotel, where the modern seafood and meat dishes easily match the standard of the restaurant’s location. Dinner on a week night is a pleasure but the Grill is particularly famous for its Sunday brunch, when expats takeover the dining room.
Address: Park Hyatt Tokyo 52F, 3-7-1-2 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku Metro/train: Shinjuku (west exit)
Tel: +81 (0)3 5323 3458, www.parkhyatttokyo.com

Elios
Elios is off the beaten track just enough to convince people they’re eating in one of Tokyo’s hidden treasures. Receiving rave reviews from its many regulars, steaming bowls of pasta are served up amidst noisy chatter from local residents. Service is polished and the atmosphere Mediterranean in attitude.

Phuket Aroyna Tabeta
Cheap and cheerful Thai food in this quirky little diner attracts an eclectic clientele. Located under the Yamanotesen train tracks near the International Forum, set meals are a bargain at ¥630.
Address: 3-7-11 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku
Metro/train: Tokyo Station (Tokyo Forum exit)
Tel: +81 (0)3 5219 6099, www.tabeta.com

Sushi Bun
Take your cue from Tokyo’s fishermen, who still choose Sushi Bun for the freshest raw fish in the city. Located at the heart of the Tsukiji Fish Market you can be sure you’re eating tuna, eel and sea urchin which has been hauled in only hours ago. The tiny restaurant is cramped but cheery - grab your place at the 12-seat counter to experience the best sushi Tokyo has to offer.
Address: Chuo Shijo Bldg No. 8, 5-2-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku
Metro/train: Tsukiji (exit A1), Tel: +81 (0)3 3541 3860
www.sushibun.com

Brasserie aux Amis
Country-style French cooking at this Parisian bistro in Tokyo’s business district. The menu, consisting of juicy steaks and the ubiquitous ‘frites’, is written in chalk on large wall mirrors and prepared by the celebrated chef Masashi Hadachi. A casual crowd relax on red leather banquettes indulging in hearty sandwiches at lunchtime and more serious 4-course dinners in the evening.
Address: Shin-Tokyo Bldg 1F, 3-3-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku
Metro/train: Tokyo Station (Marunouchi exit)
Tel: +81 (0)3 6212 1566, www.auxamis.com

Luxor
Perfect for people-watching, Luxor is Tokyo’s Tuscan celebrity haunt. Chef Mario Frittoli creates imaginative variations on Italian specialities, with a focus on his outstanding home-made pasta. A glamorous clientele drape themselves over luxurious furnishings.
Address: Barbizon 25 2F, 5-4-7 Shirokanedai, Minato-ku
Metro/train: Shirokanedai (exit 1)
Tel: +81 (0)3 3446 6900, www.luxor-r.com
Cafés
Cafe culture is thriving in Tokyo, where novelties such as the manga craze have taken over many venues. In addition, the Japanese are caffeine fanatics and kissaten (coffee shops) have been set up on every corner to cater to this demand.

Saboru
Smoothies galore in this South Pacific-esque café. Banana juice is deliciously exotic and wooden masks on the walls complete the desert island mood.
Address: 1-11 Kanda-Jinbocho, Chiyoda-ku
Metro/train: Jinbocho (exit A7)

Bon
For caffeine addicts in Tokyo, Bon is a local Mecca. Choose something adventurous from the extensive coffee menu.
Address: Toriichi Bldg B1, 3-23-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku
Metro/train: Shinjuku (east exit)

GeraGera
An experience of café culture in Tokyo would not be complete without stopping at a Manga coffee shop. Japanese comic books are the order of the day.
Address: B1&B2, 3-17-4 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku
Metro/train: Shinjuku (east exit)
www.geragera.co.jp

Satei Hato
Dark and cool, Satei Hato is a sophisticated coffee house. A marble-tiled entrance greets customers, who are then offered coffee in a cup from the huge bone china collection.
Address: 1-15-19 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku
Metro/train: Shibuya (east exit, Yamanote line)

ef
The small art gallery at ef is the main attraction, a welcome break if you’re all templed-out in Asakusa. Decorated in retro-style, this is a cool hang out for local trendsetters.
Address: 2-19-18 Kaminarimon, Taito-ku
Metro/train: Asakusa (exit 2)
www.gallery-ef.com

Bonus Box
During the past decade Tokyo has seen the emergence of the 24-hour manga kissaten which offer comic books, internet access and even a place to sleep for cartoon- addicted night owls. Manga, literally translated as ‘crazy drawings’, total almost 40% of everything published in Japan. Magazines can amount to 5 or 6 hours of reading time each, which perhaps indicates the need for around the clock access in manga cafés.

BARS
Most socialising done in Tokyo is away from home, hence the infinite number of venues which offer alcohol in the city, from the ubiquitous izakaya, to the more exclusive glitzy bars.


Shot Bar Shadow
The Golden Gai area accommodates a plethora of tiny bars in its bustling streets. Most can only fit up to eight punters at a time.
Address: 1-1-8 Kabuki-cho, Shinjuku-ku
Metro/train: Shinjuku (east exit, Yamanote line)

New York Bar
On the 52nd floor of the Park Hyatt Hotel it is easy to see why Sofia Coppola filmed part of ‘Lost in Translation’ here. Listen to top-notch jazz musicians whilst checking out the Tokyo skyline.
Address: Park Hyatt Tokyo 52F, 3-7-1-2 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku
Metro/train: Shinjuku (west exit, Yamanote line)

Majestic
Fall into Majestic at the end of a heavy night, when lounging on one of its velvet bedspreads will relieve tired feet. This bar is the latest addition to Tokyo’s sultry bed-bar scene.
Address: B1F, 1-14-17 Nishi Azabu, Minato-ku
Metro/train: Nogizaka

Sekirei
Kimono-clad dancers perform nightly in Sekirei’s opulent and historical surroundings. Emperor Meiji signed the Japanese constitution here and this grand bar now plays host to a high-class clientele.
Address: Meiji Kinenkan, 2-2-23 Moto-Akasaka, Minato-ku
Metro/train: Shinanomachi
www.meijikinenkan.gr.jp/sekirei

Seabed
Described as a chill out bar-lounge, this venue operates as a massage salon until 9pm, when barmen replace the beauty therapists. Cocktails are served late into the night.
Address: Dear Nishi-Azabu Bldg 3F, 3-1-20 Nishi-Azabu, Minato-ku
Metro/train: Roppongi (exit C1)
www.seabed.jp
NIGHTLIFE
The nightlife in Tokyo rivals that of any other major international city. Whether you’re looking for a hedonistic party, superclub sounds or chilled out beats it’s all here for the taking. Lounge about or dance the night away at Tokyo’s best clubs.

Age-Ha
The Daddy of clubs in Tokyo, Age-Ha is a warehouse superclub that holds more than 4000 partygoers. A mixture of gangsta-rap and urban hip hop keep the Tokyo kids happy.
Address: 2-2-10 Shinkiba, Koto-ku
Metro/train: Shin-Kiba , www.ageha.com

Space Lab Yellow
One of the best sound systems in the city draws a Japanese-strong crowd dressed in weird and wacky outfits. The best DJs have all played a set here.
Address: Cesaurus Nishi-Azabu Bldg B1F-B2F, 1-10-11 Nishi-Azabu, Minato-ku
Metro/train: Roppongi (exit 2)
www.club-yellow.com

The Room
One of the smallest clubs in the area, 200 people pack into this exclusive venue. Look out for a red street light indicating the basement entrance.
Address: Daihachi Tohto Bldg B1F, 15-19 Sakuragaoka, Shibuya-ku
Metro: Shibuya (Yamanote line, south exit)
www.theroom.jp

La Fabrique
Gauloises tobacco sponsor many signature nights at this French-themed club. Japanese customers show their enthusiasm by sporting berets in the spirit of all things Gallic.
Address: Zero Gate B1F, 16-9 Udagawacho, Shibuya-ku
Metro: Shibuya (Yamanote line, Hachiko exit)
www.lafabrique.jp



Bullet’s
For a friendlier club experience head to Bullet’s. Sink into one of the many sofas or mattresses and listen to the abstract sounds of experimental DJs.
Address: Kasumi Bldg, B1F, 1-7-11 Nishi-Azabu, Minato-ku
Metro: Roppongi (Hibiya line, exit 2)
www.bul-lets.com

Simoon
Offering more standard R&B and reggae music, Simoon may be light relief from the electronica sound found in the superclubs. Don’t be put off by the entrance as the interior is deeply appealing.
Address: 3-26-16 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku
Metro: Shibuya (Yamanote line, east exit)


Sushi
Cafés | bars

Beer garden
nightlife

TOPP 10
1. Support your favourite Sumo wrestler
If you’re in Tokyo at the right time, you’d be mad to miss out on an iconic sumo match.

2. Get up early for Tsukiji
Wake up your senses at Tsukiji Fish Market first thing in the morning.

3. Take in some Japanese theatre
Buy a ticket for Kabuki-za and watch one act from the 4th floor to get a feel for this ancient and dramatic tradition.

4. Hang out with the stars at the New York Bar
People-watch or take in the view at Tokyo’s highest bar. Try to find the bar stool Bill Murray sat on in ‘Lost in Translation’.

5. Take a break at Bullet’s
Ease away from Tokyo’s hardcore party scene in this more relaxing, cosy club.

6. Lose yourself in a comic
Manga is everywhere in Tokyo and comics can be best enjoyed over coffee in a manga kissaten.

7. Eat the freshest fish at Sushi Bun
For sushi novices, come to Sushi Bun for your first experience.

8. Shop till you drop at Roppongi Hills
This vast shopping and entertainment centre is a mini metropolis in itself.

9. Watch the flower-fires
Hanabi or ‘flower-fires’ are a regular event in Tokyo. The firework display over Sumida River in July is unrivalled.

10. Get a massage at Seabed
Arrive early at this mellow bar to take advantage of the massage chairs whilst sipping your preferred cocktail.
Entertainment District
shopping
SHOPPING
Shopping in this city has become more of an art than a simple pleasure. If you’ve got cash to spend then this is the paradise of all shopping paradises. Shopping malls and department stores abound and specific areas are often devoted to certain wares to make life easier.

Roppongi is more than just hundreds of shops, it is a mini city of restaurants, clubs, cafes, cinemas, hotels and museums. It is where the expat crowd in particular, party, eat, drink, shop and hang out and is about as far from traditional Japan as is possible. Roppongi Hills, a mall comprising most of the above, is at the centre of this hive of activity and attracts a good percentage of Tokyo’s serious shoppers. Housing high street, boutique and designer brands, you can safely expect to find everything you’re looking for.

For label lovers Ginza is retail heaven. The Japanese adore their fashion items and clothes from big designers is what it’s all about. This is where you’ll find the usual suspects – Chanel, Hermes and even the newly opened Barney’s of New York have all set up shop in this upmarket location. Well-established brands heave with equally well-dressed customers who can afford the clothes and the art in the surrounding Ginza galleries. For trendier labels, head to Harajaku and Shibuya.

Catering for a similar crowd to Ginza, Harajaku has more of an edge. As well as the familiar Prada, Dior and Burberry, if you walk just round the corner you’ll find the funky teen stores of Shibuya. One of these, the 109 store (2-29-1 Dogenzaka) is said to inspire the mad and consistently madder styles seen on the Shibuya streets. At 109 and others like Laforet Harajuku (1-11-6 Jingumae), young women’s wear is packed to the rafters.

Aoyama (station: Omotesando) is a world of Japanese and international upmarket brands. The newly designed Prada building here stands for everything this neighbourhood is about – sleek sophistication is the name of the game. Well-recognised Japanese designers including Yohji Yamamoto, and Issey Miyake stand side by side with Prada and Louis Vuitton.

Welcome to neon land. Akihabara is the electronics capital of Japan and walking through its streets you can barely see in front of you for the amount of flashing shop signs and video screens. Street stalls sell the latest high-tech computer devices, while huge electronics retailers flog televisions at duty-free prices. Head for the duty-free stores if you want to speak to English staff, and bring your passport with you to qualify for tax exempt goods. Akky (1-12-1 Soto Kanda) is one of the best shops for this. Come out of Akihabara station and look for the glaringly obvious Electric Town exit.

Kappabashi Dori is where you’ll find shops specialising in kitchenware and home goods. Perfect for presents and stocking up on wonderful Japanese lacquer, ceramics, pottery and decorated chopsticks, this is an area for the house proud.

If you want to avoid more mainstream bookstores and spend some time looking for some hidden literary treasures, Kanda is where to go. Browse among the second-hand shops that line Yasukuni Dori and you’re bound to stumble upon a few gems. Good Day Books is Tokyo’s oldest and most famous used English book store and you can spend hours here among the 40,000 second hand and new copies.
Shops/Department Stores
Roppongi Hills
Something for everyone in happening Roppongi. You could get caught here for a day with such an array of activities.
Address: 6-10 Roppongi, Minato-ku
Metro/train: Roppongi (Hibiya line, exit 1C)
Tel: +81 (0)3 6406 6000, www.roppongihills.com

Isetan
This enormous shopping enterprise is split into 8 buildings covering departments for cosmetics, household goods, clothing and electronics.
Address: 3-14-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku
Metro/train: Shinjuku-Sanchome (Marunouchi, exit B3)
Tel: +81 (0)3 3352 1111, www.isetan.co.jp/iclub

Mitsukoshi
Japan’s oldest department store has stores in Ginza and Nihonbashi. Womenswear, accessories, menswear, toys and childrenswear fill the seven floors.
Address: 4-6-16 Ginza, Chuo-ku
Metro/train: Ginza (Ginza line, exit A7)
Tel: +81 (0)3 3562 1111, www.mitsukoshi.co.jp

109
Keep up with the trends at Shibuya’s 109.
Address: 2-29-1 Dogenzaka, Shibuya-ku
Metro/train: Shibuya (Yamanote line, Hachiko exit)
Tel: +81 (0)3 3477 5111
www.shibuya109.jp

Oriental Bazaar
Visit Tokyo’s best known gift shop to stock up on trinkets for friends back home. Kimonos and chinaware are among the souvenirs.
Address: 5-9-13 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku
Metro/train: Harajuku (Yamanote line, Omotesando exit)
Tel: +81 (0)3 3400 3933

Laox: Duty Free Akihabara
Aikihabara’s biggest supplier of electronic and technological devices at duty-free prices.
Address: 1-15-3 Soto-Kanda, Chiyoda-ku
Metro/train: Akihabara (Yamanote Line, Electric Town exit)
Tel: +81 (0)3 3255 5301, www.laox.co.jp
ESSENTIAL INFORMATION
Airports
Two airports serve Tokyo: Narita International Airport and Haneda International Airport (mainly internal flights). Narita Airport is accessible by the Narita Express Train (+81 (0)3 3423 0111, www.jreast.co.jp/e/nex,) which is the fastest way to get from the city centre to the airport. Tickets are ¥2,940 and trains depart approx. every half hour. The Kesei Skyliner (+81 0476 32 8505, www.keisei.co.jp) trains go from Narita to Ueno/Nippori station in approx. 1 hr. Limousine buses run regularly from the airport to key points in the city. Fares are ¥3,000. Taxis are available for the 70 km journey but are astronomical. Haneda Airport is served by the Tokyo Monorail (www.tokyo-monorail.co.jp) leaving every 10 mins almost around the clock. Fares from Hamamatsucho (Yamanote line) are ¥470. Limousine buses from Haneda to central Tokyo cost approx. ¥1,000 while a taxi ride will set you back approx. ¥6,000.
Narita International Airport www.narita-airport.or.jp
Haneda International Airport www.tokyo-airport-bldg.co.jp

Local transport
Tokyo has one of the most efficient train and subway systems in the world. Trains are clean and fast and all stations have signs in English. The Japan Railways operated overland train lines are colour-coded, the most frequently used line being the Yamanote line. Tokyo Metro runs the subway which consists of 12 lines. Subways and trains operate from 5am-midnight. A variety of tickets and passes are on offer to make it easier than buying individual tickets for every trip. Buy a prepaid Suica travel pass to travel on all JR lines. These can be purchased at JR ‘Green Window’ areas or at ticket machines. A card costs ¥2000. The Passnet ticket (¥1000/3000/5000) is similar to the Suica but cannot be used on JR lines. To transfer from the Tokyo Metro network to the JR network a transfer ticket is required which is available at the transfer point.
www.jreast.co.jp/e
www.tokyometro.jp/e

Buses in Tokyo are also run by several different companies. It is less confusing to take the subway or trains around the city, but bus routes are efficient. Nevertheless, few signs are in English which makes navigation difficult. Fares are approx. ¥200 and fare machines accept most coins. Bus route guides in English are available at Toei subway stations and hotels.
www.tokyobus.or.jp

Cycling is one of the most common ways to get around in Tokyo if you’re feeling energetic. Some hotels will hire out bikes, but most will have further information on where to hire elsewhere.
Taxi
Taxis are expensive but convenient in Tokyo, fares starting at approx. ¥660 and rising by about ¥100 every 350 metres after the first two kms. Weekend rates are more expensive as are rides between 11pm and 5am. Taxi stands are located in almost all busy areas and tipping is not expected.

Post
Post boxes are red in Tokyo and the slot on the left is for domestic mail, the right one for international. English script is acceptable when writing addresses and stamps can be purchased at convenience stores. Post offices are indicated by a red and white ‘T’ and are located everywhere. Post office ATMs accept foreign bank cards. Opening hours are 9am-5pm Mon-Fri (some larger branches open till 7pm) and closed at weekends.

Pharmacy
Roppongi Pharmacy is the closest to a 24-hour chemist in Tokyo. No credit cards are accepted.
Open: 10-1am, closed 2nd Sun of month
Address:
6-8-8 Roppongi
Minato-ku
Metro: Roppongi station, exit 3
Telephone: +81 (0)3 3403 8879

Dentist
The following dentists have English speaking-staff
Dr JS Wong
Tel: +81 (0)3 3473 2901

Tokyo Clinic Dental Office
Tel: +81 (0)3 3431 4225

Telephone
Country code: +81, Area code: 03

Electricity
Japan’s current is 100V AC. Plugs have two flat-sided prongs.
Japan Sumo Association, AkebonoDohyoiri