Tokyo City Guide

Food options range from sushi to ramen and many international choices. Vegan and vegetarian options are growing. Night scenes have many late-night eateries.

Tokyo has a wide range of nightlife from bars and clubs to karaoke and themed venues, catering to all tastes.

Strong coffee scene with many specialty cafes and roasters. Modern and traditional styles coexist.

Tipping is not customary and sometimes seen as rude. Service charges appear in some traditional inns. Do not tip in taxis or restaurants.

SIM cards are sold at airports and big electronics stores. NTT Docomo, au, SoftBank and MVNOs like UQ Mobile are options. eSIMs are increasingly available. Passport required for purchase.

Exceptionally clean streets and efficient waste management. Public restrooms are well-maintained.

Convenience stores operate 24/7 with many services. Some late-night clinics and food options exist, but pharmacies rarely are 24/7.

Big supermarkets carry international products. Fresh markets and local shopping streets offer local goods. Stores usually open 9-10 AM to 9-10 PM, including Sundays.

Major credit cards work well in big stores and hotels. Smaller places often take cash only. IC cards like Suica and Pasmo are handy for transport and small buys.

7-Eleven stores, Japan Post Bank, and Aeon Bank have ATMs that usually take international cards. Fees may apply from both ATM and your bank.

Tokyo has many international schools teaching mainly in English. Admissions open in fall; popular schools have waitlists.

Active nomad and expat groups host meetups and events. Co-working and co-living spaces help networking.

Large parks like Shinjuku Gyoen and Ueno Park provide shaded walking and running areas.

Popular routes include Imperial Palace loop and parks. Tokyo is safe for runners day and night.

Many gyms with day passes and short memberships.

Tennis courts are common in parks and clubs. Booking usually required. Coaching and some rentals available.

Padel is growing but less common than tennis, with a few clubs offering courts.

Many yoga studios offering various styles, with some English-speaking instructors and drop-in classes.

Many dojos for Judo, Karate, BJJ, Muay Thai, and more. Drop-in classes and English instructors available.

Nagano and Niigata ski resorts reachable by Shinkansen in 1.5-3 hours. Good snow and terrain for all skill levels.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing are available near coastal areas and lakes with rentals and tours in warmer months.

Surf spots near Shonan and Chiba are 1.5-2.5 hours away. Seasonal wetsuit needed. Suitable for all levels.

Izu Islands offer good dive sites with varied marine life, accessible by ferry or plane. Beginners to advanced welcome.

Many hospitals in central Tokyo have English-speaking staff and interpretation. Both public and private clinics provide high-quality care.

Tap water in Tokyo is safe to drink.

Many playgrounds, kid-friendly cafes, and easily available baby supplies. Attractions like Disneyland and Ueno Zoo are great for families.

Generally tolerant, with an LGBTQ+ district in Shinjuku Ni-chome and annual pride events. Legal protections are limited.

Pet policies vary, often strict in housing. Veterinary services are good with some English support.