45 Facts About Tokyo That Might Surprise You

Facts About Tokyo: Tokyo, often bustling with energy and vibrancy, is a fascinating metropolis that goes beyond what meets the eye.

Tokyo is Japan’s capital and a hub for technology.

But countless things about Tokyo make this city even more intriguing.

Here are some facts about Tokyo that might surprise you.

Looking to visit Tokyo? Check out these fun experiences 🗼

1. Tokyo Disney Resort Park Ticket
2. Tokyo Sumo Wrestling Tournament Experience
3. 1-Day Tokyo Bus Tour
4. TOKYO SKYTREE® Ticket
5. Recommended Hotel

1) Tokyo Skytree is the tallest tower in Japan

Tokyo Skytree is the tallest tower in Japan, standing at 634 metres (2,080 feet).

It was completed in 2012 and has become a symbol of modern Tokyo.

You can visit the observation decks, which offer amazing city views.

2) The name Tokyo means “Eastern Capital.”

Tokyo wasn’t always Tokyo.

It used to be called Edo, which was a small fishing village.

The name Tokyo means “Eastern Capital.”

This new name highlights the city’s importance in Japan.

3) There is a golden poo

In Tokyo’s Asakusa neighbourhood, you’ll find an unusual landmark lovingly nicknamed the “golden poo.”

This peculiar piece of architecture is the Asahi Flame, designed to resemble a frothy head of beer.

Instead, it’s often called the “golden turd” because of its quirky appearance.

4) Tokyo Disneyland isn’t actually in Tokyo; it’s in Chiba

You might be surprised to learn that Tokyo Disneyland isn’t in Tokyo. It’s located in Urayasu, a city in Chiba Prefecture.

This means it’s a quick trip, just 15 to 20 minutes by train from Tokyo Station to Maihama Station.

The park opened on April 15, 1983, and was the first Disney park outside the United States.

5) Tsukiji Fish Market is famed for its tuna auctions

Tsukiji Fish Market was world-famous for its early morning tuna auctions.

These auctions attracted tourists from around the globe.

You could see huge frozen tuna wheeled in and auctioneers shouting bids quickly and animatedly.

2018 Tsukiji Market moved to Toyosu Market, but the tuna auctions remain a must-see.

6) Tokyo has a café where you can cuddle hedgehogs

Tokyo has a unique place where you can cuddle with hedgehogs.

It’s called Harry’s Hedgehog Café.

This café lets you interact with real hedgehogs safely and cleanly.

You need to disinfect your hands before playing with these adorable creatures.

Harry’s Hedgehog Café is located in the Harajuku area.

7) The city has maid and cat cafes

Tokyo is famous for its quirky-themed cafes.

Cat cafes are popular.

You can pay an entry fee and spend time with friendly cats.

Some places also offer drinks and a manga corner, making it a great relaxing experience.

Waitresses dressed in maid costumes serve you, and the playful atmosphere makes you feel like you’re part of a different world.

8) Tokyo’s Yoyogi Park was the site of the first Japan Fashion Week

You might not know that Yoyogi Park hosted the first Japan Fashion Week.

Yoyogi Park is famous for its wide lawns and lively atmosphere.

Imagine enjoying a picnic there while witnessing top fashion shows.

Next time you visit the park, remember its stylish history.

9) The Rainbow Bridge lights up in different colours at night

The Rainbow Bridge becomes a dazzling light show when night falls in Tokyo.

The bridge uses a variety of rainbow colours, making it a must-see if you’re in the area.

The lighting changes with the seasons and events, always offering something new.

10) The city is home to a café where you can drink coffee while surrounded by capybaras

In Tokyo, you can find a special café where you sip coffee with capybaras.

Located near Kichijoji Station, the Capyneko Cafe lets you relax with these friendly animals.

For 2,200 yen, you get an hour with the capybaras and cats.

11) The Eiffel Tower inspired Tokyo Tower

When you look at Tokyo Tower, it resembles the Eiffel Tower.

This is because the famous Paris landmark directly inspired its design.

Tokyo Tower has a lattice steel structure.

Its intricate design mirrors the Eiffel Tower, giving it a familiar and striking look.

12) There’s a microbrewery in Tokyo that produces blue beer

In Tokyo, a microbrewery makes blue beer!

This unique beer not only looks interesting but also offers a distinctive taste.

13) Tokyo’s Metro system is one of the busiest in the world

Tokyo’s Metro system is incredibly busy.

It has two main networks: the Tokyo Metro and the Toei Subway.

Every day, millions of passengers use this system.

14) Roppongi is famous for its nightlife and expat community

You can find numerous bars, clubs, and pubs around every corner.

Many expatriates call Roppongi their second home, making it a central spot for diverse cultures.

15) Odaiba is an artificial island with shopping and entertainment complexes

Odaiba is an intriguing artificial island in Tokyo Bay.

Originally built for defence in the 1850s, it was redeveloped in the 1990s and is now a bustling hub for shopping and entertainment.

You can explore malls like Aqua City and DiverCity, where you’ll find shops, restaurants, and even a giant Gundam statue.

16) Tokyo is home to the world’s busiest train station, Shinjuku Station

Shinjuku Station is the busiest train station on the planet.

Every day, around 3.6 million people pass through its gates.

That’s more people than the entire population of some cities!

Multiple train lines, such as JR East, Keio, Odakyu, Toei, and Tokyo Metro, run through the area, so you could easily get lost.

Even locals sometimes find it confusing, so don’t worry if you need to ask for directions.

17) Sumo wrestling tournaments are held three times a year in Tokyo

Tokyo is a fantastic place to experience sumo wrestling.

Three major sumo tournaments, called “basho,” are held annually in the city.

These tournaments occur in January, May, and September at the Ryogoku Kokugikan, the national sumo stadium.

18) Akihabara is Tokyo’s electronics and anime district

Akihabara, also known as “Electric Town” or “Akiba”, is a major hub for electronics and anime in Tokyo.

Countless shops sell gadgets, computer parts, and other electronic goods.

It’s a tech lover’s paradise.

Akihabara is also famous for its anime and manga culture.

19) Tokyo has more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other city

Tokyo has an impressive food scene.

It has more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other city in the world.

In 2025, Tokyo will boast over 200 Michelin-starred spots, including 12 three-star restaurants.

Top-quality cuisine will be available all around the city.

20) You can experience traditional kabuki theatre in Tokyo

You can catch a traditional kabuki performance at Kabukiza Theatre in Ginza.

Kabuki features dramatic storytelling, elaborate costumes, and unique dance.

English subtitles are available, making it easy for tourists to follow along.

Don’t miss the chance to see this classic art form!

21) The city has over 1,000 temples and shrines

In Tokyo, you’ll find an incredible mix of temples and shrines.

Over 1,000 of these sacred sites are in the city, so places like Sensoji Temple and Nezu Shrine offer a peek into Japan’s rich cultural history.

22) Nakamise Street in Asakusa features traditional street food and souvenirs

Nakamise Street connects Kaminarimon Gate to Sensoji Temple in Asakusa.

It has 89 shops, offering a great mix of snacks and trinkets.

You can munch on classic Japanese treats like dango and melon pan.

These snacks are popular and really tasty.

23) Tokyo Dome hosts baseball games and concerts

You can catch a baseball game at Tokyo Dome, home to the Yomiuri Giants.

The stadium can seat up to 46,000 fans.

It’s not just about sports, though. Tokyo Dome also hosts concerts featuring famous artists, so the diverse events make it a popular spot for locals and tourists.

24) Ueno Zoo is Japan’s oldest zoo

Ueno Zoo, located in Tokyo, opened its doors in 1882, making it the oldest zoo in Japan.

When you visit, you’ll see it has a rich history and many stories to tell.

It has become a symbol of conservation and education.

One of the main attractions here is the Giant Panda exhibit.

It’s one of the few places outside China where you can see these amazing animals.

25) Tokyo features a ninja training dojo for tourists

In Tokyo, you can experience the life of a ninja.

There are dojos where you can learn ninja skills with authentic training.

You’ll dress in cool ninja outfits and try using ninja stars, swords, and other traditional weapons.

It’s a unique and fun activity.

26) Ginza is known for its luxury shopping and high-end dining

Ginza is a highlight for anyone visiting Tokyo. It’s famous for its luxury shopping.

Top brands like Dior and Louis Vuitton line the streets.

27) Meiji Shrine, surrounded by forest, is an oasis in the city

You wouldn’t believe it, but the Meiji Shrine is in the middle of Tokyo’s bustling city life.

This peaceful sanctuary is dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken.

The forest around the shrine is artificial, planted by 110,000 volunteers. It covers 70 hectares and contains 234 different types of trees.

28) Tokyo hosts the Ghibli Museum, showcasing Hayao Miyazaki’s works

You can find the Ghibli Museum in Mitaka, a part of western Tokyo.

This museum is dedicated to the magical world of Studio Ghibli, created by director Hayao Miyazaki.

It’s a must-visit for anime lovers.

When you visit, you’ll see exhibits that highlight the art of animation and Miyazaki’s films.

29) Tokyo’s public transport is known for its punctuality

If you’ve ever used public transport in Tokyo, you’ve probably noticed how everything runs like clockwork.

Trains and buses are almost always on time.

This punctuality is vital in a bustling city where millions rely on public transport daily.

There’s a high level of precision in the schedules. You can often set your watch by the arrival of a Tokyo train.

This reliability makes commuting less stressful.

30) There are capsule hotels in Tokyo offering tiny, budget accommodation

If you’re travelling on a budget, try a capsule hotel in Tokyo.

These tiny rooms are stacked side by side and on top of each other.

You get a cosy bed, a bit of privacy, and essential amenities.

It’s a cool, affordable way to stay in Tokyo while experiencing something unique.

31) Tokyo’s Asakusa district is where the famous Sensō-ji Temple is located

The Asakusa district stands out in the heart of Tokyo with its historic charm and vibrant energy.

Here, you’ll find the famous Sensō-ji Temple, a must-visit landmark.

Sensō-ji is Tokyo’s oldest temple, with a history spanning over 1,300 years.

32) The Kappabashi district is famed for its kitchenware shops

You’ll find the Kappabashi district between Ueno and Asakusa in Tokyo.

This area is a paradise for chefs and home cooks.

The street is about 800 meters long, packed with over 170 shops.

You can buy everything from Japanese knives and ramen bowls to plastic food samples here.

It’s a short walk from Tawaramachi Station.

33) Tokyo’s oldest amusement park is Hanayashiki

Hanayashiki is Tokyo’s oldest amusement park. It started as a flower park in 1853.

Located in Asakusa, this charming park has a lot of history.

It’s just a short walk from Asakusa Station.

After seeing the Senso-ji Temple, it’s a nice place to visit.

The park has been entertaining guests since 1853.

It has rides, games, and even a little zoo.

34) Shinjuku Gyoen is a large park with diverse gardens

Shinjuku Gyoen is one of Tokyo’s largest and most beautiful parks.

You can find it in the busy area of Shinjuku, offering a peaceful escape.

The park covers 58 hectares, providing lots of space to explore.

You’ll see a mix of traditional Japanese, English, and French gardens.

36) Tokyo’s nightlife includes late-night karaoke joints

If you love singing, you’ll be thrilled with Tokyo’s late-night karaoke joints.

These places stay open long after regular bars close.

In some areas, karaoke joints line the streets, offering private rooms for groups.

You can sing your heart out while enjoying drinks and snacks.

37) The Tokyo Marathon attracts runners from all over the world

The Tokyo Marathon is a major event that draws runners from around the globe.

With over 300,000 applications each year, only around 35,000 are chosen to participate.

Athletes from various countries come to challenge themselves on this iconic course.

Elite runners also join, hoping to set new records.

In 2024, the race saw incredible performances from international competitors.

38) Golden Gai, Shinjuku, has over 200 tiny bars

Golden Gai in Shinjuku is a cool spot with over 200 tiny bars, each with its own unique feel and character.

You’ll find these bars packed into six narrow alleys. Most are so small they can only fit a handful of people.

It’s perfect for bar-hopping, chatting, and discovering new drinks.

39) The Tokyo National Museum is Japan’s oldest national museum

The Tokyo National Museum is Japan’s oldest national museum.

It was established in 1872 and is located in Ueno Park.

This museum is a treasure trove of history and culture.

You can find over 116,000 artefacts here, including national treasures and items of cultural importance.

Fancy seeing Buddhist art from the Horyuji Treasures collection?

The Tokyo National Museum has over 300 pieces!

There are even archaeological finds from Egypt and India.

40) Nihonbashi is a historic business district with a high-end vibe

Nihonbashi is just a short walk from Tokyo Station.

It’s a bustling hub with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings.

In the centre, you’ll find Japan’s first department store, Mitsukoshi.

This area blends old traditions with modern luxuries.

The famous Nihonbashi Bridge, depicted in Ukiyo-e art, is a must-see.

41) The Takeshita Street in Harajuku is particularly popular among teenagers

Takeshita Street in Harajuku is a hit among teenagers.

This bustling street is packed with trendy stores and cute merchandise, making it a go-to spot for those in the Kawaii culture.

You can find unique fashion items here.

Many shops are open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., making visiting convenient.

The street is often decorated during festivals, adding to its charm.

42) Tokyo’s summer heat can be intense, often exceeding 30°C

Tokyo summers are no joke. The temperature often shoots over 30°C (86°F), scorching hot.

It’s common for the city to hit high temperatures, maxing around 38°C (100°F).

The heat is coupled with high humidity, making the air feel even hotter.

43) The Sumida River Fireworks Festival is a major annual event

You’ve got to see the Sumida River Fireworks Festival if you’re in Tokyo in late July.

This epic event happens on the last Saturday of the month along the Sumida River.

The fireworks are launched from two spots near the Sakura and Komagata Bridges.

The show lasts an hour and a half, with around 20,000 fireworks lighting up the sky.

The festival has a long history, dating back to 1733, when it started to pray for the end of famine.

It’s the oldest fireworks festival in Japan.

People gather along the riverside, enjoying food stalls, music, and the festive vibe.

It’s a true celebration that captures the spirit of summer in Tokyo.

44) Tokyo’s Ramen Museum offers an interactive dining experience

Step into the Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum and feel like you’ve returned to 1958.

The museum recreates old Showa-era streets with back alleys and a central courtyard.

Explore different ramen shops, each offering unique flavours from across Japan.

45) The Ogasawara Islands, part of Tokyo, are a UNESCO World Heritage site

The Ogasawara Islands, also known as the Bonin Islands, are about 1,000 kilometres south of Tokyo.

Despite their distance, they are part of Tokyo.

These islands are a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Only two islands, Chichijima and Hahajima, are inhabited.