Tokyo (東京, Tōkyō) is Japan's capital and the world's most populous metropolis.

It is also one
of Japan's 47 prefectures, consisting of 23 central city wards and multiple cities, towns and
villages west of the city center. The Izu and Ogasawara Islands are also part of Tokyo.

Prior to 1868, Tokyo was known as Edo. A small castle town in the 16th century, Edo became
Japan's political center in 1603 when Tokugawa Ieyasu established his feudal government
there. A few decades later, Edo had grown into one of the world's most populous cities. With
the Meiji Restoration of 1868, the emperor and capital moved from Kyoto to Edo, which was
renamed Tokyo ("Eastern Capital"). Large parts of Tokyo were destroyed in the Great Kanto
Earthquake of 1923 and in the air raids of 1945.

Today, Tokyo offers a seemingly unlimited choice of shopping, entertainment, culture and
dining to its visitors. The city's history can be appreciated in districts such as Asakusa and in
many excellent museums, historic temples and gardens. Contrary to common perception,
Tokyo also offers a number of attractive green spaces in the city center and within relatively
short train rides at its outskirts.

Step into a high-tech future with a keen appreciation of the old-world when you visit Japan's
capital city. Tokyo's official metropolitan area is home to more than 12 million people and
greater Tokyo has a population of 35 million. With so many people, Tokyo is a buzzing urban
area with much to see and even more to experience.

Central Tokyo

The main centre of this metropolis is one of the most popular areas to visit.

Chiyoda
When you visit this neighbourhood, be sure to take a peek at the Imperial Palace, along with
the parliament and corporate headquarters of Marunouchi. This power section of the city is
well worth a visit, especially in nicer weather when you can enjoy the palace gardens and the
shrines. Even if you find yourself in this area in nastier weather, there are many museums to
be enjoyed and theatres to catch a show.

Shinjuku
For a really wild and exciting time, head to Shinjuku. You'll find many luxury hotels, futuristic
skyscrapers, Kabukicho, Tokyo's pulsing nightlife.

Shibuya
For the shopaholics in your group, head to Shibuya. This is Tokyo's fashionable shopping
district and holds the exciting nightlife of Ebisu. Beware, though, this area also encompasses
the youth style haven of Harajuku.

Old Tokyo

For a more historic approach, head to Old Tokyo and enjoy some of the architecture from
bygone eras.

Ryogoku
For those looking to appreciate the traditional Japanese sport of sumo wrestling, head to
Ryogoku, the sumo district.

Bunkyo
Experience the old with the new, and the past with the present at Bunkyo. Bunkyo is home to
the University of Tokyo and the Tokyo Dome.

Arakawa
Visit Tokyo's last original tram line or the Kiyosumi Gardens here in Eastern Tokyo.

Suburbs

Although the suburbs of Tokyo are less popular among the tourists, they might be the best
place to go for a more authentic, modern Japanese experience. You can also view some sights
here such as the three great temples in Adachi.

Eating

In Tokyo, you can find the world's greatest food in the bottom of a train station or the
basement of a department store. You can find every variety of food from all around the world.
If, however, you are looking for some local specialties, try out the sushi, known here as
Nigirizushi. There's also Monjayaki, a gooey, cabbage-filled food made with a thin sticky
batter.

After you have a bite to eat, you may want to have a few drinks. If you are looking for an
authentic Japanese way to have a night out, head to an izakaya, a casual spot to enjoy a
drink after work. You can enjoy nice drinks here and complement it with a pub-style dinner if
your stomach starts grumbling.

It will surely take more than one visit to get the full experience of Tokyo. There's so much to
see and do that your list will never dwindle. Every time you manage to get back to this
colourful and imaginative city, count on Cover-More to protect your holiday.