Japan is a truly spectacular country, rich in natural beauty and traditional culture while simultaneously at the forefront of modern society. The grace and harmony of the society’s operational efficiency is potentially unrivaled in technologically advanced countries. Its ancient traditions are often as alive today as hundreds of years ago, even when amid the hustle and bustle of a 21st century metropolis. Tokyo is, in many ways, the hub of modern Japan. While some of the more competitive residents of other cities in the country may not completely agree, it is rather evident that it is essentially the “New York” of Japan.
While many cities in other parts of the world may seem to be more like an extended neighborhood sprawl, Tokyo somehow manages to feel like a city for the majority of its immense area. The architecture is often dazzling, and even many of the smaller buildings have gorgeous and creatively designed facades to enjoy as one walks along the city streets. The old often meets the new in really unique ways as sometimes an apparently ancient temple will be nestled in the base of a huge skyscraper, truly showing the loving commitment to preservation and appreciation of traditional arts and culture. The attention to the precision and care for both modern and ancient facets of such spaces is truly amazing.
The city is composed of 23 wards or “ku” that all have their own unique attributes, while still maintaining complete cohesiveness. Each one has something special to offer and one could possibly spend a lifetime exploring every small street. For example, Shinjuku is a business hub with lots of spectacular buildings reaching into the sky and the busiest train station in the world, while Shibuya is a popular area for progressive culture like music and fashion
There are numerous parks, some of which are quite large, and also rivers running through the city. Nature, while not continually prominent, still maintains its presence enough to not ever feel too distant. There are trees along many streets and sometimes even garden pathways in certain areas. Yoyogi Koen is a popular park which provides space for all kinds of outdoor activities and is also a popular place for musicians to practice and play. There are many gorgeous trees and grassy areas appropriate for a picnic or star gazing, and just about every Sunday there is a festival atmosphere. On the eastern side of Tokyo there is a nice bay to enjoy, and there are amazing mountains nearby for daytrips.
If temples and traditional culture is your interest, then the Asakusa area is a great spot to visit. It is home to Sensoji, which is possibly the most famous temple in Tokyo. Kamakura is also a somewhat short train ride away and is a spectacular blend of ancient temples and nature in a mountainous setting.
All in all, Tokyo seems to have just about everything one could be looking for in a modern city and possibly even more. It’s a truly wonderful city that deserves to be visited and appreciated. To know it is generally to love it.
