Tokyo in a Nutshell

Tokyo, one of the world’s most populated metro areas, is the capital of Japan. Tokyo is one of Japan’s 47 prefectures (districts) and is divided into 23 city wards that include numerous towns and villages. Ogasawara and Izu Islands are also considered part of Tokyo. The total population is over 13 million, and is home to people from all walks of life.

Tokyo cityscape | KCP Flickr

Tokyo has the world’s largest metropolitan economy; 47 of the Fortune Global 500 companies are located in Tokyo. Its official name is the Tokyo Metropolis, formed in 1943 by combining the city of Tokyo and the earlier Tokyo prefecture. It is the home of the Japanese Imperial Family, the Imperial Palace, and the Japanese government.

Tokyo Imperial Palace.

Beginnings

Originally, Tokyo was known as Edo. It started out as a small fishing village and grew to become Japan’s cultural, business, shopping, and political epicenter. In the early 1600s, it was the home of Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu’s feudal government. During the Meiji restoration in 1808, Japan’s capital was moved from Kyoto to Edo, and in 1868, the emperor made Edo his permanent residence. It was renamed Tokyo, meaning “Eastern Capital.”

Through the years, Tokyo has experienced many tumultuous events–the Great Kanto earthquake in 1923,  the World War II air raids in 1945, and so on. The great city survived and was rebuilt. It hosted the 1964 Summer Olympics!

Tokyo’s Unique Contrasts

Tokyo has a wealth of things to see and experience. It is steeped in culture both ancient and modern, history, shopping, entertainment, and architecture.

There are a large number of places to visit, each with its distinct appeal. The Asakusa district is steeped in the traditional charm of its temples and geishas. In contrast, Harajuku is a modern shopping district exploding with people in avant-garde dress.

Entrance to Asakusa Temple | KCP Flickr

Whether you visit Tokyo for business, pleasure, or study, it will leave a lasting impression that you will always treasure.