Tokyo Hotels & Tourism

An adrenaline-pumping bullet-train ride to a place of deep calm.

The sheer level of energy is the most striking aspect of Japan's capital city. Tokyo is a place where the urgent rhythms of consumer culture collide with the quieter moments that linger from older traditions. It's hectic madness leavened by the most Zen-like of calms.

While it's true the exciting vibe has a somewhat depressing flip side - shoebox housing estates and office blocks traversed by overhead expressways crowded with traffic - Tokyo remains a glittering example of the 'miracle' of post-WWII Japan.

Tokyo is a vast conurbation spreading out across the KantÅ Plain from Tokyo Bay (Tokyo-wan). The central metropolitan area is made up of 23 ku (wards), while outlying areas are divided into 27 separate shi (cities), a gun (county) and four island-districts. Nearly everything of interest to visitors lies on or near the JR Yamanote line, the rail loop that circles central Tokyo. Areas not on the Yamanote line - like Roppongi, Tsukiji and Asakusa - are nonetheless within easy reach, as the central city is crisscrossed by Tokyo's excellent subway system.

In Edo times, Yamanote referred to 'Uptown': the estates and residences of feudal barons, military aristocracy and other Edo elite, in the hilly regions of the city. Shitamachi or 'Downtown' was home to the working classes, merchants and artisans. Even today this distinction persists. The areas west of the Imperial Palace (KÅkyo) are more modernised, housing the commercial and business centres of modern Tokyo; the areas east of the palace retain more of the character of old Edo.

A trip around the JR Yamanote line makes a good introduction to the city. You might start at Tokyo station, the first point of arrival for many travellers. Near the station are the Marunouchi and ÅŒtemachi office districts and the high-class shopping district of Ginza. Continuing north from Tokyo station brings you to Akihabara, the discount electronics centre of Tokyo. Further along is Ueno, home to many of the city's museums. After rounding the top of the loop you descend into Ikebukuro, a shopping and entertainment district. A few stops further on is Shinjuku, a massive shopping, entertainment and business district considered by many the heart of modern Tokyo. From there, trains continue through to the youth-oriented, fashionable shopping areas of Harajuku, Shibuya and Ebisu. A swing through Shinagawa at the bottom of the loop then brings you back to Tokyo station.

Travellers to Tokyo, Japan can expect to find accommodation of all types, from upmarket Tokyo hotels and resorts to more budget-focussed and unique options. For your next holiday accommodation in Tokyo, make sure you check the regular and special offers on hotels.com.au first. Japan is host to a wide range of travel experience, suitable for all budgets. And Tokyo is a great place to visit, blending experiences such as exploring the gardens of the Imperial Palace with famous attractions such as the temples of Asakusa and Tokyo Tower. And don’t forget shopping shopping for funky fashions in Shibuya, and sample the famous sento for an unforgettable Tokyo experience. Wherever you’re staying, hotels.com.au offers a huge range of Tokyo hotels and Tokyo accommodation options.