Tokyo is truly a year-round destination, but for the most comfortable weather and iconic scenery aim for spring or autumn. Late March to early April is the legendary cherry blossom season. It is a spectacular time to be in the city, with parks like Ueno and Shinjuku Gyoen turning into sea of pink, although you should be prepared for large crowds and higher hotel prices. If you prefer crisp air and vibrant red maples, late October through November is fantastic. The weather is stable and pleasant, making it ideal for long days of walking. 

There are a few dates you might want to avoid to bypass the heaviest domestic crowds. Golden Week, which usually runs from 29 April to 5 May, is a string of public holidays where the whole country seems to travel at once. Trains and attractions become incredibly busy. Similarly, the New Year period from 29 December to 3 January sees many shops and restaurants close, and the Obon festival in mid-August can make long-distance travel quite a squeeze. Summer brings high humidity and rainfall, although the spectacular fireworks festivals in July and August are a brilliant cultural trade-off if you don’t mind the heat. 

Most visitors spend two or three days in Tokyo, which is just enough to tick off the major landmarks like Senso-ji, the Shibuya Crossing, and the Imperial Palace. However, if you really want to satisfy your curiosity, staying four or more days is far more rewarding. Taking your time allows you to move away from the frantic pace of the main tourist hubs and see how the city actually functions. 

A longer stay gives you the freedom to explore lesser-known neighbourhoods like Yanaka, with its old-world "Low City" charm, or Shimokitazawa, famous for vintage shops and a relaxed bohemian vibe. It also means you can take sustainable day trips to places like Mount Takao or Kamakura using the excellent rail network, rather than rushing through the city in a blur. By slowing down, you get a much better feel for the local life and the small, quiet details that make Tokyo so special. 

Tokyo is consistently ranked as one of the safest cities in the world, but it is always wise to check your government's local travel advisory for the most recent updates before you fly. While violent crime is extremely rare, petty theft and minor scams can occur, particularly in nightlife districts like Roppongi and Kabukicho. A common trap involves "touts" who approach you on the street promising cheap drinks or "no cover charge" at bars, only for you to be hit with an enormous bill later. 

Common sense goes a long way here. It is best to avoid drinking in excess and to always keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas. Breaking local laws, including those related to drugs or public disturbance, carries very heavy penalties, so it is important to stay on the right side of the rules. 

Lastly, ensure you have a comprehensive travel insurance policy. Even in a safe city, unexpected medical issues or travel disruptions can happen, and having that backup provides peace of mind while you explore. 

Japanese culture places a high value on respect and social harmony, so being mindful of etiquette is appreciated. When visiting religious sites like Shinto shrines or Buddhist temples, everyone should dress modestly. This generally means keeping shoulders and knees covered. Avoiding very short skirts, sleeveless tops, or overly revealing clothing shows respect for the sacred nature of these spaces. It is also standard to remove your hat when entering temple buildings or paying respects. 

If you are lucky enough to be invited into someone’s home, or even when visiting certain traditional restaurants and guesthouses (ryokan), you must remove your shoes at the entrance. There is usually a raised floor or a dedicated mat (genkan) where you leave your outdoor footwear. It is a good idea to always wear clean, hole-free socks for this reason!  

To follow local social norms and blend in with the polite atmosphere, keep your voice down on public transport and avoid eating while walking. You will also find few rubbish bins in the city, as people are expected to take their waste home with them.

Comfortable walking shoes are the single most important item for Tokyo, as you will likely be clocking up thousands of steps every day. As you will be taking your shoes off frequently at temples and some restaurants, opt for pairs that are easy to slip on and off.  

In terms of clothing, the Japanese style tends to be neat and conservative. While you don't need to be formal, packing smart-casual layers is a good move. In the hot and humid summer months, light, breathable fabrics are essential but remember to keep a light cardigan or jumper handy for the aggressive air conditioning indoors. If you are visiting in winter, particularly from December to February, it gets quite chilly, so bring a warm coat, gloves, and a scarf. June and September are the wettest months, so a sturdy umbrella or a waterproof jacket will be needed.  

For those planning to visit traditional onsen (hot springs), keep in mind that swimwear is usually not allowed in the communal baths, which are traditionally enjoyed nude. However, if you are heading to a water park or beach, standard swimwear is perfectly fine. 

Tokyo is a global food capital with everything from Michelin-starred sushi to humble street snacks. The Shinjuku district is a fantastic place to try a bowl of authentic ramen, as it is packed with tiny shops each boasting their own secret broth recipe. For the freshest seafood, head to the Tsukiji Outer Market. Even though the famous wholesale auction moved to Toyosu, the streets around the original site are still buzzing with stalls serving incredible nigiri and kaisendon (seafood bowls). 

For a unique Tokyo experience, try monjayaki in the Tsukishima district. It is a savoury, slightly runny pancake cooked on a hot plate right in front of you and is a popular local comfort food. If you want to eat like a Tokyoite after work, find a yokocho (narrow alleyway) such as Omoide Yokocho in Shinjuku. These alleys are lined with small stalls serving yakitori (grilled chicken skewers). These spots are vital to the local community as social hubs where people unwind, and they offer a wonderfully atmospheric, unpretentious dining experience.