Flights from South Africa to Tokyo (TYO)

Discover Tokyo

Discover Tokyo

Why visit Tokyo?

Tokyo blends neon skylines, calm gardens, and creative culture into one of the world s most engaging cities. You can move from peaceful parks to buzzing districts within minutes.

What to expect

Expect efficient transport, spotless streets, and distinct neighbourhoods ranging from high fashion avenues to historic quarters and waterfront promenades. The city feels busy yet remarkably organised and welcoming.

Plan your trip

Tokyo works well for first time visitors and repeat travellers, with easy day trips to nearby towns and hot spring areas. Use the city as a gateway to explore wider Japan by rail or domestic flights.

Top sights in Tokyo

Shibuya Crossing

Watch the famous scramble of pedestrians beneath giant screens, then explore nearby streets filled with boutiques, cafes, and rooftop viewpoints.

Tokyo Skytree

Ride up to the observation decks for far reaching views of the city and, on clear days, Mount Fuji on the horizon.

Asakusa and the old town

Stroll through streets lined with traditional style shops and visit historic landmarks set among lanterns and market stalls.

Odaiba waterfront

Head to this modern island district for bay views, interactive museums, leisure complexes, and relaxed evening walks along the water.

Meiji Shrine forested paths

Step off the busy streets of Harajuku into a tranquil forested area with broad gravel paths and towering trees.

Ueno Park and museums

Spend a day wandering through museums, a zoo, seasonal blossom lined ponds, and tree shaded avenues in one large park.

Akihabara district

Explore multi storey shops dedicated to electronics, games, anime, and collectibles in one of Tokyo s most distinctive areas.

Experience Tokyo s everyday rhythm

Getting around

Use Tokyo s JR lines and subway network for most journeys, supported by clear English signage and stored value cards. For a different view, ride the Yurikamome line across the bay, then rely on walking for the final few blocks as many areas are compact.

Local life & culture

You will notice a city that moves quickly yet values courtesy, quiet train carriages, and punctuality. Each neighbourhood has its own character, from youth fashion streets to refined business districts and creative hubs filled with galleries and live houses.

Where to unwind

Relax in large green spaces such as Shinjuku Gyoen or Hibiya Park, or seek out smaller neighbourhood gardens and riverside paths. Early mornings and golden hour before sunset are ideal for calm walks and photo friendly light.

A taste of Tokyo

Street food & local specialties

Try noodles, grilled skewers, and savoury pancakes in casual alleys and around station hubs, with districts like Asakusa, Ueno, and Shinjuku offering many long standing spots.

Casual & modern dining hubs

Shopping centres and train station complexes house food courts, cafes, and mid range restaurants serving Japanese and international flavours, with smaller portions that make it easy to sample several dishes in one meal.

Signature & scenic dining

For a memorable evening, choose high rise restaurants in areas such as Shinjuku or Roppongi that overlook the city lights, or waterside venues around Tokyo Bay for calmer views.

Retail therapy in Tokyo

Malls & lifestyle hubs

Find major malls and flagship stores in Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Ikebukuro, where international brands, local designers, cinemas, and lifestyle concepts sit under one roof.

Markets & local crafts

Browse side streets and shopping alleys in Asakusa, Yanaka Ginza, and Kappabashi for traditional crafts, ceramics, kitchenware, and small independent shops.

Evening retail scene

After dark, districts like Ginza, Shinjuku, and Shibuya glow with illuminated storefronts and late opening shops, and frequent trains and subways make it simple to reach them and return to your hotel.

Best time to visit Tokyo

Spring (March to May) is a shoulder season with mild weather, around 10 to 20 °C (50 to 68 °F), and blooming trees across parks and streets. Summer (June to early September) is peak season, warm and humid, with temperatures often between 22 and 32 °C (72 to 90 °F). Autumn (late September to November) is a shoulder season with comfortable days around 12 to 22 °C (54 to 72 °F) and colourful foliage. Winter (December to February) is a low season with crisp air, generally 2 to 12 °C (36 to 54 °F), and many clear, bright days.

Frequently Asked Questions