Flights from Johannesburg (JNB) to Tokyo (TYO)

About Tokyo

Discover Tokyo

Why visit Tokyo?
Tokyo blends neon skylines, peaceful gardens, and cutting-edge design into one dynamic city. You can explore buzzing districts, tranquil parks, and waterfront promenades in a single day, with every corner revealing a different side of the metropolis.

What to expect
The city is a collection of distinct neighbourhoods, from the energy of Shibuya and Shinjuku to the refined streets of Ginza and contemporary redevelopments around Tokyo Station. Expect efficient transport, meticulous service, and an atmosphere that feels both futuristic and reassuringly orderly.

Plan your trip
Tokyo is an ideal first stop for exploring wider Japan, with high-speed rail links to cities such as Osaka, Kyoto, and Sendai. Whether you stay in the capital or travel onward, you will find clear signage, convenient connections, and well-planned districts that make independent travel straightforward.

Top sights in Tokyo

Tokyo Skytree

Take in wide views of the city and bay from one of the world’s tallest towers, with shopping and dining at its base.

Sensoji and Asakusa district

Stroll through Asakusa’s historic streets, with traditional architecture, colourful gateways, and lively souvenir shops.

Shibuya Crossing

Experience the organised energy of one of the world’s busiest pedestrian crossings, surrounded by giant screens and department stores.

Meiji Jingu Gaien and Omotesando

Walk shaded avenues near Harajuku, then explore Omotesando’s tree-lined boulevard of boutiques and cafés.

Odaiba waterfront

Head to this modern island district for bay views, large malls, and photogenic walks along the promenade.

Ueno Park and museums

Spend time in one of Tokyo’s green cultural hubs, home to major museums, galleries, and seasonal blossom-lined paths.

Ginza

Browse luxury flagships, design stores, and elegant cafés in one of Tokyo’s most polished shopping and entertainment districts.

Akihabara

Explore multi-storey shops dedicated to electronics, games, and pop culture in this bright, high-energy neighbourhood.

Experience Tokyo’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Tokyo’s railway and metro network is the fastest way to move between districts, with clear maps and frequent services. For a different view, ride the Yurikamome line across the bay to Odaiba. Keep a prepaid travel card handy to make your last short walks and transfers smoother.

Local life & culture
Each neighbourhood has its own character, from youth fashion streets in Harajuku to the business-focused avenues around Marunouchi. You will notice small parks, corner cafés, and convenience stores woven into the urban fabric, creating an easy balance between fast-paced city life and quiet everyday moments.

Where to unwind
Escape to green spaces such as Shinjuku Gyoen, Yoyogi Park, or Hama-rikyu Gardens for a calm break from the city streets. Early mornings and late afternoons are especially pleasant, with softer light, cooler air, and space to sit, read, or simply watch the city move around you.

A taste of Tokyo

Street food & local specialties
Tokyo is known for noodles, grilled skewers, and snacks that you can enjoy at compact counters or casual alleyway venues. Explore areas such as Shinjuku’s small laneways, Asakusa’s side streets, and Ueno for everyday favourites, from steaming bowls to savoury bites on the go.

Casual & modern dining hubs
You will find entire floors of restaurants inside major stations and malls, with options ranging from quick set meals to contemporary cafés. Sharing-sized plates and set menus make it easy to try several flavours in one sitting, especially in hubs like Shibuya, Ikebukuro, and Ginza.

Signature & scenic dining
For a special evening, consider high-floor restaurants in skyscrapers around Shinjuku, Marunouchi, or Roppongi, where glass walls reveal sparkling city views. Waterfront areas such as Odaiba also offer relaxed spots for a meal overlooking the bay and illuminated bridges.

Retail therapy in Tokyo

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Tokyo’s large complexes, such as those in Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Tokyo Station, combine department stores, fashion, and lifestyle brands under one roof. Many also feature cinemas and rooftop spaces, turning shopping into a full-day outing with dining and entertainment.

Markets & local crafts
Away from the main avenues, you will find smaller streets and shopping arcades where local makers, independent boutiques, and vintage shops sit side by side. Districts like Asakusa, Yanaka, and Koenji are good places to look for distinctive items and everyday pieces with local character.

Evening retail scene
After dark, districts such as Ginza, Shinjuku, and Shibuya glow with illuminated storefronts and billboards, and many shops stay open into the evening. Night-time visits are ideal for soaking in the atmosphere, and efficient trains and metro lines make it easy to return to your hotel at the end of the day.

Best time to visit Tokyo

Spring (haru, March to May, shoulder season)
Spring brings mild weather, with temperatures around 10–20°C (50–68°F). Parks fill with blossom and fresh greenery, and outdoor events and walks become especially enjoyable. It is a popular time to explore the city’s gardens and riversides.

Summer (natsu, June to August, peak season)
Summer is warm and humid, with temperatures of roughly 22–31°C (72–88°F). It is a lively period with seasonal illuminations, outdoor activities, and longer daylight hours. Waterfront districts and indoor attractions offer comfortable breaks from the heat.

Autumn and winter (aki and fuyu, September to February, low season)
Autumn sees comfortable 14–24°C (57–75°F) days and colourful foliage in parks and streets. Winter is cooler, around 2–12°C (36–54°F), with crisp air and clear views from high observation decks. Cooler months are ideal for exploring indoor museums, cafés, and shopping districts.

Frequently Asked Questions