Tokyo Station

Tokyo station is in the heart of Japan’s business and finance areas because of its convenient location, easy access and economical significance. Anyone passing through Japan should be familiar with this travel hub, as it is the main intercity railway in the capital city.

From Hokkaido to Kyushu, this station allows travelers to get pretty much anywhere. A major interchange for 16 different train lines, Tokyo is one of Japan’s busiest stations, with more than 3,000 trains passing through on any given day. That’s thanks, in part, to the servicing of seven different shinkansen (bullet train) lines.

The surrounding area is a landscape of office buildings, global financial institutions, shopping districts and the must-see Tokyo Imperial Palace.

Tokyo Imperial Palace is just a few blocks from Tokyo Station.

Inside the station

Interestingly enough, you don’t actually need to leave the station to get your shopping fix. The interior has many high-class brand-name stores and restaurants, but that convenience will come at a cost as these in-station locations are usually quite crowded. During lunchtime and late evening hours, waiting times for restaurants can start at around 30 minutes and extending up to two hours.

The station’s underground shopping complex, located in the basement of the Yaesu North exit, contains the culturally-infused Tokyo Character Street. Whether you’re an anime lover or just looking for a cute trinket, it features more than 20 stores each themed after a well-known popular cartoon. Anime characters include those from Dragon Ball, Naruto and One Piece, as well as Snoopy, Pokemon and Hello Kitty.

Near Tokyo station

Outside the station

When you venture outside of the station, the Marunouchi business and shopping district should be the first stop on your list. This area offers thousands of upscale stores, restaurants and other luxuries.

Don’t leave without seeing the prestigious Imperial Palace, located a mere two blocks from the station. Surrounded by an Edo-era moat, stone walls and always-pristine gardens, the grounds are an ideal place to go for a stroll through Japanese history.

Tours of the actual palace are a bit tricky, as they are not offered seven days a week. Nevertheless, travelers are welcome to visit and take photos on the grounds daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.