Sumo wrestlers and sushi apprentices who train for more than 40 years for the privilege of cooking in a subway station. Bars staffed by Buddhist monks, the distant slopes of Mount Fuji, and living dolls sashaying through the neon streets of Harajuku.

Few cities on earth feel as futuristic as Tokyo, yet its thousands of years of history make themselves known in the strict etiquette that governs everyday life, and in the outline of ancient temples glimpsed between soaring skyscrapers. Throw in superb food and a creative scene, and it’s easy to understand why this destination has the power to thrill.

Things to see in Tokyo

Nestled among romantic 17th-century gardens filled with bonsai trees, the Imperial Palace is the pride of the Marunouchi district – stroll over curvaceous stone bridges and between castle ruins while learning about Japan’s royal family.

Another of Tokyo’s best cultural attractions is Sensō-ji Temple in Asakusa, established in 645 ACE. Browse the market outside its gate for ebony combs and kimonos, and look out for the temple’s doves, believed by locals to be messengers of the gods.

Travelling with kids? Tokyo Disneyland is one of the city’s top family attractions, with rides and character meet-and-greets for the little ones and excellent people-watching for the grown-ups.

Best places to visit in Tokyo

Yanaka is one of the few areas of the city that escaped bombing in the Second World War, and remains a hub for traditional crafts as well as more contemporary artisans. Its narrow, winding streets are best explored on a Tokyobike, designed with the area in mind.

For a free activity, take a stroll across the iconic Rainbow Bridge at night, or plunge into the neon glow of Shinjuku, which glitters like a disco ball after dark. Tokyo also has more jazz clubs than any other city on Earth, so a night spent exploring a few is well worth building into your itinerary.

Best time to visit

Tokyo is a year-round destination, so the best time to visit depends on the kind of trip you’re after. From March to May, spring brings comfortable temperatures with a chance of showers – picnicking beneath the cherry blossoms in Ueno Park is one of the best things to do in April. Between June and August is peak season, when temperatures can soar into the mid-thirties and festivals like Sumidagawa fill the night sky with fireworks. July tends to be a little rainy.

Where to stay in Tokyo

Tokyo’s hotel scene is as varied as the city itself – from traditional ryokan with tatami mats to Hello Kitty-themed hideaways, there’s an option here for every kind of traveller.

Shibuya is close to many of Tokyo’s top attractions, making it a great base for your trip. Shinjuku suits first-timers particularly well, since it’s something of a microcosm of the city, with skyscrapers, universities and red-light districts all packed into its maze-like streets.

Best places to eat in Tokyo

Michelin-starred sushi with freshly grated wasabi. Velvety ramen, best enjoyed with plenty of slurping. Yakitori chicken skewers devoured at a stall under a railway bridge. Tokyoites are fanatical about food, and the sheer breadth of restaurants on offer can be a little overwhelming – many serve just a single dish, executed to perfection.

Cultural experiences in Tokyo

Tokyo’s nightlife offers an unexpected window into its pop culture, from karaoke bars with jacuzzis to bars staffed by Buddhist monks. Many of the city’s top cultural experiences involve live performance, and its thriving jazz scene, the largest of any city in the world, is a great place to start.

Places to shop in Tokyo

Minimal kitchenware, vintage kimonos, futuristic gadgets and green tea Kit Kats – the entire city is a shrine to consumerism, and shopping is central to Tokyo’s culture. Harajuku is one of the most iconic shopping districts, having spawned countless youth subcultures – expect to see goths and “Lolita dolls," those lovers of all things pink and frilly, popping in and out of fashion boutiques. Akihabara has a futuristic feel thanks to its huge concentration of electronics shops and otaku culture, while upscale Ginza is the place to go for high-end boutiques.

Getting to Tokyo

You can fly direct to Tokyo from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Cairns. From the airport, the excellent JR Narita Express (or the Tokyo Monorail, if you land at Haneda) will take you straight into the heart of the action. Check the local tourist board’s guide for the most cost-effective ways to get around once you’re in the city.