Tokyo

The sheer level of energy is the most striking aspect of Japan’s capital city. Sightseeing in its streets can be a neon assault that’s quite enthralling, but there are areas of calm too, as well older traditions in evidence. Spring is an excellent time to visit to witness the cherry blossom blooming, but any time of year is good here. Take an evening stroll through the Shinjuku district of Tokyo and every preconceived image of modern Japan will be there to greet you: the thronging crowds decked out in the wildest fashions, towering skyscrapers, flashing neon and all the noise and excitement of what is probably the world’s ultimate metropolis.