DK Eyewitness - Tokyo Like a Local: By the People Who Call It Home (Travel Guide)

Today, Tokyoites are divided into three groups: devoted traditionalists, innovative modernists, and those who perfectly blend both extremes. Subcultures are the lifeblood of Tokyo; this is a city where self-expression reigns, where anime fans spend days immersed in fantasy worlds, and tea masters perform intricate ceremonies. But if one thing unites them all, its a humble sense of pride for their city. Tokyoites arent ones to boast (theyre a shy bunch), but no one would argue if they did. After all, Japan captured the worlds imagination so much in the 19th century, it sparked a craze known as Japonisme. And Tokyoites are used to the best of the best: flawlessly manicured gardens, food elevated to an art form, and groundbreaking technology, to start.

Thats not to say being so cutting-edge has come easy. Japan has been marked by cultural censorship and devastations over the centuries but, with each new era of freedom, Tokyo has been at the fore of creativity. Pop artists got playful with artistic expression after World War II, architects led the way in design for the 1964 Olympic Games, and locals havent stopped moving since the no dancing law was lifted in 2015. No matter what, Tokyoites look fearlessly into the future.

Even in ultramodern Tokyo, though, the past is never far away. Cherishing timeless traditions while enjoying modern life is a balancing act, and thats where this book comes in. While its impossible to capture Tokyos vast cultural scene in these pages (this is a city thats always revolutionizing), youll find a snapshot of its diversity, from old-school bathhouses tucked behind laundromats to immense gallery-like stores dedicated to sneakers.

Whether youre a restless local looking for a new favorite hangout, or youre keen to see a side beyond the sci-fi movies, this book will help you embrace the city with the creative spirit thats woven into Tokyos very heart. Enjoy Tokyo, the local way.

Tokyo | Welcome To The City

Liked by the locals

Tokyo may seem intimidating on first glance, but past the elaborate train system and streets bustling with people, youll find that the city is welcoming and affectionate, making you feel right at home.

KAILA IMADA, WRITER AND EDITOR

g

Tokyo

THROUGH THE YEAR

Life in Tokyo centers around the four seasons, and traditions shape each one cherry blossom parties in the spring to hot-spring soaks in the fall.

SPRING

CHERRY BLOSSOM MANIA

Marking the transition from winter to spring is a riot of pink sakura across Tokyo. Locals celebrate with hanami , cherry-blossom viewing picnics beneath the blooming trees.

SPORT SPECTACULAR

Sumo season hits its peak in May, when the anticipated Tokyo Grand Sumo Tournament is held. Those lucky enough to get a ticket cheer at the stadium, but most gather at home to watch it on TV.

SPRING DELICACIES

Japanese food is centered around the seasons, and spring is a time of new growth. Restaurants swap out heavy winter food for lighter flavors: think bamboo shoots, fresh sea bream, and sakura-flavored sweets and drinks.

SUMMER

TRADITIONAL FESTIVITIES

Summer starts with a bang literally when hanabi (fireworks) season lights up the sky. Donning a yukata (summer kimono), dancing through the streets, and tucking into street food defines the rest of the festival season, full of celebrations for everything from deities to flowers.

COOLING DOWN

Sighs of atsui! (its hot!) and tinklings of wind chimes make up the sounds of summer. Hot, humid days in the city are made bearable with kakigori (a shaved ice dessert). But when the heat gets too much, locals head to seaside towns for a dose of cooler air and a refreshing dip.

MUSIC FESTIVALS

Musicians of every genre take over in the summer. Fuji Rock brings, well, rock in July; Summer Sonic plays a mix of punk, rock, and hip-hop in August; and Ultra Japan gets crowds pumping to electronic dance music in September.

FALL

LEAFY WALKS

Koyo (red leaves) come to the fore and cause an obsession similar to springs cherry blossoms. Most people stroll through the parks to enjoy the colors, but the more adventurous head to the mountains.

BATH TIME

As the days get colder, Tokyoites head into traditional bathhouses or venture to hot-spring towns to warm up and relax.

HALLOWEEN HAPPENINGS

People here need little excuse to dress up (Tokyo is cosplay central, after all) and Halloween is unsurprisingly big business come October. Partygoers take to the streets in extravagant costumes for epic parties.

WINTER

MARKETS GALORE

Stunning illuminations mark the start of winter across the city. Locals wrap up and head to holiday markets, stocking up on gifts and delicious treats. Perusing the 700-odd stalls at the Setagaya Boroichi flea market is a yearly ritual.

GETTING COSY

With darker nights and a chill in the air, its all about indulging in winter warmers: comforting oden (stew), nabe (hot pots), and hot sake.

HITTING THE SLOPES

Ski season is a big deal in Japan, but as Tokyo lacks the requisites for winter sports, groups take the train to nearby ski villages for weekend fun.

NEW YEARS EVE

A new year in Tokyo is a time to reflect and party. Traditionalists head to temples to pray for good health while youngsters celebrate at clubs.

g

Tokyo

KNOW-HOW

Theres an art to being a local in Tokyo, where unspoken rules guide every interaction from greeting others to dining out. Here we offer a starting point.

For health and safety resources, safe spaces, and accessibility information, turn to the . For everything else, read on.