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O N E D AY I N TO K YO E X P LO R I N G T H E H E A RT O F J A PA N Deciding what to do in a city as vast as Tokyo can be hard, but we have narrowed it down to everything you need to see if you spend a day here 3 5 . 6 7 6 4 ° N , 1 3 9 . 6 5 0 0 ° E Tokyo, a captivating metropolis, harmoniously blends the splendour of neon lights with the serenity of Shinto shrines and Zen gardens. Rooted in humble origins as a fishing village called Edo, Tokyo's history unfolds through the reigns of emperors and shoguns. Evolving into one of the world's largest cities during the Edo period, it embraces both tradition and cosmopolitan flair. Start your day with a scenic drive and embark on a tour of Japan's education, culture, and tradition. Cross the Rainbow Bridge, spanning 800 meters, and behold the futuristic Odaiba Fuji TV building with its captivating sphere- shaped observatory. Continue to Tokyo Tower, the nation's second-tallest structure, and admire the grandeur of the opulent State Guest Houses 40 | Viking Explorer Society News Clockwise: Chidorigafuchi park in Tokyo during sakura cherry blossom season; Shinto shrines. and dignified House of Parliament. See the Imperial Palace and stroll through the nearby serene pine grove, where a bronze statue of a 14th-century samurai stands in homage. For your last stop during the day, visit Meiji Jingu (Meiji Shrine), honouring Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken—the great-grandparents of the current emperor. This 170-acre forest features over 100,000 trees donated from across Japan. Admire Tokyo at night with a visit to Tokyo Skytree, the world's tallest stand-alone broadcasting tower at over 600 meters. Enjoy 360° panoramic views of the city from the observatory. Afterwards, stroll through the shopping arcade before a scenic drive at night over the Sumida River to Asakusa, home to the 7th-century Sensō-ji temple—an ode to Tokyo's spiritual side. THE BEST TIME TO VISIT The best time to visit Japan is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild, and you can experience the stunning cherry blossoms or colourful autumn foliage.