Tokyo – Mixing Traditional With High-Tech Modernity

by erin on June 12, 2011

The image that comes to mind when people think about Tokyo is that of bright lights, vibrant colors, and lots of sound. Tokyo, a 400-year-old city, holds 35 million people in its greater metropolitan area and is the largest city in the country of Japan. It exhibits such an interesting mix of the traditional Japanese feel with the modern, colorful, and high-tech Japan of the present era, and this make it a definitely interesting place to visit on vacation. You will have to get a passport before you go, though. All you need to do is fill out a passport application form.

Online Passport

You can make getting ready for a trip so much easier by applying for your passport online. It’s definitely so much simpler to go online, where everything you need is available on one site, and get your passport that way. The biggest perk, however, is the expedited shipping. Usually, it takes 8-12 weeks for a passport to be delivered, but shopping online means getting your passport as quick as you like, even in just day. There is a whole variety of passport services, such as US passport renewal, depending on what you need.

Colorful History

A great way to learn some of the colorful history of both Japan and Tokyo is at the Edo-Tokyo Museum. This museum, which is definitely spectacular itself and very fun to explore, provides a seemingly endless amount of information about Tokyo’s history, as well as unbelievably intricate models of things such as an ancient Kabuki theatre, Edo Castle, and traditional Japanese homes and shops.

Hopping Spree

Vacation shopping sprees are fun, and Ginza, a popular shopping district, is a great place to spend some money. There are tons of designer outlets, places to eat, and plenty of famous stores to keep you busy. One of the best things to do is simply wander and feel what urban life in Japan feels like. If you are looking for more places to shop, check out some other shopping districts, like Shinjuku and Shibuya.

Shrines And Temples

Tokyo is home to many shrines and temples, with Sensoji being one of the most famous. This temple, built in honor of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, is absolutely beautiful, as are the surrounding grounds. Nearby are some vendor stands where you can shop for souvenirs. Tokyo is full of shrines and temples, and they really do provide an in-depth glimpse into the more traditional side of Tokyo. Be sure to look for others in the area where you’re staying, as they are all gorgeous pieces of art.

Cherry Blossoms

One of the most popular things to do while in Tokyo is see the delicate pink cherry blossoms, but you’d have to visit in the Spring to see them. Chidorigafuchi, one of the best places to see them, is almost unreal with the endless walkways of cherry blossoms. It’s also a great option to take a boat under the trees. Tokyo is famous for its absolutely gorgeous and well-kept gardens, and Chinzanso Garden is one of the most liked. Gardens make it easy to escape the busy city and relax for a bit, and there are plenty of them around.

High-Tech

There’s always something new and exciting to do in Japan, and if you are thinking of traveling there, do a little research to help you plan the perfect trip. While you’re online be sure to fill out a passport application form so you can have your passport ready to go in time for your vacation. Services like quick US passport renewal make it easy to get ready, meaning you can be on your way in no time.

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