A Guide to Tokyo

Tokyo is one of the largest and busiest cities not only in Asia-Pacific, but in the whole world. Originally called Edo (translated as estuary"), Tokyo is sometimes referred to a city or a Metropolis, and there is some ambiguity when referring to Tokyo whether people mean Tokyo Metropolis or the central urbanized area, which can be inferred as the three most central "wards" - Chuo, Chiyoda and Minato.

Tokyo consists of 23 special wards and acts slightly differently compared to other Japanese cities. Alternatively, Tokyo consists of a number of islands, some as far-reaching as over 1500km from the centre of Tokyo.

Tokyo is one of the largest and influential cities in terms of its economy and power in the finance world. Tokyo has the highest GDP in the world and the second largest stock exchange in the world. Over previous decades, companies moved to Tokyo, often from the previous commercial capital Osaka, to benefit from close proximity to the government. Tokyo not only relies on its economic and financial strength, with agriculture also playing an important role in its success.

The main method of traveling for commuters and people living in Tokyo is by rail, whether by train or the subway. Tokyo is renowned for its high-speed, clean and efficient trains; bus routes are also extensive throughout the capital. Expressways link Tokyo to other major locations outside the city centre, and ferries operate daily to accommodate those wishing to travel to the other islands of Tokyo, or even foreign ports.

Tokyo is host to four national parks: Chichibu Tama Kai National Park, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, Ogasawara National Park and Meiji no Mori Takao Quasi-National Park.

Tokyo was rated as the most expensive city in the world to live in for over 15 years, but dropped to second in 2006. Tokyo is also host to the largest number of Michelin starred restaurants, with 150 restaurants receiving the coveted award.

Tokyo has been the setting for various classic and modern films, including Lost in Translation, Kill Bill and You Only Live Twice.