The Differences Between Kyoto and Tokyo: Which City Is Better for Sightseeing?

Each city in Japan has different characteristics.

The current capital of Japan, Tokyo, is a state-of-the-art metropolis lined with high-rise buildings.

On the other hand, Kyoto, located in the west of Japan, is an ancient capital city that had been the capital of Japan for more than 1,000 years.

In short, Tokyo is generally a place where you can experience the latest technology and trends, and Kyoto is a place where you can experience history and traditional culture.

Each city has its own charm, and many people may be on the fence about which city to visit.

In this article, we will discuss the differences between Tokyo and Kyoto, and which city is recommended for sightseeing.

3 Must-Visit Anime Places in Tokyo: Akihabara, Asakusa, and Mitaka

Attractive and cutting-edge cities in Tokyo

Tokyo is one of the largest cities in the world. It is the political, economic, and cultural center of Japan. Each area has its own diverse attractions, such as areas lined with skyscrapers, towns for the youth, and anime meccas. Let's take a look at the characteristics of some of the most representative areas.

1. Tokyo Station Area (Tokyo Station, Marunouchi, Ginza)

Tokyo Station is one of the most famous terminal stations in Japan. The retro look of the red brick station building, restored to its original appearance from 70 years ago, is worth seeing. The station building has many restaurants and a variety of souvenir shops.

Exiting the Marunouchi Exit of Tokyo Station leads to the “Marunouchi” area, lined with skyscrapers. Marunouchi is Japan's largest business district, and at the same time, the buildings house numerous restaurants, cafes, and boutiques. Marunouchi Naka-dori Avenue is lined with high-end fashion boutiques from Japan and abroad, creating a fashionable atmosphere.

The Ginza area is located around Yurakucho Station, one JR stop from Tokyo Station. Chuo-dori Avenue is lined with top brand stores and long-established department stores, making it one of the most exclusive and glamorous areas in Japan. It is also convenient for shopping as there are popular stores for foreign tourists such as UNIQLO and MUJI.

2. Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Sky Tree

Tokyo Tower has been a landmark of Tokyo since its opening in 1958. The Tokyo Tower's colorful lights at night are impressive no matter where you see it from.

The Tokyo Sky Tree is a 634-meter-high tower. From the observation corridor, visitors can enjoy the view of the metropolis of Tokyo. On the observation deck, there are restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy the view, as well as stores selling limited-edition goods.

Visitors can enjoy the typical Tokyo scenery from afar, or go there to enjoy the unique view of the metropolis.

3. Akihabara

Akihabara is a must-visit area for anime lovers. Akihabara is known as the birthplace of otaku culture, including anime and idols. It is filled with anime goods, comics, figures, cosplay items, and other attractive items for fans.

Akihabara's famous “maid cafes” are cafes where waitresses dressed as maids serve customers as their masters. It is a unique experience that can only be had in Akihabara. The “Gundam Cafe,” where you can experience the world of the “Mobile Suit Gundam” series, is also interesting.

4. Shibuya area (Shibuya, Harajuku, Omotesando)

Shibuya is well known internationally as the place with the famous "scramble crossing" right outside the station. It is a town popular among youth, lined with shopping centers such as SHIBUYA109.

Harajuku station, one stop away from Shibuya by JR train, is a mecca for young people's fashion. Brand stores popular among young people line Takeshita-dori Avenue and Laforet Harajuku.

Omotesando, which runs from Harajuku to Aoyama, is an area for adults with beautiful tree-lined avenues overflowing with greenery. Omotesando Hills, with its selection of the world's top brands and sophisticated stores, and its fashionable café terraces create a luxurious atmosphere.

The area around Shibuya is recommended for those who love fashion and trends.

5. Toyosu Market

Known as the kitchen of Tokyo, Toyosu Market has a long history dating back to the Nihonbashi Fish Market, which opened in 1603.

At Toyosu Market, visitors can enjoy sushi, seafood rice bowls, freshly fried tempura, deep-fried tonkatsu, yakitori, eel, and other gourmet foods made from fresh ingredients unique to the market, all in the comfort of a restaurant rather than walking around eating them.

Tokyo also offers visitors a chance to experience traditional culture: Asakusa and Senso-ji Temple, the East Palace and the outer gardens of the Imperial Palace around the Imperial Palace, the residence of the Imperial Family, Meiji Shrine, Kabuki Theater, various art galleries and museums, and Japanese gardens.

As mentioned above, Tokyo is a dynamic and sophisticated metropolis where you can enjoy shopping for cutting-edge items and dining. If you like anime, Akihabara is a must-visit spot. You can choose the spot you want to visit according to your preference.

Attractions of Kyoto, a city of history and culture

Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan, was the center of Japan for over 1000 years from 794 to 1869. As such, it is frequently nicknamed "the millennium capital." The Kyoto Imperial Palace, the residence of the emperor, as well as the imperial family and aristocratic "court nobles" lived in the central part of Kyoto.

1. Temples and shrines

Kyoto has long been the center of Japanese culture. Kyoto continues to be the center of traditional culture today. If you are visiting Kyoto, you should not miss the many temples and shrines in the city. You will be impressed by the beauty of the wooden architecture and Japanese gardens. Each temple and shrine has its own interesting history.

2. Tea ceremonies

The tea ceremony, which is well known for its matcha sweets and the origin of matcha, is also a profound culture related to Zen. You can taste matcha at Japanese tea stores and cafes. There are also hands-on tea ceremony classes available for those who are interested.

3. Japanese cuisine

Kyoto's long tradition of Japanese food is something you should definitely try at least once. Each delicate and visually beautiful dish is like a work of art. Even the tableware is carefully selected.

There are many Michelin-starred Japanese restaurants in the area, which are recommended for gourmet lovers.

4. Noh theater, art galleries and museums

In Kyoto, there are Noh theaters where you can watch Noh plays, and many art galleries and museums that exhibit mainly Japanese art and culture. You can easily come into contact with traditional Japanese culture.

5. Maiko and geiko in Gion

In Gion, the olden red-light district, you can see maiko and geiko dressed in kimonos walking around at night. The unique atmosphere here is like being transported to the past. Gion is lined with wooden buildings and offers an ancient, oriental atmosphere.

Kyoto is surrounded by mountains on three sides, and the Kamo River flows slowly through the city, making it an attractive place to feel close to nature. You can enjoy the cherry blossoms in the spring and the autumn leaves in the fall.

Kyoto is a great place to experience history and traditional culture while feeling the quiet atmosphere of the city.

In the end, the choice depends on your mood

If you have time on your hands, we recommend visiting both Kyoto and Tokyo.

You can make your schedule according to your preferences.

The mix of history and cutting-edge technology and culture is part the charm of Japan. Hope you enjoy the stark contrast!