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Posted on Tuesday 20 November 2012 in Tokyo
For many Australians, holidays throughout Asia are becoming an increasingly attractive option. With airlines competing for customers and convenient flights to a wide variety of countries, the jewels of the Orient are just a hop, skip and a jump away for Aussie tourists. Individuals hoping to experience the unique attractions of Japan can take flights to Tokyo to learn more about this fascinating country and its people.
An eye to the future
Although the city is steeped in history, Tokyo is considered by many people to be one of the most futuristic capitals in the world. Covering an area of more than 2,100 square kilometres, Tokyo is also the largest urban centre in the world. Defined by its towering skyscrapers, Tokyo offers Australian tourists a world of exploration without leaving the city limits.
Tokyo is a city of contrasts. While the skyscrapers that serve as the beating heart of the city's economy stand hundreds of metres above the ground, there are many peaceful and secluded gardens scattered throughout the city, offering travellers the ideal place to rest and enjoy the beauty of cherry blossom trees for which Japan is famous. Tokyo is also home to many important Buddhist temples, including the Senso-Ji Temple in Asakusa, the oldest temple in the city.
Nightlife and shopping
When it comes to a night out on the town, Aussie travellers staying in Tokyo hotels will want to head for the trendy district of Shibuya. This bustling area in the heart of the Japanese capital is widely considered to be one of the best places to shop in the world, and features many high-end retailers from across the globe.
This unique ward of Tokyo is also home to the busiest subway station in the city's sprawling mass transit network, as well as countless world-class restaurants, nightclubs and entertainment complexes. However, Shibuya is perhaps best known as the location of Shibuya Crossing, a scramble-crossing that intersects several major streets that has been featured in many films and television programmes.
Play to win
One aspect of Japanese culture that has remained stubbornly resistant to change is that of the video game arcade. These huge complexes attract hundreds of thousands of people every year, and the electronic arcades of Shinjuku are an essential stop for fans of video games. As well as its dazzling gaming halls, Shinjuku is also home to some of the city's most exclusive and eclectic nightspots in Golden Gai, a small district of tiny jazz clubs, whiskey bars and karaoke venues.
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