The capital of Japan, Tokyo, is quite young by historical standards - it is only four hundred years old. However, in such a short period, the city managed to survive many shocks: wars, fires, earthquakes and other natural, political and man-made disasters did not escape it. Such a rich history could not but leave its mark on the "appearance" of Tokyo: it is a real "city of contrasts", where the peculiarities of the cultures of the East and West are combined into a single alloy. Therefore, walking in Tokyo sometimes resembles a journey in a time machine: people move at lightning speed from the measured times of the Middle Ages with its graceful palaces and temples to a dynamic and noisy modernity, replete with amazing skyscrapers and all kinds of technical innovations - from cars to robots.
Tokyo landmarks
Usually, excursion programs are devoted to exploring the main attractions. Their list includes:
- The Imperial Palace is the oldest building in Tokyo. It was rebuilt several times, but was first erected in the 16th century. Now it is the residence of the head of state, so the palace is divided into two parts: the territory closed for access where the emperor and his family live, and the part of the palace open for tourists, where anyone, both Japanese and foreigners, can feel like a resident of a medieval country …
- Nihonbashi - "Japanese bridge". Initially, it looked like a very beautiful and graceful wooden structure, which was replaced in 1911 by a structure made of stone. The stone columns of the bridge were decorated with images of birds and bronze lamps. After restoration in 1996, the bridge finally lost its medieval charm. And now, in its original form, you can get acquainted with it only in the Historical Museum, where a life-size model of the bridge is kept.
- The traditional Japanese Kabuki theater is not always understandable to the European mind, but most tourists consider it their duty to attend its performance.
The city is also rich in museums of a wide variety of trends, from traditional to innovative, which include the Museum of Animation directed by Hayao Miyazaki.
The mecca of shopaholics in Tokyo is Ginza Street, which looks like a solid shop window, shining with lights and inviting everyone to make a purchase. However, the prices here are not affordable for everyone.
In order to get to know the city properly, it is unlikely that a few days, which are usually given to a tourist to stay in it, will be enough. But those who have seen Tokyo may consider that at least with the edge of mind and heart they have touched the history of this ancient and at the same time very modern country.
