As futuristic as it is traditional, Tokyo extends a warm welcome to tourists keen to delve into the Japanese psyche. The national capital since 1869, this awe-inspiring city features not only the palace of the emperor – the last figure to hold the title worldwide – but astounding Shinto shrines such as that of Meiji, soaring tower blocks with public observation decks, and pleasant gardens a world away from the image of the Japanese working every hour of the day. Unique enough that even its road crossings – namely Shibuya – have become international stars, Tokyo is simply a wonder to behold.