Another historic, but less well-known area is the Yanaka district just north of Ueno Park. The old shitamachi atmosphere from Tokyo of yesteryear still survives here; the streets are full of rustic charm, busy locals and a whole variety of shops and trades. There are now very few places in Tokyo quite like it, and its well off the usual tourist tra

One of the few districts where the Tokyo of the past seems to live on, Asakusa should be included on most itineraries.

The Hamarikyu Gardens are a somewhat hidden gem close to Ginza, peaceful and pretty parkland in the heart of the city with seawater ponds and a wonderful teahouse serving macha (green tea).

Nara (奈良) ** As the first permanent capital of Japan in 710, Nara is a city of historical and political significance which defies its small and compact size.

It can be a little awkward to visit, but the easiest way from Tokyo is to take the shinkansen to Shiroishizao (109 minutes, 10,350 yen) and get a taxi (20 minutes, 4000 yen, can take a bit longer in winter on icy roads) to the fox village. The friendly tourist information office at the station can help with calling a taxi.

Just a little north is the National Art Centre, a magnificent venue which hosts a range of temporary exhibitions.

To the west is Roppongi Hills, a stylish complex of office and residential spaces, shops and restaurants, and the Mori Art Museum and Tokyo

Fans of the 2003 movie Lost In Translation should head to Karaoke-Kan in Shibuya (₸150-0042, 30-8 Utagawacho), it’s the karaoke bar which Bill Murray and Scarlett Johansson visit.

The impressive Tsurugaoka Hachimangu is Kamakura’s most important shrine, and it has a long, wide