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Tokyo Prefecture, often simply called Tokyo, is the political, economic and cultural centre of Japan. It is made up of 23 special wards that together form the vast urban area known as Tokyo Metropolis, as well as several smaller cities, towns and islands that extend far into the Pacific Ocean. The city itself grew from the small fishing village of Edo, which became the seat of power during the Tokugawa shogunate in the 17th century. Today, it is one of the most densely populated urban areas in the world, home to millions of people who live and work among its skyscrapers, rail networks and sprawling neighbourhoods. Despite its modern image, traditional elements remain visible in the form of old temples, wooden houses, and quiet residential streets that seem far removed from the energy of Shinjuku or Shibuya.
The wider Tokyo Prefecture includes not only the central city but also large suburban areas such as Hachioji and Machida, and even the distant Ogasawara Islands, which lie nearly 1,000 kilometres from the mainland. This mix of dense urban centres and remote natural spaces gives Tokyo an unusual diversity for a single administrative region. In the city, trains run with precision, and office buildings line the horizon, while in the outer areas there are forests, mountains and coastal landscapes. Places such as Mount Takao offer easy escapes into nature, showing how Tokyo balances the demands of modern urban life with the presence of quiet, green areas that are highly valued by residents. The contrast between concrete and countryside is one of Tokyo’s defining features.
Life in Tokyo Prefecture is marked by efficiency, order and constant movement. The public transport system is among the most reliable in the world, and punctuality is deeply ingrained in daily life. There is also a strong sense of safety and cleanliness that visitors often notice immediately. Yet, like any major metropolis, Tokyo faces challenges such as overcrowding, high living costs and the pressure of limited space. Despite these issues, the city continues to attract people from across Japan and the world, drawn by its opportunities, innovation and cultural depth. Whether walking through a quiet residential lane, exploring a high-tech district, or visiting a centuries-old shrine, Tokyo offers a mix of old and new that reflects both its long history and its ongoing evolution as a global city.
