Tokyo: A Love Letter to One of My Hometowns

Hey japanstafriends! Today, I want to share why Tokyo holds a special place in my heart. It’s one of my hometowns, and I absolutely adore it.

First off, Tokyo is impeccably clean. Despite its massive size, you’ll notice how spotless everything is. The contrast between the old and the new is striking. You can marvel at the futuristic skyline one moment and find yourself stepping back in time at a historic temple the next.

The city pulses with energy—there’s always something happening. It feels like you’re part of a high-speed Tokyo drift, yet everything runs smoothly. The sheer scale of the city is mind-bending. As you navigate through it, you realize you’re just a tiny part of this vast, human-built marvel, like an ant in a bustling colony.

Tokyo’s convenience is unbeatable. The public transport system is incredibly well-connected, making it easy to get around. Plus, the city is walkable and bike-friendly, with shops and convenience stores seemingly on every corner. Need to get to another part of Japan? The Shinkansen (bullet train) will whisk you away in no time, and Haneda Airport is so close to the city center.

While new buildings are constantly popping up, Tokyo’s iconic landmarks still stand out. Tokyo Tower and Sensoji Temple are timeless symbols of the city. And then there’s the food—oh, the food! Tokyo is a culinary paradise with endless options to explore.

Safety is another thing I love about Tokyo. It’s comforting to feel at ease when you’re out and about, no matter the time of day or night. Speaking of which, this city truly never sleeps. If you get the munchies at midnight, a convenience store (conbini) is probably just minutes away. Feeling bored? Many shops are open 24/7, and karaoke bars are always ready to entertain you all night long.

But the biggest reason I love Tokyo is personal—my family is here. The city holds so many happy memories from my childhood. Seeing people visit and enjoy my city brings me so much joy. Tokyo is not just a place; it’s a feeling, a vibrant part of who I am.