Tokyo has one of the world’s most efficient train systems: Trains and subways are fast, clean, safe and reliable. Regular tickets for travelling in Tokyo can be purchased from vending machines at the station. At many stations, the touch-screen vending machines can display information in English (as do station signs), but should you be unsure of your destination (or unable to read it from the Japanese map), buy a ticket for the minimum fare and settle up in a fare adjustment machine at the other end.

The bicycle remains the most common form of local transport in Tokyo and theft is rare, although unattended bikes should always be locked. Hire bikes from Eight Rent (Sumitomo-seimei Bldg 1F, 31-16 Sakuragaoka-cho, Shibuya-ku, +81334622383, Shibuya station, south exit). Rates are ¥1,920 a day: call to make an appointment and bring your passport.

Otherwise Tokyo is great for walking. There are no no-go areas, and it is the best way to discover the hidden nooks and crannies that exist in nearly every neighbourhood.

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