History of Tokyo in Timeline
Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is a global megacity with over 14 million residents. As the second most populous capital globally, its impact extends beyond its borders. The Greater Tokyo Area, encompassing Tokyo and parts of surrounding prefectures, boasts a staggering 41 million residents, earning it the title of the world's most populous metropolitan area.
1914: Construction of Mitsukoshi Nihonbashi Flagship Store
Originally completed in 1914, the Mitsukoshi Nihonbashi flagship store underwent significant refurbishment in 1925, reflecting the trend of incorporating earthquake-resistant features.
1914: Construction of Tokyo Station
Tokyo Station, completed in 1914, stands as a testament to the Meiji era's architectural legacy.
1919: Japan Art Academy Established
The Japan Art Academy, established in 1919, aimed to gather prominent scholars in various artistic disciplines. It established its headquarters in Ueno Park.
1920: Building Height Restriction Imposed
A 31-meter height restriction was imposed on all buildings in Tokyo in 1920.
September 1923: The Great Kanto Earthquake
On September 1, 1923, the Great Kanto Earthquake devastated Tokyo, resulting in an estimated 105,000 fatalities due to the earthquake and subsequent fire. The disaster amounted to a 37 percent loss of Japan's economic output.
1923: The Great Kanto Earthquake
The architectural landscape of Tokyo was dramatically reshaped in 1923 by the Great Kanto Earthquake.
1923: The Great Kanto Earthquake
Until the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923 revealed their vulnerability to seismic activity, imposing brick structures were a familiar sight throughout Tokyo.
1923: The Great Kanto Earthquake
The Great Kanto Earthquake struck Tokyo in 1923. With an estimated magnitude of 7.9, this devastating earthquake resulted in the loss of over 100,000 lives.
1923: The Great Kanto Earthquake devastates Tokyo
In 1923, the Great Kanto earthquake caused significant damage to Tokyo, resulting in widespread destruction and loss of life. This event led to a shift toward earthquake-resistant construction in the city.
1923: The Great Kanto Earthquake
Following the devastating Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923, concrete emerged as the material of choice for Tokyo's reconstruction, ushering in a new era of concrete architecture.
1925: Refurbishment of Mitsukoshi Nihonbashi Flagship Store
Following its initial construction in 1914, the Mitsukoshi Nihonbashi flagship store was refurbished in 1925, incorporating modern architectural trends and earthquake-resistant design principles.
December 30, 1927: Completion of the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line
On December 30, 1927, the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, the first underground railway line constructed outside Europe and the American continents, was completed between Ueno and Asakusa.
1927: The Tokyo Metro Ginza Line opens
The Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, the oldest underground metro line in the Asia-Pacific region, commenced operation in 1927.
1929: Construction of Mitsui Headquarters
The Mitsui Headquarters, built in 1929, showcases the growing preference for reinforced concrete in Tokyo's architectural landscape during this period.
1931: Haneda Airport Opens
In 1931, Haneda Airport began operations, marking the establishment of a primary airport for Tokyo.
1932: May 15 Incident
The May 15 incident, an attempted military coup d'état, occurred in Tokyo in 1932.
1932: Construction of Takashimaya Nihonbashi Flagship Store
The Takashimaya Nihonbashi flagship store, erected in 1932, embodied the embrace of earthquake-resistant architecture during this era.
1933: Construction of Isetan Shinjuku Flagship Store
The Isetan Shinjuku flagship store, completed in 1933, further demonstrates the widespread adoption of earthquake and fire-resistant construction techniques in Tokyo.
1933: Tokyo House of Prince Asaka Constructed
The Tokyo House of Yasuhiko, Prince Asaka, known for its opulent Art Deco style, was completed in 1933. This architectural gem now forms part of the Tokyo Metropolitan Garden Art Museum in Minato.
1934: Construction of Tsukiji Hongan-ji
Designed by the influential architect Chuta Ito, Tsukiji Hongan-ji, completed in 1934, exemplifies this fusion of traditional and modern design elements.
1934: Completion of Meiji Insurance Headquarters
The Meiji Insurance Headquarters, completed in 1934, exemplifies the shift towards earthquake-resistant reinforced concrete structures in the aftermath of the 1923 earthquake.
1936: February 26 Incident
The February 26 incident, another attempted military coup d'état, took place in Tokyo in 1936.
1938: Tokyo forfeits hosting the 1940 Summer Olympics
Due to Japan's political isolation stemming from its military aggression in China and growing geopolitical instability in Europe, Tokyo had to relinquish its hosting rights for the 1940 Summer Olympics in 1938.
1938: Highest Annual Precipitation
In stark contrast to 1984, Tokyo received its highest annual rainfall in 1938, measuring a substantial 2,229.6 millimeters (87.78 inches).
June 1940: Rationing begins in Tokyo
Rationing was implemented in Tokyo in June 1940, as Japan prepared for World War II.
1940: Population of Tokyo at the start of World War II
At the start of World War II in 1940, Tokyo's population stood at 6,700,000.
December 1941: Japan attacks Pearl Harbor
On December 8, 1941, Japan launched an attack on Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, marking its entry into World War II against the Allied Powers.
1941: Establishment of the Imperial Capital Rapid Transit Authority
The Imperial Capital Rapid Transit Authority, later to become Tokyo Metro, was established in 1941, marking a pivotal moment in the development of Tokyo's extensive underground railway network.
April 1942: The Doolittle Raid
On April 18, 1942, the Doolittle Raid marked the first direct foreign attack on Tokyo, demonstrating Japan's vulnerability to air assaults despite minimal physical damage.
1943: Formation of Tokyo Metropolis
In 1943, Tokyo City and Tokyo Prefecture merged to form the Tokyo Metropolis, aiming to establish a more centralized and efficient administration for wartime resource management, urban planning, and civil defense.
1943: Tokyo City and Tokyo Prefecture merge
In 1943, Tokyo City merged with Tokyo Prefecture, establishing the Tokyo Metropolis. This restructuring aimed to centralize administration, enhancing resource management, urban planning, and civil defense during wartime.
1943: Special Wards Replace Tokyo City
The 23 special wards that currently make up Tokyo replaced the former Tokyo City in 1943. They function as self-governing municipalities.
1943: Tokyo City Becomes Special Wards
The area formerly known as Tokyo City was reorganized into the 23 special wards in 1943.
1944: Allied bombing raids on Tokyo intensify
Large-scale Allied air raids, including those on Tokyo, escalated in late 1944 as the US gained control of the Mariana Islands, enabling long-range B-29 bomber operations.
1945: Devastating air raids continue, population plummets
Allied air raids on Tokyo continued in 1945, resulting in widespread destruction and loss of life. The city's population dwindled from 6,700,000 to less than 2,800,000 between 1940 and 1945 due to military deployments and evacuations.
1947: Typhoon Kathleen
Typhoon Kathleen devastated Tokyo in 1947, causing widespread destruction with 31,000 homes destroyed and claiming the lives of 1,100 people.
1947: Reorganization of Tokyo's Wards
In 1947, following World War II, the 35 pre-war special wards of Tokyo were reorganized into the current 23 wards.
1949: Science Council of Japan Founded
The Science Council of Japan was founded in 1949 with a mission to encourage scientific research and apply its findings for societal benefit. Its location was established in Roppongi, Minato.
1950: Tokyo's Economic Recovery
Around 1950, Tokyo's economy began to experience significant growth as heavy industry output returned to pre-war levels.
1952: End of Allied Occupation
The Allied occupation of Japan ended in 1952, shifting Tokyo's focus from rebuilding to development.
1956: Tokyo's 500th Anniversary
Tokyo celebrated its 500th anniversary in 1956.
1958: Typhoon Ida
Typhoon Ida brought torrential rainfall to Tokyo in 1958, with 400 millimeters (16 inches) falling within a single week and causing extensive flooding throughout the city.
1962: Opening of Hotel Okura Tokyo
The year 1962 marked the inauguration of Hotel Okura Tokyo, a renowned luxury hotel known for its elegant design and impeccable service, further enriching Tokyo's hospitality scene.
1964: Infrastructure Development for the Olympics
Tokyo underwent major infrastructure development for the 1964 Summer Olympics, including the launch of the Shinkansen and the construction of the Shuto Expressway.
1964: Construction of Yoyogi National Gymnasium
Renowned architect Kenzo Tange left an enduring mark on Tokyo's cityscape with his notable designs, including the iconic Yoyogi National Gymnasium, completed in 1964.
1964: Tokyo Hosts 1964 Summer Olympics
Tokyo became the first Asian city to host the Summer Olympics in 1964, with the National Stadium serving as the primary venue for various international sporting events.
1964: Tokyo hosts the Summer Olympics and Paralympics
Tokyo became the first Asian city to host the Summer Olympics and Paralympics in 1964.
1965: West Shinjuku Redevelopment
The Yodobashi Water Purification Centre, which occupied West Shinjuku until 1965, was redeveloped into a new business district with skyscrapers.
1966: Narita Chosen for Second Airport
Due to increasing flight demands during the Jet Age, the Japanese government selected Narita as the site for a second airport in 1966.
1967: Construction of St. Mary's Cathedral
Completed in 1967, St. Mary's Cathedral stands as a testament to Kenzo Tange's architectural prowess, showcasing his distinctive style.
1967: Ryokichi Minobe Becomes Governor
Ryokichi Minobe, known for his welfare state policies, began his 12-year term as governor of Tokyo in 1967.
1968: Skyscrapers Rise and Ogasawara Islands Returned
The height restriction on buildings was relaxed in 1968, leading to the rise of skyscrapers. The same year, the Ogasawara Islands were returned to Japan after being under US control since World War II.
1972: Construction of Nakagin Capsule Tower
Kisho Kurokawa's innovative approach to architecture is evident in the Nakagin Capsule Tower, a distinctive landmark completed in 1972.
1973: Oil Crisis Impacts Japan's Economy
The 1973 oil crisis marked the end of Japan's rapid post-war economic recovery.
1978: Narita Airport Opens After Protests
After facing over a decade of protests from local farmers and activists, Narita International Airport finally opened in 1978. This led to the transfer of almost all international flights from Haneda to Narita, making Haneda primarily a domestic airport.
1978: Narita International Airport Opens
Narita International Airport opened in 1978, becoming the new primary international airport for Tokyo.
1979: Tokyo hosts its first G7 summit
Tokyo hosted its first G7 summit in 1979.
1984: Gradual Opening of the Japanese Financial Market
The Japanese financial market began to open up gradually in 1984, marking the initial steps toward internationalization.
1984: Lowest Annual Precipitation
Tokyo experienced its lowest annual rainfall in 1984, recording only 879.5 millimeters (34.63 inches) for the entire year.
1985: Plaza Accord Impacts Japanese Manufacturing
The Plaza Accord in 1985, aimed at depreciating the US dollar, negatively affected Japan's manufacturing sector, leading to a domestic-demand-focused economic policy and an asset price bubble.
1986: Tokyo hosts its second G7 summit
Tokyo hosted its second G7 summit in 1986.
1987: Privatization of Japan National Railways
The year 1987 witnessed a significant restructuring of Japan's railway system with the privatization of Japan National Railways. This led to the formation of JR companies, including JR East and JR Central, which continue to operate major railway networks today.
1990: Tokyo Stock Exchange's Dominance during the Japanese Asset Price Bubble
At the end of the Japanese asset price bubble in 1990, the Tokyo Stock Exchange reached its peak, accounting for over 60% of the global stock market value, demonstrating its immense influence at the time.
1990: Asset Price Bubble Peaks
By 1990, Japan's asset price bubble reached its peak, with real estate prices skyrocketing and the Tokyo Stock Exchange becoming the largest in the world by market capitalization.
1991: Construction of Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
Kenzo Tange's architectural legacy in Tokyo is further solidified by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, inaugurated in 1991.
1992: Opening of Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo
Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo, known for its luxurious accommodations and serene gardens, opened its doors to guests in 1992, adding to Tokyo's collection of high-end hospitality options.
1993: Tokyo hosts its third G7 summit
Tokyo hosted its third G7 summit in 1993.
December 1995: Most Recent Month Without Precipitation
December 1995 marks the most recent instance of a four-month period in Tokyo's recorded history where no precipitation was observed.
1998: Acceleration of Internationalization in the Japanese Financial Market
The "Japanese Big Bang" in 1998 significantly accelerated the internationalization of the Japanese financial market, leading to substantial changes and increased global integration.
2000: Baseline for Greenhouse Gas Reduction
The year 2000 served as the baseline for Tokyo's greenhouse gas reduction target.
2001: Decision to Expand Haneda Airport
In 2001, the decision to expand Haneda Airport and construct new runways was made, signifying a change in the airport's role.
2001: Great Mergers of Heisei
The Great Mergers of Heisei, completed in 2001, resulted in Tokyo's current structure of 62 municipalities: 23 special wards, 26 cities, 5 towns, and 8 villages.
2003: Tokyo's Agricultural Land Area
In 2003, Tokyo had 8,460 hectares dedicated to agricultural purposes, as reported by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. This placed the prefecture last in terms of agricultural land among Japan's prefectures.
July 20, 2004: Record High Temperature
On July 20, 2004, Tokyo experienced its highest temperature on record, reaching 39.5°C (103.1°F).
October 2004: Record Monthly Rainfall
October 2004 was the wettest month recorded in Tokyo's history since records began in 1876. The city received 780 millimeters (30 inches) of rain, with a staggering 270.5 millimeters (10.65 inches) falling on October 9th.
2004: Privatization of Tokyo Metro and Ownership Transfer
Tokyo Metro, formerly known as the Imperial Capital Rapid Transit Authority (from 1941 to 2004), underwent privatization in 2004, with ownership transferring entirely to the Japanese Government and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government.
2005: National Census
Data from the 2005 National Census highlighted the significant daytime population influx in Tokyo's central wards of Chiyoda, Chuo, and Minato.
2005: Construction of The National Art Center
Visionary architect Kisho Kurokawa made significant contributions to Tokyo's architectural tapestry, with the National Art Center, completed in 2005, standing as a prominent example.
2006: End of Tokyo's Reign as Most Expensive City
After holding the title of the world's most expensive city for 14 consecutive years, Tokyo was dethroned by Oslo in 2006, marking a shift in global cost-of-living rankings.
2006: Completion of MAOUDC
In 2006, Tokyo marked a significant milestone in flood control with the completion of the Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel (MAOUDC), the world's largest underground floodwater diversion facility, after 13 years of construction.
2006: 10 Year Project for Green Tokyo Launched
Tokyo initiated the "10 Year Project for Green Tokyo" in 2006 with the goal of significantly increasing green spaces and trees in the city by 2016.
November 2007: Michelin Guide Recognizes Tokyo's Culinary Scene
In November 2007, Michelin unveiled its first guide to fine dining in Tokyo, awarding a remarkable 191 stars, signifying a culinary scene twice the size of Paris, its closest competitor.
2007: Green Space Expansion Begins
Tokyo began expanding its green spaces in 2007 as part of the "10 Year Project for Green Tokyo".
March 31, 2008: Natural Park Designation in Tokyo
As of March 31, 2008, 36% of Tokyo prefecture's total land area was officially designated as Natural Parks. This included the Chichibu Tama Kai, Fuji-Hakone-Izu, and Ogasawara National Parks (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), highlighting Tokyo's commitment to preserving its natural landscapes.
2010: Runway D Opens at Haneda Airport
The opening of Runway D, a partially pier-like structure, in 2010 at Haneda Airport allowed for the resumption of international flights, bringing convenience due to its proximity to central Tokyo.
2010: Reconstruction of Mitsubishi Building One
Originally erected in 1894, Mitsubishi Building One underwent a meticulous reconstruction in 2010, preserving its historical significance while incorporating modern architectural advancements.
2010: Progress on Green Tokyo Project
By 2010, Tokyo had made substantial progress on the "10 Year Project for Green Tokyo", creating a significant amount of new green space and planting numerous trees.
2010: China Surpasses Japan's Economy
China surpassed Japan as the world's second-largest economy in 2010.
October 2011: Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium Hosts Artistic Gymnastics World Championships
Despite initial concerns from the International Gymnastics Federation following the triple disaster, Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium successfully hosted the Artistic Gymnastics World Championships in October 2011.
2011: Indirect Impact of Megathrust Earthquake
Although Tokyo was not directly hit by the 2011 megathrust earthquake, the city still experienced some indirect effects, primarily liquefaction in landfill zones.
October 2012: Intercensal Population Estimate
The official intercensal estimate from October 2012 revealed a population of 13.506 million in Tokyo, with 9.214 million residing within the city's 23 wards.
August 12, 2013: Record High Low Temperature
Tokyo set a record for the highest low temperature on August 12, 2013, when the temperature did not drop below 30.3°C (86.5°F).
September 7, 2013: Tokyo Selected to Host 2020 Olympics
On September 7, 2013, Tokyo was chosen to host the 2020 Summer Olympics, making it the first Asian city to host the Games twice.
2014: Continued Progress on Green Spaces
Tokyo continued to increase its green spaces in 2014 as part of its ongoing efforts to make the city greener.
2016: Yuriko Koike Elected Governor
Yuriko Koike was first elected as the governor of Tokyo in 2016, succeeding Yoichi Masuzoe.
2016: Target Year for Green Tokyo Project
2016 marked the target year for the completion of Tokyo's "10 Year Project for Green Tokyo".
2016: New National Stadium Planned
Plans were announced in 2016 to replace the National Stadium, also known as the Olympic Stadium, with the New National Stadium.
2017: Increase in Michelin-Starred Restaurants in Tokyo
By 2017, the number of Michelin-starred restaurants in Tokyo increased to 227, surpassing Paris with 92. Notably, 12 establishments received the highest three-star rating.
October 11, 2018: Opening of Toyosu Market
On October 11, 2018, Tokyo welcomed the opening of Toyosu Market, replacing the renowned Tsukiji Fish Market. As the world's largest wholesale fish and seafood market, Toyosu Market upholds the traditions of its predecessor while serving a vast network of buyers and sellers daily.
2019: Tourism Contribution to Tokyo's Economy
In 2019, tourism played a significant role in Tokyo's economy, contributing slightly over 1% to its total economic output. The city welcomed 15.18 million foreign visitors who spent a total of 1.26 trillion yen, as reported by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government.
2019: Tokyo Hosts Rugby World Cup Games
Tokyo hosted several games for the 2019 Rugby World Cup, showcasing its capabilities in accommodating major sporting events.
2020: Koike Re-elected
Yuriko Koike was re-elected for a second term as the governor of Tokyo in 2020.
2020: Tokyo Selected to Host 2020 Summer Olympics and Paralympics
Tokyo was chosen to host the 2020 Summer Olympics and Paralympics.
2020: Tokyo's Ranking in the Global Financial Centers Index
Tokyo secured the fourth position globally and the second position in Asia, trailing behind Shanghai, in the 2020 Global Financial Centers Index, solidifying its status as a leading international financial center.
2020: Tokyo's Greenhouse Gas Reduction Target
Tokyo aimed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 25% from the 2000 level by the year 2020.
2020: Tokyo as a Center for Higher Education
By 2020, Tokyo solidified its position as a leading center for tertiary education in Japan, hosting 143 authorized universities, including prestigious institutions like the University of Tokyo and Waseda University.
2020: 2020 Olympics Postponed Due to Pandemic
The 2020 Summer Olympics, originally scheduled to be held in Tokyo, were postponed to 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
August 8, 2021: Postponed 2020 Olympics Conclude
The 2020 Summer Olympics, postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, concluded on August 8, 2021, in Tokyo.
2021: Survey on Car Ownership and Public Transport Satisfaction in Tokyo
A 2021 survey shed light on car ownership patterns and satisfaction with public transportation in Tokyo. Notably, 81% of respondents who did not own a car expressed contentment with the public transport system, indicating a high level of reliance on and satisfaction with these services.
2021: Rescheduled Olympics and Paralympics Held in Tokyo
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2020 Summer Olympics and Paralympics were postponed and successfully held in the summer of 2021 in Tokyo.
2021: Age Demographics
In 2021, Tokyo recorded an average and median age of 45.5 years old, positioning it as one of Japan's youngest regions, falling below the national median age of 49.0.
2021: Japanese General Election
The Japanese general election took place in 2021, with the ruling Liberal Democrats and the main opposition Constitutional Democrats winning seats in Tokyo.
2021: Tokyo hosts the Summer Olympics and Paralympics for the second time
Tokyo hosted the Summer Olympics and Paralympics for the second time in 2021.
2021: Tokyo ranks high in Global Livability Ranking
Tokyo secured the fourth position in the 2021 Global Livability Ranking, highlighting its status as one of the world's most livable cities.
January 2022: Office Space in Tokyo's Special Wards
By January 2022, the 23 Special Wards of Tokyo had a total of 73.5 million square meters of office space, highlighting the city's role as a major business hub.
January 2022: Foreign Population in Tokyo
In January 2022, Tokyo had a foreign population of 546,436 registered residents, which later saw a significant increase.
April 1, 2022: Road Network Statistics in Tokyo
As of April 1, 2022, Tokyo's extensive road network spanned approximately 24,741 kilometers, encompassing various categories based on ownership. This included 2,370 kilometers of metropolitan roads, highlighting the city's well-developed infrastructure.
2022: Port of Tokyo's Global Ranking
In 2022, the Port of Tokyo, a crucial hub for import, export, and connecting the Tokyo Islands to the mainland, handled 4,430,000 TEU of containers. This positioned it as the 46th largest port globally, according to Lloyd's List.
2022: Greater Tokyo Area's economy ranks second globally
In 2022, the Greater Tokyo Area's gross metropolitan product was estimated at US$2.08 trillion, making it the world's second-largest metropolitan economy, trailing only New York.
2022: Agreements of Twinning and Friendship
As of 2022, Tokyo had established twinning or friendship agreements with twelve cities and states.
2022: Government Survey on Popular Tourist Destinations in Tokyo
A government survey conducted in 2022 aimed to identify the most frequented tourist spots within Tokyo, providing insights into visitor preferences and popular attractions.
2022: Factors Contributing to Decreased Cost of Living in Tokyo
Starting in 2022, Tokyo experienced a weakening yen due to Japan's low interest rates, contributing to a decline in the city's cost of living, which continued to be observed in 2023.
2023: Tokyo houses a significant number of Fortune Global 500 companies
By 2023, Tokyo was home to 29 companies listed in the Fortune Global 500, the second-highest concentration of any city worldwide, trailing only Beijing.
2023: Haneda Airport Passenger Traffic and Ranking
Haneda Airport handled 17.9 million international and 60.8 million domestic passengers in 2023. A survey in 2023 ranked Haneda as the fifth busiest airport globally.
2023: Tokyo's Ranking in Fortune Global 500 and Cost of Living
In 2023, Tokyo housed 29 of the Fortune Global 500 companies, securing the second position globally after Beijing. Notably, approximately 20 of these companies, including prominent names like MUFG, Mitsubishi Corp., and Hitachi, were based in the Marunouchi district. Interestingly, despite being considered the most expensive city for 14 consecutive years until 2006, Tokyo's cost of living decreased significantly. This change, attributed to years of deflation and a weak yen, made it 31% cheaper than New York City in 2023, comparable to Beijing and Manchester based on the EIU rankings.
2023: Tokyo's population reaches over 14 million
In 2023, Tokyo's population surpassed 14 million residents, making it one of the most populous cities globally and home to 29 of the world's 500 largest companies.
2023: Headquarters of Major Banks in Tokyo
Tokyo serves as the headquarters for three of the world's top 20 banks by total assets as of 2023: Mitsubishi UFJ, Sumitomo-Mitsui Banking Corporation, and Mizuho Financial Group, highlighting the city's significance in the global financial landscape.
January 2024: Foreign Population in Tokyo
As of January 2024, Tokyo had 647,416 registered foreign residents, marking a significant increase since the end of the COVID-19 pandemic and representing nearly 20% growth from January 2022. China, South Korea, Vietnam, the Philippines, Nepal, Taiwan, and the United States each had over 20,000 nationals residing in the city.
April 2024: Official Population Estimates
According to official estimates released in April 2024, Setagaya (942,003 residents), Nerima (752,608 residents), and Ota (748,081 residents) emerged as the most populous wards and municipalities within Tokyo.
May 2024: Ueno Zoo Giant Panda Population
As of May 2024, Ueno Zoo, renowned for being one of three zoos in Japan to house giant pandas, had a population of four giant pandas.
May 2024: Skyscraper Count in Tokyo
As of May 2024, Tokyo boasts at least 184 buildings soaring above 150 meters (492 feet), a testament to the city's impressive skyline.
June 2024: Absence of Official Demographic Survey
As of June 2024, there was no official survey conducted regarding race or place of birth in Tokyo.
2024: Greater Tokyo Area Population
As of 2024, the Greater Tokyo Area, encompassing Tokyo and parts of six neighboring prefectures, reached a population of 41 million, solidifying its position as the world's most populous metropolitan area.
2024: Koike Re-elected Again
Yuriko Koike secured a third term as the governor of Tokyo in 2024.
2024: Planned Public Offering of Tokyo Metro
Tokyo Metro, currently owned by the Japanese Government and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, is scheduled to go public in 2024, signifying a potential shift in its ownership structure and future direction.
2024: Tokyo Ranked Second in QS Best Student Cities
In 2024, Tokyo achieved a ranking of second in the QS Best Student Cities, recognized for its immersive cultural experience, top-tier universities, and internship opportunities offered by global companies. However, it was noted for its relatively low international student population.
2024: High Concentration of Millionaires in Tokyo
In 2024, Henley & Partners estimated that Tokyo had the third-highest number of millionaires globally, with 298,300 individuals possessing a net worth exceeding US$1 million, signifying the city's affluence and attractiveness to high-net-worth individuals.
2027: Projected Completion of Torch Tower
Upon its anticipated completion in 2027, the Torch Tower, reaching a height of 385 meters, will surpass the Azabudai Hills Mori JP Tower (325.2 meters) as the tallest building in Tokyo.