New York vs Tokyo: A Japanese Traveler’s Honest Take on City Life
When I first arrived in New York City, I was overwhelmed—in a good way. The energy was intense, fast-paced, and full of life. One of the first things I noticed was the incredible diversity. People of all races, cultures, and backgrounds blended together in a way I had never seen before. It felt like the whole world was squeezed into one city block.
Another big surprise? The noise. Car horns echoed through the streets, music poured out from subway performers, and conversations buzzed on every corner. Tokyo can be loud too—especially around Shibuya or Shinjuku—but the sound in NYC felt wilder, more chaotic. In Tokyo, there’s a sense of controlled noise. In New York, it’s full-volume all the time.
I also had a bit of a misconception: I thought New York City was just Manhattan. But I soon learned that NYC actually has five boroughs: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, and Staten Island. Each one has its own character and style. Most first-time visitors spend their time in Manhattan, like I did, but there’s so much more to explore beyond it.
Another cultural contrast that stood out to me was fashion. I had imagined New Yorkers to be super fashionable—and they are—but in a different way than Tokyoites. In New York, people wear whatever they want: bold prints, vintage jackets, quirky accessories… and no one seems to care what anyone else thinks. There’s a sense of freedom and individuality. In Tokyo, fashion tends to be more polished and trend-conscious. People often aim to match the season or current styles, and bold personal statements are a bit less common.
But there’s one fun thing both cities have in common: fast walkers! Whether you’re in Shinjuku Station or dashing through Times Square, people move with purpose. If you stand still too long, you’ll get swept away!
Transportation & City Layout : New York vs Tokyo
I’ve traveled to many countries, but Tokyo’s public transportation still amazes me. It’s fast, punctual, and clean. Whether you’re taking a local train, hopping on the metro, or catching the Shinkansen bullet train, everything runs like clockwork. The stations are spotless, the signage is clear (often in English, too!), and even during the rush hour crush, people line up and behave politely.
When I arrived in New York, I found the subway incredibly convenient—but it definitely had a different vibe. The trains run 24/7, which is impressive, but the cars felt older, and the platforms weren’t always the cleanest. Sometimes I encountered uncomfortable moments—like people asking for money, performing, or playing music loudly from their phones. Still, it worked! You can get just about anywhere in the city by subway, and that’s something I really appreciated.
Metro & Train Systems: Tokyo vs NYC
Tokyo has multiple train companies, but the biggest ones are JR (Japan Railways) and Tokyo Metro. Together, they form an intricate network that covers not only Tokyo but much of the surrounding area. Everything is hyper-efficient, and trains arrive to the minute. Plus, the Shinkansen can take you from Tokyo to Osaka in about 2.5 hours—a dream for long-distance travelers.
In contrast, the New York City Subway is run by the MTA and mainly serves the five boroughs. For long-distance travel in the U.S., you’d take Amtrak, which connects major cities across states. Compared to JR or the Shinkansen, Amtrak is slower, more expensive, and less punctual—but it offers a scenic way to see the countryside, and you don’t have to deal with airport lines.
I once took an Amtrak train from Philadelphia to New York, and something unexpected happened—the train suddenly stopped and the conductor announced, “This train is out of service. Please get off.” That was it! No further explanation. We were confused and unsure what to do next. At first, I thought maybe we were the only ones who didn’t understand, but even local American passengers were puzzled. People started talking to each other, exchanging bits of information. We eventually figured things out and boarded another train, and it actually became a funny, memorable moment. Everyone—strangers—helped one another and laughed about the situation. If this kind of thing had happened in Japan, I think the mood would’ve been much more serious. People might have gotten frustrated or even angry. But in that moment on Amtrak, the confusion turned into a small adventure.
Buses and Ferries
Both cities have bus systems, but I found Tokyo’s buses a bit tricky at first. The routes can be complicated, and they often don’t use Roman letters on the signs outside the bus. However, every stop is announced clearly inside the bus, usually in Japanese and sometimes in English too. So even if the route looks confusing at first, you can always tell where to get off—which is very reassuring.
In New York, the city buses were easier for me to figure out thanks to Google Maps and visible bus numbers. They’re slower than the subway, but a good option when you’re not in a rush—or if it’s raining!
One thing I didn’t expect in New York was the ferry system. NYC Ferry offers a relaxing and affordable way to travel between boroughs, especially from Manhattan to Brooklyn or Queens. I even got skyline views for the price of a subway ride! Tokyo has ferries too—like the Tokyo Water Bus—but they’re more of a scenic experience rather than a daily transportation method.
Food & Dining Experience: Eating Out in New York vs Tokyo
Food is always a highlight when traveling, and both New York City and Tokyo are food lovers’ paradises—but in very different ways.
In New York, I was amazed by the variety of international cuisines: from Italian to Ethiopian, Jewish delis to Dominican food trucks—you can travel the world without ever leaving the city. Tokyo also offers global options, but I honestly feel like Tokyo has even more variety when it comes to both Japanese and international food, and you can enjoy it at a much more reasonable price.
One big difference? Dining in New York is expensive. Even casual meals at restaurants or cafes can quickly add up, especially after taxes and tips. In Tokyo, on the other hand, you can eat incredibly well on a budget. From ¥500(about 3.5-4 USD) beef bowl (Gyudon) shops to standing sushi bars, there’s an endless range of affordable, delicious, and high-quality meals—and you never have to tip. That casual, no-pressure dining style made eating out in Tokyo much easier and more relaxing.
In New York, tipping is expected—usually 18–20%—and while service is often friendly, it adds to the total cost. In Tokyo, service is typically polite, efficient, and built into the culture without any expectation of tipping. This contrast gave me a deeper appreciation for the dining etiquette I grew up with in Japan.
Of course, it was fun to see how Japanese food is embraced in NYC. I spotted ramen shops, sushi bars, and even teppanyaki grills in several neighborhoods. It reminded me how much Japanese cuisine has become a part of global food culture. My former boss in Japan used to travel to NYC for business and always made it a tradition to eat at his favorite ramen shop there—it became one of his personal rituals.
In the end, both cities celebrate food in their own way. New York is bold, diverse, and exciting—but comes at a cost. Tokyo is equally rich in variety, but offers more affordability and casual comfort, especially for everyday meals.
Mini Food Guide: What to Try in New York & Tokyo
Must-Try in New York City
New York-style pizza – Grab a slice from a corner pizzeria (cheap and iconic!)
Bagels with lox & cream cheese – A classic NYC breakfast
Halal street food – Look for the famous white sauce and spicy red sauce
Pastrami sandwich – Try Katz’s Delicatessen for an unforgettable bite
Japanese ramen – Yes, even in NYC! I recommend finding a local favorite shop
Must-Try in Tokyo
Tonkotsu or shoyu ramen – Affordable, satisfying, and found everywhere
Conveyor belt sushi (kaitenzushi (回転寿司）) – Fun, fast, and great quality for the price
Okonomiyaki – Savory Japanese pancake, especially popular in casual eateries
Bento lunch boxes – Pick one up at a train station for a perfect on-the-go meal
Convenience store snacks (konbini) – Surprisingly delicious and budget-friendly!
Tip
In Tokyo, don’t forget to try local specialties by region—even in the city you can find regional ramen styles, seafood, and seasonal treats.
Culture & Daily Life: Tokyo vs New York
Life in Tokyo and New York moves quickly, but the cultural atmosphere is surprisingly different.
In Tokyo, there’s an unspoken sense of social harmony. People speak quietly in public, avoid phone calls on the train, and follow rules without needing reminders. Whether it’s lining up at the station or keeping spaces clean, there’s a strong group awareness—everyone is mindful of how their actions affect others. This makes the city feel calm and orderly, even when it’s crowded.
New York, on the other hand, felt lively and expressive. People speak more freely, often at a higher volume, and it’s completely normal to see strangers talking on the street or even dancing in the subway. I remember being surprised (in a good way) by how often people would smile, compliment my bag, or ask where I was from. That kind of casual interaction is rare in Japan, especially with strangers.
After living in the U.S. for a few years now, I’ve come to really enjoy this openness. Even though my English isn’t perfect, small conversations with people I don’t know—at the grocery store, on the bus, or while waiting in line—sometimes lift my spirits in unexpected ways. These spontaneous moments make daily life feel more connected, and they’ve even given me more confidence in expressing myself.
In Japan, it’s more common to keep to yourself in public. It’s not cold—just reserved. So while Tokyo feels smooth and predictable, New York gives off a kind of vibrant unpredictability. One city values harmony, the other celebrates individuality.
Quick Cultural Tips: Japan vs USA
Tokyo (Japan)
Quiet is polite – Avoid talking on phones in trains and speak softly in public.
Stand in line – Whether it’s an elevator or a train platform, lining up is expected.
No public trash cans – Carry your trash with you; cleanliness is a shared responsibility.
Shoes off indoors – Be prepared to remove shoes in homes, some restaurants, and fitting rooms.
Respect personal space – Physical touch and direct eye contact are often minimal.
New York (USA)
Small talk is common – It’s normal to chat with strangers, even briefly, in everyday situations.
Louder atmosphere – Trains, restaurants, and public spaces are often full of lively conversation.
Tipping is expected – Tip 15–20% at restaurants, and don’t forget hotel or taxi tips.
Express individuality – People freely dress, speak, and act how they like—uniqueness is celebrated.
Shoes stay on – You’ll usually keep your shoes on indoors unless it’s a private home that requests otherwise.
Tip
Neither way is right or wrong—just different! Being aware of local customs shows respect and helps you connect with the culture more deeply.
Times Square vs Shibuya: The Crossroads of Energy
If New York has Times Square, Tokyo has Shibuya Crossing—and both are must-see spots full of lights, energy, and people.
Times Square felt like a never-ending explosion of movement and color. Giant billboards, flashing lights, street performers, taxis honking—it’s exciting, but also overwhelming. It felt very touristy to me, with lots of souvenir shops and crowds standing still to take photos. I enjoyed visiting, but I probably wouldn’t go often if I lived in NYC.
Shibuya Crossing, by contrast, felt more like an everyday moment turned iconic. You’ll see hundreds of people crossing from all directions, but it’s smooth, organized, and somehow peaceful despite the chaos. Shibuya is also surrounded by shopping, cafés, and nightlife—but it’s less about being flashy and more about style and flow.
I think of Times Square as theatrical, while Shibuya feels cinematic. One says “look at me!” while the other says “you’re part of this moment.” Both are unforgettable, but in very different ways.
Crime Rate & Safety: Tokyo vs New York
One of the most common questions travelers ask is: “Which city is safer—Tokyo or New York?” Based on statistics and personal experience, the answer is pretty clear.
Tokyo is consistently ranked as one of the safest major cities in the world. Crime rates—especially violent crime—are extremely low. It’s not unusual to see children riding the train alone, people leaving their wallets on the table while they get coffee, or lost items being turned in and returned. Of course, no city is perfect, but the sense of safety in Tokyo is something I truly appreciate.
New York City has come a long way since its more dangerous reputation in the past. Today, it’s much safer than people might think—especially in tourist areas like Midtown Manhattan, the Upper West Side, or Brooklyn’s main neighborhoods. That said, petty crimes like pickpocketing or subway theft do happen more often than in Tokyo. It’s important to stay alert, especially at night or in less busy areas.
What surprised me most was that in Tokyo, people rarely worry about personal safety in daily life, even late at night. In New York, I learned to be more cautious—checking my surroundings, keeping my bag close, and avoiding empty subway cars.
Tip
Tokyo may feel safer overall, but both cities are very walkable and exciting—as long as you stay aware and travel smart.
Must-Visit Spots from a Japanese Traveler’s Perspective
During my trip, I visited several famous landmarks that made my NYC experience unforgettable. Each destination had its own charm, and some even reminded me of places in Tokyo in unexpected ways.
Seeing the Statue of Liberty up close was surreal. As a symbol of freedom and history, it felt like a true “I’m in New York!!” moment. The ferry ride was also enjoyable, giving great views of the city skyline.
For the details, please visit National park official HP
Tokyo has its own impressive skyscrapers, but standing at the top of the Empire State Building and looking out over NYC was a breathtaking experience. However, if you have acrophobia, the observation floor might feel terrifying—unlike many observation decks in Japan, there’s no protective glass wall, and you can feel the wind directly at such a high altitude. I was extremely scared, but at the same time, it made the view feel even more dramatic and thrilling.
For the details, please visit Empire State Building official HP.
A beautiful oasis in the middle of the city, much like Shinjuku Gyoen in Tokyo but on a much grander scale. I loved the mix of nature and urban life, whether it was people jogging, relaxing on the grass, or even spotting street performers. I really like this place.
For the details, please check the Central Park official HP.
The lights, the billboards, the constant motion—it had the same electric energy as Shibuya Crossing, but multiplied by ten. It felt like stepping into a larger-than-life version of Tokyo’s neon-filled districts, making it one of the most memorable spots of my trip.
For the details, please check the Times Square Official HP.
I wanted to visit this museum because I love the movie Night at the Museum! Walking through the exhibits, I kept imagining scenes from the film. The museum was vast, filled with fascinating artifacts, and definitely worth a visit for any movie fan or history lover.
For the details, please check the American Museum of National History Official HP.
Walking across the Brooklyn Bridge at sunset was stunning. It had a nostalgic charm, reminding me of scenic walking spots in Japan, but with a distinctly New York feel.
For the details, please visit Brooklyn Bridge Park official HP.
I stayed a hotel near this station, so I used this station many times to go to many attractive place in NYC. A transportation hub unlike any in Japan, Grand Central Terminal felt grand and historical, almost like something out of a movie. The architecture was stunning, and I loved watching the movement of people bustling through it.
For the details, please visit Grand Central Terminal official HP.
Each of these places added something unique to my experience in New York, making the trip unforgettable.
Tokyo vs New York: Quick Comparison Table
| Category | Tokyo | New York City |
|---|---|---|
|
Transportation
|
Clean, punctual trains (JR, Metro), buses with stop announcements, no tipping
|
Older subway system, useful but less clean; buses and ferries; tipping common
|
|
Train Experience
|
Organized and polite, even during rush hour
|
More chaotic; sometimes unpredictable; Amtrak experience can vary
|
|
Food & Dining
|
Affordable, wide variety, no tipping required
|
Expensive dining, tipping expected, great global variety
|
|
Dining Atmospher
|
Quiet, respectful, efficient servic
|
Lively, friendly, casual but more costly
|
|
Fashion & Style
|
Sleek, coordinated, trend-focus
|
Free-spirited, unique, individualistic
|
|
Social Etiquette |
Quiet in public, minimal small talk, group harmony
|
Outgoing, expressive, open to conversations
|
|
Iconic Area
|
Shibuya Crossing – fast-paced but orderly
|
Times Square – flashy, crowded, tourist-heavy
|
|
Safety / Crime Rate
|
Very low; high trust and order |
Improved, but still more petty crime than Tokyo
|
|
Cultural Vibe
|
Polite, structured, reserved
|
Energetic, spontaneous, diverse
|
FAQ: New York vs Tokyo
Which city is safer: Tokyo or New York?
Tokyo is generally considered safer than New York, with very low crime rates and a high sense of public order. New York has become much safer over the years, especially in tourist areas, but petty crimes like theft still occur more frequently than in Tokyo.
Is public transportation better in Tokyo or New York?
Tokyo’s transportation system is known for its punctuality, cleanliness, and convenience. New York’s subway is widespread and useful, but it can be older and less clean. Tokyo buses also announce each stop, which helps even if you’re unfamiliar with the area.
Is food more expensive in New York than in Tokyo?
Yes, food in New York is generally more expensive. In Tokyo, you can enjoy a wide variety of high-quality meals at affordable prices, and tipping is not required—unlike in NYC, where dining costs often include tips and higher menu prices.
Which is more crowded: Times Square or Shibuya Crossing?
Both are famously busy, but Times Square feels more chaotic and tourist-heavy. Shibuya Crossing, while crowded, moves more smoothly and feels more like part of daily life than a tourist attraction.
Final Thoughts: A Japanese Traveler’s View of Two Iconic Cities
Experiencing both Tokyo and New York has helped me appreciate how uniquely vibrant each city is—Tokyo with its structured calm and quiet etiquette, and New York with its expressive energy and cultural diversity. They move at a similar fast pace, but the feeling on the streets, in restaurants, and in daily life is completely different.
I didn’t write this post to say one city is better than the other—but to share how it feels to walk through each from a Japanese perspective. Whether you love organized harmony or spontaneous connections, both cities offer something unforgettable.
Have you ever visited both Tokyo and New York?
What stood out to you the most? I’d love to hear your thoughts or questions in the comments!
