Getting there Most European and Japanese airlines have daily flights from Heathrow to Narita International Airport, 40 miles from Tokyo. The Airport Limousine bus takes 75 minutes to reach the city's major hotels and railway stations. Buy tickets on the arrivals floor. Taxis are outrageously expensive.

Business climate The high concentration of company headquarters, government agencies and chambers of commerce explain why foreign-affiliated firms choose Tokyo despite the city's high personnel and office costs. Add to that the market possibilities offered by 30 million people living in the metropolitan area.

Don't miss Visit the Tsukiji fish market early and start the day witnessing a tuna auction followed by sushi for breakfast. Head to Harajuku for fashion and street culture. And the New York Bar in Shinjuku's Park Hyatt hotel, featured in Lost in Translation, is worth all the hype.

Etiquette Working days start at 9am and go on until 5.40pm, with a one-hour lunch break at noon. Many so-called salarymen stay on until their superiors leave the office. Greetings in Japanese are appreciated and a recommended ice-breaker. Have your name printed in Japanese katakana characters on your business cards. When presented with a card, take it with both hands.

Culture Tokyo is a mix of cool and traditional, where ultra-modern architecture and kimono vendors blend perfectly. Find a moment of peace at Meiji Shrine and throw a lucky five-yen coin before praying. Luxury brands compete for attention on Omotesando Street and in Ginza, while Akihabara is the place for electronics. Walk around the National Museum of Modern Art and have lunch on the veranda. Tokyo is a 2016 Olympics candidate and its nomination has added a sporty vibe to the city.

Where to stay The Peninsula Tokyo, branded as super luxury international design inspired by Japan, is located across from the Imperial Palace. More traditional five-star comfort is found next door at the Imperial, while the Park Hyatt offers panoramic views. Business hotels provide basic amenities at an affordable rate, but the rooms are just about big enough for you and a suitcase.

Eat like a local Tokyo is the world's most Michelin-starred city, but for a more entertaining evening, head to Gonpachi in Nishi-Azabu for its large variety of Japanese food, including raw fish and handmade soba noodles. Also, sample tofu and other local dishes at rustic-style Umaya in Akasaka, opened by a famous kabuki actor. Try out the street food at Yoyogi Park and the fresh sushi down at Tsukiji.