Is Tokyo Really Flat?

My guests often ask me, “Are there many hills in Tokyo?” I just smile.

Because a few minutes later, we’re climbing a hill.

Not a long one. Just short and steep. Enough to make you notice.

And then another appears.

Tokyo might look flat - until you walk or ride on a bike. 

Flat East

If you explore the eastern side of the Imperial Palace, places like Ginza, Nihonbashi, Otemachi, Asakusa, and Ueno, the city feels calm and level.

The roads stretch out. There are few surprises. Riding here feels easy and relaxed.

I like to ask my guests why this area is sooooo flat when we’re stopped at a traffic light.

Once they know the reason, the ride suddenly feels more interesting.

Hilly West

Now move to the western side of the Imperial Palace, such as Shibuya, Roppongi, Azabu, Akasaka, Ebisu, Daikanyama.

Suddenly, the ride changes.

Short hills appear one after another. They’re not long, but they’re steep. Just enough to make you slow down.

You finish one climb, turn a corner, and face another.

But most of the hills are easy to conquer with e-bikes.

We even enjoy chatting while climbing hills with the assistance of the motor!

I intentionally guide my guests to some steep hills — just as a bit of spice.

Where the Hills Come From

This contrast isn’t accidental.

The western side of Tokyo sits on higher ground. It’s part of what’s often called the Yamanote area - yama meaning “mountain” in Japanese.

Long before modern Tokyo existed, this land already had hills and valleys. Today’s streets simply follow that old shape.

On the other hand, the eastern part of Tokyo was originally close to Tokyo Bay. Much of the land was formed by sand and sediment over time, and some of these areas were man-made when the castle was built.

That’s why it still feels flat today.

A City That Goes Up and Down

So, is Tokyo flat? The answer is:

Part of it is. Part of it definitely isn’t.

Tokyo is a city of contrasts - flat eastern areas and hilly western neighborhoods, side by side.

And when you explore Tokyo on an e-bike, those contrasts become something you enjoy rather than fight against.