If there is something Japan prides itself on alongside quality, it’s punctuality. The kind that consistently sees Shinkansen bullet trains – first introduced for 1964’s Tokyo Olympics – arrive bang on time.

Occasionally, however, even uber-punctual Japan faces an unprecedented timing challenge, as with the Olympics rescheduled for this month – a year later than planned and probably with near-empty venues.

It’s a shame. As many of us know from London 2012, attending the Olympics is unforgettable. At least Tokyo’s will still be accessible to billions of TV viewers. And with that you can count on a taste of Japan’s magical visitor experience.

If you’ve been there, you’ll know what I mean; if not, take the opportunity presented by the Olympics to savour a taster. I’ll wager that scene-setting Olympic coverage will highlight the sensory overload that bombards you from the moment you reach Tokyo Eki station – Japan’s busiest.

Experiencing Tokyo really is as intense as the impression gained from watching ‘Lost in Translation’ or ‘Akira’, Katsuhiro Otomo’s classic manga animation – itself set just before a fictional Tokyo Olympics.

Reality trumps expectation

From iconic Shibuya Crossing to Akihabara’s electronics stores, the sensory assault, unfamiliar language and sheer volume of people, traffic and impressions is inimitable. Like Marrakech’s chaotic souks, or your first taxi ride into Havana on a stiflingly hot Cuban night, reality trumps expectation.

However, as silence before sporting moments complements applause, so calm balances Tokyo’s 24/7 freneticism. Imagine mystic Mt Fuji glimpsed from a city skyscraper and breathtaking autumn colours around the city’s Imperial Palace. Or quiet contemplation in Asakusa’s Sensō-ji temple – painstakingly rebuilt to symbolise rebirth and peace after WW2’s devastation.

From sublime to sometimes ridiculous, all life is present when exploring Tokyo, deciphering its signage, stroking Hachikō’s bronze nose outside Shibuya station or amusing friendly – and very patient – Tokyoites with your first jet-lagged Gaijin Japanese.

The Olympics may be massive, but never forget Japan’s fondness for miniaturisation and cuteness (kawaaii). You’re in the land of Pokémon, Hello Kitty and J-Pop girl bands, in a city where sightseeing options include utterly bonkers (and unofficial) costumed ‘Mario Kart’ convoys through Roppongi Hills and buzzing Harajuku.

Trust the Olympics for your Tokyo taster

Even if you’re not into sport, I’d recommend the Olympic scene-setting for a remote Tokyo introduction. Last time Japan welcomed the games it wowed the world. Something tells me that, coronavirus or not, 2021’s coverage will tempt a new generation of visitors to visit Tokyo. Trust me – like the Olympics, there’s nothing quite like being there!