Take a stroll through Tokyo's fascinating history

Tokyo may be one of the most technically advanced cities on the planet, but it also has a fascinating history. 

The Japanese capital is showcasing its cultural roots through “Edo Tokyo,” with a renewed focus on the city's historical identity, highlighted by the reopening of the Edo-Tokyo Museum (above) on March 31. 

Before it became known as Tokyo, Japan's capital was called Edo, a fishing village that grew into one of the world's largest cities during the Edo period (1603–1868). 

This era shaped the foundations of modern Tokyo, influencing its urban layout, commerce, arts, food culture, and everyday life. 

Even today, traces of Edo remain woven throughout the city, offering visitors an opportunity to experience history alongside contemporary life.

Following an extensive renovation, the Edo-Tokyo Museum will host immersive exhibitions, large-scale architectural reconstructions, and storytelling that brings daily acrivities and culture to life. 

Across Tokyo, visitors can encounter living history through a collection of sites that continue to shape the city's cultural landscape:

Edo-Tokyo Open-Air Architectural Museum: Located in Koganei Park, this open-air museum (above) preserves historic buildings from the Edo through early Showa periods, allowing visitors to walk through traditional townhouses, shops, and public buildings.

Ryogoku Kokugikan: The heart of Japan's national sport, sumo. Ryogoku has been closely associated with sumo since the Edo period, when the sport developed as both ritual and popular entertainment.

Kabukiza Theatre (Ginza):  Tokyo's principal kabuki theatre, where visitors can experience a performing art that originated in Edo's lively entertainment districts and continues to captivate audiences today.

Nihonbashi Bridge: Once the starting point of the Five Highways of Edo Japan, Nihonbashi symbolised travel, trade, and connection, and remains a historic and commercial centre of Tokyo.

Rikugien Garden: A classic Edo-period strolling garden, Rikugien reflects traditional landscape design inspired by poetry, seasonal beauty, and refined aesthetics.

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government has launched the official platform Journey through Edo's Legacy, featuring curated itineraries, historical insights, and travel inspiration focused on Edo culture.

Additional Edo-themed travel ideas and inspiration are also available on GoTokyo.org, Tokyo's official tourism website.

Peppers brand makes a return to its roots in the Hunter Valley

One of Australia's most recognised boutique hotel brands is to make a return to the location where it started.

Accor today announced the rebrand of the Grand Mercure The Vintage to Peppers Hunter Valley following a multi-million dollar refurbishment of the property.

In a milestone moment for the brand, Peppers returns to where its story began - the wine country of the Hunter. 

Associated with "refined indulgence, personal service, and immersive escapes in spectacular destinations" since the first Peppers Guest House property was launched, Peppers now writes a new chapter. 

Owned by long-standing duo Stevens Group and Accor Vacation Club, along with additional partners, the now-reimagined hotel features a collection of one-, two-, and three-bedroom villas (above) upgraded to reflect "a contemporary aesthetic". 

All apartments underwent a full ceiling-to-floor upgrade, featuring refreshed lighting, modernised kitchens, elegant furnishings, and new textures. 

Located within the ‘The Vintage’ precinct, Peppers Hunter Valley is surrounded by vineyards, countryside, and the championship-standard 18-hole Greg Norman-designed golf course.

The precinct is undergoing further transformation, with the team behind NINETEEN set to launch a new Mediterranean-inspired restaurant and bar, Mezze, upstairs. 

“The return of Peppers to the Hunter Valley is a proud and symbolic moment for us," said Adrian Williams, Chief Operating Officer of Accor in the Pacific region. 

"This is where the Peppers story began, and to see the brand come full circle – now elevated, refreshed, and reconnected to its roots – is incredibly special. 

"The transformation of this property reflects the strength of our partnerships and the continued demand for meaningful, premium escapes that balance charm with sophistication. Peppers Hunter Valley is not just a beautiful place to stay – it is a return to what makes travel personal, local, and unforgettable.”

Rooms start from $499* per night. To book, visit ALL.com