Tokyo vs Shanghai - City Size Comparison

Is Tokyo Bigger Than Shanghai?

In terms of area, Shanghai is 2.9x the size of Tokyo. Shanghai spans 6,341 km² (2,448 mi²) while Tokyo covers 2,194 km² (847 mi²) — a difference of 4,147 km². You could fit Tokyo inside Shanghai approximately 2 times.

About Tokyo

Japan's capital and the world's most populous metropolitan area. Known as "The Big Mikan", Tokyo covers 2,194 km² with a population of 14.0 million. The city was established in 1457. Tokyo is known for Shibuya Crossing, Tokyo Tower, Tsukiji Market, among other attractions. The city's main transit system is the Tokyo Metro & JR East.

Greater Tokyo is the world's largest metropolitan economy, surpassing the GDP of most countries

About Shanghai

China's largest city and a global financial hub. Nicknamed "The Pearl of the Orient", Shanghai has an area of 6,341 km² and is home to 24.9 million people. The city dates back to 1291. Visitors come for The Bund waterfront, Pudong skyline, Yuyuan Garden, and much more. Getting around is easy with the Shanghai Metro.

Shanghai's Maglev train reaches 431 km/h, the fastest commercial train in the world

Metropolitan Area Comparison

Looking beyond city limits, the Tokyo metropolitan area covers 13,572 km², which is 2.1x larger than greater Shanghai at 6,341 km². The Tokyo metro area is also more populous, with 37.4 million people compared to 28.5 million.

Population Density

Tokyo has a population density of 6,363 people per km² — a densely populated city. Shanghai, with 3,922 people per km², is a moderately dense city. Tokyo is noticeably denser, packing 1.6 times more people per square kilometer.

Climate & Time Zone

Both cities share a humid subtropical climate, though local geography creates distinct microclimates in each.