I want to go to Tokyo, Japan in December 2008. Has anyone gone during this month?

is it very cold? also, does the city have a reputation of crimes and violence? what was it like for you?

I first arrived in Tokyo in December. It's cold but not very cold say like New York at that time. Since I've been here, I haven't seen that much snow in December. You'll need a coat and scarf as the air is dry.

No real reputation for violence or crime worth mentioning. In fact, Tokyo is one of the safest modern cities in the world.

I was mainly looking for work and trying to get by on my meager savings at the time so I didn't get out much. However, my first day I went to Senso-ji in Asakusa. Really enjoyed it!

I wish i saw Japan.

Cold depends on where you're coming from.
The average temperature in December in Tokyo is about 5 degrees C (40 F)

Tokyo and Japan as a whole has some of the lowest crime rates in the world. It is mostly safe to go around with problems.

It will be quite cold at this time of year, so take warm clothing.

Tokyo is a fascinating city and there's lots to see an do. The crime rate is very low, in fact almost non-existant The Japanese are lovely people and extremely polite.

Do try and get to see a few more places outside Tokyo because Japan has a lot to offer.

I'm sure you'll enjoy your trip

It's around 12 degree Celsius in the day and 2 degree Celsius at night. Generally speaking, weather is cool and nice. Very safe. I've not encountered any thieves, robbers etc etc during my trips.

People are generally polite, especially the staff in the service industry. But people just mind their own business and totally self-absorbed with what they're doing.

Ate healthy & nutritious food daily and felt that my complexion had become so good but now... it's back to normal again...

I recommend you to come on Nov or in the Spring (the end of March-April).
Dec is busy month for Japanese. Every restaurant is full with the local people for their year-end-farewell-parties and booking hotel is difficult (people move this month often). And local shops and establishments close during Dec 28-Jan 4 (New year holidays).

Only think that I can add that I haven't seen posted is that Tokyo is beautiful in the winter.

Yeah, it is cold--but not unbearable. During December there are some lights up for Christmas--Roppongi and Ginza are beautiful in the air of a crisp december night. You'll have fun.

It's not typical for there to be snow in Tokyo in December. However, last year it was unusually cold and there was snow on the ground. So definitely bring a nice warm coat and some gloves.

As for crime: you have to be careful around some areas, but its definitely not as bad as the US, so there's no need to worry.