São Paulo vs Tokyo - City Size Comparison

Is São Paulo Bigger Than Tokyo?

Yes — Tokyo is 1.4x larger than São Paulo by area. Tokyo spans 2,194 km² (847 mi²) while São Paulo covers 1,521 km² (587 mi²) — a difference of 673 km².

About São Paulo

Brazil's largest city and financial center. Known as "Sampa", São Paulo covers 1,521 km² with a population of 12.3 million. The city was established in 1554. São Paulo is known for Paulista Avenue, Ibirapuera Park, São Paulo Museum of Art, among other attractions. The city's main transit system is the São Paulo Metro.

São Paulo has the largest Japanese community outside Japan

About Tokyo

Japan's capital and the world's most populous metropolitan area. Often called "The Big Mikan", Tokyo has an area of 2,194 km² and is home to 14.0 million people. Its history stretches back to 1457. Visitors come for Shibuya Crossing, Tokyo Tower, Tsukiji Market, and much more. Getting around is easy with the Tokyo Metro & JR East.

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

Metropolitan Area Comparison

Looking beyond city limits, the Tokyo metropolitan area covers 13,572 km², which is 1.7x larger than greater São Paulo at 7,947 km². The Tokyo metro area is also more populous, with 37.4 million people compared to 22.0 million.

Population Density

São Paulo has a population density of 8,107 people per km² — a densely populated city. Tokyo, with 6,363 people per km², is a densely populated city. Both cities have comparable density, though São Paulo is slightly more compact.

Climate & Time Zone

Both cities share a humid subtropical climate, though local geography creates distinct microclimates in each. When it's noon in Tokyo, it's midnight in São Paulo — a 12-hour time difference.