- TOP
- Search Criteria
- A Tour of Tokyo's 10 Most Unique Shopping Streets
STORY
A Tour of Tokyo's 10 Most Unique Shopping Streets
- TOKYO
- SHOPPING
- SIGHTSEEING
- SPECIAL
- LOCAL_NEIGHBORHOODS
- NEIGHBORHOOD_CULTURE
- SHOTENGAI
- STREET_FOOD
- REAL_LOCAL_LIFE
- SOUVENIR
- SHOPPING_ARCADE
Shopping in Japan can be a real treat. Being a big metropolis, Tokyo comes with plenty of options for a fun day out. My personal recommendation is to skip the big chain department stores. Instead, why not visit a shotengai for a more traditional experience? A shotengai is a street in Japan filled with shops and restaurants. Each one is unique, so come along with me as I show you some of the best shopping arcades in Tokyo!
First on our list is Togoshi Ginza, famous for being the longest shopping street in Tokyo at 1.3km long. The atmosphere here is laid back and residential. You'll meet all kinds of people going about their everyday life and chatting with the friendly shopkeepers. Here you can enjoy some of the tastiest street food Tokyo has to offer.
Access: short walk from Togoshi Ginza Station on the Tokyu Ikegami Line. 2 min. walk form Togoshi Station on the Toei Asakusa Line.
Next, we dive into a more local street. Asagaya Pearl Center is just a stone's throw from the bustling Shinjuku. You'll find everything from sweets shops to butchers to clothing shops and everything else in between. Along with the shotengai, Asagaya is known for its abundance of jazz bars, music events and festivals.
Access: short walk from Asagaya Station on the JR Chuo and Sobu lines.
Time to slow things down a bit at what is affectionately called 'Grandma's Harajuku'. This shopping street in Sugamo is particularly hip with the elderly. Here you'll find a lot of more traditional shops in a lively retro atmosphere. The local temple holds a small festival on the 4th, 14th and 24th of each month where the street fills with vendors. Don't be intimidated, there is much to see for all ages.
Access: 5 min. walk from Sugamo Station on the JR Yamanote Line. 2 min. walk from Koshinzuka Station on the Toden Arakawa Line.
I think we're ready to dig a little deeper into the old Tokyo. Next stop is Tateishi, a semi-unknown gem. Retaining an atmosphere from the old shitamachi, this charmingly old district hosts two shopping streets right next to the station.
*Shitamachi is the area of Tokyo where the common people, merchants and artisans lived during the Edo period (1603-1868).
Access: short walk from Keisei Tateishi Station on the Keisei Oshiage Line.
Tateishi Nakamise | 立石仲見世
Access: short walk from Keisei Tateishi Station on the Keisei Oshiage Line.
Since we're now experts at navigating Tokyo's shotengai, let's hop over to Ueno and stroll down one of the most lively shopping streets, Ameyoko. Here you'll see people digging for bargains, shopkeepers screaming for attention, and the Yamanote line cruising over your head.
Access: short walk from JR Ueno Station
http://www.ameyoko.net/
Now, lets change our pace and take a stroll down Yanaka Ginza. A short walk from Nippori Station, this shotengai has a nostalgic atmosphere that takes you back to the Edo period. The shops here offer unique souvenirs and are on the cheaper side. During your trip be sure to socialize with the many cats that roam the street!
Access: 5 min. walk from Nippori Station on the JR Yamanote Line. 3 min. walk from Sendagi Station on the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line.
While we're exploring the Edo period, let's move on to Azabu-juban. This stylish district is a mix of old and new shops with a refined classic feel. Close to Roppongi, you'll find the neighborhood to be more upscale hosting traditional shops. There are also many events and festivals in the area so be on the lookout.
Access: 1 min. walk from Azabu-juban Station (Exit 7) on the Tokyo Metro Namboku Line and the Toei Oedo Line.
Website (Japanese-only): http://www.azabujuban.or.jp/
Again, a quick hop from Shinjuku and we find ourselves in Nakano Sun Mall and out of the Edo period. Filled to the brim with shops and restaurants, you'll find some good deals in this lively street. Despite its name, Nakano Sun Mall is completely covered so even on rainy days you can enjoy this shotengai!
Access: Short walk from Nakano Station on the JR Chuo Line, JR Sobu Line and Tokyo Metro Tozai Line.
We're almost finished with our tour but first we have check out Tenjin-dori. This is the hometown of the creator behind the popular anime and manga GeGeGe no Kitaro, Mizuki Shigeru. You'll see his characters line the streets along with about 50 shops and a cute little shrine along the street. Together they give this shotengai a countryside feel.
Access: 2 min. walk from Chofu Station on the Keio Line
Finally, we end our trip with a wondrous gem hiding in plain sight in the touristy Asakusa. Here we find Japan's oldest underground shopping street. Surrounded by a retro Showa Era feel, you'll be browsing under old stained ceilings and a maze of pipes. Vintage signs cover the walls in this 50+ year old underground street. The place might look intimidating, but don't worry! The atmosphere is very warm and friendly.
Access: directly connected to the underground exit of Asakusa Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line. Short walk from Asakusa Station on the Tobu Skytree Line, Toei Asakusa Line and Tokyo Metro Ginza Line.
From sweets to red panties, Edo period to present, shopping streets in Tokyo have it all. I hope you had fun joining me on our trip to the capital's many shopping streets. There is something for everyone and so much more waiting to be discovered!
About the author
Laura is an Italian living and working in Tokyo. She loves exploring hidden and unknown places, taking pictures and listening to Punk Rock music. When she’s not busy doing the above, she might enjoy a craft beer or play the sanshin (an Okinawan instrument similar to a shamisen).
Togoshi Ginza
Keep an eye out for Gin-Chan, the official mascot of Togoshi Ginza. You'll see statues of him welcoming you along with merchandise everywhere.
Just off the main road you will find Togoshi Hachiman Shrine. It is a peaceful oasis of nature where you can take a break and enjoy the tranquility.
Information
Togoshi Ginza | 戸越銀座Access: short walk from Togoshi Ginza Station on the Tokyu Ikegami Line. 2 min. walk form Togoshi Station on the Toei Asakusa Line.
 |
■Read more about Togoshi Ginza on DiGJAPAN! ◇Street Food Adventure at Togoshi Ginza, Tokyo's Longest Shopping Road |
Asagaya Pearl Center
Next, we dive into a more local street. Asagaya Pearl Center is just a stone's throw from the bustling Shinjuku. You'll find everything from sweets shops to butchers to clothing shops and everything else in between. Along with the shotengai, Asagaya is known for its abundance of jazz bars, music events and festivals.
Definitely stop for a sweet treat at Tomoean, where you can see the making process of these red bean-filled sweets.
In August Asagaya Pearl Center hosts the Tanabata festival. Huge papier-mâché puppets are exhibited along the street by the shop owners. Truly a unique sight.
Information
Asagaya Pearl Center | 阿佐ヶ谷パールセンターAccess: short walk from Asagaya Station on the JR Chuo and Sobu lines.
 |
■Read more about Asagaya Pearl Center on DiGJAPAN! ◇Experience the Neighborhood Culture in Tokyo: Mingle with the Locals at Asagaya Pearl Center |
Sugamo Jizo-Dori
Time to slow things down a bit at what is affectionately called 'Grandma's Harajuku'. This shopping street in Sugamo is particularly hip with the elderly. Here you'll find a lot of more traditional shops in a lively retro atmosphere. The local temple holds a small festival on the 4th, 14th and 24th of each month where the street fills with vendors. Don't be intimidated, there is much to see for all ages.
A lot of people visit the local temple to perform Arai Kannon, a ritual where you wash a statue of the goddess in the parts of the body that you wish to heal.
The local shopkeepers are friendly and energetic, willing to speak slowly and chat with the clients. It feels like life goes at a slower pace here.
Information
Sugamo Jizo-dori Shopping Street | 巣鴨地蔵通り商店街Access: 5 min. walk from Sugamo Station on the JR Yamanote Line. 2 min. walk from Koshinzuka Station on the Toden Arakawa Line.
 |
■Read more about Jizo-dori on DiGJAPAN! ◇Discover Grandma's Harajuku! 9 Things to Do in Sugamo Jizo-Dori Shopping Street |
Tateishi Shotengai and Nakamise
I think we're ready to dig a little deeper into the old Tokyo. Next stop is Tateishi, a semi-unknown gem. Retaining an atmosphere from the old shitamachi, this charmingly old district hosts two shopping streets right next to the station.
*Shitamachi is the area of Tokyo where the common people, merchants and artisans lived during the Edo period (1603-1868).
Get some cheap fried dumplings or grilled skewers on the go and watch the locals still haggling for the price at the grocery store.
The author of the manga series Captain Tsubasa was born here. You will find statues of the characters scattered around the area.
Information
Tateishi Eki-dori Shotengai | 立石駅通り商店街Access: short walk from Keisei Tateishi Station on the Keisei Oshiage Line.
Tateishi Nakamise | 立石仲見世
Access: short walk from Keisei Tateishi Station on the Keisei Oshiage Line.
 |
■Read more about Tateishi on DiGJAPAN! ◇Digging Deep Into The Old Tokyo: Tateishi |
Ameyoko
Since we're now experts at navigating Tokyo's shotengai, let's hop over to Ueno and stroll down one of the most lively shopping streets, Ameyoko. Here you'll see people digging for bargains, shopkeepers screaming for attention, and the Yamanote line cruising over your head.
Popular with both locals and visitors, you can find some great deals here on clothing, fresh foods, and imported goods.
If you need something a bit more filling I recommend grabbing some takoyaki (octopus in fried dough balls) from Minatoya.
Information
Ameyoko | アメ横Access: short walk from JR Ueno Station
http://www.ameyoko.net/
Yanaka Ginza
Now, lets change our pace and take a stroll down Yanaka Ginza. A short walk from Nippori Station, this shotengai has a nostalgic atmosphere that takes you back to the Edo period. The shops here offer unique souvenirs and are on the cheaper side. During your trip be sure to socialize with the many cats that roam the street!
The feline residents are very popular and many shops sell cat-themed goods. Unique and cute, a perfect gift to represent Yanaka Ginza.
The close by Yanaka Cemetery is a popular spot for strolls. It is particularly beautiful in spring and autumn and the surrounding temples are also worth a visit.
Information
Yanaka Ginza Shopping Street | 谷中銀座商店街Access: 5 min. walk from Nippori Station on the JR Yamanote Line. 3 min. walk from Sendagi Station on the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line.
 |
■Read more about Yanaka on DiGJAPAN! ◇Take a trip back in time at Ueno Sakuragi Atari ◇Turn the Town into Your Hotel When You Stay at hanare in Yanesen |
Azabu-Juban Shotengai
While we're exploring the Edo period, let's move on to Azabu-juban. This stylish district is a mix of old and new shops with a refined classic feel. Close to Roppongi, you'll find the neighborhood to be more upscale hosting traditional shops. There are also many events and festivals in the area so be on the lookout.
Give Imagawa-yaki a try for sweet cakes filled with a variety of fillings. If you're visiting on the weekend expect a line. This is a popular stop!
If you like taiyaki (fish-shaped sweets filled with bean paste) then don't forget to pay a visit to Naniwaya. They are said to be the original maker of this popular dessert.
Information
Azabu-Juban Shotengai | 麻布十番商店街Access: 1 min. walk from Azabu-juban Station (Exit 7) on the Tokyo Metro Namboku Line and the Toei Oedo Line.
Website (Japanese-only): http://www.azabujuban.or.jp/
Nakano Sun Mall
Again, a quick hop from Shinjuku and we find ourselves in Nakano Sun Mall and out of the Edo period. Filled to the brim with shops and restaurants, you'll find some good deals in this lively street. Despite its name, Nakano Sun Mall is completely covered so even on rainy days you can enjoy this shotengai!
You can't come to Nakano Sun Mall without trying Bonjour Bon's legendary maple melon pan. The crunchy crust and the sweet, creamy filling are just incredible.
Nakano has a lot to offer. Be sure you explore the surrounding alleys as they are packed with restaurants, bars and entertainment. There is also a nice park nearby if you need a break.
Information
Nakano Sun Mall Shotengai | 中野サンモール商店街Access: Short walk from Nakano Station on the JR Chuo Line, JR Sobu Line and Tokyo Metro Tozai Line.
 |
■Read more about Nakano on DiGJAPAN! ◇Nakano Broadway, a Charmingly Retro Subculture Mecca in Tokyo ◇Order a Cocktail from a Monk at Vow's Bar in Nakano |
Tenjin-Dori Shotengai
We're almost finished with our tour but first we have check out Tenjin-dori. This is the hometown of the creator behind the popular anime and manga GeGeGe no Kitaro, Mizuki Shigeru. You'll see his characters line the streets along with about 50 shops and a cute little shrine along the street. Together they give this shotengai a countryside feel.
Find all the statues of Kitaro and his friends! They are scattered along the main street.
At the end of the shopping street is the vast Fuda Tenjin Shrine. You can get GeGeGe no Kitaro fortune-telling papers here (I got 'excellent luck'!).
Information
Tenjin-dori Shotengai | 天神通り商店街Access: 2 min. walk from Chofu Station on the Keio Line
Asakusa Chika Shotengai
Finally, we end our trip with a wondrous gem hiding in plain sight in the touristy Asakusa. Here we find Japan's oldest underground shopping street. Surrounded by a retro Showa Era feel, you'll be browsing under old stained ceilings and a maze of pipes. Vintage signs cover the walls in this 50+ year old underground street. The place might look intimidating, but don't worry! The atmosphere is very warm and friendly.
One of the entrances to the underground shopping street is right inside one of the touristy arcades by Sensoji Temple. You'd never think of going in!
The top must-try food is Fuku-chan's yakisoba. The noodles are grilled by the owner right in front of you and they are unmatched in their delicious texture and taste.
Information
Asakusa Chika Shotengai | 浅草地下商店街Access: directly connected to the underground exit of Asakusa Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line. Short walk from Asakusa Station on the Tobu Skytree Line, Toei Asakusa Line and Tokyo Metro Ginza Line.
From sweets to red panties, Edo period to present, shopping streets in Tokyo have it all. I hope you had fun joining me on our trip to the capital's many shopping streets. There is something for everyone and so much more waiting to be discovered!
About the author
Laura is an Italian living and working in Tokyo. She loves exploring hidden and unknown places, taking pictures and listening to Punk Rock music. When she’s not busy doing the above, she might enjoy a craft beer or play the sanshin (an Okinawan instrument similar to a shamisen).
Liked this story? Like DiGJAPAN!
on Facebook for daily updates!
THIS ARTICLE IS BASED ON INFORMATION FROM 01 25,2018 Author：DiGJAPAN! Editorial Team
NEW COMMENT | 0 COMMENTS
Open a DiGJAPAN!
account to comment.
Open a DiGJAPAN! Account