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Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Togoshi Ginza Shopping Street is a shopping street in Tokyo's Shinagawa Ward that stretches for approximately 1.3 km, making it one of the longest in the city. It has developed as a vital part of the local community since the post-war reconstruction period, and is a "lifestyle-oriented" shopping street lined with a wide variety of specialty shops, delicatessens, restaurants, and daily necessities stores. With a mix of traditional independent shops and newer businesses (bakeries, cafes, sweet shops, and izakayas), it is popular with local residents as well as tourists and nearby workers. Its greatest appeal is the opportunity to enjoy shopping and eating while still retaining the atmosphere of the Showa era.
Highlights
- Shopping arcade and street atmosphere: As you walk through the diverse storefronts that stretch for about 1.3 km, you can feel the energy, signs, and Showa-era atmosphere that only a shopping street can offer.
- Food to eat on the go: There are plenty of local specialties to enjoy as takeout, such as croquettes, minced meat cutlets, yakitori, Japanese sweets, and bakery bread. Menus that can be bought and eaten on the spot at delicatessens, butchers, and fishmongers are also appealing.
- Unique specialty shops: In addition to long-established butchers, fishmongers, and greengrocers, there are also specialty sweet shops, traditional Japanese confectionery shops, and handmade goods stores scattered around. It's fun to discover bargains.
- Shopping Street Events: Seasonal sales, flea markets, local festivals, and other lively events are often held here (the dates vary from year to year).
- Wandering through the alleys and side streets: The alleys off the main streets still have their own distinctive shops and residential areas, making them ideal for exploring while on a stroll.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station (within walking distance)
- Togoshi-ginza Station (Tokyu Ikegami Line): Directly connected to the middle of the shopping street. This is the most easily accessible station, and you can step onto the street right after exiting.
- Togoshi Station (Toei Asakusa Line) - Approximately 5-7 minutes on foot. The Asakusa Line provides convenient access from all parts of central Tokyo.
- others
- You can also access the venue by bus or taxi from Shinagawa Station, Osaki Station, or Gotanda Station (the route and travel time will vary depending on the departure point).
- The most common route from Haneda Airport is to take the Keikyu Line or monorail to Shinagawa Station, then transfer and head towards Togoshi. The estimated travel time, including transfers, is about 30 to 40 minutes.
- Parking: There are paid parking lots around the shopping district, but the streets can get crowded and narrow in places, so we recommend using public transportation.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short walk: 30 minutes to 1 hour (just to enjoy the atmosphere)
- Eat and shop leisurely: 1.5 to 3 hours (if you plan to eat at multiple stores and buy groceries and ingredients)
- If you want to explore at your own pace: Half a day (including exploring the alleys and surrounding spots, and taking breaks at restaurants and cafes)
Nearby spots
- Musashikoyama Shopping Street Palm (a short walk or train ride away)...This is also a long shopping street where you can enjoy eating and shopping. It is also recommended to combine it with Togoshi Ginza.
- Shinagawa Aquarium (Oi Wharf): A popular spot for families. Easily accessible by car or bus, it's a little far from the shopping district, but can be combined with other sightseeing.
- Gotanda/Osaki area: Restaurants, shopping facilities, and business districts are close by, making it convenient for shopping and dining out.
- Togoshi Park and ward parks...There are parks scattered around the area that are perfect for strolling and taking a break.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: The area is extremely crowded on weekends, holidays, festivals, and events. Streets can be narrow in places, so please be careful when walking, especially during peak hours.
- Eating etiquette while walking: Stopping in front of a store or in an aisle to eat with multiple people will obstruct pedestrians. If possible, eat inside the store or in designated areas such as on benches, and be considerate of those around you when talking and disposing of trash.
- Cash: Some small stores only accept cash, and some do not accept credit cards. It's a good idea to have some coins on hand.
- Take your trash home: There may not be enough trash cans in the city, so please take your trash home with you.
- Bicycles and motorcycles: Leaving bicycles on or entering sidewalks or shopping streets is a nuisance. Please use designated bicycle parking areas in the vicinity.
- Seasonal precautions
- Summer: Take precautions against the sun and heat (wear a hat and stay hydrated). Outdoor queues may occur.
- Winter: The number of shoppers increases during the New Year holidays, and some stores change their opening hours. It's a good idea to check the opening hours of the stores you plan to visit in advance.
Togoshi Ginza Shopping Street is a place where you can feel the "breath of life." It is especially recommended for those who want to enjoy eating their way around and experiencing the atmosphere of the downtown area. When you visit, please be mindful of your manners and enjoy the local flavors and conversations with the shop owners.
