Step into the world of timeless elegance and unparalleled luxury as you explore Ginza, Tokyo’s most upscale district. Known as the Fifth Avenue of Japan, this iconic neighborhood is a treasure trove of experiences, from the refined to the extraordinary. Whether you are an aficionado of high fashion, a gourmet seeking culinary delights, or a culture enthusiast eager to explore art and theater, Ginza promises an unforgettable experience.
In this meticulously curated guide, I present the best things to do in Ginza, each promising a unique blend of glamour, culture, and tradition. So put on your best attire and get ready to discover the finer side of Tokyo.
1. Shop at the Wako Building
If you’re looking for the epitome of Ginza’s luxurious allure, look no further than the Wako Building. This iconic structure, easily identifiable by its Hattori Clock Tower, is a landmark in itself and symbolizes the elegance Ginza is famous for. The building serves as a high-end department store offering a wide range of quality goods including designer watches, jewelry, handbags, and even gourmet food items. Stepping into Wako is like entering a world of opulence, where each product on display is a work of art and each transaction is a celebration of fine living. Don’t miss the opportunity to see their exclusive collection of Seiko watches, a brand that originated in this very building in the late 19th century.
2. Explore Ginza Six
Ginza Six is not your average shopping mall. This retail haven is a cultural space that combines shopping, art, and entertainment in a seamless blend. Housing over 240 stores, it’s where high fashion meets modern art, as the mall features installations and pieces from renowned artists throughout its expansive space. From flagship stores of international luxury brands to uniquely Japanese boutiques, Ginza Six is a microcosm of what makes Ginza an extraordinary shopping destination. Make sure to visit the mall’s roof garden for a peaceful respite from shopping, where you can enjoy views of the Tokyo skyline.
3. Visit the Tsukiji Outer Market
While the famous Tsukiji Fish Market has moved to a new location Toyosu, the Tsukiji Outer Market remains one of the best places to visit in the Ginza area. This bustling marketplace offers a unique contrast to the high-end atmosphere of Ginza, bringing you closer to Tokyo’s culinary roots. The Outer Market is packed with narrow lanes filled with small shops and stalls selling fresh produce, kitchenware, and of course, an array of seafood. It’s the perfect place to sample street foods like tamagoyaki (Japanese omelet) and portable seafood dishes including sushi, or to buy fresh ingredients for your own Japanese cooking adventure. If you’re a foodie at heart, this market is a culinary paradise you won’t want to miss.
4. Enjoy the Largest Uniqlo Tokyo
Uniqlo is a globally recognized fashion brand, but its store in Ginza is a cut above the rest. Opened in 2020, this flagship store, Uniqlo Tokyo, holds the distinction of being one of the largest Uniqlo stores in the world. Situated within the Maronie Gate Ginza 2 complex, Uniqlo Tokyo spans four floors, from the first to the fourth, offering an unparalleled shopping experience.
What sets this Uniqlo apart is not just its sheer size but its unique offerings. The store boasts the most extensive lineup of Uniqlo products anywhere, including items that were previously exclusive to online sales. It’s not just a destination for shoppers but also for art enthusiasts. The store itself is an architectural marvel, and its digital exterior design is eye-catching. Once inside, you’ll find various art installations that make even a non-shopping visit worthwhile.
Both in terms of quantity and quality, Uniqlo Tokyo offers an experience unlike any other Uniqlo store. Whether you’re looking to complete your wardrobe with versatile basics or hunting for exclusive collections, this is the Uniqlo store to explore. It embodies the very essence of what makes the brand iconic, making it a must-visit spot in the glamorous district of Ginza.
5. Stay at Muji Hotel Ginza
Muji, the brand renowned for its minimalist aesthetics and high-quality products, has expanded its horizons with Muji Hotel Ginza, the third of its kind following locations in Shenzhen and Beijing. Opened in 2019, the hotel embodies the brand’s philosophy of simplicity and elegance in every corner, from the well-curated furniture to the muted color schemes.
What sets Muji Hotel Ginza apart is its perfect blend of service quality and affordability. It’s not merely a place to lay your head; it’s an experience that encapsulates everything Muji stands for. Here, less is indeed more. The straightforward yet refined setting ensures that your stay is as comfortable as it is stylish, reflecting the brand’s commitment to offering functional designs without unnecessary frills.
Given its prime location in the upmarket Ginza district, the hotel makes an excellent choice for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the best of Tokyo’s dining, shopping, and cultural offerings. So if you’re planning a stay in Ginza and are a fan of Muji’s minimalist ethos, Muji Hotel Ginza should be high on your list of accommodations to consider. It offers the quintessential Muji experience, encapsulating all the elements that have made the brand a global favorite.
6. Find Cool Items in Tokyu Plaza Ginza
Tokyu Plaza Ginza is not your ordinary shopping mall. With a plethora of local and international brands, this architectural marvel is a feast for the eyes as well as a haven for shoppers. The mall’s uniquely designed interior echoes a traditional Japanese concept to captivate and entertain. With over 125 shops and eateries, there’s something for everyone, from fashion-forward clothing to high-end electronics, and even artisanal Japanese crafts. If you’re looking to find unique items, this is your go-to spot. The mall also features a rooftop terrace where you can take a breather and appreciate panoramic views of the bustling Ginza district.
7. Walk Along Chuo-dori Street
Chuo-dori Street is the pulsating heart of Ginza, lined with grandiose department stores, luxury boutiques, and stylish cafes. On weekends, the street transforms into a pedestrian paradise as vehicles are prohibited from 12 PM to 5 PM. This initiative allows shoppers and tourists to roam freely, making it an excellent time for window shopping or even a leisurely stroll. The avenue also serves as a runway of sorts, where the latest fashion trends come to life in the form of well-dressed locals and tourists alike. For anyone visiting Ginza, a walk along Chuo-dori Street is practically a rite of passage to understand the area’s vibrancy and affluence.
8. Visit the Kabuki-za Theatre
A trip to Ginza would not be complete without experiencing the traditional Japanese performing art of Kabuki at the Kabuki-za Theatre. As the principal theater in Tokyo for Kabuki, it’s an iconic institution that promises an authentic and captivating cultural experience. With its intricate set designs, elaborate costumes, and enthralling performances, the theatre brings ancient stories and characters to life. Don’t worry if you’re not fluent in Japanese; the theatre offers English audio guides that explain the storyline, making it accessible for everyone. Whether you opt for a single act or indulge in an entire play, visiting Kabuki-za is a deep dive into Japanese culture and tradition that you won’t want to miss.
9. Dine at Sophisticated Sushi Restaurants Including Sukiyabashi Jiro
Ginza is a playground for sushi aficionados, and dining at sophisticated establishments like Sukiyabashi Jiro is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. This iconic restaurant, made famous by the documentary “Jiro Dreams of Sushi,” offers an intimate setting with just ten seats and a chance to witness the masterful techniques of seasoned sushi chefs. Sukiyabashi Jiro is often considered the epitome of sushi craftsmanship, serving an omakase menu that changes daily based on the freshest available ingredients. While securing a reservation is notoriously difficult, the culinary journey is worth every effort. But if you can’t get into Sukiyabashi Jiro, worry not; Ginza is teeming with other high-quality sushi restaurants that will satisfy even the most discerning palate.
10. Visit the Ginza Graphic Gallery
Art enthusiasts should not miss a visit to the Ginza Graphic Gallery, a standout venue in Tokyo’s vibrant arts scene. This gallery focuses exclusively on graphic design, showcasing a rotating series of exhibitions that feature work from both Japanese and international designers. The space serves as a dialogue between art and viewer, offering a unique look at how design shapes our understanding of the world around us. With free admission and centrally located in the heart of Ginza, this gallery is an ideal destination for anyone interested in the intersection of art and design.
11. Explore the Nissan Crossing Showroom
Car enthusiasts and tech lovers will find the Nissan Crossing Showroom a futuristic haven right in the middle of Ginza. Situated at the famous Ginza intersection, this visually striking showroom offers a glimpse into the future of automotive technology. Here, you can see Nissan’s latest models, concept cars, and even delve into their vision for a sustainable future. Interactive exhibits allow visitors to engage in a hands-on experience, offering a deeper understanding of what goes into creating these advanced machines. Highlights often include groundbreaking electric vehicles and innovative driving technologies. A must-visit for both car aficionados and casual fans alike.
12. Enjoy Cocktails at the Ginza Sky Lounge
If you’re looking to elevate your experience in Ginza—quite literally—then a visit to the Ginza Sky Lounge is a must. Situated atop the Tokyo Kotsu Kaikan building, this revolving restaurant and bar offer panoramic views of the bustling city below. As you sip on expertly crafted cocktails, you’ll enjoy an ever-changing skyline that ranges from the Tokyo Tower to Mount Fuji on a clear day. The lounge is a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike, offering a sophisticated atmosphere to unwind. Whether you’re seeking a romantic evening out or just a tranquil moment above the city’s hustle, the Ginza Sky Lounge serves as an idyllic backdrop.
13. Visit the Shiseido Gallery
One of the oldest art galleries in Japan, the Shiseido Gallery is another cultural gem nestled in the heart of Ginza. Founded in 1919, the gallery has been a longstanding platform for both established and emerging artists. Unlike many galleries that focus on a single art form, Shiseido Gallery prides itself on its diverse range of exhibitions—from painting and sculpture to multimedia installations. With its minimalist design, the gallery allows the artwork to take center stage, offering an immersive experience for visitors. Free to the public and ever-rotating in its offerings, the Shiseido Gallery is an essential stop for art aficionados in Ginza.
14. Shop for Stationery at Itoya
A paradise for stationery lovers, Itoya in Ginza is more than just a shop—it’s an institution. Founded in 1904, Itoya offers a sprawling multi-level experience dedicated to the fine art of paper and writing tools. From artisanal Japanese washi paper to high-quality fountain pens, the store’s selection is both extensive and exquisitely curated. Itoya understands that in a digital world, there’s still immense value in the tactile experience of writing and crafting by hand. With floors dedicated to different themes, including one for customizing your own notebook, and another featuring a greenhouse where you can purchase live plants, a trip to Itoya is an adventure in itself.
15. Visit the Yakitori Alley in Yurakucho
When you’re in Ginza, don’t miss the nearby Yurakucho Yakitori Alley—an unassuming but authentic locale that’s a gastronomic oasis for food enthusiasts. Nestled beneath the Yurakucho train station’s brick arches, this alley is teeming with small yakitori joints where mouthwatering skewers of grilled chicken, pork, and vegetables are served. The atmosphere is quintessentially Japanese; you’ll find office workers in suits and ties sitting beside tourists, all relishing the delicious, smoky flavors of freshly-grilled yakitori. The scene is lively, filled with the clinking of glasses and cheerful chatter. It’s a must-visit spot if you’re looking to experience Tokyo’s everyday culinary culture while staying near Ginza.
16. Walk Around the Hibiya Park
If you’re seeking a touch of tranquility amidst the skyscrapers and neon lights of Tokyo, Hibiya Park is the place to go. Located a short walk from Ginza, this park offers sprawling lawns, beautiful fountains, and an array of flora that changes with the seasons. Whether it’s cherry blossoms in the spring or vibrant foliage in the fall, Hibiya Park provides a scenic escape for those looking to unwind. The park also hosts various events and concerts, adding a touch of liveliness to its serene backdrop. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, a picnic, or even just people-watching.
17. Explore the Mitsukoshi Department Store
No trip to Ginza is complete without a visit to Mitsukoshi, one of Tokyo’s most iconic department stores. Since its establishment as a kimono shop in the 17th century, Mitsukoshi has grown into a retail behemoth that epitomizes luxury and sophistication. Spread over multiple floors, the store features an impressive range of high-end brands, from fashion and beauty to homeware and electronics. You’ll also find a gourmet food hall that offers an array of delectable Japanese and international cuisine. But Mitsukoshi isn’t just about shopping; it’s an experience. The store often hosts exhibitions, cultural events, and even traditional tea ceremonies, making it a multi-faceted destination that caters to a myriad of interests.
As our exploration of the best things to do in Ginza comes to a close, it’s clear that this illustrious district offers much more than just a luxurious shopping experience. Ginza is a tapestry of contrasts, weaving together traditional Japanese culture with modern sophistication. From world-renowned restaurants to historic theaters, and from high-end boutiques to tranquil art galleries, Ginza provides an incomparable blend of what makes Tokyo truly extraordinary. Whether you spent your time here savoring culinary masterpieces or hunting for unique treasures in its glamorous stores, Ginza’s allure lies in its ability to offer something for everyone while never compromising on quality. Thank you for joining us on this opulent journey; we hope this guide elevates your Ginza adventure into an unforgettable escapade.
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