Ginza

The Basics

Even if you don’t have the money to splash around at such exclusive stores as Louis Vuitton, Prada, and Chanel, you can still enjoy window shopping at its finest. Highlights include the Sony Building and Hakuhinkan Toy Park. Another must-see attraction is the Wako Department Store, a neo-Renaissance-style building known for its impressive clock tower. You could easily spend hours wandering the area’s other prestigious department stores, such as Mitsukoshi and Matsuya.

Ginza is also a great dining destination, and guided tours of the area tend to focus on its food scene. Tours typically visit neighborhood pubs, popular with locals getting off work, and exquisite confectionery and pastry shops. Another specialized option is an architecture-focused tour. General sightseeing tours of Tokyo (private or group) also typically include a stroll through Ginza.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Ginza is a must-visit for those with an interest in contemporary Japanese culture.

• The neighborhood is also a great destination for entertainment. The Kabuki-za Theater presents traditional Kabuki theater daily.

• The side streets of Ginza are home to many art galleries.

• The department store food halls generously hand out samples, making it easy to fill up cost-free.

How to Get There

Located in Tokyo’s Chuo ward, Ginza is centrally located and easily accessible by subway or taxi. It is served by Ginza station on Tokyo Metro’s Hibiya, Ginza, and Marunouchi lines, as well as Ginza Itchome station on the Yurakucho line and Higashi Ginza station on the Hibaya and Toei Asakusa lines.

When to Get There

Ginza is at its most atmospheric in the evening, when neon lights up the dark sky and the streets are filled with after-work revelers. However, possibly the best time to visit is on Saturday or Sunday, between noon and 5pm, when the main street through Ginza is closed to vehicles, creating Hokōsha Tengoku (“pedestrian heaven”).

Silver Mint

From the 17th to 19th century, the Ginza district was the site of a silver-coin mint (Ginza translates as "silver mint"). After the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923, the area evolved as an upmarket shopping district. Today, 10 square feet (1 square meter) of land in the center is worth more than 10 million yen (more than $85,000).

Is Ginza worth a visit?

Yes, Ginza is definitely worth visiting and is a must-visit central Tokyo neighborhood. It’s one of Tokyo’s most upmarket and glamorous neighborhoods and is a fascinating place to browse, whether or not you’re shopping for luxury goods. Find department stores and high-end stores on the main street, as well as smaller boutiques on side-streets.

What is the best time to visit Ginza?

The best times to visit Ginza are Saturday and Sunday afternoons, when the main street—Chuo Dori—is closed to vehicle traffic. While many people come here to shop on the weekends, it’s easier to look around when you’re not dodging cars. Many shops are open between mid-morning and mid-evening, with restaurants usually open later.

Which street is best in Ginza?

Ginza’s Chuo Dori—which can be translated as Central Avenue or Main Street—is arguably the best street to check out first. It runs through the middle of the neighborhood and has many of the biggest department stores and most luxurious designer brands. However, don’t miss the side streets for more offbeat finds.

What is the best day of the week to visit Ginza?

Saturday and Sunday afternoons are arguably the best days to visit Ginza, as the main street, Chuo Dori, is pedestrianized. This makes walking around more pleasant. However, the weekends are also the busiest days to visit. If you prefer to avoid crowds, try visiting on a weekday morning.

Is Ginza good for tourists?

Yes, Ginza is a must-visit neighborhood for tourists when visiting Tokyo. While the stores mainly sell luxury goods, you don’t need to go shopping for high-end products to enjoy walking up and down Chuo Dori. Visiting Ginza gives a fascinating insight into parts of contemporary Japanese culture.

Is Ginza foreigner friendly?

Yes, like most of Tokyo, Ginza is a foreigner-friendly neighborhood. If you have a generous budget for shopping, you’ll be welcomed into the department stores and boutiques. But even if you’re not in the market for luxury goods, foreigners are welcome to browse and take in the atmosphere.

Ways to explore

Even if you don’t have the money to splash around at exclusive stores like Louis Vuitton, Prada, and Chanel, you can still enjoy window shopping at its finest in Ginza. Another must-see attraction is the Wako Department Store, a neo-Renaissance-style building known for its impressive clock tower. You could easily spend hours wandering the area’s other prestigious department stores, such as Mitsukoshi and Matsuya.

Ginza is also a great dining destination, and many tours of the area focus on its food scene; excursions typically visit neighborhood pubs, popular with locals after work, plus exquisite confectionery and pastry shops. Another specialized option is an architecture-focused tour. General sightseeing tours of Tokyo typically include a stroll through Ginza, whether private tours or group walks.

Accessibility

Most stores and attractions in Ginza are wheelchair accessible, with elevators and step-free entrances.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Tote bag for your purchases, water bottle, your passport for tax-free shopping (look for tax-free stickers displayed in stores)

What to wear

All of Ginza’s luxury stores are climate-controlled, so wear layers for when you head back outdoors, and comfortable shoes for walking between sites.

Not allowed

Smoking outside designated areas

Amenities

Hotels, stores, theaters, restaurants, restrooms

Address

Located in Tokyo’s Chuo ward, Ginza is centrally located and easily accessible by subway or taxi. You can reach Ginza from Tokyo station on foot within around 15 minutes.

Driving

Traffic around Ginza can be congested, and it’s far easier to travel via public transportation. If you plan to drive, many department stores and shopping centers offer parking for free or at discounted rates for customers who make a purchase, including Nishiginza, Tokyu Plaza Ginza, and Ginza Six.

Public transportation

Ginza station is served by Tokyo Metro’s Hibiya, Ginza, and Marunouchi lines. Alternatively, travel to Ginza Itchome via the Yurakucho line or Higashi Ginza on the Hibiya and Toei Asakusa lines.

Best times to visit

Ginza is at its most atmospheric in the evening, when neon lights up the dark sky and the streets are filled with after-work revelers

Best days to visit

The best time to visit is on Saturday or Sunday, between 12pm and 5pm, when the main street through Ginza is closed to vehicles, creating hokōsha tengoku (“pedestrian heaven”).

Best months to visit

During spring, the cherry blossom trees in Ginza burst into bloom for a colorful display.

Special events

In the second half of October, the Autumn Ginza Festival is a cultural celebration featuring tea ceremonies and street parades.