Let’s explore the Joto area, a section of Tokyo’s 23 wards, known for its rich history and atmospheric townscapes.
■ Arakawa Ward
〈Historic Shopping Streets and a Fun Amusement Park〉
Arakawa Ward is a district with a long history and a traditional downtown feel.
Nippori is famous as a textile city, offering a wide variety of fabrics, both Japanese and Western, at incredibly low prices, attracting shoppers of all ages. Yanaka Ginza Shopping Street, loved by locals for years, is the perfect spot to stroll and enjoy affordable street food like skewers. This area is also known for its many cats, with several shops selling cat-themed goods—a must-visit for cat lovers!
For fun and entertainment, visit Arakawa Amusement Park, which was renovated in spring 2022. It offers plenty of rides for children, an animal interaction area, and even a fishing pond. Train enthusiasts will enjoy the permanent model railroad exhibition, making this park a delightful spot for both kids and adults.
〈Living in Arakawa Ward: Affordable Rents and Close Proximity to Central Tokyo〉
Arakawa Ward offers spacious parks and vibrant shopping streets. The Minami-Senju area is undergoing urban development, with new condominiums and convenient shopping areas near the station. The well-lit streets at night, plus the easy access to Asakusa and Ueno by bike or bus, make it a great option for singles.
■ Taito Ward
〈Tourist Hotspots: Asakusa and Ueno Park〉
Taito Ward is world-renowned for Asakusa, a must-see destination for both locals and tourists. The approach from Kaminarimon to Hozomon is lined with shops selling traditional crafts and souvenirs. Renting a kimono or yukata here is popular, as is exploring the area by rickshaw, where the guides reveal hidden gems not found in guidebooks.
Ueno Park is a cultural hub, home to Ueno Zoo, famous for its giant pandas, and multiple museums, including the National Museum of Nature and Science and the Tokyo National Museum, showcasing important cultural properties and natural history exhibits.
〈Living in Taito Ward: A Mix of Traditional Charm and Modern Convenience〉
Though known for its “shitamachi” (old downtown) atmosphere, Taito Ward has seen recent development, especially in areas like Kuramae, where trendy cafes and shops attract young people. With supermarkets and convenience stores near stations, Taito Ward offers a safe and clean environment, making it a popular choice for women living alone.
■ Sumida Ward
〈Skytree and Sumo Wrestling: Entertainment for All Ages〉
Sumida Ward is home to Tokyo’s iconic Skytree, a 634-meter-tall radio tower with observation decks offering stunning views of the city. At its base lies the Tokyo Skytree Town, a complex with an aquarium, restaurants, and shops. The Sumida Aquarium is particularly unique, with exhibits featuring Japanese goldfish and a massive tank for penguins.
Sumo enthusiasts can visit the Ryogoku Kokugikan, where sumo tournaments are held. Visitors can also explore the Sumo Museum, which showcases the sport’s history and memorabilia, or dine on the famous “chankonabe,” a hot pot meal enjoyed by sumo wrestlers.
Looking Skytree from Asakusa.
Ryogoku Kokugikan
〈Living in Sumida Ward: A Blend of Old and New〉
Sumida Ward offers both traditional downtown areas and newly developed sections around Skytree. The loop bus provides easy access to hospitals, shopping, and other essentials. Hikifune is a redeveloping downtown area with reasonable rents, new apartments, and large supermarkets, making it an increasingly desirable place to live.
■ Koto Ward
〈Toyosu Market and Bayside Attractions〉
Koto Ward is famous for Toyosu Fish Market, which replaced Tsukiji in 2018. Visitors can observe tuna auctions early in the morning and enjoy fresh seafood. Toyosu also boasts attractions like TeamLab’s interactive digital art installations and KidZania, where children can experience different careers in a fun, hands-on environment.
For a more relaxing experience, visit Kiyosumi Garden in Kiyosumi-shirakawa, a scenic spot perfect for a stroll, with stylish cafes nearby for a pleasant afternoon outing.
Toyosu Fish Market
〈Living in Koto Ward: Perfect for Families near Commercial Facilities〉
Koto Ward is home to many large commercial centers, especially around the Toyosu and Ariake bayside areas, where high-rise condominiums continue to rise. The wide, well-maintained sidewalks and proximity to Tokyo’s central districts, such as Ginza, make it an ideal area for families who want a balance of city life and waterfront living.
■ Katsushika Ward
〈Iconic Film Locations and Quaint Shopping Streets〉
Fans of classic Japanese films will recognize Katsushika Ward from the beloved “It’s Tough Being a Man” series. The area still retains its old-town charm, with Shibamata Station featuring a statue of the movie’s character, Tora-san. Visitors can explore the Tora-san Memorial Museum to immerse themselves in the movie’s nostalgic world.
Nearby, Taishakuten Sando Shopping Street offers delicious street food like tempura and oden, providing a taste of the Showa era.
Statue of Tora-san in Shibamata.
〈Living in Katsushika Ward: Affordable Rents and a Friendly “Shitamachi” Atmosphere〉
Katsushika Ward offers some of the lowest rents among Tokyo’s 23 wards. Kameari, in particular, is known for its convenience, with large shopping malls and abundant green spaces, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a relaxed lifestyle.
■ Edogawa Ward
〈Ferris Wheel, Aquarium, and River Views〉
Edogawa Ward, located on the eastern edge of Tokyo, bordering Chiba Prefecture, offers peaceful, family-friendly attractions. Kasai Rinkai Park is home to a large Ferris wheel, BBQ areas, and the Kasai Sea Life Park, where visitors can observe tuna swimming in a massive tank, a rare sight worldwide. You can also enjoy scenic river canoe tours with views of Tokyo Skytree.
〈Living in Edogawa Ward: Ideal for Families and a Slower-Paced Life〉
Edogawa Ward is known for its residential areas and family-friendly amenities. Funabori is a particularly green area with many supermarkets and hospitals, making it a comfortable place to raise children. With parks, child-rearing support systems, and the calm pace of life, Edogawa Ward is perfect for those seeking a tranquil living environment just 30 minutes from central Tokyo.