Explore Tokyo’s vibrant sub-center areas, each with a distinct charm: Shibuya, Shinjuku, Toshima, and Bunkyo.
■ Shibuya Ward
〈A Youthful Hub and Spiritual Power Spot at Meiji Shrine〉
When people think of Shibuya, the iconic scramble crossing in front of Shibuya Station likely comes to mind. This bustling landmark, packed with crowds and digital advertisements, is a signature sight of Tokyo. Shibuya is also home to SHIBUYA 109, a trendsetting youth fashion hub, and numerous department stores, making it a go-to destination for shopping and dining.
Harajuku, another popular area in Shibuya, is famous for Takeshita Street, lined with quirky stores selling unique fashion, from gothic lolita to vintage styles. Harajuku is a treasure trove of subcultures, offering something for everyone.
For a more serene experience, visit Meiji Shrine, one of Tokyo’s premier “power spots.” Surrounded by lush nature, this spiritual oasis is not only a place to pray for love and success but also a spot to seek blessings for exams and business prosperity. Meiji Shrine is also the most visited shrine in Japan.
Shibuya Scramble Crossing\
Takeshita Street in Harajuku
〈Living in Shibuya Ward: High-End Residential Areas in a Tranquil Setting〉
Although Shibuya is known for its commercial areas, quiet residential neighborhoods like Ebisu and Hiroo are just a short walk away. These upscale districts are home to luxury rentals favored by foreign diplomats and expatriates. While the cost of living is high due to premium supermarkets and amenities, the peaceful and safe environment makes it ideal for families, especially with its prestigious private and international schools.
■ Shinjuku Ward
〈Tourist Attractions, Department Stores, and Entertainment〉
Shinjuku Ward is one of Tokyo’s busiest business hubs, and Shinjuku Station is the world’s busiest train station. Around the station, there are popular attractions like Isetan Department Store and Shinjuku Gyoen, a famous park for cherry blossom viewing and seasonal beauty.
Kabukicho, Shinjuku’s entertainment district, has a vibrant nightlife and unique experiences like the Robot Restaurant. For history buffs, the Samurai Museum offers a deep dive into Japan’s warrior past. Visitors can also head to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building’s observatory for a panoramic view of the city, all for free.
In Shin-Okubo, Tokyo’s largest Koreatown, you can explore Korean restaurants, supermarkets, and beauty shops, experiencing a slice of Korean culture in the heart of Japan.
〈Living in Shinjuku Ward: Perfect for Urbanites Seeking Convenience〉
Despite Shinjuku’s reputation for office buildings and nightlife, there are peaceful residential areas nearby. Yotsuya, for example, offers excellent transportation access and a beloved shopping street. Recent redevelopments have added new supermarkets, clinics, and restaurants, enhancing the quality of life for residents.
Shinjuku Downtown Area
■ Toshima Ward
〈Sunshine City and Sugamo Shopping District〉
Toshima Ward is home to Ikebukuro’s Sunshine City, a massive complex with an aquarium, planetarium, theater, and even Namja Town, an indoor theme park with a nostalgic Japanese townscape. It’s a great place to visit year-round, regardless of the weather.
On the other hand, Sugamo Jizo-dori Shopping Street, known as “Grandma’s Harajuku,” is a popular destination for older generations. With about 200 shops offering sweets, Japanese confections, and clothing, it provides a relaxed, retro atmosphere. Togenuki Jizo Temple, located nearby, is believed to offer blessings for physical healing.
〈Living in Toshima Ward: A Balance of Urban Excitement and Quiet Living〉
Toshima Ward is committed to safety, having earned “safe community” certification from the World Health Organization (WHO). The area around Mejiro Station, for example, is a tranquil residential neighborhood close to the campus of Gakushuin University, a prestigious school once attended by members of the Imperial family. Though Mejiro is just next to the bustling Ikebukuro, it remains a calm and upscale area, offering residents a pleasant living environment.
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Ikebukuro Sunshine City
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Sugamo Jizo Shopping Street
■ Bunkyo Ward
〈Tokyo Dome and Nezu Shrine: A Mix of Modern and Traditional Attractions〉
Bunkyo Ward is home to Tokyo Dome, Japan’s largest domed stadium. Beyond watching baseball games, visitors can enjoy the surrounding amusement facilities at Tokyo Dome City, which includes thrilling rides, a Ferris wheel, and the spa-centered LaQua complex. Martial arts enthusiasts will appreciate Korakuen Hall, a famous venue for combat sports, while families with children can enjoy hero shows.
For a traditional experience, visit Nezu Shrine. Known for its beautiful koi pond and a tunnel of a thousand vermilion torii gates, this shrine is said to bring good fortune, especially as it survived both the Great Tokyo Air Raids and the Great East Japan Earthquake. The surrounding Nezu area is also perfect for strolling, with its many cafes and sweets shops. The nearby University of Tokyo, Japan’s top academic institution, is also worth a visit for its impressive campus.
〈Living in Bunkyo Ward: Ideal for Academically-Minded Families〉
Bunkyo Ward is a safe and green environment, with excellent medical services, including university hospitals. Myogadani is a particularly peaceful area within the ward, known for its parks, botanical gardens, and cherry blossom-lined streets. The area’s proximity to top-rated national and public elementary schools makes it a popular choice for families focused on education.