Understand

Welcome to the vibrant and charming "shitamachi" area, known for its pre-WWII allure and small neighborhood ambiance. Despite its transformation into a Tokyo commuter hub, the area has managed to preserve its unique character. As you explore, you'll stumble upon countless small businesses that add to the authentic charm. To catch a glimpse of the true essence of "shita machi," venture beyond the bustling Kinshichou and Oshiage/Skytree stations. The new vibrant heart of this historic district lies in Oshiage/Skytree, the bustling crossing point that offers direct connections to various destinations across Japan, including Yokohama and all Tokyo airports. Here, you'll find the iconic Skytree towering above the cityscape, surrounded by the lively Solamachi complex. This massive shopping mall is a treasure trove of delights, offering not only a plethora of shops but also a captivating Aquarium, a mind-expanding Planetarium, and convenience stores such as LIFE and NITORI. Spend an enchanting day exploring Solamachi, especially if you have kids in tow. Make sure to visit one of the delightful Moomin Cafe/Shops and browse through the fascinating array of souvenirs. Keep an eye out for the new hotels and renovated buildings that add a modern touch to the traditional charm of -shita machi-. This transformation is particularly noteworthy as Tokyo gears up to welcome visitors for the 2020 Olympics. Don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in this captivating blend of past and present.

Get in

Looking to explore Tokyo? OSHIAGE Station is the perfect starting point for your adventure. With its convenient connections to various train lines, you can easily reach all the must-visit tourist spots. Whether you want to head to Yokohama, the two airports, or even Chiba or Shibuya, OSHIAGE Station has got you covered. The station provides direct access to Yokohama, making it a breeze to explore this vibrant city. Additionally, you can hop on the JR Sobu Line (local service) to venture east-west through Sumida. This line conveniently connects to the Yamanote line in Akihabara, a hub for Japanese pop culture. If you prefer subway travel, the Toei Oedo Line loops around the western edge of the ward, offering connections to Ueno in the north and Shiodome in the south. Get ready to embark on an exciting journey from OSHIAGE Station!

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Sushi: Sushi is a traditional Japanese dish consisting of vinegared rice served with various toppings, typically fish or seafood. The rice is usually accompanied by a small piece of nori (seaweed) and sometimes features a dab of wasabi, pickled ginger, or soy sauce. There are many variations, including nigiri (hand-pressed sushi), maki (rolled sushi), and sashimi (slices of raw fish).

Ramen: Ramen is a widely popular soup dish in Japan that includes Chinese-style wheat noodles served in a meat or fish-based broth. It is often garnished with ingredients such as pork, dried seaweed, menma (fermented soybean paste), scallions, and miso paste. The dish can be found in various styles, including tonkotsu (pork bone broth), shoyu (soy sauce broth), and miso.

Tempura: Tempura is a deep-fried dish where seafood, vegetables, or mushrooms are battered and then cooked in hot oil. The light, crispy batter turns golden brown and creates a contrast with the soft textures of the ingredients inside. Traditional tempura elements include shrimp, sweet potato, pumpkin, spinach, and green beans. It is typically served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, Mirin, and dashi.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing