Best Things to Do in Ginza: The Glittering Gem of Tokyo!
Picture this: towering skyscrapers adorned with shimmering lights, streets bustling with fashionistas and foodies alike, and a vibrant lining of high-end department stores, boutique shops, art galleries, and glimpses of timeless Japanese culture at every turn.
That's Ginza for you — Tokyo's chic & sophisticated district, nestled in the heart of Japan's elegant capital.
To end your curiosity and help you with your Japanese adventure, let's jump into the 15 top super exciting things to do in Ginza.
Unmissable Ginza experiences:
Tsukiji Fish Market (Outer Market) - Have a Traditional Breakfast
The Inner market of Tsukiji may have bid sayonara, relocating to the nearby Toyosu Market.
But fear not, because Tsukiji Outer Market is still buzzing with excitement.
A 15-minute walk from Ginza, this vibrant market is where you can dive into the sea of street food vendors and mouthwatering restaurants.
Don't miss trying the freshly sliced sashimi and seafood barbecue, and also check out the shops where you can grab some chef knives and chopsticks for yourself.
While touring around this historic and best food area near Ginza, explore the 65 fish stalls, try a freshly cooked Tsukiji breakfast with green tea, visit a 300-year-old shrine, and sample a wagashi.
Address: 4-16-2 Tsukiji, Chūō, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan (map)
Ginza Sushi Ojima - An Ultimate Sushi Experience in Ginza
Exploring the freshest sushi delights is one of the best things to do in Ginza, Tokyo.
Famed for numerous sushi establishments like Sukiyabashi Jiro and Kyubey, we recommend Ginza Sushi Ojima, a top Tokyo sushi restaurant celebrated for its exquisite Japanese cuisine inspired by the Edo Period.
So, roll up your sleeves and savor melt-in-the-mouth dishes such as sea urchin nigiri, tuna nigiri, and abalone soup.
Address: 7-chōme-8 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-006 (map)
Opening Hours: Mon: 5:30pm to 10pm, Tues to Sat: 12pm to 2:30pm, 5:30pm to 10pm, Closed on Sun
Ginkuma Saryo - Taste the Best Teppanyaki in Ginza
Take a break from the bustling Ginza tourist attractions by heading to Ginkuma Saryo, conveniently located just a 3-minute walk from Ginza Station.
This extraordinary space lets you savor carefully selected seasonal ingredients, including their renowned Kuroge Wagyu beef teppanyaki.
Indulge in fresh seafood and seasonal vegetables meticulously chosen from all corners of the country.
And don't forget the Kuroge Wagyu beef, celebrated for its fine, moderately firm meat texture that melts in the mouth.
Finally, pair this exquisite dish with a glass of classy champagne, offering the perfect break while you tick off your Ginza bucket list.
Address: 7F, Nishi Ginza Building, 6-3-11 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo (map)
Opening Hours: Mon to Sat: 11:30am to 2pm, 5pm to 10:30pm, Closed on Sun
Ibaraki - Go on a Two-day Excursion from Ginza
How about hopping on a bus from Ginza to explore the Ibaraki Prefecture?
When you visit the 1300-year-old Inari shrine, admire the coastal views from the Hitachi Station, and walk on the Ryujin Suspension Bridge; you will not regret your decision to experience Ibaraki along with your Ginza tour.
And if you are wondering why do you need two days then you are forgetting about the relaxing night that you will spend soaking at a hot spring inn.
Ginza Luxury Shopping - Upscale Your Fashion Game
While you're soaking in the vibes of Ginza, treat yourself to a bit of luxury shopping or just people-watch to catch glamorous fashion moments.
There are a couple of spots worth checking out - the 670-metre-long Sunamachi Ginza Shopping District, one of the top shopping streets in Tokyo, or, for the ultimate experience, stroll down Chuo-Dori, a kilometer of Ginza goodness with towering department stores and fancy boutiques.
Oh, and here's a tip: if you're planning your shopping spree on Chuo-Dori, weekends are the way to go.
The streets are closed to vehicles, turning into a car-free zone.
Picture this: roads adorned with chairs and umbrellas, just waiting for shoppers like you to kick back and take a breather.
Weekend shopping in Ginza? Count us in!
Address: Ginza, Cho-ku, Tokyo, 104-0061 (map)
UNIQLO GINZA - Ultimate Retail Therapy
Get ready to shop till you drop in Ginza because UNIQLO's flagship store is not just any shop - it's a whopping 12 floors of retail heaven!
Saying no to this shopping hub?
Not a chance, especially when you can snag their exclusive collections and cool Ginza collaboration products.
And here's the shopping dream kicker: head to the 11th floor for the UT store, where pop culture takes over the apparel scene.
Load up your bags with adorable anime t-shirts and wardrobe basics, the absolute must-haves from UNIQLO GINZA.
Address: 1F to 12F, Ginza Komatsu East Wing, 6-9-5 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo (map)
Opening Hours: Open daily: 11am to 9pm
Kabukiza Theater - Explore Japan's Theatrical Heritage
One thing you absolutely can't miss in Ginza? Immerse yourself in the enchanting tales of Kabuki, a fantastic Japanese tradition of dance drama.
And trust us, it gets even more magical when you catch it at the iconic Kabukiza Theater.
You're not just soaking in culture, art, and entertainment - you're also taking in the awe-inspiring architecture of the theatre.
Plus, this art hub has some chic shops and a bunch of restaurants. Talk about experiencing Japanese heritage!
Address: 4 Chome-12-15 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061, Japan (map)
Ginza Six - Redefine Tokyo's Opulent Landscape
At the forefront of Ginza's allure, you'll discover Ginza Six—one of the major tourist attractions and a shopping playground for trendsetters and fashion aficionados.
Ginza Six will paint a clear picture for you if you're exploring the cutting-edge styles of Tokyo's luxury fashion scene.
And that's not all; elevate your experience at the rooftop garden for a moment of bliss and immerse yourself in culture at the Noh Theater inside Ginza Six.
Address: 6 Chome-10-1 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061, Japan (map)
Opening Hours: Open daily: 10:30am to 8:30pm
Art Aquarium Museum Ginza - Watch the Illuminating Aquatic Artwork:
Got your Ginza to-do list ready? Well, don't forget to add the Art Aquarium Museum to the mix - it's a game-changer.
This place is not your regular fish-peeking spot. Nope, it's a full-blown experience with dazzling structures, goldfish tanks lit up like a rainbow, and all sorts of sensory magic.
Say goodbye to the usual goldfish-viewing routine; here, you're in for a wild ride.
Imagine witnessing thousands of fish through a kaleidoscope, gracefully floating in these vibrant, towering tanks.
Why wouldn't you want to hit up this aquarium museum in the heart of Ginza? It's a must.
Can't get enough of museums? Take a short 10-minute car ride and grab teamLab Planets tickets to experience one of the most immersive digital art museums in Tokyo.
Address: Mitsukoshi New Building, 8th-9th floor entrance, 4 Chome-6-16 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-8212, Japan (map)
Opening Hours: Open daily: 10 am to 7 pm
Explore the World of Architectural Wonders in Ginza
Keeping an eye out for architectural marvels is one of the best things to do while touring around Ginza, Tokyo.
Your Ginza exploration is elevated by the most unique buildings designed by renowned architects.
From the iconic clock tower of Ginza Wako to the sleek modernity of Ginza Six and the futuristic vibes of Ginza Place, you'll be awe-struck at every turn.
But that's not all; if you're an art enthusiast, don't miss peeking into the city's creative soul with free-to-enter art galleries such as Shiseido Gallery and Maison de Hermes.
Ginza Itoya - Doodle Your Way Through Cute Japanese Stationery
We're sure you have seen tons of videos about cute and colorful stationery items in Japan with unique designs. Enter this 100-year-old store Ginza Itoya — a paradise for stationery lovers. With aisles full of vibrant colorful pens, designer office supplies, and the irresistible scent of fresh paper, Ginza Itoya is more like a museum than a store. Did you know that you can also customize your own style of notebooks here and learn the art of gift-wrapping?
Address: 2 Chome-7-15 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061, Japan (map)
Opening Hours: Mon to Sat: 10am to 8pm, Sun: 10am to 7pm
Hamarikyu Gardens - Escape the Hustle and Bustle of Tokyo
Wondering what else to do in Ginza? Stroll at the Hamarikyu Gardens which was once a feudal lord's lavish Tokyo residence and a duck-hunting ground. This picturesque park amidst urban chaos whispers tales of time through its lush greenery and tranquil ponds as you can spot the remains of an old moat and reconstructed duck-hunting blinds. Plum and cherry blossoms are the highlights of Hamarikyu Gardens but if you are visiting in autumn you can see the beautiful fall colors of maple and ginkgo trees. The spring cheers up the park as well when you can see the prettiest blossoms of peony and canola. All in all, you will only witness beauty at this popular tourist attraction in Ginza.
Address: 1-1 Hamarikyuteien, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0046, Japan (map)
Opening Hours: Open daily: 9am to 5pm
Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple - Witness the Ancient Charm of Ginza Near the Market
Another best thing to do in Ginza Tokyo is to combine the buzzing seafood market experience with the serenity of spirituality. While exploring the Tsukiji Fish Market, you cannot miss the Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple which is at a stone's throw away. This Jodo Shinshu Buddhist Temple is an ancient beauty with lotus motifs, minarets, and columns that display influences of South Asian, Islamic, and European architectural styles.
Address: 3 Chome-15-1 Tsukiji, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-8435, Japan (map)
Opening Hours: Open daily: 6am to 4pm
Slurp Your Way Through Ginza - The Ramen's Paradise
Your search for the perfect bowl of comfort ends in Ginza, which is a haven for noodle lovers. From cozy traditional shops to sleek modern eateries, you may choose to savor ramen in all kinds of rich and delicate flavors. Our recommendations include the best shops in Ginza such as Shoyu Ramen and Shio Ramen where they offer varieties ranging from classic recipes to innovative twists. Choose your bowl of goodness and make sure to include the ramen scene to your list of cool things to do in Ginza.
Yurakucho - Taste the Local Culture Underneath the Train Tracks
Hold your sushi rolls! Before you get lost in the neon-lit streets and high-end boutiques, take a detour to the nearby Yurakucho neighborhood, a hidden gem that is as lively as it is local. Here, it's not about the glitz and glam, it's about immersing yourself in the authentic flavors and vibes of Tokyo's izakaya culture. Yurakucho is your answer to what to do in Ginza at night as the tiny alleys of this neighborhood light up with local bars and affordable restaurants.
Quick Tips for a Seamless Tokyo Trip
IIJmio Total Data E-Sim
Even faster than you say "konnichiwa", you can equip yourself with internet connectivity with the IIJmio Total Data E-Sim. Whether you want to navigate Google Maps or stay connected with friends and family, this embedded sim will be your best friend while traveling in Tokyo.
Master the Metro in Tokyo
Don't waste a single minute while traveling in Tokyo and grab the Tokyo Subway Tickets with unlimited rides. The best part about these tickets is that you can get a 1, 2, or 3-day pass to match with your trip days. Explore the sprawling district of Ginza and the whole of Tokyo City easily with these subway tickets that reach up to 350 locations.
Rent a Car from the Airport
If you want to taste the freedom and explore Ginza at your own pace, then rent a Nissan vehicle which you can pick up right from the Narita/Haneda airport or Tokyo station. Cruise through the neon-lit streets like a local and uncover the hidden gems beyond the guidebooks as you level up your journey with a rental car.
See You in Ginza!
Congratulations travellers! You've just unlocked the ultimate guide to all the tourist attractions and the top 16 best things to do in Ginza. With each corner serving a surprise element, your trip to Ginza is bound to be as eclectic as the city itself. This hands-on guide from our experts will help you curate a perfect Ginza itinerary. And before you wrap up, make sure to browse through all the tours offered by Pelago on our website, we promise you will surely find something unique that will interest you right away.
Commonly Asked Questions
What is Ginza popular for?
Ginza is renowned as Tokyo's luxurious shopping and entertainment district. It's popular for its high-end boutiques, department stores, art galleries, and fine dining restaurants. Its vibrant atmosphere, cultural significance, and dynamic blend of commerce and culture make Ginza an iconic destination in Tokyo.
Is it worth visiting Ginza?
Absolutely! Ginza offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition, making it a must-visit destination in Tokyo. From luxury shopping to exploring historic landmarks and enjoying the nightlife, Ginza promises a memorable experience.
Why is the Ginza district famous?
The Ginza district is famous for several reasons. Historically, it was one of the first areas in Tokyo to adopt Western-style architecture and become a symbol of Japan's modernization. Today, Ginza is a global shopping and entertainment hub, home to flagship stores of luxury brands, Michelin-starred restaurants, and cutting-edge art galleries.