Shimbashi—a hub for both business and leisure in the heart of Tokyo
- Published on : 20/03/2024
- by : Japan Experience
- Youtube
Shimbashi
@ivva on Wikimedia, CC BY-SA 2.0
Nestled in the heart of Tokyo, Shimbashi is a district in Minato ward that effortlessly blends rich history, vibrant nightlife, and a diverse culinary scene. This bustling area is a popular hub for businessmen looking to unwind after a long day's work at the many izakaya-style bars and restaurants that line the streets. Shimbashi offers a captivating mix of old and new, from the historic Shimbashi Station, one of Japan's oldest railway stations, to the modern high-rise complexes that dot the skyline. Immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of Shimbashi and discover why it continues to be a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike.
Located in the elegant, and often ritzy, Minato Ward of Tokyo, Shimbashi is a location that is host to many well-established companies and firms. Because of this, many will see suit-donning salarymen throughout the streets, both during the day and after work hours.
However, this doesn’t mean that the area is stiff or overly corporate. Where there are salarymen, there are great restaurants for them to visit during their lunch breaks and lively izakayas to take them in after work. Along with this, the area’s notable history within Tokyo provides it with a refined air that is great both for exploration and leisure.
What to see, what to do
Parks and greenery
Shimbashi and the area around it are home to some of the most open and picturesque parks in Tokyo, especially with the contemporary skyscrapers in the background. Here are some of our favorites to visit!
- Hamarikyu Garden
This landscape garden is located right at the mouth of the Sumida River, and its center is a gorgeous pond with a classically styled tea house above the water. Around the exterior is a seawater moat filled with water from Tokyo Bay. Be sure to visit the peony garden during full bloom in late spring to early summer. The
- Kyu Shiba Rikyu Gardens
Not far from Hamarikyu Garden is Kyu Shiba Rikyu Garden. It, along with Hamarikyu, Koishikawa Korakuen, and Rikugi-en are the only remaining Edo-period clan gardens in Tokyo. Kyu Shiba Rikyu Garden is largely cited as “the most beautiful garden” in all of Japan, with distinctly traditional aesthetics juxtaposed against modern and elegant architecture in the background.
Hamarikyu
@Japan Experience
History and culture
- Old Shimbashi Station
The Old Shimbashi Station, a faithful reconstruction of the original 1872 station building, houses a railway museum that offers a glimpse into the early days of Japan's railway system. Visitors can explore the exhibits, which include vintage train cars and historical artifacts.
- Gallery Hinoki-e
For a taste of Shimbashi's artistic side, Gallery Hinoki-e is a contemporary art gallery showcasing the works of emerging and established Japanese artists. The gallery's exhibitions rotate regularly, ensuring there's always something new and exciting to discover.
- Shimbashi Enbujo Theater
One of the major kabuki venues in Tokyo, this storied theater dates back to 1925. These days, the theater is host to everything from musicals to dramas along with traditional kabuki. The theater is famous for presenting more experimental, new-age forms of kabuki compared to other theaters.
- Karasumori Shrine
Only 3 minutes from the Hibiya Exit of Shimbashi Station, this modest shrine stands out amongs the modern buildings surrounding it. The shrine was founded all the way back in the year 940 and is an Inari shrine that commemorates a white fox that was said to have led Fujiwara no Hidesato against a rebel insurgency.
Experience kabuki in Tokyo!
Shopping in Shimbashi
Shimbashi, being near areas like Ginza, Hibiya, and Marunouchi, is host to a number of high-end boutiques and department stores. It is also home to the flagship shop for many artisanal Japanese brands, as well as shops sponsored by other prefectures in Japan to promote their local specialties and offerings.
- New Shimbashi Building
Right across the street from Shimbashi Station, the New Shimbashi Building is an architectural standoutin the area, with staggering wood beams latticing the exterior. This design can even be seen from the inside when looking out the windows. There are old-school kissatens, restaurants, affordable shops, an ATM, a post office, and more!
New Shimbashi Building
＠Keramahani on Wikimedia, CC BY-SA 4.0
- gallery shop KANAGU
The premier shop in the area for quality home goods, most of which come from dedicated artisans from all around Japan! Woodwork, metalwork, textiles, and more are all available and make for great souvenirs as well as decor for home.
- Tottori Okayama Shimbashikan
A shop jointly sponsored by the prefectures of Tottori and Okayama in central Japan, the shop sells premium goods sourced from the two areas as well as having a restaurant/cafe on the second floor. Be sure to try peach goods from Okayama, pear treats from Tottori, and locally beloved sake from both!
- Kagawa Ehime Setouchi Shunsaikan
Kagawa Prefecture and Ehime Prefecture are both located on Shikoku, the least populated of the four main Japanese islands that many locals say is the country’s best-kept secret. Everything from quality seafood to artisanal pottery to pearl jewelry is available for purchase to encourage travel to this lesser-known part of the archipelago!
Where to eat in Shimbashi
Food and drink in Shimbashi cannot be talked about without the mention of the Shimbashi Gado-shita. The Gado-shita refers to the series of restaurants and izakayas directly beneath the train tracks between Shimbashi Station and Yurakucho Station. Indeed, patrons will hear (and feel) the rumble of trains up above, but with the noise of talking customers around, it just becomes part of the atmosphere.
Of course, there is a medley of great establishments throughout the area, especially along its narrow, character-filled streets.
- Yakitori Haretsubame Shimbashi
Offering a range of different cuts of chicken with either a simple salt or lush sweet soy-based sauce. The tsukune (meatball) with a raw egg yolk is a textural treasure on the menu. Not just limited to meat, vegetable options like roasted tomatoes and shiitake mushrooms are also great items.
- Shimbashi Dry-Dock
A local staple with an impressive roster of beer by the bottle. Hearty, western-style Japanese goodies are great accompaniments, such as their famous karaage and the Napolitan spaghetti.
- Tempura Kondo
Between Shimbashi and Ginza, Tempura Kondo is one of the most revered tempura restaurants in all of Tokyo. Chef Fumio Kondo is known for his approach to frying that emphasizes the poaching of ingredients in batter. What this results in is dishes with a great crispy coating and great texture on the inside. As of the 2025 Michelin Guide, it has been awarded 2 Michelin stars.
- Shimbashi TAMAKIYA
With roots dating back to the 1700s during the Edo Period, Tamakiya’s long history has led it to be the most well-established shop for domestic Japanese food products. They are especially known for a dish known as tsukudani, in which seafood, seaweed, vegetables, or meat is simmered in soy sauce.
Shimbashi gado-shita
@WordRidden on Flickr, CC BY 2.0
Where to stay in Shimbashi
Its central location and distinctly “Tokyo-esque” atmosphere make Shimbashi a great choice when finding accommodation! Take a look at some of our favorite hotels in the area.
Luxury Hotels
- The Royal Park Hotel Shiodome
- Imperial Hotel Tokyo
- Conrad Tokyo
Budget Hotels
Conrad Tokyo from Hamarikyu
@FoxyStranger Kawasaki on Wikimedia
Shimbashi in history and pop culture
Shimbashi Station is one of the oldest and most storied stations in all of Tokyo, being the original terminus for the Tokaido Main Line. The SL Square by the Hibiya Exit of the station has a commemorative steam locomotive in reference to this history.
In pop culture, the popular VTuber Hoshimachi Suisei had a portion of the music video for her song “Bibbidiba” filmed on a terrace in Shimbashi.
In the popular 2012 anime Psycho-Pass, two of the main characters meet and talk outside of Shimbashi Station.
Shimbashi
@電車(新幹線)でゴー on Wikimedia, CC BY-SA 4.0
Shimbashi is an area that embodies an authentic Tokyo, filled with history and commerce. It is unapologetic in its down-to-earth atmosphere and offers some of the best of the city with little frills, making it a great spot to check out!
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