Neighbourhood guide
Ginza
Beyond the flagships — hidden bars and pockets of old Ginza
29 hidden gems to discover
Ginza is Tokyo's grand shopping boulevard, but its rewards hide upstairs and down side streets: tiny cocktail bars run by master bartenders, decades-old coffee houses, and small galleries above the luxury flagships. Come on a weekend afternoon, when the main avenue closes to traffic.
Best for: Cocktail bars, galleries, retro cafes, window shopping
Read the neighbourhood guide →Places to discover
Attractions
✦ Hidden GemGinza Marronnier Street
Ginza Marronnier Street is a sophisticated boulevard in the heart of Ginza, renowned for its elegant horse chestnut trees lining the pavement. This upscale street is home to luxury brand boutiques, high-end department stores, chic cafes, and gourmet restaurants. It offers a refined atmosphere perfect for a leisurely stroll, luxury shopping, or enjoying a stylish meal amidst seasonal beauty.
Japan's Top 100 Streets (Ginza 3-chome)
Ginza 3-chome is a quintessential part of Tokyo's most upscale district, recognized as one of Japan's Top 100 Streets for its elegant ambiance and iconic architecture. It's home to flagship luxury boutiques, prestigious department stores like Mitsukoshi and Matsuya, and renowned art galleries, offering a sophisticated urban experience.
Mihara Koji Ginza
Step back in time at Mihara Koji Ginza, a charming narrow alleyway that retains the nostalgic atmosphere of Showa-era Japan. Tucked away from Ginza's bustling main streets, this hidden gem is lined with intimate bars, izakayas, and eateries, offering a glimpse into a bygone era. It's the perfect spot for an authentic evening drink or a unique dining experience away from the glitz.
Yasuhira Shrine
Tucked away amidst Ginza's luxury boutiques and department stores, Yasuhira Shrine offers a serene escape and a touch of ancient history. Dedicated to Ōkuninushi-no-Mikoto, it's revered by locals and business owners seeking prosperity and good fortune. This tranquil oasis provides a unique contrast to the vibrant energy of its surroundings.
Miwa Shrine
Tucked away amidst the bustling luxury of Ginza, Miwa Shrine offers a serene escape and a glimpse into ancient traditions. This small, historic shrine is revered for its connection to prosperity and good fortune, featuring unique snake motifs that symbolize its protective deities. It's a quiet spiritual oasis in the heart of Tokyo's most glamorous district.
Experiences
✦ Hidden GemGinzabashi Chopstick
Discover the exquisite world of Japanese chopsticks at Ginzabashi Chopstick, a renowned specialty store in Ginza. This shop offers a vast selection of beautifully crafted chopsticks, from everyday use to artisanal masterpieces, made from various materials and designs. It's a unique opportunity to find a personalized souvenir or gift, and learn about the intricate artistry behind this essential part of Japanese dining culture.
✦ Hidden GemTogeikyoshitsuyukobo Ginzakyoshitsu
Togeikyoshitsuyukobo Ginza Kyoshitsu offers a unique opportunity to experience traditional Japanese pottery in the heart of upscale Ginza. Visitors can try their hand at crafting their own ceramic pieces, from beginner-friendly hand-building to wheel throwing, guided by expert instructors. It's a wonderful way to create a personalized souvenir and immerse yourself in Japanese artistry.
✦ Hidden GemHiSUi Tokyo
HiSUi Tokyo in Ginza offers an exclusive gateway to authentic Japanese culture, providing immersive experiences such as tea ceremony, calligraphy, and kimono wearing. Guests can delve deep into traditional arts in a refined setting, guided by expert instructors. It's an ideal spot for those seeking a personalized and profound cultural immersion away from the crowds.
Artbar Tokyo Ginza
Artbar Tokyo Ginza offers a unique "paint and sip" experience, where you can unleash your creativity with a paintbrush in one hand and a drink in the other. No prior art experience is needed; friendly instructors guide you through creating your own masterpiece in a fun, social, and relaxed atmosphere. It's a perfect way to unwind and make lasting memories in the heart of Tokyo.
Chopstick making workshop in ginza
Immerse yourself in Japanese culture with a unique chopstick making workshop in upscale Ginza. Learn the intricate art of crafting your own personalized chopsticks, guided by skilled artisans. This hands-on experience offers a memorable souvenir and a deeper appreciation for Japanese craftsmanship.
Tokyo Sumo Festival in Ginza
Experience the thrill of sumo right in the heart of upscale Ginza at the Tokyo Sumo Festival. This unique event brings the ancient sport to a modern setting, offering live demonstrations, opportunities to interact with sumo wrestlers, and a chance to immerse yourself in traditional Japanese culture. It's a rare opportunity to witness the power and grace of sumo outside a traditional dohyo.
Food & drink
Yakitori Ginza Torigami
Yakitori Ginza Torigami offers an exquisite yakitori experience in the heart of Ginza, specializing in premium chicken cuts grilled to perfection over binchotan charcoal. Guests can savor the chef's expertly crafted omakase courses, showcasing seasonal ingredients and rare parts in a refined, intimate setting.
Lounge Nakamura
Lounge Nakamura offers a quintessential Ginza nightlife experience, combining sophisticated ambiance with personalized service. This exclusive lounge provides a refined setting for enjoying premium drinks and engaging conversation, perfect for those seeking a glimpse into Tokyo's high-end entertainment culture.
Ginza Kousui
Ginza Kousui offers an exquisite tempura omakase experience, showcasing the finest seasonal ingredients expertly fried to perfection. This Michelin-starred restaurant provides an intimate counter setting where guests can witness the culinary artistry firsthand. It's a must-visit for those seeking a refined taste of traditional Japanese cuisine in a sophisticated Ginza ambiance.
SAPPORO Daisuke
SAPPORO Daisuke in Ginza offers an authentic taste of Hokkaido's renowned seafood in the heart of Tokyo. Specializing in incredibly fresh crab, sashimi, and other seasonal delicacies flown directly from Sapporo, it provides a refined dining experience perfect for discerning palates. Enjoy high-quality ingredients and traditional Japanese hospitality in a sophisticated setting.
izakaya Tokyo Ginza
Experience the sophisticated yet lively atmosphere of an izakaya in Ginza, where traditional Japanese pub culture meets upscale dining. Enjoy a wide array of small plates, from fresh sashimi to grilled skewers, perfectly paired with sake, shochu, or local beers. It's an ideal spot for unwinding after exploring Ginza's luxury boutiques and theaters.
Nightlife
See all 7 →
BAR GINZA VAULT
BAR GINZA VAULT offers a sophisticated escape in the heart of Ginza, renowned for its expertly crafted cocktails and elegant, intimate atmosphere. Patrons can enjoy a meticulously curated selection of spirits and seasonal ingredients, served with impeccable Japanese hospitality. It's an ideal spot for a refined evening drink, perfect for unwinding after exploring Ginza's luxury boutiques.
Ginza Suki Bar
GINZA SUKI BAR offers a sophisticated yet approachable standing bar experience in the heart of Ginza. Specializing in an excellent selection of sake and shochu, it's a perfect spot to enjoy quality drinks and light bites in a chic, relaxed atmosphere. It provides a taste of Ginza's nightlife without the formality of traditional bars.
Katagiri Building One
Katagiri Building One in Ginza is a renowned multi-tenant building, a true haven for discerning bar-hoppers. It houses an eclectic collection of intimate, high-quality bars, each offering a unique atmosphere from classic cocktail lounges to hidden speakeasies. It's the perfect spot to experience Ginza's sophisticated nightlife culture under one roof.
GINZA BAR ROKUMEIKAN
GINZA BAR ROKUMEIKAN offers a sophisticated escape in the heart of Ginza, known for its elegant ambiance reminiscent of a bygone era. Patrons can enjoy expertly crafted cocktails and a curated selection of spirits in a refined setting, perfect for a quiet evening or a special occasion. The attentive service and classic decor create a truly luxurious bar experience.
MAIN BAR 'ilm
Experience the timeless elegance of MAIN BAR 'ilm, a classic Ginza establishment renowned for its sophisticated atmosphere and masterful bartenders. Indulge in exquisitely crafted cocktails or explore their impressive selection of fine whiskies, making it a perfect spot for a refined evening out.
BAR BUTLER GINZA
BAR BUTLER GINZA offers a slice of authentic British pub culture in the heart of Ginza. Known for its sophisticated yet relaxed standing bar atmosphere, it boasts an impressive selection of whiskies, craft beers, and expertly mixed cocktails. It's an ideal spot for a refined pre-dinner drink or a casual evening out.
Nature
✦ Hidden GemEvergreen Garden
Discover a tranquil oasis amidst Ginza's bustling streets at the Ginza Mitsukoshi Rooftop Garden. This beautifully landscaped space offers a refreshing escape with seasonal flora, benches for relaxation, and panoramic views of the city skyline. It's a perfect spot to unwind after shopping or enjoy a quiet moment above the vibrant district.
✦ Hidden GemGinza Herb Garden
Tucked away amidst Ginza's bustling streets, this serene rooftop garden offers a refreshing urban escape. While not exclusively a "herb garden," it provides a tranquil green space featuring seasonal plants, often including various herbs, perfect for a peaceful break from shopping.
Flowerbed 2
Tucked away amidst Ginza's luxurious boutiques and bustling streets, this charming flowerbed offers a delightful splash of seasonal color. It provides a small, tranquil respite, allowing visitors to briefly connect with nature in the heart of the city's upscale shopping district.
Flowerbed 1
Often found along Ginza's elegant Chuo-dori, 'Flowerbed 1' exemplifies the district's meticulous attention to urban aesthetics. These vibrant, seasonal floral displays offer a refreshing splash of color and a moment of tranquility amidst the high-end shopping bustle. They are a subtle yet beautiful testament to Tokyo's dedication to integrating natural beauty into its sophisticated cityscape.
Kyobashi Daikongashi Hospitality Garden
This charming garden is built on the historic site of the Kyobashi Daikongashi Aomono Ichiba, a major vegetable market that once thrived here. It offers a tranquil urban oasis amidst the bustling Ginza and Kyobashi districts, providing a peaceful spot for reflection and relaxation. Visitors can appreciate the greenery and historical markers detailing the area's vibrant past.
Ginza Six Rooftop Garden
Perched atop the luxurious Ginza Six complex, the Ginza Six Rooftop Garden offers a sprawling green oasis amidst the urban landscape. This beautifully designed space provides stunning panoramic views of Ginza's iconic streets and architecture, featuring seasonal flora, tranquil water features, and art installations. It's a perfect spot for a peaceful escape, photography, or simply enjoying a unique perspective of Tokyo.
On the map
Guides for this neighbourhood
Good to know
How do I get to Ginza?+
Ginza Station is served by the Ginza, Marunouchi and Hibiya subway lines; Ginza-itchome and Higashi-ginza are close by.
What is Ginza known for?+
Luxury flagship stores, world-class cocktail bars, art galleries and long-established cafes.
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