Ginza is Tokyo’s most renowned upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment district, boasting numerous department stores, boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, nightclubs, and cafes. It’s one of the most expensive areas in Japan, with land in the central area valued at over 10 million yen per square meter.
Key Information
- Location: Central Tokyo
- Main Features: Luxury shopping, fine dining, entertainment
- Best Time to Visit: Weekend afternoons (pedestrian paradise)
- Access: Ginza Station (Hibiya, Marunouchi, and Ginza Lines), Yurakucho Station (Yamanote, Keihin-Tohoku, and Yurakucho Lines)
Historical Background
The name “Ginza” originates from a silver coin mint that operated in the area from 1612 to 1800. In Japanese, “Ginza” means “silver mint.” Following the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923, Ginza gradually developed into an upmarket shopping district.
Main Attractions
Seiko House Ginza
The clock tower of Seiko House Ginza is the iconic landmark of the district, located at the northwest corner of the central Ginza 4-Chome intersection. Most of the building is occupied by the Wako department store, selling watches, jewelry, and other luxury items.
Hours: 10:30-19:00
GINZA SIX
Opened in 2017, GINZA SIX is the district’s largest shopping complex. In addition to multiple floors of cosmetics and fashion, it features dedicated floors for food and interior design, a large Tsutaya bookstore specializing in art publications, a pleasant rooftop garden, and a Noh theater in its basement.
Hours: 10:30-20:30 (restaurants 11:00-23:00)
Tokyu Plaza Ginza
Opened in 2016, Tokyu Plaza Ginza features 14 floors of shopping and dining, including two floors of tax-free shopping and an impressive open rooftop with city views.
Hours: 11:00-21:00 (restaurants until 23:00)
Mitsukoshi Ginza
The Ginza branch of Mitsukoshi department store opened in 1930 and offers goods and services across twelve floors. Mitsukoshi’s history dates back to 1673, making it one of Japan’s oldest department stores.
Hours: Shops 10:00-20:00, Restaurants typically 11:00-23:00
Matsuya Ginza
Matsuya Ginza offers fashion, food, household goods, a pet shop, a travel agency, and an exhibition hall across eleven floors.
Hours: Shops 10:00-20:00 (until 19:30 on Sundays), Restaurants typically 11:00-22:00
Marronnier Gate
Marronnier Gate is a shopping complex consisting of three buildings, including the former Printemps department store. It houses a large number of shops ranging from small boutiques to the popular Hands store and one of the world’s largest Uniqlo stores.
Hours: 11:00-21:00 (restaurants until 23:00)
Itoya
This narrow but tall and elegant store is one of Japan’s best stationery shops, selling everything from paper to paint supplies. The store is bright and modern with various food and relaxation spaces on its upper floors.
Hours: 10:00-20:00 (until 19:00 on Sundays and public holidays)
Kabukiza Theater
Kabukiza is the best place to see kabuki theater, with performances almost daily. Rebuilt and reopened in 2013, it closely resembles its predecessor but now has a skyscraper on top.
Tickets: 4,000-22,000 yen for full plays, about 2,000 yen for single acts
Ginza Place
Located diagonally across from Ginza Wako, this complex opened in 2016 and features a Nissan showroom, Sony showroom, and several eateries and restaurants.
Hours: Nissan Showroom 10:00-20:00, Sony Showroom 11:00-19:00, Restaurants typically 11:30-22:00
The Seiko Museum Ginza
This excellent museum primarily educates visitors about the history of Seiko, Japan’s most prominent watch manufacturer, but also has interesting displays about the history of clocks in general. Advance reservations are required.
Hours: 10:30-18:00, closed Mondays and New Year holidays, free admission
Police Museum
Located just outside the Ginza area to the north, this free museum is operated by the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department. While there are no English explanations, displays such as historical uniforms and equipment are easily understood.
Hours: 9:30-16:00 (entry until 15:30), closed Mondays and December 28 to January 4, free admission
Best Time to Visit
Weekend afternoons are the best time to explore Ginza. The central Chuo Dori street is closed to vehicular traffic, becoming a large pedestrian zone from 12:00 to 18:00 (until 17:00 from October through March).
Transportation Guide
The most convenient access is via Ginza Station (Hibiya, Marunouchi, and Ginza Lines) or Yurakucho Station (JR Yamanote Line, JR Keihin-Tohoku Line, and Yurakucho Line).
Opening Hours and Admission Information
Most shops are open seven days a week. Typical hours are:
- Department stores: 10:00-20:00
- Shopping centers: 11:00-21:00
- Restaurants: 11:00-23:00
Visitor Tips
- Visit on weekend afternoons to experience the pedestrian paradise
- Don’t miss the rooftop garden at GINZA SIX
- Try local cuisine at the dining area under the railway tracks near Yurakucho Station
- Book Kabukiza Theater tickets in advance
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as Ginza is best explored on foot
- Visit The Seiko Museum Ginza to learn about Japanese watch history
- Pick up unique Japanese stationery at Itoya as souvenirs
Official Website
Conclusion
Ginza is not just a shopping paradise but a perfect place to experience Tokyo’s high-end lifestyle. Whether you’re looking to indulge in luxury shopping, savor exquisite cuisine, or immerse yourself in traditional culture, Ginza has it all. From towering department stores to the historic Kabukiza Theater, from modern art galleries to traditional Japanese stationery shops, Ginza showcases the perfect blend of Japan’s traditions and modernity. Explore Ginza and experience its unique charm – you’re sure to have an unforgettable Tokyo adventure.