Introduction
Tsukishima, a man-made island in Tokyo Bay, is renowned for its unique history and culinary culture. It preserves the atmosphere of old Tokyo while being the best place to taste authentic monjayaki.
Key Information
- Location: Man-made island in Tokyo Bay
- Main highlights: Monjayaki, tsukudani, mix of residential areas and traditional streets
- Recommended visit time: 2-3 hours
- Access: Take the Oedo Line or Yurakucho Line to Tsukishima Station
Historical Background
Tsukishima was created over 100 years ago using soil dredged from Tokyo Bay during the construction of a shipping channel. In recent decades, parts of the island have been redeveloped into high-rise residential complexes, but remnants of old Tokyo can still be found in the back alleys, especially around Sumiyoshi Shrine.
Main Attractions
Monjayaki Street
Tsukishima is best known for monjayaki (もんじゃ焼き), a type of savory pancake with various ingredients like seafood, meat, and vegetables mixed into the batter. Nishinaka Street, just a few steps from Tsukishima Station, boasts a high concentration of monjayaki restaurants, making it the ideal spot to savor this local delicacy.
Tsukudajima
Once a separate island, Tsukudajima is now connected to Tsukishima. It’s the birthplace of tsukudani (佃煮), small pieces of food preserved by cooking in soy sauce and sweet sake, often eaten as a topping on rice. Three shops dating back to the Edo Period (1603-1868) still survive here, including the very first tsukudani shop.
Sumiyoshi Shrine
Explore the narrow lanes of Tsukishima, particularly around Sumiyoshi Shrine, to discover well-preserved pockets of old Tokyo. The traditional architecture and tranquil atmosphere here contrast sharply with the modern high-rise apartments.
Best Time to Visit
Tsukishima is enjoyable year-round, but it’s particularly beautiful during cherry blossom season in spring and autumn foliage season. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends, and visiting after 3 PM offers a more relaxed atmosphere.
Transportation Guide
- From Tokyo Station: Take the JR Yamanote Line to Yurakucho (2 minutes, 150 yen), then transfer to the Yurakucho Line to Tsukishima Station (5 minutes, 180 yen)
- From Shinjuku Station: Take the Oedo Line directly to Tsukishima Station (25 minutes, 280 yen)
Opening Hours and Admission
As a residential and commercial area, Tsukishima is open 24/7 with no admission fee. Individual restaurant and shop hours may vary, so it’s advisable to check in advance.
Visitor Tips
- When trying monjayaki, consider cooking it yourself for a fun, interactive experience
- Respect the peace and quiet of local residents when exploring the back alleys
- Purchase tsukudani as a souvenir to experience traditional food culture
- Allow 2-3 hours for your visit to fully appreciate Tsukishima’s charm
Official Website
Tsukishima Monja Promotion Association
Conclusion
Tsukishima is not only a paradise for authentic monjayaki and tsukudani but also an excellent place to experience the blend of old and new Tokyo. Whether you’re a food enthusiast or a culture explorer, Tsukishima is worth a dedicated visit to experience the unique charm of this man-made island.