What to do in Shiodome and Shimbashi
In the beating heart of Tokyo, Shiodome rises with its skyscrapers, while Shimbashi is lulled by traditions. Between these modern streets, Tokyo Tower stands, an iconic monument, next to the serene Zojoji Temple, offering spiritual refuge. Together, they capture the essence of Tokyo: a dialogue between the new and the old.
Photo by Japanforeveryone.com
How to get to Shiodome and Shimbashi
To get to the Shiodome and Shimbashi districts you can either use the underground or the JR train.
Underground lines passing through Shiodome are the Oedo Line (E20 Daimon – Toei), the Asakusa Line (A09 Daimon – Toei) and the Mita Line (I05 Shiba Koen – Toei). You can also use the Yamanote Line or the Keihin/Tohoku Line and get off at Hamamatsucho station. The Tokyo Monorail also departs from Hamamatsucho to Haneda Airport.
For Shimbashi you can get off at Shimbashi Station (A10 Asakusa Line, G08 Ginza Line) or at Shiodome Station (E19 Oedo Line). The nearest JR station is Shimbashi, where Yamanote Line and Keihin/Tohoku Line trains run.
The Yurikamome to Odaiba departs from Shimbashi.
Zojoji Temple is one of the main Buddhist temples in the city of Tokyo. Located within walking distance of the Tokyo Tower, the temple dates back to 1393, although the current structure was rebuilt in the 17th century. The temple houses many important tombs of Tokugawa family members, including the great shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu. An oasis of tranquillity in the heart of the city, Zojoji Temple is a must-see for those wishing to learn about Japan’s cultural and religious history.
Photo by Japanforeveryone.com
Practical information
| View location on Google Maps | |
Official website  |
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| 6:00-17:30 | |
| No closing days | |
| Free | |
| 10 minutes’ walk west of JR Hamamatsucho station 5 minutes’ walk south-west of Kamiyacho underground station (H05) 5 minutes’ walk north-west of Akabanebashi underground station (E21) 5 minutes’ walk northeast of Shiba Koen (I05) underground station 5 minutes’ walk west of Daimon (E20 – A09) underground station |
Tokyo Tower is an iconic structure in Tokyo and one of the city’s main tourist attractions. At 333 metres high, it offers spectacular views of the city and its surroundings. Built in 1958, the tower was inspired by the Eiffel Tower in Paris and serves as an antenna for television broadcasts. Besides enjoying the panoramic views, visitors can explore the shops, restaurants and museums inside the tower. Tokyo Tower is a symbol of Tokyo’s modernity and beauty.
Photo by Japanforeveryone.com
Practical information
| View location on Google Maps | |
| Official website |
|
| 10:00-23:00 (observatory 150 metres) 10:00-22:45 (observatory 250 metres) Last entry 30 minutes before closing time |
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| No closing days | |
| 1200 Yen (observatory 150 metres) 3000 Yen (observatory 150+250 metres)(2800 Yen if purchased in advance) |
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| 10 minutes’ walk west of JR Hamamatsucho station 5 minutes’ walk south-west of Kamiyacho underground station (H05) 5 minutes’ walk north-west of Akabanebashi underground station (E21) 5 minutes’ walk northeast of Shiba Koen (I05) underground station 5 minutes’ walk west of Daimon (E20 – A09) underground station |
Old Shimbashi Station
The Old Shimbashi Station is a historical gem in the heart of Tokyo. Built in 1872, it was the first railway station in the Japanese capital. Although now surrounded by modern skyscrapers, the station still retains its retro charm. Inside is a small museum that tells the story of trains in Japan. The Old Shimbashi Station is a fascinating place to visit to immerse yourself in the country’s railway history and appreciate the architecture of the time.
User:Sushiya, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Practical information
| View location on Google Maps | |
| Official website |
|
| 10:00-17:00 Last entry 15 minutes before closing time |
|
| Monday (or Tuesday if Monday is a national holiday) New Year’s Day holiday |
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| Free | |
| Get off at Shimbashi underground station (G08, A10 ) or at Shiodome (E19) Get off at JR Shimbashi station |
Museum of Advertising
The Tokyo Museum of Advertising is a fascinating place for those interested in the world of communication and marketing. The museum houses an extensive collection of advertisements spanning more than a century. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits that show the evolution of advertising over the years and discover the creative techniques used by major brands. The Tokyo Museum of Advertising offers a unique perspective on the art and science behind the world of advertising.
妖精書士, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Practical information
| View location on Google Maps | |
| Official website |
|
| 11:00-18:00 | |
| Sunday and Monday | |
| Free | |
| Get off at Shimbashi underground station (G08, A10 ) or at Shiodome (E19) Get off at JR Shimbashi station |
The Hama Rikyu Garden is a beautiful green oasis in the heart of Tokyo. Located near Tokyo Bay, it was once a private garden of the Shogun family. Today, the garden is open to the public and is a perfect place to relax and enjoy nature. The garden features a beautiful central pond, where you can admire koi carp and feed ducks. The Hama Rikyu Garden is a lovely place for a peaceful walk or picnic in the midst of greenery.
Suicasmo, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Practical information
| View location on Google Maps | |
| Official page |
|
| 9:00-17:00 Last entry 30 minutes before closing time |
|
| 29 December to 3 January | |
| 300 Yen | |
| 2 minutes’ walk east of the Yurikamome Shiodome underground station and stop (E19, U02) 5 minutes’ walk southeast from JR Station and Shimbashi Subway Station (G08, A10) |
The Kyu Shiba Rikyu Garden is a hidden gem in the heart of Tokyo. Located in the Minato district, the garden offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle of the city. With its ponds, bridges and picturesque scenery, Kyu Shiba Rikyu is a perfect place for a relaxing walk or picnic. The garden also offers a spectacular view of the Tokyo Tower. The Kyu Shiba Rikyu Garden is a perfect retreat for those seeking a moment of peace and tranquillity amidst the hustle and bustle of the city.
Photo by Japanforeveryone.com
Practical information
| View location on Google Maps | |
| Official page |
|
| 9:00-17:00 Last entry 30 minutes before closing time |
|
| 29 December to 1 January | |
| 150 Yen | |
| 2 minutes’ walk east from JR station and the Hamamatsucho monorail 5 minutes’ walk east from Daimon underground station (E20, A09) 5 minutes’ walk west of Yurikamome Takeshiba subway station (U03) |
Caretta Shiodome
Caretta Shiodome is a vibrant shopping and entertainment complex in the heart of Tokyo. Located in the Minato district, Caretta Shiodome offers a variety of restaurants, shops and shows for visitors. One of the main attractions is the night lighting that transforms the building into a wonderful light show. In addition, Caretta Shiodome houses a multiplex cinema and a theatre that stages shows and musicals. With its lively atmosphere, Caretta Shiodome is a great place to spend a fun and relaxing evening in Tokyo.
During the winter at the Caretta you can enjoy the Winter Illuminations, with light and music shows.
Kaz Ish, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Practical information
| View location on Google Maps | |
| Official website |
|
| Shops: varies depending on the shop (generally 10:00-20:00) Restaurants: varies depending on the restaurant (generally 11:30-23:00) |
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| No closing days |
Shiodome City Center
The Shiodome City Center is a modern shopping complex located in Tokyo’s Minato district. The 55-storey skyscraper offers office space, shops and gourmet restaurants. A panoramic view of the city of Tokyo can be admired from the 42nd floor. In addition, the centre has a theatre, exhibition and conference spaces. The Shiodome City Center is an ideal destination for business and luxury shopping opportunities, offering an unrivalled experience in terms of convenience, technology and modernity.
Another Believer, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Practical information
| View location on Google Maps | |
| Official website |
|
| Shops: varies depending on the shop (generally 10:00-20:00) Restaurants: varies depending on the restaurant (generally 11:00-23:30) |
|
| No closing days |
Nippon TV Tower
Tokyo’s Nippon TV Tower is an iconic structure in the Shiodome district in the heart of the city. At 32 storeys, the tower offers a breathtaking view of the Tokyo skyline. In addition to the observation deck, the Nippon TV Tower also houses restaurants, cafés and shops inside. It has become a landmark for events and shows, offering a unique experience to visitors who wish to immerse themselves in the modernity and fascinating atmosphere of Tokyo.
The giant clock designed by Hayao Miyazaki is famous.
ITA-ATU, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Practical information
| View location on Google Maps | |
Official website  |
|
| Shops: varies depending on the shop (generally 10:00-19:00) Restaurants: varies depending on the restaurant (generally 10:00-21:00) |
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| No closing days |