What to do in Ginza
Ginza is famous for its department stores and high-fashion boutiques. Tsukiji used to have the world’s most famous fish market, now moved to Toyosu, but you can still visit the outdoor market with shops and restaurants.
Volfgang, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Come arrivare a Ginza
To get to Ginza you can use the underground or the Yamanote Line.
Underground lines passing through Ginza are the Ginza Line (G09 Ginza – Tokyo Metro), the Hibiya Line (H08 Ginza – Tokyo Metro), the Marunouchi Line (M16 Ginza – Tokyo Metro), the Yurakucho Line (Y19 Ginza-itchome – Tokyo Metro) and the Asakusa Line (A11 Higashiginza – Toei). You can also use the Yamanote Line and get off at Yurakucho Station and head south-east.
The Tsukiji outdoor market is one of the most fascinating places to visit in Tokyo. This bustling open-air market offers a wide range of fresh food, including fish, seafood, vegetables and spices. You can stroll among the colourful stalls and enjoy Japanese culinary delights such as sushi, tempura and ramen. The Tsukiji outdoor market is a foodie’s paradise and a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in authentic Japanese food culture.
IMPORTANT: Tsukiji Fish Market has been permanently closed since 6 October 2018. The market has been relocated to its new location in Toyosu, about 2 km to the east.
The outdoor market with restaurants and shops is open.
Photo by Luca Rodegher
Practical information
| View location on Google Maps | |
Official website  |
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| 5:00-14:00 | |
| Free | |
| 5 minutes’ walk south-east of Tsukiji Shijo stop (E18) 10 minutes’ walk south of Tsukiji stop (H10) |
Ginza Wako
Ginza Wako is an iconic jewellery store and luxury department store located in the heart of Ginza, Tokyo. Founded in 1932, Wako has become a symbol of elegance and wealth. Its building, with its famous clock tower, has become a landmark in the Ginza area. Besides a wide selection of high-quality jewellery, Ginza Wako also offers a variety of fashion, accessories and luxury goods for sophisticated shoppers.
Tokumeigakarinoaoshima, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
Practical information
| View location on Google Maps | |
| Official website |
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| Shops: 10:30-19:00 | |
| Ginza Stop (G09 – H08 – M16) |
Kabukiza Theatre
The Kabukiza Theatre in Ginza is a place of great cultural importance and Japanese tradition. Founded in 1889, the theatre is renowned for its spectacular performances of kabuki, a form of traditional Japanese theatre. The Kabukiza hosts a variety of performances, with famous kabuki actors performing in magnificent costumes and complex plots. It is a must-see venue for those wishing to immerse themselves in Japanese culture and art.
The new theatre was reopened in April 2013.
Tak1701d, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Practical information
| View location on Google Maps | |
Official website  |
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| The cost of a ticket for the whole performance ranges from 4000 to 22000 Yen, depending on the performance and seat, and requires a reservation. A single-act ticket usually costs 2000 Yen and can be bought directly at the box office before the performance itself. |
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| Higashiginza metro stop (H09 – A11) |
Shimbashi Enbujo Theatre
The Shimbashi Enbujo Theatre in Ginza is a must for lovers of traditional Japanese theatre. Founded in 1925, it is one of the oldest theatres in Tokyo. The Shimbashi Enbujo is famous for its performances of rakugo, a form of Japanese comedy. Actors perform with a single microphone and a bamboo sword, creating funny stories that enchant the audience. It is a unique experience to immerse oneself in the culture and theatre tradition of Japan.
Tak1701d, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Practical information
| View location on Google Maps | |
| Official website |
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| Variable times depending on the performance | |
| Prices vary depending on the show | |
| 5 minutes’ walk north of Tsukiji Shijo stop (E 18) exit A3 5 minutes’ walk south of Higashiginza stop (A11 – H09) exit 6 |
Tokyo Takarazuka Theatre
The Tokyo Takarazuka Theatre, located in the Ginza district, is a unique venue offering a style of Japanese theatre performance very different from the traditional art of kabuki or rakugo. Known as Takarazuka Revue, this dance and song show was created in 1913 and is based on the idea of combining Japanese and Western theatre arts. Each show features a variety of high-quality performances, including dance, singing and acrobatics, all performed in lavish costumes and elaborate scenery. The Tokyo Takarazuka Theatre is a unique cultural experience worth experiencing.
Kakidai, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Practical information
| View location on Google Maps | |
| Official website |
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| Wednesday | |
| Tickets from 3500 to 11000 Yen | |
| 5 minutes’ walk south of Hibiya underground station (H07 – C09) 10 minutes’ walk south-west from JR Yarakucho station and Yarakucho underground station (Y18) |
Police Museum
The police museum in Ginza is a fascinating place that offers an insight into the history and work of the Japanese police. The museum displays uniforms, equipment and vehicles used by the police over the years. Visitors can also learn about the investigative techniques used to solve crimes. It is a unique opportunity to learn first-hand about the work of police officers and the impact they have on society.
PRiMENON, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Practical information
| View location on Google Maps | |
| Official website |
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| 9:15-16:30 (there are 3 visits per day lasting 90 minutes, at 9:15, 12:45 and 15:00) Maximum 25 people per visit (priority to those who book by phone) |
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| Monday (next day if Monday is a National Holiday) 28 December to 4 January |
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| Free | |
| 5 minutes’ walk north of the Ginza-itchome underground station (Y19) |
Mitsukoshi
Mitsukoshi in Ginza is one of the oldest and most prestigious department stores in Tokyo. The shop offers a wide range of products, including fashion, beauty, food and home accessories. The food hall is a popular destination for Japanese and international food lovers, while the fashion section houses international and domestic luxury brands. Mitsukoshi Ginza is a charming place to spend an afternoon of high quality shopping.
Kakidai, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Practical information
| View location on Google Maps | |
| Official website |
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| Shops: 10:00-20:00 Restaurants: 11:00-23:00 |
Matsuya
Matsuya in Ginza is a department store famous for its high quality products and wide selection of food. The shop sells Japanese and international branded products such as fashion, clothing and cosmetics. One of its main strengths is its food hall, where a variety of Japanese and international delicacies can be sampled. The fine food and champagne selection make Matsuya in Ginza one of the best places to go for luxury shopping in Tokyo.
Kakidai, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Practical information
| View location on Google Maps | |
| Official website |
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| Shops: 10:00-20:00 Restaurants: 11:00-20:00 |
Hankyu
Hankyu in Ginza is a luxury department store offering a wide selection of high quality products. The shop is famous for its elegant fashion, featuring international and Japanese luxury brands. Besides fashion, Hankyu also offers a selection of luxury cosmetics and household products. The food hall is a culinary paradise, with delicious Japanese and international dishes. Hankyu in Ginza is a must-visit destination for luxury shoppers.
User:BUNBUN, CC BY-SA 2.5, via Wikimedia Commons
Practical information
| View location on Google Maps | |
| Official website |
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| Hankyu Men’s: 12:00-21:00 (weekdays), 11:00-20:00 (Sundays and public holidays) Mosaic Ginza Hankyu: 10:30-21:00 |
Marronnier Gate
Marronnier Gate in Ginza is a large shopping centre with a wide selection of fashion, cosmetics and home accessories brands. The sleek and modern facility was opened in 2016 and offers a variety of high-quality shops that include both Japanese and international brands. It also features trendy restaurants and bars where you can sit and enjoy delicious Japanese and international cuisine. Marronnier Gate is a place not to be missed during a shopping trip to Ginza.
Tokumeigakarinoaoshima, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Practical information
| View location on Google Maps | |
| Official website |
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| Shops: 11:00-21:00 Restaurants: 11:00-23:00 |