Ginza and Tsukiji Guide

Luxury Shopping, Sushi and Tokyo Bay

Introduction

Ginza is Tokyo’s most prestigious shopping district — Japan’s answer to Bond Street and Fifth Avenue rolled into one immaculate boulevard. Wide, tree-lined streets are flanked by the flagship stores of every significant luxury brand in the world: Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Hermes, Gucci, and Cartier all occupy spectacular purpose-built architecture. Yet Ginza is far more than shopping: it is home to outstanding art galleries, the iconic Kabuki-za theatre, and easy access to Hamarikyu Garden and Tokyo Bay.

A short walk east, Tsukiji is inseparable from Japan’s food culture. The historic Tsukiji Outer Market continues to buzz with seafood vendors, tamagoyaki shops, and knife makers even after the wholesale tuna auctions moved to Toyosu Market in 2018. For visitors seeking the ultimate sushi breakfast or the finest kitchen knives in Tokyo, Tsukiji remains absolutely essential.

Together, Ginza and Tsukiji offer a compelling combination of world-class elegance and deep culinary tradition — a pairing that captures something essential about Tokyo’s dual identity as both a global metropolis and a city deeply rooted in Japanese tradition.

Top Attractions and Things to Do

1. Ginza Chuo-dori Shopping Boulevard

Ginza’s main artery is a showcase of architectural ambition. Notable buildings include the Hermes tower with its glass brick facade and GINZA SIX, a six-floor luxury mall featuring a Yayoi Kusama art installation ceiling. On Sundays and public holidays, Chuo-dori becomes a pedestrian-only zone from noon to 6 pm — transforming into a relaxed promenade ideal for window shopping.

2. Kabuki-za Theatre

The Kabuki-za is Tokyo’s principal kabuki theatre, rebuilt in 2013 while retaining its historic Momoyama architectural appearance. Full performances last four to six hours, but single-act tickets (hitomakumi) are sold at the box office for approximately 1,000 to 2,500 yen, letting visitors experience this spectacular theatrical tradition without a full-day commitment. English audio guides are available.

3. Tsukiji Outer Market

Roughly 400 shops and stalls line the market lanes, selling fresh seafood, dried goods, pickles, Japanese kitchen knives, and tea. The best time to visit is between 6 am and 10 am when the market is at its liveliest. Tamagoyaki shops offer thick, slightly sweet Japanese omelettes grilled to order — one of the most satisfying and affordable street foods anywhere in Tokyo.

4. Hamarikyu Gardens

Hamarikyu is a beautifully maintained traditional Japanese landscape garden set at the edge of Tokyo Bay. Originally a duck-hunting ground for the Tokugawa shogunate in the 17th century, the garden still contains two tidal ponds that change with the ebb and flow of the bay. The central island teahouse serves matcha tea with traditional wagashi sweets. Entry costs 300 yen; the garden is a 15-minute walk from Tsukiji.

5. Toyosu Fish Market Tuna Auctions

Toyosu Market is now the site of the famous early-morning tuna auctions. Foreign visitors can apply in advance to observe from a glassed viewing gallery. The sight of massive bluefin tuna laid out on the floor while bidders in rubber boots make split-second decisions is extraordinary. The market also houses excellent sushi restaurants including Sushizanmai.

6. Itoya Stationery Store

Itoya on Chuo-dori has been selling stationery since 1904. Twelve floors are devoted entirely to the art of writing and correspondence — from hand-cut letterpress cards to the finest Japanese fountain pens. The rooftop houses a small hydroponic vegetable garden and cafe. Even for non-collectors, Itoya is a delight to explore.

7. Tokyo International Forum

Designed by architect Rafael Vinoly and completed in 1997, the Forum’s soaring glass atrium is one of the great public interior spaces in Japan. On weekends, an outdoor flea market offers antiques, clothing, plants, and food from local producers — a great contrast to the luxury of nearby Ginza.

Best Restaurants and Food Spots

Kyubey Ginza — An exceptional sushi counter operating since 1936. The a la carte menu allows visitors to order individual pieces and explore seasonal fish at their own pace.

Tsukiji Sushi Sei — A reliable and well-regarded sushi restaurant near Tsukiji Outer Market, popular at breakfast and lunch for its fresh fish. Exceptional lunch value.

Tsukiji Tamagoyaki Vendors — Multiple vendors sell freshly grilled sweet omelette on skewers as a street snack. Marutake and Yamachiku are the most celebrated, with queues forming by 8 am.

Ginza Tenichi — A Ginza institution for tempura since 1930. Counter seats let you watch the chef fry seafood and vegetables to order in premium sesame oil. Lunch set menus start around 6,000 yen.

Kondo — A Michelin-starred tempura restaurant focusing on seasonal vegetables alongside seafood. The lotus root and sweet potato tempura are considered extraordinary by food writers.

How to Get There

Ginza Station: Tokyo Metro Ginza, Hibiya, and Marunouchi lines all converge here.
Tsukiji Station: Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line — one stop from Ginza.
Tsukijishijo Station: Toei Oedo Line — directly beneath the Tsukiji Outer Market.
From Tokyo Station: About 5 minutes by Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line (180 yen) or a 15-minute walk.
From Shibuya: About 12 minutes by Tokyo Metro Ginza Line (200 yen).

Quick Tips

Best time for Tsukiji: Arrive by 7 am for the freshest selection and shortest queues at popular sushi spots.
Ginza shopping hours: Most luxury boutiques open at 11 am. Department stores like Mitsukoshi and Matsuya open at 10 am and close around 8 pm.
Kabuki-za single acts: Same-day single-act tickets are sold from the side entrance — arrive 30 to 60 minutes before the act you wish to see.
Hamarikyu water bus: Tokyo Cruise water buses connect Hamarikyu Pier to Asakusa Pier — a scenic river alternative to the subway.
Tuna auction applications: Apply in advance on the Tokyo Metropolitan Central Wholesale Market website. Competition for visitor spots is high.