Nihonbashi

Located between Ginza and Tokyo Station, Nihonbashi blends old-world charm with sleek modern architecture. During the Edo period (1603–1868), it was Japan’s central commercial hub and the starting point of the country’s five major highways. Today, the district honors its heritage through meticulous urban design - juxtaposing glass skyscrapers with ancient shrines, stone bridges, and historic department stores. Visitors can browse specialty shops selling kimono fabrics, seaweed, soy sauce, gold leaf, and hand-forged knives, then dine in elegant restaurants that fuse modern aesthetics with traditional motifs. Behind its polished facades, Nihonbashi offers a rich, layered look into Tokyo’s evolution.

Getting There

• From Haneda Airport: 25 minutes by limousine bus to Tokyo City Air Terminal (T-CAT) or 35 minutes by train.
• From Narita Airport: 90 minutes by limousine bus to T-CAT or 80 minutes by train.
• From Shinjuku Station: Take the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line to Akasaka-Mitsuke Station, then transfer to the Ginza Line for Nihonbashi Station (approx. 31 min).
• From Tokyo Station: Take the JR Yamanote Line to Kanda Station, transfer to the Ginza Line, and get off at Nihonbashi Station (approx. 13 min).

Shop and Dine in Style

Japan’s oldest department store, Nihombashi Mitsukoshi, dates back to 1673 when it opened as Echigoya, a kimono fabric shop. It became Japan’s first official department store in 1904 and remains a symbol of luxury retail. Another local landmark, Nihombashi Takashimaya S.C., showcases elegant 1930s architecture and premium Japanese craftsmanship. Both are located along Chuo-dori Avenue, which passes over the historic Nihonbashi Bridge.

For a more contemporary experience, head to COREDO Muromachi, a stylish complex blending traditional crafts, boutique stores, and gourmet restaurants. Wander through the narrow side streets nearby, where independent artisans sell everything from wagashi (traditional sweets) to handmade chopsticks, capturing the timeless spirit of Edo in a modern setting.

A Cultural Crossroads

Nihonbashi’s waterways invite you to see Tokyo from a new perspective - river cruises departing from Nihonbashi Bridge glide past the city’s historic and modern landmarks. Join cultural workshops at COREDO Muromachi to experience tea ceremonies, kimono dressing, and traditional Japanese crafts.

The district is also home to major financial institutions, art galleries, and fascinating niche museums. Don’t miss the Mitsui Memorial Museum, housing fine Japanese art and artifacts, or the whimsical Japan Kite Museum, which displays delicate kites from across Japan, including designs from the Edo era.

Nihonbashi is where Tokyo’s past and present meet-a living tapestry of culture, commerce, and craftsmanship.