Yurakucho: Places to Visit, Shopping, and Cafes in Central Tokyo

Central Tokyo: Yurakucho Station Area Guide

1.Yurakucho Station: Access
Shopping Facilities in Yurakucho
2.LUMINE
3.Hankyu MEN'S
4.Ginza Inz and NISHI Ginza
5.BicCamera Yurakucho Store
6.Hibiya OKUROJI
Places to Visit and Walking Spots in Yurakucho
7.Imperial Palace Outer Gardens
8.The Imperial Theatre
9.Tokyo International Forum
10.Hibiya Park
Dining in Yurakucho
11.Yurakucho Yakitori Alley
12.Cafe Benisica
13.Ya Kun Kaya Toast
Hotels in Central Tokyo - Yurakucho
14.MUJI HOTEL GINZA
15.The Imperial Hotel Tokyo

Yurakucho Station: Access

The name Yurakucho dates back to the 16th century and is related to lord Oda Nobunaga's brother, Oda Yurakuzai (Nagamasu). Yurakuzai was granted a residence near the Sukiyabashi Gate, and this old site became known as "Yurakuhara." Thus, this area was named "Yurakucho" as early as the Meiji Period (1868-1912).

Yurakucho is well-connected with the JR Yamanote Line, JR Keihin-Tohoku/Negishi Line, and Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line, making it a convenient transportation hub that serves over 200,000 passengers daily.

Today, parts of the Yurakucho Station platforms still show traces of the reconstruction work after the 2011 Great Kanto Earthquake. The station's retro-style design features many columns and beams from recycled old railway tracks.

If you have the chance to wait for a train here, take a moment to look for these historical remnants!

↑ Return to the top of article.

Shopping Facilities in Yurakucho

1. LUMINE

The LUMINE shopping center can be found near many train stations, catering primarily to youth fashion. In addition to the usual counters for skincare and cosmetics, you'll also find a rich selection of affordable Japanese clothing brands. Additionally, the famous fruit mille-feuille cake shop HARBS and the import supermarket Seijo Ishii have locations here!

Yurakucho LUMINE
Address: 2-5-1 Yurakucho, Chiyoda, Tokyo Google Map

↑ Return to the top of article.

2. Hankyu MEN'S

Adjacent to LUMINE is Hankyu MEN'S, a department store primarily focused on men's brands. You can find everything from casual wear and high-end business suits to stylish shoes and accessories here.

Hankyu MEN'S
Address: 2-5-1 Yurakucho, Chiyoda, Tokyo Google Map

↑ Return to the top of article.

3. Marui & ITOCia PLAZA

Upon exiting from the central gate of Yurakucho Station, you'll find a comfortable plaza space and the ITOCia building. From the building's 1st to 8th floors is O1O1 Marui, while the shorter adjacent section is focused on dining and is known as ITOCia PLAZA. These two department stores feature a wide range of men's and women's clothing and accessories, lifestyle products, various styles of restaurants, and dessert cafes, making it easy to spend half a day exploring!

Yurakucho Marui and YURAKUCHO ITOCiA PLAZA
Address: 2-7-1 Yurakucho, Chiyoda, Tokyo Google Map

↑ Return to the top of article.

4. Ginza Inz and NISHI Ginza

Under the elevated bridge between Yurakucho and Ginza, there are two shopping centers, Ginza INZ and NISHI Ginza.

These centers offer a relaxed shopping atmosphere suitable for young people, with a focus on affordable clothing and miscellaneous goods. In recent years, the extremely popular 3 coins and the large store of Sanrio have made it hard to resist spending!

Ginza Inz
Address: 2-2 Ginza, Chuo, Tokyo Google Map

NISHI Ginza
Address: 4-1 Ginza, Chuo, Tokyo Google Map

↑ Return to the top of article.

5. BicCamera Yurakucho Store

The BicCamera Yurakucho Store is located in a renovated building formerly a SOGO department store, easily visible upon exiting from the Hibiya Gate.

This 9-story flagship store offers an extensive selection of household appliances and electronics for you to choose from. Don’t forget to present your Matcha-exclusive coupon at checkout to enjoy discounts of up to 17% off!

BicCamera Yurakucho Store
Address: 1-11-1 Yurakucho, Chiyoda, Tokyo Google Map

↑ Return to the top of article.

6. Hibiya OKUROJI

Photo by Pixta
Nestled beneath the century-old red brick aqueduct between JR Yurakucho Station and Shimbashi Station, Hibiya OKUROJI stretches about 300 meters and features several dining establishments, handmade accessory shops, and bars.

Located in the slightly off-center, or "Oku," area of Hibiya and Ginza, this space has a sense of mystery, with the small alley under the bridge known as "Roji," where you can discover many unique hidden shops.

Hibiya OKUROJI
Address: 1-7-1 Uchisaiwaicho, Chiyoda, Tokyo Google Map

↑ Return to the top of article.

Places to Visit and Walking Spots in Yurakucho

The bustling urban center of Yurakucho has a leisurely vibe that's perfect for a casual stroll! Here are a few spots we recommend taking a walk.

7. Imperial Palace Outer Gardens

Photo by Pixta
The Imperial Palace Outer Gardens is great for enjoying natural greenery and historical Japanese architecture. The spacious and comfortable surrounding paths are also very popular as a running route.

On the official website of the Imperial Palace Outer Gardens, you can find two types of guided maps explaining historical sites and introducing the flora and fauna within the gardens.

These maps allow you to explore the area in-depth without a tour guide and enjoy a relaxing and intellectually stimulating walking experience.

Imperial Palace Outer Gardens
Address: 1-1 Kōkyo Gaein, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo Google Map

↑ Return to the top of article.

8. The Imperial Theatre

Photo by Pixta
Located in Yurakucho, the Imperial Theatre boasts a history of 110 years and is the center of Japan's performing arts, producing countless classic works primarily focusing on musicals and plays.

There are performances almost every day during the show season. Many adaptations of manga and films into live-action stage productions have also taken place here, making it a must-visit spot for theater lovers or anyone wanting to experience theatrical culture.

The Imperial Theatre and Kokusai Building will be temporarily closed for renovations in 2025, so be sure to visit before then.

Imperial Theatre
Address: 3-1-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda, Tokyo Google Map

↑ Return to the top of article.

9. Tokyo International Forum

The Tokyo International Forum is a beautiful glass building with a spacious, open high-ceilinged hall.

The changing light throughout the day enhances its photogenic appeal, attracting many photography enthusiasts on social media. It is now recognized among Tokyo's iconic landmarks.

The plaza outside the building connects Yurakucho with the Imperial Palace. It is lined with greenery, restaurants, cafes, and installation art. Even as you walk through the bustling heart of Tokyo, you can feel a leisurely atmosphere.

Tokyo International Forum
Address: 3-5-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda, Tokyo Google Map

↑ Return to the top of article.

10. Hibiya Park

Free and always accessible, Hibiya Park is Japan's first Western-style park, providing a relaxing space for leisurely walks—perfect for a stop while wandering around the Yurakucho area.

This expansive park is adorned with blooming flowers throughout all four seasons. It features venues like the Large Music Hall, where artists perform regularly.

It is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a wonderful blend of nature and art, making it an ideal spot for family outings.

Hibiya Park
Address: 1-6 Hibiya Park, Chiyoda, Tokyo Google Map

Dining in Yurakucho

Yurakucho, located near Tokyo Station and Ginza, has many unique dining options that visitors often overlook in favor of restaurants in other areas. Here are three restaurants in Yurakucho you should check out.

↑ Return to the top of article.

11. Yurakucho Yakitori Alley

Beneath the JR elevated tracks, in an arched space filled with the aroma and smoke of grilled meat, lies a brightly lit hidden gem underneath the JR Yamanote Line tracks.

This approximately 700-meter-long Yakitori Alley has been a unique dining area since the post-war era.

Home to numerous yakitori shops and izakayas, this spot is a popular after-work destination for local office workers. It offers everything from famous establishments to cozy hidden gems, allowing you to experience the lively local atmosphere with family and friends. If you’re looking for Japanese cuisine or izakayas in Yurakucho, this is the place to be!

Yurakucho Yakitori Alley
Address: 2-3 Yurakucho, Chiyoda, Tokyo Google Map

↑ Return to the top of article.

12. Cafe Benisica

Located next to Yurakucho Station, Cafe Benisica is just a 3-minute walk under the elevated tracks towards Shimbashi Station.

The faded sign and retro glass display case in front of the shop contrast with the modern surroundings. Upon entering, you can feel the vintage atmosphere that transports you back in time.

In the 1960s, coffee houses primarily served coffee, tea, sandwiches, and cakes. Established in 1957, Cafe Benisica aimed to offer more options and began developing a variety of new menu items.

Today, one of the representative dishes of Japanese coffee shops, pizza toast, was invented here. When you walk into the shop, you'll see that more than half of the customers have ordered pizza toast to enjoy. It’s highly recommended that you try it when you visit Yurakucho!

Cafe Benisica
Address: 1-6-8 Yurakucho, Chiyoda, Tokyo, Matsui Building 1F Google Map

↑ Return to the top of article.

13. Ya Kun Kaya Toast

The renowned kaya toast chain Ya Kun, hailing from Singapore, has a history of over 70 years and is synonymous with kaya toast.

The Japan-exclusive item, Red Bean Kaya Toast, makes the Japanese location special. The kaya jam's sweetness combines with the red bean paste's aroma to create a unique flavor.

Enjoy it alongside a soft-boiled egg and a cup of coffee enriched with sweetened condensed milk, allowing you to experience a different exotic flavor while traveling in Japan!

Ya Kun Kaya Toast
Address: 3-5-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda, Tokyo International Forum 1F Google Map

↑ Return to the top of article.

Hotels in Central Tokyo - Yurakucho

Yurakucho, with its central location in Tokyo and convenient transportation, is an excellent area for lodging during your Tokyo travels. Here are two unique hotels for you to consider.

14. MUJI HOTEL GINZA

Picture courtesy of Booking.com
MUJI HOTEL GINZA is the first hotel opened by Muji, featuring 79 meticulously designed rooms. From furniture to amenities, everything reflects Muji’s design ethos.

With comfortable bedding and specially designed lighting that promotes relaxation, guests can enjoy a homely sense of comfort. Room options include tatami rooms and bunk bed rooms.

In the same building, you'll find a spacious flagship Muji store, as well as a Muji restaurant, cafe, and gallery, making it a must-visit for Muji fans!

MUJI HOTEL GINZA
Address: 3-3-5 Ginza, Chuo, Tokyo, 6F Google Map

↑ Return to the top of article.

15. The Imperial Hotel Tokyo

Picture courtesy of Booking.com
The Imperial Hotel Tokyo has stood for over a century since its opening in 1890. It is just a 5-minute walk from the Imperial Palace and the Ginza area. Three subway stations are nearby, making it a very convenient lodging option.

As a prestigious old hotel, the guest rooms are luxuriously and elegantly decorated, with exquisite and attentive service. The hotel features eight restaurants of different styles and four bars.

Additionally, it offers a paid luxury bus service to and from Narita International Airport and Haneda Airport, ensuring a comfortable and luxurious journey.

The Imperial Hotel Tokyo
Address: 1-1-1 Uchisaiwaicho, Chiyoda, Tokyo Google Map

↑ Return to the top of article.

Enjoy Exploring Central Tokyo

The Yurakucho area is quite small, and while strolling and shopping, you might not even realize you’ve already walked to the next station.

Although it may seem unremarkable initially, it hides many renowned shops and charming attractions. The sights introduced this time are just the tip of the iceberg. We recommend paying multiple visits to Yurakucho to explore and discover even more surprises that await you!