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Kinshicho, Tokyo - 20 Things to Do: Shopping, Dining, Affordable Hotels

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Tokyo's Kinshicho district is a popular choice among visitors who seek affordable hotels with direct access to central Tokyo and city landmarks. We introduce the best things to enjoy in Kinshicho, from shopping and dining to parks and recommended hotels.

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Tokyo's Kinshicho district may not appear in travel guides but its excellent access to central Tokyo makes it the perfect hub for staying, sightseeing, and shopping.

Kinshicho Station is served by JR lines and the Tokyo Metro Hazomon Line offering direct access to Akihabara, Shinjuku, and Nihonbashi (central Tokyo), and even provides direct routes to Yokohama, Kamakura, and Tokyo Disney Resort!

Moreover, with hotels, department stores, and supermarkets clustered near the station, Kinshicho is increasingly popular among visitors to Japan.

Kinshicho: Shopping, Dining, Hotels, and Attractions

Kinshicho Station: Train Lines, Buses, Access to Tokyo Landmarks
Shopping in Kinshicho
1. Kinshicho PARCO
2. 24-Hour Seiyu Supermarket
3. Kinshicho Marui Department Store
4. Yodobashi Camera Multimedia Kinshicho
5. Arcakit Kinshicho
6. Don Quijote Kinshicho Store
7. Olinas Mall Kinshicho
8. Kinshicho 100-Yen Shops and Drugstores

Dining in Kinshicho: Restaurants and Cafes
9. Sumida Food Hall
10. Hokusai Sabo Cafe
11. Knit Coffee Shop
12. Kawara CAFE & DINING

Cherry Blossom Parks and Shrines in Kinshicho
13. Kinshi Park
14. Sarue Park
15. Kameido Tenjin Shrine

Hotels in Kinshicho
16. Lotte City Hotel Kinshicho
17. Keisei Richmond Hotel Tokyo Kinshicho
18. Sotetsu Fresa Inn Tokyo Kinshicho
19. Tobu Levant Hotel Tokyo
20. MOXY Tokyo Kinshicho

Kinshicho Station: Train Lines, Buses, Access to Tokyo Landmarks

Kinshicho is served by the JR Sobu Line, the JR Sobu Main Line (Yokosuka Line), and the Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line.

Although it may not be as well-known as other central attractions, the likelihood of encountering overcrowded train cars is lower than for other stations closer to the city center. Additionally, with bus routes available, it's much friendlier for travelers carrying large luggage or traveling with children.

Access Tokyo's Major Areas with the JR Lines from Kinshicho

Kinshicho, Tokyo - 20 Things to Do: Shopping, Dining, Affordable Hotels

Kinshicho is located on the JR Sobu Line and the JR Sobu Main Line (Yokosuka Line), providing direct access to Akihabara, Shinjuku, and even Nakano, Koenji, and Mitaka, covering the whole of Tokyo. With careful timing, you can even reach Kamakura without transferring trains.

Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line: Direct Access to Tokyo Skytree and Shibuya

Tokyo Subway

The Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line is the only subway line in Tokyo that connects to the entire subway system, providing slightly less crowded trains than other lines. It's very convenient for accessing Tokyo Skytree (Oshiage), Otemachi, Omotesando, and Shibuya.

Bus from Kinshicho: Direct Access to Haneda Airport and Tokyo Disney Resort

Ningyocho Disney

If you want to head to Disneyland early and avoid the crowds, staying in Kinshicho allows you to directly take the bus to Tokyo Disney Resort or Haneda Airport from the bus terminal in front of the PARCO department store at Kinshicho Station's South Exit.

Explore Asakusa and Nippori

JR Ningyocho

Those who want to experience the nostalgic charm of Tokyo's quaint shitamachi (low-lying areas) or go to Narita Airport can take a bus directly to Nippori Station from Kinshicho Station's North Exit.

You can easily transfer to the Keisei SKYLINER at Nippori Station and head to Narita Airport or take a stroll around the Yanaka, Sendagi, and Nezu areas from Nippori!

Kinshicho's convenient transportation network covers downtown, central areas, and even suburban routes, easily meeting a variety of travel itineraries.

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Shopping in Kinshicho: Department Stores, Supermarkets, Malls

Shinjuku and Shibuya may be famous shopping destinations in Tokyo, but Kinshicho is just as good - minus the crowds! There are five major shopping malls and several supermarkets near Kinshicho Station, offering a comprehensive variety of products for all needs.

1. Kinshicho PARCO

PARCO Ningyocho

Since the PARCO department store opened in front of the South Exit of Kinshicho Station, the area has been revitalized, providing women's favorite brand clothes while preserving the iconic Lazona SPA that flourished here since the 80s.

PARCO Ningyocho

Almost every department store in Kinshicho has MUJI and Starbucks stores, so you're unlikely to miss out on popular items.

The MUJI store inside Kinshicho PARCO is undoubtedly the most exquisite and spacious branch. Apart from providing children's play areas, it also offers custom-made sock services. If you're a fan of MUJI's square-design socks, you might as well customize a pair here!

Nishimatsuya

Nishimatsuya, located on the third floor of Kinshicho PARCO, stands out among the fashion brands.

This store, known for its affordable baby and children's products, has a strong presence on the outskirts of Tokyo. You might not expect to find it in a large department store, but it certainly brings joy to mothers!

2. 24-Hour Seiyu Supermarket

Seiyu Supermarket

Perhaps what makes travelers even happier is the 24-hour Seiyu Supermarket located on the underground first floor of Kinshicho PARCO.

Although Kinshicho has no shortage of convenience stores, having a large 24-hour supermarket is still reassuring!

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3. Kinshicho Marui Department Store

Marui Department Store

Just step out of JR Kinshicho Station's South Exit and you'll see the Kinshicho Marui Department Store.

After being renovated, its resurgence has enlivened the area around the South Exit along with PARCO.

Ningyocho Shopping

Different from department stores in central areas, the Kinshicho Marui Department Store has a distinctive shop line-up. While there might be fewer women's fashion brands, it still offers the brands favored by visitors to Japan such as Uniqlo, MUJI, and Aroma Bloom.

In addition, the Genki Kids children's shoe brand from MOONSTAR has a specialized section here, offering a wide range of products, making it perfect for a family shopping spree.

Ningyocho Supermarket

The supermarket on the underground floor of Kinshicho Marui is operated by JAPAN MEAT from Ibaraki.

It offers a rich variety of meat, providing customers with the opportunity to purchase high-quality meats such as Matsusaka beef and Ibaraki pork. If you're staying in a guesthouse with a kitchen, buying meat and other ingredients here to cook for yourself is both cost-saving and satisfying!

4. Yodobashi Camera Multimedia Kinshicho

Ningyocho Electronics

Even though taking the JR Sobu Line provides direct access to the electronics heaven of Akihabara, you can shop for popular items directly in Kinshicho, saving time and making it easier to find what you're looking for.

The Yodobashi Camera Multimedia Kinshicho is located within Kinshicho Termina, a department store found right above the JR Kinshicho Station.

You can find here all the basic products you would look for in a Japanese electronics store, from home appliances to toys, figurines, console games, and all types of gadgets.

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5. Arcakit Kinshicho

Akachan Honpo

Arcakit Kinshicho is a department store located right in front of the North Exit of Kinshicho Station.

The collection of stores inside this building makes it look like a department store designed for mothers, where everything related to children, whether it's household goods, mother and child clothing, and so on, is readily available!

IMFE Akachan Honpo

Apart from integrating many baby and child care brands, such as Akachan Honpo, Pigeon, or IFME children's shoes, Arcakit's own children's wear brand store is not to be missed. It specializes in Japan-made baby underwear with delicate, high-quality textures at reasonable prices.

Kinshicho Sky Tree

On the top floor, you can enjoy unobstructed views of Tokyo Skytree. The tower stands tall against the clear blue sky, providing a refreshing feeling.

Kinshicho Supermarket

The supermarket in ARCAKIT is the familiar LIFE supermarket for downtown residents, retaining the stylish interior of its predecessor, the upscale Isetan QUEEN supermarket.

6. Don Quijote Kinshicho Store

Façade of Don Quijote store in Kinshicho north exit

Photo by Itmedia

Spanning from the underground first floor to the third floor, the overall theme of Don Quijote Kinshicho Store is inspired by local legends from the eastern side of Tokyo. Visitors may have the feeling of strolling through a Don Quijote theme park!

Most of the goods sold here are imported from overseas. The bright lighting makes it easy to find the products you are looking for on neatly arranged display shelves, making it very different from many other Don Quijote stores that have the image of being narrow and crowded.

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7. Olinas Mall Kinshicho

Kinshi Park

Near Kinshicho Station's North Exit is Kinshi Park, and beyond the park is Kinshicho's Olinas Mall, a complex shopping mall that caters to all ages.

Kinshicho buying appliances

From baby products to home appliances, and even outlet stores for sporting goods, the Olinas Mall offers a variety of products not found in other shopping malls in Kinshicho.

OLINAS

In Olinas you'll find a Nitori store, one of the best places to find interior goods and furniture in Japan.

The mall has several clothing shops, cafes, and a dining area, as well as a large TOHO Cinemas movie theater.

Moreover, in addition to baby and toddler products, Olinas also offers jewelry stores that elementary school students will love, nostalgic citrus shops, and even a Sanrio specialty store loved by both adults and children, making it a place with everything.

8. Kinshicho 100-Yen Shops and Drugstores

The 100-yen shops and drugstores in Kinshicho are somewhat hidden within shopping malls, making them a bit hard to find. Read on to learn more about four shops in this category that you don't want to miss.

Tokyo's largest Daiso

Arcakit Kinshicho is home to the largest Daiso 100-yen shop in eastern Japan!

You can find this Daiso store on the seventh floor of Arcakit Kinshicho. Enjoy shopping here for edible and non-edible Japanese items that are perfect as gifts for friends and family!

Japanese 100 yen store

Another high-quality 100-yen shop, Seria, a favorite among DIY housewives, has two stores in Kinshicho: one on the fourth floor of the Kinshicho Marui department store, and another on the underground first floor of the Olinas Mall, with the latter being the larger branch.

SUNDRUG

A Sundrug pharmacy is located in the basement of ARCAKIT at the north exit. You need to pass through the LIFE supermarket to see it. It's relatively inconspicuous and doesn't get too crowded. If the prices are similar, shopping here can save you the time spent queuing at the checkout.

Kinshicho

Image for illustration purposes, not of the store itself

Additionally, there is a large Matsumoto Kiyoshi drugstore within the Kinshicho Termina department store that includes the Kinshicho Station building.

Use the Matsumoto Kiyoshi duty-free + 7% Off Coupon

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Dining in Kinshicho: Restaurants and Cafes

With so many department stores, one could never go hungry in Kinshicho, but the only problem is not knowing what to choose.

We introduce three recommended restaurants in Kinshicho where you can enjoy excellent Japanese dishes and sweets.

9. Sumida Food Hall in Kinshicho PARCO

20 Things to Do in Kinshicho, Tokyo: Shopping, Dining, Affordable Hotels

Picture courtesy of PR Times

The first floor of Kinshicho PARCO is home to a spacious food court called Sumida Food Hall featuring several restaurants. Here you can enjoy various types of casual dishes from Japanese cuisine along with beverages.

Sumida Food Hall was designed as an open space where people can enjoy a chat over meals and drinks. It's one of the best places to experience Japan's varied and lively dining culture.

10. Hokusai Sabo: A Japanese Coffee Shop with Origins in Kyoto

Shiratama

If you walk from Kinshicho toward the Sumida Hokusai Museum, which is dedicated to the works of ukiyo-e artists Katsushika Hokusai (1760 - 1849), you'll find a Japanese coffee shop called Hokusai Sabo.

This cafe is one of the few places where you can taste authentic Kyoto sweets, especially their freshly made shiratama dessert, which has an addictive chewy texture and subtle sweetness.

Kinshicho

The manager, Ms. Imai, sent her staff to Kyoto to learn in order to bring authentic Kyoto sweets to Tokyo. This dedication and their carefully selected ingredients have brought Hokusai Sabo excellent reviews.


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11. Knit: A Retro Coffee Shop with Many Fans

Kinshicho cafe

Located near Kinshicho PARCO, Knit is a coffee shop with 50 years of history and was originally a textile factory.

Due to increasing competition and more businesses moving their factories overseas, it was at risk of closure until it transformed into this coffee shop rich in nostalgic charm.

Japanese thick pancake

Many Japanese celebrities have filmed movies, TV series, or commercials here, and aside from coming to experience the nostalgic atmosphere, their thick, buttery pancakes are a must-try!

12. Kawara CAFE & DINING: A Soba Noodle Restaurant Featured on TV

Getsuyaku Kyojo Kawara Soba

Above the Yodobashi Camera at the South Exit of Kinshicho Station, is Kawara CAFE & DINING, which serves noodle dishes that became famous after being featured in a Japanese TV series.

Kinshicho cuisine

During the winter season, this restaurant provides heated tables. The spacious area is also suitable for mothers gathering and bringing their children.

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Cherry Blossom Parks and Shrines in Kinshicho

Compared to other Tokyo districts, Kinshicho's largest charm lies in its extensive parks, especially during spring when it becomes a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing.

13. Kinshi Park

Kinshi Park

As soon as you exit from Exit 4 of Kinshicho Station on the Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line, you'll find Kinshi Park, with large playground equipment and plenty of space for children to run freely. In spring, it's a great place for families to have picnics.

14. Sarue Park

Sarue Enshi Park

Sarue Park used to be a lumber storage area operated by the Tokugawa shoguns during the Edo period (1603 - 1868). This park is currently a great place for cherry blossom viewing in spring. The wide green spaces under the cherry trees make it perfect for hanami picnics.

In November, the rows of ginkgo trees along the park alleys display their brilliant yellow foliage. The park is rich in many varieties of flowering plants and trees that make it fun to explore at any time of the year. Moreover, the park's playground equipment has unique designs not seen in other parks.

In the southern part of Sarue Park, you can find a spacious cafe operated by a local cultural facility, as well as a pond surrounded by greenery. This area is excellent for vibrant red autumn foliage viewing in late November.

15. Kameido Tenjin Shrine: Photogenic Shrine Famous for Wisterias

20 Things to Do in Kinshicho

Photo by Pixta

One of the most beautiful places to visit near Kinshicho is Kameido Tenjin Shrine. Dedicated to the guardian deity of learning, Sugawara no Michizane, this shrine is famous for its wisteria garden and pond with a vermillion, arched bridge.

To see the wisteria flowers, visit in late April. The Wisteria Festival held at this shrine is an important event for the entire community around the shrine.

In November, Kameido Tenjin hosts a chrysanthemum festival showcasing splendid varieties of mums, while in February it has a Plum Blossom Festival, with lovely blooms that herald spring in Japan.

With its magnificent architecture and history that goes back to the Edo period (1603-1868), Kameido Tenjin is worth visiting at any time of the year.

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Hotels in Kinshicho

If you're looking for less expensive hotels in Tokyo, Kinshicho and its neighboring area of Ryogoku are an excellent choice! The area has many hotels for every budget catering to a wide range of needs. Below we introduce some of the hotels in Kinshicho.

16. Lotte City Hotel Kinshicho

Kinshicho hotel

Picture courtesy of Booking.com
Located next to Kinshicho Station, the Lotte City Hotel Kinshicho is a 3-star hotel chosen by many tourists and group travelers.

After shopping at the nearby department stores, you can return to the hotel to drop off your luggage before heading to the next store. There is also a BOOK OFF store under the hotel where you can purchase second-hand CDs, DVDs, and comics, which is very convenient.

17. Keisei Richmond Hotel Tokyo Kinshicho

Kinshicho: Giant Daiso and Kids' Stores Galore! Travel, Sights, Eats & Stay Guide.

Picture courtesy of Booking.com

Keisei Richmond Hotel Tokyo Kinshicho is a 3-star hotel located close to Kinshicho Station's South Exit and Sarue Park. It offers excellent access to Kinshicho's shopping and dining district.

This hotel is highly rated by couples — many recommend it for a two-person trip.

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18. Sotetsu Fresa Inn Tokyo Kinshicho

Kinshicho hotels Tokyo

Picture courtesy of Booking.com

Sotetsu Fresa Inn Tokyo Kinshicho is located a 3-minute walk from Kinshicho Station. The rooms may be on the small side but it is one of the most affordable accommodation options in Tokyo.

With an excellent breakfast buffet menu, this hotel may be the best option for active travelers who plan to spend a lot of time outside exploring the city.

19. Tobu Levant Hotel Tokyo

Kinshicho hotel

Picture courtesy of Booking.com

Tobu Hotel Levant Tokyo received the 2018 TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice Award and is only a 3-minute walk from JR Kinshicho Station.

Rooms offer a complete view of the Tokyo Skytree, and the hotel provides paid shuttles to and from Narita Airport and Haneda Airport, as well as a free shuttle to Tokyo Disney Resort, making it perfect for families.

20. MOXY Tokyo Kinshicho

Kinshicho Hotel Tokyo

Picture courtesy of Booking.com

MOXY Tokyo Kinshicho, part of Marriott International Group, can be reached in just 5 minutes on foot from JR Kinshicho Station. The hotel boasts a 24-hour lounge and a continental breakfast offered daily.

MOXY Tokyo Kinshicho is situated just a 7-minute bus ride from the Tokyo Skytree and a 20-minute bus journey from Asakusa's Sensoji Temple, offering convenient proximity to key Tokyo landmarks. The Ryogoku Kokugikan Sumo Hall is a swift 3-minute train trip from the hotel, making this location perfect for those who want to enjoy sumo competitions and Japanese traditional culture.

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Enjoy Your Time in Kinshicho

With its excellent department stores and dining facilities, Kinshicho mirrors the convenience and vibrancy found in Tokyo's more renowned areas.

Offering excellent access to central Tokyo and city landmarks, Kinshicho offers a glimpse into authentic Japanese daily life, rendering it an ideal destination for families exploring the city.

Written by

Having left Taiwan for 17 years, I stumbled upon Tokyo and gradually fell in love with this rapidly changing metropolis that also holds onto its traditional culture. In between taking care of children, I enjoy finding solace in a place about a 15-minute walk from the station with a population density of about 30%. Although picky when it comes to food, I am passionate about seeking out delicious cuisine, love cooking, and enjoy feeding others. I also identify myself as a member of the Potato Chips Association.
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