Togoshi Ginza Shopping Street: A Culinary Journey through Tokyo’s Longest Local Arcade

Stretching an impressive 1.3 kilometers with over 400 shops, Togoshi Ginza Shopping Street holds the title of the longest "Ginza-style" shopping street in Tokyo. It is a legendary destination for "Tabe-aruki" (eating while walking) and is famously known for its wide variety of Korokke (croquettes). If you are looking to escape the skyscrapers and immerse yourself in Tokyo’s authentic "Shitamachi" (downtown) atmosphere, this is the place to be.

Togoshi Ginza Shopping Street

Photo by:Tatsuo Yamashita - CC BY 2.0

Selected Shops & Highlights

  • Goto Kamaboko-ten:

    • A traditional Oden (simmered fish cake) specialist. Their signature "Oden Croquette" is a must-try, infusing the savory flavors of dashi broth into a crispy potato shell. They also serve hot, individual oden pieces—perfect for a chilly afternoon.

  • Solco (Salt Specialty Store):

    • A stylish laboratory-like shop featuring over 40 types of artisanal salts from Japan and around the world. You can purchase simple onigiri (rice balls) and test different salts to discover how mineral variations change the flavor of a simple snack.

  • Togoshi Ginza Onsen:

    • A modern public bathhouse (Sento) located just off the main street. It features a natural "Kuro-yu" (dark spring water) known for its skin-beautifying properties. It is an excellent spot to relax your feet after walking the 1.3km stretch.

  • Togoshi Ginza no Pan:

    • A beloved local bakery famous for its fluffy cream buns and premium white bread. Using fresh, high-quality ingredients, this shop offers a taste of the daily life of Togoshi residents.

Essential Visitor Information

  • Opening Hours: Most shops operate from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

    • Editor’s Note: Many shops close on Wednesdays or Thursdays. We recommend visiting on other weekdays or the weekend for the best experience.

  • Access:

    • Take the Tokyu Ikegami Line to Togoshi-Ginza Station; the station exits directly onto the shopping street.

    • Take the Toei Asakusa Line to Togoshi Station; it is a 2-minute walk to the street.

  • Location: 1-15-16 Togoshi, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo (Central area).

Editor’s Pro-Tip

  1. The Croquette Map: With over 20 shops selling their own unique versions of croquettes, picking just one is hard. Stop by the local information booth to pick up a "Croquette Map" to plan your tasting route.

  2. Tabe-aruki Etiquette: While "walking and eating" is the theme, Japanese etiquette suggests standing near the shop where you purchased your food while eating it. Use the shop's designated trash bin before moving to the next stall.

  3. Meet Gin-chan: Keep an eye out for "Togoshi Ginjiro" (or Gin-chan), the district's stray cat mascot. Touching his paw on the various statues found along the street is said to bring good luck.