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Ginza

The Ginza area of Tokyo is right in the heart of all the action.

This was the first shopping area in Japan to be styled after a more western design.

In this case, the building and street layout was fashioned to reflect the shops, bars and restaurants of Regents Street in London, UK.

The name actually means silver mint. The area is named after the silver coint mint built in the area during the 1600s.

What Will You Find In Ginza?

First up, if you're a shopper, check out our Ginza shopping page for some good tips on what you'll find there, when's best to visit, and what to do if you get lost!

If you're wondering what else Ginza has to offer other than shopping you'll find plenty to do.

If you fancy a cultural treat, Ginza is home to Kabuki-za, the original home of Kabuki theater in Tokyo. Sadly the current building is currently set to be demolished in April 2010 so you'll have to be quick to catch some kabuki here in the next few months. If you've missed the deadline though, don't worry, there are plans to build a new a building in 2013.

If you like art and fancy checking out some art galleries during your stay in Tokyo, it might come as a surprise to know that this area is chock-a-block with many smaller and original boutique style venues. Just take your time and if you see an interesting looking gallery, pop in and and enjoy the artwork on display.

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What Can You Do At Night?

This area is packed with a range of restaurants, bars, and clubs for all budgets and tastes.

Some of our favorite restaurants include Gompachi, Zest, and Jim Thompson's Table. You'll find them all on this page put together by Bento.com along with some other great restaurants in the area.

For a good night out that isn't too expensive check out this standing bar called 300 Bar. Just like with your dollar store or your set menu restaurants, at the 300 Bar all drinks cost 300 yen and there's plenty to choose from!

If you're looking for something a little more upmarket why not enjoy a glass of champagne at Goss Champagne And Wine Bar. Our friends at EOK have put together some great information about this location so you know exactly where to go and how much you can expect to pay.

If you decide to stay out all night and want to turn the nighttime into the day, Tsukiji is not far away. You can take in the sights of the early morning fish auction and enjoy an early breakfast of the freshest sushi.

Getting There!

To get here you need to take either the Ginza subway line, the TOEI Asakusa subway line or the Marunouchi subway line and get off at Ginza station. Once you come out at street level there are maps in English to help you get your bearings.

If you want to arrive by boat, take a Tokyo river cruise and get off at this stop on your way.