Tokyo Guide : Joyful Minowabashi Shopping Street
How about experiencing a unique side of Tokyo, away from the crowded tourist spots? There’s a shopping street that will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a retro trip through the city’s old downtown.
Joyful Minowabashi is a historic shopping street located in Minami-Senju, Arakawa Ward, Tokyo. Spanning approximately 400 meters, this covered arcade street extends from Minowabashi Station, the first stop on the Toden Arakawa Line (Tokyo Sakura Tram), to Arakawa-itchūmae Station. It features around 120 shops and is a well-loved destination for both locals and visitors.
Originally established in the Taisho era, Joyful Minowabashi retains a charming, retro atmosphere reminiscent of Showa-era Tokyo. The shopping street is particularly popular for strolling, street food, and traditional shopping experiences.
You can reach this shopping street easily by taking the Tokyo Sakura Tram, the last streetcar line in Tokyo, from the nearest station of my cooking school. Riding the streetcar from the station to the final stop offers a bit of a journey experience, making it a fun and scenic way to get there.
Recommended Shops in Joyful Minowabashi
📍 Minami-Senju 1-29-6, Arakawa-ku, Tokyo
A long-established bakery with over 80 years of history. Their signature ham katsu sandwich features a fluffy bun with a thick-cut ham cutlet, offering a satisfying bite.
📍 Minami-Senju 1-19-2, Arakawa-ku, Tokyo
A famous Japanese deli featured on TV. Their benishōga tempura (red ginger fritters), known for their vibrant color and zesty flavor, are a must-try for street food lovers.
📍 Minami-Senju 1-27-6, Arakawa-ku, Tokyo
A soba restaurant founded in the Taisho era (1912–1926). The shop’s building, constructed in 1954, is registered as a cultural property of Arakawa Ward. Their ni-hachi soba (80% buckwheat, 20% wheat noodles) and duck soba (seasonal winter dish) are highly recommended.
Sakai Shokuhin – Gyoza Specialty Shop
📍 Minami-Senju 1-19-2, Arakawa-ku, Tokyo
A specialty gyoza takeout shop. Their crispy pan-fried dumplings come in sets of eight for just 300 yen. Made with a generous amount of vegetables, they offer a delightfully crunchy texture.
📍 Minami-Senju 1-19-2, Arakawa-ku, Tokyo
A coffee shop established in 1984. Their “Minowabashi Toden Blend” coffee is known for its rich aroma and smooth taste. Their nostalgic coffee jelly is also a popular treat.
📍 Minami-Senju 1-19-4, Arakawa-ku, Tokyo
A spacious public bathhouse featuring seven different types of baths. The retro atmosphere provides a relaxing experience, making it a perfect spot to unwind after exploring the shopping street.
Experience the Nostalgic Charm of Joyful Minowabashi
Joyful Minowabashi Shopping Street is a delightful mix of Showa-era nostalgia and modern convenience. Whether you’re looking for delicious food, unique souvenirs, or a taste of Tokyo’s old-town charm, this vibrant shopping street offers something for everyone. Take a stroll, savor the flavors, and immerse yourself in the warm atmosphere of this historic neighborhood!
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