Ginza is Tokyo’s ultimate district of luxury and elegance, representing a perfect fusion of Japanese tradition and global high-end retail. From century-old department stores and avant-garde commercial complexes to historic theaters and modern art galleries, Ginza offers a world-class experience that caters to high-end global travelers.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to do in Ginza—including the best places to shop, must-see cultural spots, and top recommendations for authentic Japanese and Western cuisine.
Contents
🛍️ What to Do in Ginza: Luxury Shopping Destinations
Ginza is a global shopping hub where visitors can find everything from exquisite Japanese craftsmanship to flagship stores of the world’s most luxurious brands.
Commercial Complexes & Department Stores
GinzaNovo (Formerly Tokyu Plaza Ginza)
-
A large commercial complex directly connected to Ginza Station, offering supreme convenience.
- Address: 5-2-1 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
- URL: https://ginza.tokyu-plaza.com/
Details: Renamed from Tokyu Plaza Ginza in the fall of 2025. It operates under the theme, “Creative Japan – A Gateway Where the World Meets Time,” focusing on Japanese creativity and tradition. It features high-quality Made in Japan products, including traditional crafts and a dedicated “SAKE LABO” space for Japanese sake. Foreign visitors benefit from the “LOTTE DUTY FREE GINZA” located on the 8th and 9th floors, which uses the same duty-free collection system as airports.
GINZA SIX
The largest commercial complex in the Ginza area.
- Address: 6-10-1 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
- URL: https://ginza6.tokyo/
Details: The theme is “Life At Its Best.” GINZA SIX integrates flagship luxury stores, refined restaurants, and large-scale, rotating art installations in its central atrium. The spacious GINZA SIX Garden on the rooftop offers panoramic views of the city, perfect for a break. Additionally, the basement houses the Kanze Noh Theater, a 480-seat hall where guests can experience the classical Japanese performance art of Noh.
Ginza Mitsukoshi
Details: The store champions the “Fusion of Tradition and Innovation,” offering a mix of established Japanese heritage brands and the world’s top luxury houses. Services are highly tailored for international tourists, with comprehensive foreign language counters and extensive tax-free services. The Ginza Terrace on the 9th floor provides a relaxed, grassy open space, offering a perfect refuge during shopping.
Ginza Wako
A historic department store famous for its 1932 clock tower (Hattori Clock Tower) landmark.
- Address: 4-5-11 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
- URL: https://www.wako.co.jp/
Details: The theme is “Symbol of Quality That Marks Time.” Wako exclusively deals in top-tier luxury goods—including timepieces, jewelry, and exquisite art crafts—backed by a long history. The iconic, frequently changing window displays facing the main crossing have been a famous post-war “Face of Ginza,” holding significant artistic value.
Matsuya Ginza
A department store known for its innovative design, directly connected to Ginza Station Exit A12.
- Address: 3-6-1 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
- URL: https://www.matsuya.com/ginza/
Details: The store’s theme is “The Destination for Fashion-Sensitive, Mature Women.” It features a modern, white glass exterior and a dramatic central hall atrium that provides an artistic, contemporary shopping environment. The 7th floor regularly hosts exhibitions and galleries, ranging from traditional crafts to modern art, establishing it as a cultural hub.
Marronnier Gate Ginza 2
A commercial facility opened on the former site of Printemps Ginza.
- Address: 3-2-1 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
- URL: https://www.marronniergate.com/
Details: This facility offers the latest fashion trends and lifestyle goods.
UNIQLO Ginza Global Flagship Store
The largest UNIQLO store in the world by floor area.
- Address: 6-9-5 Ginza Komatsu East Building 1F–12F, Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
- URL: https://map.uniqlo.com/jp/ja/detail/10101397
Details: The store’s theme is “Experience All of LifeWear.” Across 12 floors, it showcases the brand’s complete philosophy of high-quality, functional “LifeWear.” The store is globally focused, with multilingual staff proficient in English, French, Chinese, and Korean.
Specialty Stores
Itoya (Stationery)
A celebrated stationery specialty store with over 100 years of history.
- Address: 2-7-15 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
- URL: https://www.ito-ya.co.jp/
Details: Since its founding, Itoya has constantly innovated to share the joy of stationery, attracting fans from around the world. The building is a towering “Stationery Department Store,” offering an enormous scale of products. The store features a wide selection across 12 floors, including high-end international brands and exclusive Itoya originals. Designed as a space to “Provide Creative Time,” the themed floors make shopping an inspirational experience. Its high-quality Japanese stationery, often with a unique “Wabi-Sabi” aesthetic, is popular as a practical souvenir.
FANCL Ginza Square
A complex focused on beauty and health by the additive-free cosmetics brand, FANCL.
Details: The complex is a “Comprehensive Beauty and Health Hub for Mibyou (Pre-Sickness) Care.” Beyond cosmetics sales, it offers science-based counseling, including skin and health checks. It also features a restaurant utilizing organic ingredients. Staff are available for English and Chinese support, and tax-free procedures are available.
🎭 What to Do in Ginza: Culture, Art, and Unique Experiences
The Ginza area is a nexus for non-ordinary experiences, ranging from traditional Japanese performing arts to cutting-edge digital and contemporary art.
Attend a Kabuki Performance at Kabuki-za Theatre
The dedicated theater for Kabuki, a traditional Japanese performing art with over 400 years of history.
- Address: 4-12-15 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
- URL: https://www.kabuki-za.co.jp/
Details: Known as the “Sanctuary of Kabuki,” the theatre maintains the tradition while aiming to be an “Open Theatre for the Modern Era.” To welcome foreign visitors and first-time guests, it offers English subtitle guides and “Hitomaku-miseki” (Single Act Tickets), allowing visitors to experience just a part of the long performance, making the traditional art form highly accessible.
Stroll Through the Weekend Pedestrian Paradise
A special event where the main Ginza thoroughfare, Ginza-dori (Chuo-dori), is closed to vehicular traffic on weekends and holidays.
- Details: The event’s theme is “Opening the Entire Street as a Living Room.” It transforms the usually busy avenue into a spacious, leisurely zone where people can stroll and relax, offering a unique opportunity to appreciate the beautiful architecture and atmosphere of Ginza without the constant noise of cars.
- Hours: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM (April–September) / 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM (October–March).
💎 Cutting-Edge Art & Entertainment (Ginza, Yurakucho, Hibiya)
Art Aquarium Ginza
A distinctive, theme-park-style museum that merges goldfish with modern digital art.
- Address: Ginza Mitsukoshi New Wing 8F, 4-6-16 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
- URL: https://artaquarium.jp/
Details: The exhibit is themed “A Fusion of Life and Art: Goldfish Exhibition Inspired by Ikebana (Flower Arrangement), Tea Ceremony, and Japanese Gardens.” Graceful goldfish swim within uniquely designed, illuminated tanks, blending traditional Japanese aesthetics with futuristic presentation. Located within Ginza Mitsukoshi, it’s an easy cultural stop while shopping.
Konica Minolta Planetarium TOKYO (Yurakucho)
A state-of-the-art planetarium housed in Yurakucho Marion, featuring immersive 3D audio technology.
- Address: Yurakucho Marion 9F, 2-5-1 Yurakucho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
- URL: https://planetarium.konicaminolta.jp/planetariatokyo/
Details: The theme is “A Sensory, Immersive Starry Sky Experience.” Utilizing cutting-edge projection and 3D sound systems, it aims to create the feeling of floating in space. It offers romantic pair seating and diverse programs focused on constellations, space travel, and musical collaborations.
Ginza Maison Hermès Forum
An art space managed by Hermès, housed in a distinct building designed by world-renowned architect Renzo Piano.
- Address: Ginza Maison Hermès 8F & 9F, 5-4-1 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
- URL: https://www.hermes.com/jp/ja/story/maison-ginza/
Details: The space is themed “An Open, Complimentary Venue for Dialogue with Art.” The gallery within the beautiful glass-block building offers free exhibitions of contemporary art by international and domestic artists. The Le Studio mini-cinema on the 10th floor screens films reflecting the Hermès worldview, offering a tranquil space for artistic inspiration.
Tokyo Midtown Hibiya
A sophisticated commercial complex next to Hibiya Park, featuring shopping, dining, and entertainment.
- Address: 1-1-2 Yurakucho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
- URL: https://www.hibiya.tokyo-midtown.com/jp/
Details: The theme is “An International Business and Arts Hub for Forward-Thinking People.” Its modern design offers spectacular views of Hibiya Park and Tokyo Tower from the facilities, with the Park View Garden on the 6th floor being a popular spot. The complex also features high-tech cinemas and hosts regular cultural events and exhibitions.
Other Arts & Galleries
Ginza has fostered various arts for centuries. Besides the Kabuki-za, you can find compelling modern and graphic design exhibitions at galleries like Shiseido Gallery and Creation Gallery G8.
Tsukiji Area Experiences
The Tsukiji area, a short walk from Ginza, offers an opportunity to experience vibrant Japanese food culture.
- Tuna Cutting Shows (Maguro Kaitai): Irregularly held at sushi shops in Tsukiji. You can watch the energetic auction process (if applicable) followed by a demonstration of how fresh fish is prepared into sashimi and sushi.
- Nigiri Sushi Making Tours: Some tours include a visit to the Tsukiji Market combined with a hands-on lesson where you learn to make nigiri and rolled sushi, often while dressed in a traditional chef’s uniform.
Hibiya Park
Located about a 10-minute walk from Ginza, it is a perfect spot to relax away from the city bustle.
- Address: Hibiya Park, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
- URL: https://www.tokyo-park.or.jp/park/format/index037.html
Details: This park, created over 100 years ago, incorporates elements of a traditional Japanese garden. It retains a moat from a former feudal lord’s residence, now known as the Shinji-ike Pond, which is shaped like the broken Japanese character for “heart.” It is a famous spot for viewing autumn leaves. The surrounding areas (Hibiya and Marunouchi) are cultural centers, featuring the Imperial Theatre, Takarazuka Theatre, and Mitsubishi Ichigokan Museum, making the area around Ginza a cultural hub.
⚠️ Note on Ginza Sony Park: The former Ginza Sony Park, located on the site of the old Sony Building, closed in the fall of 2024. Construction for a new Sony Building is planned, but the reopening date is TBD.
🍴 Ginza Gourmet: From Tradition to Michelin Stars
Ginza, a symbol of high-end dining, offers a diverse culinary scene—from Michelin-starred establishments to affordable, beloved local favorites.
Hints for Japanese Cuisine (Luxury & Affordable)
While Ginza is famous for expensive sushi and tempura restaurants, many high-end establishments offer authentic Japanese cuisine at more reasonable prices (around ¥3,000 to ¥6,000) during lunchtime or with advance reservations. Always check opening hours and reserve ahead.
Michelin Yakitori: Bird Land Ginza
Yakitori (skewered and charcoal-grilled chicken) is popular Japanese comfort food, but this restaurant was awarded a Michelin star.
- Address: 1-2-3 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
- Phone: 03-5524-3641
Unagi Noboritei
While eel (Unagi) is typically a luxury ingredient, Noboritei offers Unagi Kabayaki (grilled eel) at a reasonable price. They have both a Ginza and Higashi-Ginza branch.
- Address: Subaru Bldg 1F, 4-3-7 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
- Phone: 03-3535-5341
Shabu-Shabu: Shabusen
A specialty restaurant for Shabu-Shabu, where thinly sliced meat is quickly cooked in a hot broth. They offer menus in English, Chinese, and Thai, and the lunch sets are particularly good value.
- Address: Ginza Core B2F, 5-8-20 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
- URL: http://www.shabusen.jp/
Izakaya: Tofuro
An Izakaya (Japanese pub) with an interior concept inspired by the tea ceremony’s “Wabi-Sabi.” English and Chinese menus are available.
- Address: Ginza First Bldg B2F, 1-10-6 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
- URL: https://www.izakaya.jpn.com/
SAKE HALL HIBIYA BAR
Serves cocktails based on Japanese sake, which are popular overseas. The cocktails retain the quality of sake while being easy to drink.
- Address: Miyuki Bldg B1F, 5-6-12 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
- Phone: 03-3572-7123
Japanese Western Cuisine (Yoshoku) and Comfort Food
Yoshoku: Rengatei
Founded in 1895, this restaurant is known as the origin of Yoshoku—Japanese-developed Western dishes like Omurice (rice omelet), Hayashirice (beef stew over rice), and Pork Cutlet.
- Address: Tsukamoto Sozan Bldg B1F, 4-2-15 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
- URL: http://ginza-rengatei.com/
Katsu Curry: Ginza Swiss
Katsu Curry, a curry rice topped with a Tonkatsu (pork cutlet), was invented at Ginza Swiss, founded in 1947. This filling and rich dish is a must-try.
- Address: 3-5-16 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
- URL: https://ginza-swiss.com/
Yurakucho Gado-shita (Under the Tracks)
Just outside JR Yurakucho Station, heading toward Shimbashi, brick-arched underpasses are lined with lively, affordable Izakayas and Yakitori shops. It’s perfect for experiencing a casual, authentic Japanese Izakaya atmosphere.
- Address: 3-4 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Sweets and Cafes
Ginza is a fierce battleground for established, high-end coffee shops and patisseries, ideal for breaks during shopping or for finding elegant souvenirs.
Shiseido Parlour (Ginza Main Store)
- Address: Tokyo Ginza Shiseido Bldg, 8-8-3 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
- URL: https://parlour.shiseido.co.jp/
Details: Founded in 1902, famous for traditional Western-style pastries, parfaits, and Omurice served in an elegant tearoom.
Ginza West
- Address: 7-3-6 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
- URL: https://www.ginza-west.co.jp/
Details: Established in 1947, known for classic Western pastries like leaf pies and cakes made using traditional methods. The tearoom offers a peaceful atmosphere.
Souvenir Hunting in Depachika (Department Store Basements)
The basement food floors (Depachika) of major Ginza department stores (Mitsukoshi, Matsuya, GINZA SIX) are showcases of Japanese food culture, offering high-quality traditional sweets (Wagashi), Western pastries (Yogashi), and prepared foods—perfect for souvenirs.
- GINZA SIX Depachika (B2F): Themed as a “Premium Food Hall,” it gathers international ingredients, wine, and high-end sweets and Japanese deli foods.
ℹ️ Visitor Services and Important Notes
Tourist Information Services
| Center Name | Location | Details |
| G Info | GinzaNovo 1F (Sukiyabashi Park side) | Provides guidance for enjoying Ginza. Multilingual maps/brochures (mainly English, some multi-language). English and Chinese support available (Chinese support depends on the day). |
| TERMINAL GINZA | GINZA SIX 1F | Functions as a “Tourist Destination in Itself.” Offers one-stop services: tourist info, ticket sales, currency exchange, duty-free procedures, and temporary baggage storage. |
| Ginza Mitsukoshi | Foreign Customer Information Counter | Provides tourist brochures and maps. Primarily English support, with Chinese/Korean available at the adjacent duty-free counter. |
| Matsuya Ginza | 3F Foreign Customer Service Counter | Handles tax-free procedures and coupon distribution. Currency exchange/ATMs are available on B1F and 8F. |
⚠️ Important Notes for Your Ginza Visit
| Item | Detail |
| Pedestrian Paradise Safety | While Chuo-dori (Ginza-dori) is closed on weekends/holidays, the cross-streets (like Harumi-dori) are still open to traffic. Always follow traffic rules. |
| Tipping Culture | Tipping is not customary in Japan. You do not need to tip at restaurants or hotels. Prices displayed are generally inclusive of tax. |
| Cashless Payments | Major complexes and chain stores accept credit cards/e-money. However, some historic specialty shops and small restaurants may only accept cash (Japanese Yen). Carrying a small amount of cash is recommended. |
✨ Summary: Why Ginza is a Must-Visit
Ginza perfectly merges Japanese “Iki” (a concept of understated sophistication) with global luxury. Use this guide to experience the following key highlights:
- Explore Shopping Sanctuaries: Discover world-class brands at GINZA SIX and GinzaNovo, and timeless quality at historic stores like Mitsukoshi and Wako.
- Engage with Traditional Culture: Attend a performance at the Kabuki-za or experience the atmosphere of Noh at the Kanze Noh Theater.
- Savor World-Class Cuisine: Indulge in everything from Michelin-starred Yakitori and fine Washoku (Japanese cuisine) to the comforting tastes of Yoshoku at Rengatei.
- Enjoy the Open Street: Take a leisurely stroll on the car-free Pedestrian Paradise on weekend afternoons.
Ginza is not just a place to shop; it’s a unique destination to feel the history, culture, and cutting-edge trends of Japan with all your senses.