Ya think Godzilla’s back to stompin’ Tokyo again?
This year, 2024, marks the 70th anniversary since Godzilla first attacked Tokyo. Lately, it seems Godzilla has been wreaking havoc not only in Japan but also in the United States. I still think there’s something picturesque about Godzilla destroying the streets of Tokyo. Don’t you?
I swear, I’m a Godzilla fan for life.
B. Start Walking from Godzilla Statue, Tokyo Midtown Hibiya
Exploring the top-notch shopping district Ginza, let’s kick things off from Tokyo Midtown Hibiya (marked as B on the map). The shortest JR station is JR Yurakucho Station (marked as A on the map) on the Yamanote Line. If you pop up above ground from Hibiya Station on the Hibiya (Metro), Mita (Metro), or Chiyoda (Metro) Lines, you’ll find yourself at Tokyo Midtown Hibiya, just so you know!
The statue in the photo might seem a bit lacking in fierceness, but it’s actually a commemorative statue for the 70th anniversary of Godzilla’s attack on Tokyo. You can catch a glimpse of it until March 10, 2024. And don’t forget, behind you, there’s another Godzilla looming over the square. I personally think this one captures the essence of Godzilla much better!
And don’t forget, behind you, there’s another Godzilla looming over the square. I personally think this one captures the essence of Godzilla much better!
C. GInza Six (GSIX), Shopping, Dining Spots, Sightseeing Hub, and more
The era when Ginza was the unparalleled luxury shopping district seems like a thing of the past, but the exclusive sophistication of Ginza is still very much alive. One prime latest example is right here at Ginza Six (marked as C on the map). It’s not just about shopping; this place brings together everything from restaurants to cultural facilities, and it’s truly a unique hub that you can only find here in Ginza. If you want to experience the ambiance of Ginza, be sure to visit Ginza Six.
D. Ginza Mitsukoshi Department Store, Iconic Store in Ginza
Speaking of iconic stores in Ginza, wouldn’t Ginza Mitsukoshi Department Store (marked as D on the map) be at the top of the list? And, when you think of Mitsukoshi, isn’t it the lion statues right in front that comes to mind?
The lion statues were created in 1914, modeled after the four lion statues beneath Nelson’s Column in Trafalgar Square, London. Before you step into the store, make sure to give it a quick glance – it’s a must-see!
Once you step inside, don’t you feel like time is flowing a bit more leisurely? This is a place where the finest things are quietly nestled. You’re sure to sense a charm that transcends time.
E. Ginza Itoya, a shop where you can savor the joy of Japanese stationery enthusiasts
Finding your way from Ginza Mitsukoshi to the next spot, Ginza Itoya, is a breeze – just follow Ginza Street. Calling it Japan’s liveliest district wouldn’t be an exaggeration. Take a leisurely stroll, enjoy some window shopping, and maybe even treat yourself to a fancy store or two. Your wallet might want to be part of the conversation, though!
Well, normally, you should be able to reach Ginza Itoya (marked as E on the map) in about 10 minutes. How did it go?
Japanese people love stationery. While they appreciate highly functional products, there’s also a fondness for items with various clever gimmicks. Among them, the one worthy of special affection is the writing instrument, and Ginza Itoya is a stationery store where the selection of writing instruments is truly impressive. How about getting yourself a special writing instrument as a souvenir of your time in Japan?
Detour Point ❶: Ginza Beer Hall Lion, Japan’s oldest beer hall
How about taking a break around here and relaxing at Ginza Beer Hall Lion, Japan’s oldest beer hall? Established in 1934, this beer hall miraculously survived the ravages of World War II, preserving its original charm. While it may not seem like much from the outside, stepping inside allows you to enjoy a blissful time sipping beer and unwinding.
Inside, the concept revolves around “abundance and harvest,” with decorations featuring motifs of barley and grapes, creating an atmosphere where everyone can leisurely enjoy draft beer.
The focal point is the front mural crafted with glass mosaic. It depicts women working in the barley fields during harvest, measuring a substantial 2.75 meters in height and 5.75 meters in width. Additionally, mosaic artworks related to beer adorn the side walls, making it an ideal space to spend a rich and fulfilling time.
F. Kabuki-za, a theater dedicated to Kabuki performances, stands as a vibrant symbol of traditional Japanese culture.
Kabuki is a traditional Japanese performing art characterized by its elaborate costumes, stylized movements, and dramatic storytelling. Also, the typical image of Kabuki often includes colorful makeup, extravagant costumes, and exaggerated gestures, wouldn’t you agree?
It might also be worth mentioning that Kabuki is typically performed exclusively by male actors. Even when the main character is female, she is portrayed by a male actor known as an Onnagata.
Another fascinating aspect is that in the past, Kabuki served a function akin to journalism. When major events occurred, they were adapted into Kabuki performances, making them widely known among the populace. In fact, our awareness of historical events is often thanks to Kabuki as a form of media.
F-1. Kabuki-za Entrance
The current Kabuki-za (marked as F on the map), completed in 2013, is dedicated solely to Kabuki performances. However, even if you don’t plan on watching Kabuki, it’s worth stopping by while in Ginza. You can browse for souvenirs at the Kobikicho Hiroba (Square) on the ground floor or check out Kabuki-themed exhibitions on the 4th and 5th floors of the Kabuki-za.
In addition, the current Kabuki-za is designed by the renowned architect Kengo Kuma.
F-2. Hitomaku Mi Seki (A single act ticket for Kabuki)
Since you’re at Kabuki-za, it would be a bit of a shame to miss out on Kabuki altogether. However, watching from start to finish can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, so it might be a bit challenging. One option is to catch a part of a performance. Kabuki shows consist of several acts, with about a 30-minute break between each. It’s part of the fun to enjoy food and drinks during these intervals, but you can certainly choose to watch just one act.
Of course, start times and lengths vary for each performance, so be sure to check the official website. Also, same-day tickets are available, so if the mood strikes you, trying your luck at the theater isn’t a bad idea either.
If you’re purchasing online, make sure to do so before noon the day before. Same-day tickets are available at the Kabuki-za first-floor single act ticket counter.
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For the journey back, Higashi Ginza Station (marked as G on the map) on the Asakusa (Metro) and the Hibiya (Metro) Line might be the closest and most convenient option. However, a recommendation would be to head back to JR Yurakucho Station (marked as A on the map) and enjoy some food and drinks at the casual restaurants lining both sides of the elevated tracks. You’ll find a variety of cuisines from different countries, along with traditional Japanese Izakayas, Japanese-style pubs or taverns, so you can easily find a spot that suits your mood perfectly!
⇒ Would you like to explore one more spot, Tokyo’s local food, Monjayaki?
Every time I go to Ginza, it seems to change, but if you take a stroll down the backstreets, you’ll still find plenty of old, established shops doing well. There are loads of delicious eateries around, and people here seem to have a touch of sophistication. And there are still plenty of glamorous, high-end clubs lighting up the night, though a regular guy like me might feel a bit out of place in this city of the elite, huh?