Located in the northern part of Taito City, near Arakawa City, the Minowa area offers a nostalgic atmosphere despite being just two stations away from Ueno. With its retro-style shopping streets and the charming “Kankan Mori Street” perfect for strolling, this area is filled with Showa-era charm.
Minowa is home to a variety of attractions, from movie filming locations and literary-themed museums to bustling shopping streets and relaxing public baths. Starting from Hibiya Line’s Minowa Station or Tokyo Sakura Tram’s Minowabashi Station, why not explore the hidden gems of this historic neighborhood?
Minowabashi Station is the starting point of the Toden Arakawa Line (Tokyo Sakura Tram) and is known for its nostalgic, retro atmosphere. Opened in 1913, this historic station has preserved its Showa-era charm for over a century. The simple wooden station building, nestled within the city, gives visitors the feeling of stepping back in time.
The combination of the retro station and streetcars creates a nostalgic ambiance, making it a popular photo spot. The area around Minowabashi Station is also famous for its beautiful roses, which bloom in abundance along the Toden Arakawa Line. The roses in the square in front of Minowabashi Station are particularly stunning, earning the station a spot on the list of the “100 Best Stations in Kanto.”
One of Minowa’s highlights is Joyful Minowa Shopping Street, a charming arcade-style shopping street with a rich history dating back to the Taisho era. This 400-meter-long arcade is lined with old-fashioned shops, maintaining a strong Showa-era atmosphere.
The street is home to beloved local stores, including long-established Japanese confectionery shops, traditional delis, and cozy coffee shops. It serves not only as a tourist destination but also as a bustling shopping area for locals. Additionally, the street has been featured in various TV dramas and films, making it a great place to soak in the nostalgic charm of old Tokyo.
After a long stroll, why not relax at a classic downtown sento (public bath)? Established in 1950, Kaieiyu embraces the concept of a “luxurious downtown bathhouse.” Renovated in 2020, it blends a nostalgic ambiance with modern cleanliness and comfort.
The facility offers a range of baths, including a high-concentration carbonated spring, silky bath, sauna, cold bath, and reclining bath. The water, drawn from a well 120 meters underground, is softened to enhance skin and hair health. Kaieiyu is the perfect place to experience both the charm of old Tokyo and the comforts of a modern bathhouse.
With its cultural landmarks, shrines and temples, retro shopping streets, and traditional public baths, Minowa is a fascinating area full of nostalgic charm. Despite being just two stations from Ueno, it retains the warmth of an old downtown neighborhood. Take a leisurely walk through Minowa and experience the unique blend of history and modernity it has to offer.
all photo by PIXTA