Ginza is well-known to many, while Shinjuku's Kagurazaka is less recognized. For example, according to WordStream's "Free Keyword Tool," the term "Ginza" is searched 74,000 times in the U.S., whereas "Kagurazaka" is searched only 1,900 times—a difference of 39 times. However, Ginza and Kagurazaka share several similarities. Today, I will explain three of these commonalities.
1: Both Follow Edo Period Town Layouts and Are Among the Best Walkable Cities in Tokyo
The Japanese term "Gin-bura" suggests that Ginza is a city that is enjoyable to walk through. This walkability is due to its Edo-period (1603-1868) town layout. Each city block is 120 square meters, smaller than Marunouchi or Nihonbashi's 240 square meters, making streets close together with various shops lining the roads, keeping you entertained as you stroll.
A Nikkei Newspaper article on August 25, 2024, mentioned that "although Ginza has a glamorous image, the alleys are dark and winding." The article also pointed out that the depth of the town's structure is what makes walking through Ginza enjoyable.
Kagurazaka is also known for retaining its Edo-period town layout, making it a great place for exploration with old maps in hand. Many alleys extend out from Kagurazaka Street, just like Ginza, creating a "town with depth" that's enjoyable to walk through.
Both Ginza and Kagurazaka can undoubtedly be called the best walkable cities in Tokyo.
2: Kagurazaka Was Once Called "Yamanote Ginza"
The name "Ginza" comes from the Edo period's silver coin mint "Ginza Yakusho." Ginza housed the residences of Noh actors of the Kanze, Komparu, and Kongo schools. Masters of Tokiwazu shamisen in Ginza's 8-chome later became Komparu geisha, who formed the foundation of today's Shinbashi geisha (Shinbashi Geisha District). The licensed flower town (Hanamachi) was established in 1857.
Kagurazaka also has an existing Geisha District, dating back to 1788. The formal establishment of Kagurazaka's Geisha District also occurred in 1857, coincidentally the same year as Shinbashi's.
Since the Geisha District needs to attract many people, they only exist in bustling districts. Kagurazaka was once known as "Yamanote Ginza" after the Great Kanto Earthquake in 1923, which spared it from the fire damage that affected other commercial areas. This led to a large influx of merchants from Nihonbashi and Ginza, making Kagurazaka Tokyo's largest commercial area. Hence, it became known as "Yamanote Ginza."
This way, Ginza and Kagurazaka share common ground in their names and the presence of the Geisha District, which symbolizes bustling districts.
3: Both Are Gourmet Districts with a Wide Range of Dining Prices
Ginza and Kagurazaka are both home to many high-end restaurants suitable for business entertainment. The Michelin Guide lists 66 restaurants in Ginza and 23 in the Kagurazaka area. On the other hand, Japan's largest restaurant review site, "Tabelog," lists 4,801 restaurants within 800 meters of Ginza Station and 1,151 within 800 meters of Kagurazaka Station. The percentage of Michelin-listed restaurants is 1.4% in Ginza and 2.0% in Kagurazaka. Compared to Tokyo's overall percentage of 0.4% (547 out of 135,075 restaurants), both Ginza and Kagurazaka represent Tokyo's premier gourmet districts.
Additionally, as shown in the chart, the price range of restaurants in Ginza and Kagurazaka is very similar to those around Shinjuku and Shibuya Stations. While there are high-end establishments, there are also many affordable restaurants where you can dine for under ¥5,000 per person, offering a broad price range—a commonality between the two.
Nighttime Dining Price Range per Person at Major Stations in Tokyo
Source: Tabelog
Explore Tokyo's Real Hidden Gem: Experience Kagurazaka's Unique Charm on a Walking Tour
As outlined above, the three commonalities between Ginza and Kagurazaka are not widely recognized, even among Japanese people. Moreover, the vast majority of foreigners are not even aware of the name "Kagurazaka." While many foreign tourists enjoy walking and dining in Ginza, hardly any foreign tourists visit Kagurazaka. With its many similarities to Ginza yet still relatively unknown, Kagurazaka can be considered a 'real hidden gem' in Tokyo.
Would you like to join our Kagurazaka walking tour and enjoy exploring the area? Kagurazaka is perfect for strolling, and as I have named it "The Town of Serendipity," I guarantee you will encounter various "happy accidents." There’s no doubt that a walk through Kagurazaka will be one of the highlights of your trip to Tokyo, Japan.
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How to Access Kagurazaka
The Kagurazaka area is conveniently located within 30 minutes from any major station in Tokyo. This is because Kagurazaka is situated in the heart of Tokyo, at the center of the Yamanote Line. Please come and visit this convenient and charming Kagurazaka.
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