Located in the heart of Tokyo, “Nihonbashi” has long been a bustling hub, once serving as the starting point for the Five Main Roads and still attracting people as a center of commerce and culture. Here, historical buildings coexist with modern skyscrapers, allowing visitors to enjoy both the charm of the Edo period and the latest in gourmet cuisine and shopping. Nihonbashi is an essential spot for sightseeing in Tokyo.
Exploring the Origins and Culture of Nihonbashi
The name “Nihonbashi” originates from the bridge of the same name, constructed in 1603. This bridge was built in the same year that Tokugawa Ieyasu established the Edo Shogunate, and it became the starting point for the five major roads of the Tokugawa period: the Tōkaidō, Nakasendō, Kōshūkaidō, Nikkōkaidō, and Ōshūkō. As a result, Nihonbashi became a vital transportation and commercial hub from the Edo period.
The current Nihonbashi bridge, rebuilt in 1911, is made of stone and designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. At the center of the bridge, a marker called the “Nihonkoku Dōro Genpyo” (National Road Milestone) is embedded, continuing to serve as the starting point for all roads across Japan.
Key Attractions Around Nihonbashi
Mitsukoshi Main Store and Traditional Shops
Nihonbashi is home to the oldest department store in Japan, the “Mitsukoshi Main Store,” where visitors can experience its high level of prestige and tradition. Inside, you’ll find beautiful art-like displays, a rooftop garden, and a food floor brimming with luxury ingredients, all popular with tourists. Nearby, you can explore longstanding stores like “Ninben” and “Yamamotoyama,” which specialize in seaweed and bonito flakes, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in Japan’s food culture.
COREDO Muromachi and Contemporary Buzz
Amidst the historical landscape, modern shopping centers such as “COREDO Muromachi” stand proudly. The three COREDO Muromachi buildings feature restaurants and stores incorporating traditional Japanese elements, making them popular spots for both domestic and international visitors. There are also experiences like making traditional Japanese sweets and purchasing artisan crafts, offering unique insights into Japanese culture.
Nihonbashi River Cruise
For a unique experience, consider taking a cruise along the Nihonbashi River. This tour allows you to view the remnants of Edo, once known as the “City of Water,” from the perspective of a boat, passing under bridges and observing the city’s transformation. Many of the cruises come with commentary, making it a particularly enjoyable experience for history enthusiasts.
Seasonal Events
Throughout the year, various seasonal events take place, such as the beautiful “Nihonbashi Sakura Festival” in spring, the enchanting “Art Aquarium” featuring goldfish in summer, and winter illuminations. These events add to the allure of Nihonbashi as a tourist destination.
Rich Culinary Offerings
From Edo-style sushi to modern French cuisine and specialty rice ball shops run by skilled artisans, Nihonbashi is a food lover’s paradise. Notable spots include the historic eel restaurant “Nihonbashi Idzumo-ya” and the over-100-year-old soba shop “Muromachi Sunaba,” where visitors can enjoy authentic flavors while soaking in the historical atmosphere.
Conclusion: Nihonbashi, a City to Explore on Foot
Nihonbashi is not just a tourist destination but a living museum. You can gaze up at historical buildings, savor the tastes of long-established stores, and experience traditional culture. At the same time, you can shop at modern facilities, participate in seasonal events, and find something new every time you visit.
Take a moment to step away from the bustle of Tokyo and stroll through Nihonbashi, where the charm of old Japan intersects with modern-day attractions. There’s something in this city that will surely stir your heart.
- The History of Nihonbashi
- Entry into the World of Dashi (Soup Stock): “Ninben” Main Store
- The Taste of Edo: “Tamahide” and Edo-Style Sushi
- Western Influences, Japanese Style: “Taimenken” and Retro Western Cuisine
- Wagashi and Matcha: Savoring Beauty and Seasons
- “Depachika” Culture: Exploring the Underground Food Floor of Nihonbashi Mitsukoshi
- Conclusion: Meeting “True Japan” Through Food
The History of Nihonbashi
The Birth of the Bridge Alongside Edo’s Rise
Located in Tokyo’s Chūō district, Nihonbashi today is known as a business district lined with skyscrapers and department stores. However, the Nihonbashi bridge and its surrounding area have deep historical significance that dates back to the Edo period. In the Edo period, Nihonbashi was seen as the “starting point of roads,” “the center of commerce,” and even as a “symbol of Edo.”
The Edo Shogunate and the Bridge’s Creation
The first Nihonbashi bridge was built in 1603, the same year Tokugawa Ieyasu established the Edo Shogunate. At the time, Japan was divided into various domains, and transportation networks were not well-developed. To address this, Ieyasu established five major roads connecting Edo to key cities across Japan, and Nihonbashi became the starting point for all of them.
These five roads, known as the Tōkaidō, Nakasendō, Kōshūkaidō, Nikkōkaidō, and Ōshūkō, became vital routes for transportation and commerce across the country. As such, Nihonbashi was more than just a bridge; it symbolized the beginning of Japan’s vast road network.
Today, a marker called the “Nihonkoku Dōro Genpyo” remains at the center of the bridge, marking it as the starting point of all roads in Japan.
Nihonbashi: The Center of Commerce
In the Edo period, Nihonbashi wasn’t just a transportation hub; it was also a center of commerce. Fish markets flourished near the bridge, with fresh seafood arriving from all over Japan. This eventually led to the creation of the Tsukiji market, and later, the Toyosu market.
Additionally, various shops, such as kimono merchants, washi (Japanese paper) stores, and medicinal herb shops, lined the area. Major stores like “Echigoya” (now Mitsukoshi) catered to not only commoners but also samurai and daimyo, contributing to the area’s lively commercial atmosphere. The enduring presence of businesses like “Ninben” and “Yamamotoyama” proves their continued legacy from this period.
Nihonbashi in Ukiyo-e
The image of Nihonbashi is immortalized in many ukiyo-e (woodblock prints), especially in the famous “The Fifty-three Stations of the Tōkaidō” series by Utagawa Hiroshige, where the first print, “Nihonbashi Morning Scene,” depicts people carrying fish, samurai preparing for travel, and townsfolk, capturing the essence of “Edo mornings.”
These ukiyo-e show that Nihonbashi was more than just a transportation hub; it was a place where people’s lives, dreams, and daily routines intersected.
Nihonbashi and Travel
In the Edo period, travel was largely for official purposes, such as the Sankin-kōtai (a policy requiring feudal lords to alternate residence between their domain and Edo), religious pilgrimages, or trade. Travelers departed from and returned to Nihonbashi, making it a symbolic starting and ending point for many journeys.
Travelers would often stop at the bridge to pray for safe travels and pick up guidebooks and provisions before heading out on the roads.
Preserving the Legacy of Nihonbashi
The current Nihonbashi bridge, rebuilt in 1911, is a stone arch bridge designated as an Important Cultural Property. However, in 1964, the Tokyo Expressway was constructed directly above the bridge, overshadowing it. This change led to concerns that the historical atmosphere of Edo had been lost. In recent years, efforts have been made to bury the expressway underground and restore the area’s scenic beauty.
The Nihonbashi area continues to host events and tours that allow visitors to rediscover the history and culture of Edo, blending the past with the present.
Conclusion: Nihonbashi’s Timeless Legacy
Nihonbashi, born with the rise of Edo, has long been a center for roads, commerce, and travel. As you walk through modern-day Nihonbashi, you can sense the passage of time and find traces of Edo’s past in the architecture and surroundings.
At first glance, it may seem like an ordinary bridge, but Nihonbashi carries a depth of history that speaks quietly to those who listen. When visiting Tokyo, take a moment to pause and immerse yourself in its rich history.
Tour Model Courses – 3 Options
Model Course 1: A Historical Exploration of Edo’s Atmosphere
Duration: Approx. 2-3 hours / Walking Tour
This course takes you to famous landmarks and long-established businesses that have been around since the Edo period, allowing you to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Nihonbashi. Recommended for history enthusiasts or first-time visitors to Nihonbashi.
Course Highlights:
- Nihonbashi (Road Marker)
- The starting point of the five main highways of Edo. At the center of the bridge is the “National Road Marker of Japan.”
- Mitsukoshi Nihonbashi Main Store (Main Building)
- Japan’s oldest department store, founded in 1673 as a kimono shop. Admire its architectural beauty and luxurious interior.
- Ninben Nihonbashi Main Store
- A long-established store specializing in bonito flakes. You can sample dashi (broth) and purchase dashi products, experiencing Japan’s culinary culture.
- Fukutoku Shrine
- A tranquil shrine, nestled among office buildings, that has watched over Nihonbashi since the Edo period as its guardian deity.
- COREDO Muromachi Edo Sakura Street
- A commercial area with stone-paved streets that evoke the atmosphere of Edo. Shops selling Japanese goods and sweet treats bring the Edo spirit to life in modern times.
Model Course 2: A Modern Nihonbashi Shopping and Gourmet Experience
Duration: Approx. 3-4 hours / Rainy Day Friendly
This course combines traditional and modern shopping spots in Nihonbashi, offering a mix of gourmet dining and shopping. It’s popular with those seeking cafe visits and both traditional and Western-style sweets, making it a great option for girls’ trips.
Course Highlights:
- COREDO Nihonbashi & Muromachi Terrace
- A commercial facility where tradition meets modernity. It features select shops and Japanese-style cafes.
- Antenna Shops (Nihonbashi Shimane-kan, Nara Mahoroba-kan, etc.)
- Shops that sell local specialties and handicrafts from various regions in Japan. Taste the flavors of Japan in the heart of Nihonbashi.
- Taimenken (Western Cuisine Restaurant)
- A famous restaurant founded in 1931, known for its omelette rice and borscht. Its retro atmosphere adds to the charm.
- Tsuruya Yoshinobu TOKYO MISE
- A long-established Kyoto confectionery store. You can watch the artisans make sweets live and enjoy seasonal wagashi paired with matcha, a favorite among foreign tourists.
- Nihonbashi Mitsukoshi Main Store – Underground Food Floor
- A “depa-chika” (department store basement food hall) that’s a paradise for food lovers, offering a variety of traditional foods, gourmet snacks, and local delicacies, perfect for souvenir hunting.
Model Course 3: Waterfront Stroll Along the Rivers and Bridges
Duration: Approx. 2-3 hours / Cruise + Nearby Walk
Nihonbashi was once a center of water transport, and this course lets you enjoy the “waterfront scenery,” another charm of the area. Feel the air by the riverside and trace the remnants of Edo’s past.
Course Highlights:
- Nihonbashi Wharf
- A departure point for water buses and cruise ships. You can also enjoy a guided bridge tour cruise by making a reservation.
- Water Cruise (Approx. 45-60 minutes)
- Cruise along the Nihonbashi and Kanda rivers, admiring the bridges and cityscape from the water. It’s a rare chance to experience the history of Edo’s water transport.
- Nihonbashi Fish Market Monument
- The site of the historic Edo period fish market. Only the monument remains today, providing a peaceful spot to reflect on the past.
- Tokiwa-bashi Gate Ruins & Nihonbashi River Walk
- The site of a gate once part of Edo Castle’s outer defenses. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the green path beside the river, providing a quiet escape from the bustling city.
- Side Trip to Ningyocho (If Time Allows)
- A district known for its traditional sweet shops and eateries, preserving the Edo atmosphere with narrow lanes and old-style buildings.
Conclusion
Nihonbashi offers a multifaceted charm that cannot be fully experienced in one visit. Whether you choose to explore its history, indulge in gourmet food, or relax by the riverside, Nihonbashi has something for every mood and interest. Enjoy crafting your own unique Nihonbashi journey according to your preferences.
Nihonbashi: A Culinary Experience of Tradition and Innovation
Tokyo’s Nihonbashi district is where old meets new, blending historic eateries with modern gastronomic spots. Here, visitors can experience Japanese food culture in its many forms, from elegant department store dining to centuries-old food traditions. For foreign travelers, dining in Nihonbashi is not just about tasting food, but also about connecting with Japan’s history and aesthetics.
Entry into the World of Dashi (Soup Stock): “Ninben” Main Store
Dashi, the essential base for Japanese cooking, is often underappreciated outside Japan. At Ninben, a store specializing in katsuobushi (dried bonito flakes) with a history of over 300 years, visitors can taste different types of dashi. This provides a unique opportunity to understand the deep flavors and aromatic qualities of this fundamental element of Japanese cuisine. The store also offers English signage, making it an accessible spot for foreign visitors to explore.
The Taste of Edo: “Tamahide” and Edo-Style Sushi
Tamahide, a historic chicken restaurant founded in 1760, is famous for creating the original oyakodon (chicken and egg rice bowl). Its simple yet profound taste continues to captivate visitors, making it a popular destination for food lovers, often with long lines outside.
For those seeking a higher-end dining experience, Edo-style sushi is a must-try. Many Michelin-starred sushi restaurants in the area offer a curated experience where customers can enjoy omakase (chef’s choice) sushi prepared right in front of them, featuring seasonal fish. This is a great way to experience Japan’s culinary craftsmanship firsthand.
Western Influences, Japanese Style: “Taimenken” and Retro Western Cuisine
Though Western in origin, yoshoku (Western-style Japanese cuisine) has evolved uniquely in Japan. Taimenken, founded in 1931, offers a perfect example of this fusion. The restaurant’s famous omurice (omelette rice) and borscht blend Western influences with a distinctly Japanese twist. Foreign visitors are often struck by how “Western yet Japanese” these dishes feel, offering a refreshing take on Western food through a Japanese lens.
Wagashi and Matcha: Savoring Beauty and Seasons
Nihonbashi is also home to some of Tokyo’s finest wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets). At Tsuruya Yoshinobu TOKYO MISE, guests can watch artisans create sweets through a glass window, providing a glimpse into the meticulous artistry behind these delicacies. Paired with matcha tea, visitors can savor seasonal namagashi (fresh sweets) that are as much about visual beauty and seasonal expression as they are about taste. This creates a truly immersive experience of Japan’s unique aesthetic values.
“Depachika” Culture: Exploring the Underground Food Floor of Nihonbashi Mitsukoshi
A visit to Nihonbashi Mitsukoshi’s underground food floor, known as depachika, offers a cultural experience like no other. Depachika is a distinctly Japanese phenomenon, where department stores house exquisite food displays ranging from traditional bento (lunch boxes) and wagashi to local specialties from around the country. It’s an ideal place for foreign visitors to see, smell, and taste the incredible diversity and artistry of Japanese food culture, almost like visiting a food museum.
Conclusion: Meeting “True Japan” Through Food
Dining in Nihonbashi is about more than just enjoying a meal. Each dish tells a story, whether it’s one of history, artisan skills, seasonal beauty, or the spirit of Japanese hospitality. For foreign visitors, Nihonbashi is the perfect place to dive deep into the heart of Japan’s food culture. In every bite, they’ll experience a reflection of Japan’s rich history and aesthetic principles.
コメント