In 1601, the Edo Shogunate established the Tokaido, Koshu Kaido, Oshu Kaido, Nikko Kaido, and Nakasendo roads connecting Edo with various regions. In 1604, Nihonbashi, an arched bridge offering a distant view of Mount Fuji, was designated as the starting point of these five roads.
Eventually, as water transportation developed, many people from across the country began to gather in Nihonbashi, and it grew into a major hub of commerce, education, art, and entertainment. Townsmen Culture developed, with local merchants and craftsmen at the heart of the economy. Beautiful printed artworks such as Ezoshi (printed picture books) and ukiyo-e flourished, along with entertainment such as Edo Kabuki and Bunraku puppet theater. Many long-established shops were born that passed down traditional Japanese food and skills. Even today, delicious food and handicrafts made by artisans continue to be loved through generations.
Nihonbashi, now designated an Important Cultural Property of Japan, is still the starting point of Japan’s road network, and the Renaissance-style double-arch stone bridge with a beautiful Kirin statue in the center of the parapet is both a symbol of Nihonbashi and a popular tourist spot.
This area still retains its downtown atmosphere, and was once home to many puppeteers and craftsmen for Bunraku and other puppet theaters. This is where the place got its current name, Ningyocho (meaning “puppet town”). The theaters were later moved to Asakusa.
Today, Ningyocho is symbolized by two mechanical clocks: the first displays the Machibikeshi, a firefighting group that has continued since the Edo period, where puppets dressed as the Ha-gumi (a group of firefighters) perform ladder climbing, and the Edo Rakugo clock, which features puppets of storytellers and townspeople.
In the same area, there is the atmospheric Amazake Yokocho walking street where you can taste rice crackers, roasted green tea, amazake, taiyaki, tamagoyaki, and other traditional foods from long-established shops. There are also many long-established traditional craft shops, as well as the Meijiza Theater, the oldest theater in Tokyo, and the Nihonbashi Seven Lucky Gods Shrine, making for an ideal sightseeing spot.
Annual events unique to the downtown area, such as the Setomono Market, Doll Market, and Bettara Market, allow you to experience Japanese life, the seasons, and the breath of Ningyocho culture.
Show your room key at stores and you can get special deals.
Enjoy sampling various kinds of foods, shopping and soaking up the old castle town atmosphere.
Stay healthy while exploring the seasonal charm and cityscapes of Tokyo with our hotel running map.
Experience the historic charm of Ningyocho, where you can enjoy traditional crafts, explore quaint shops, and participate in seasonal festivals that bring the vibrant spirit of Tokyo to life.
Join the vibrant Kanda Matsuri, held every two years, to witness one of Tokyo’s most famous festivals, featuring lively parades and stunning floats that bring the city to life.
Experience the blend of tradition and modernity in Nihonbashi, Tokyo's historic heart.
Ascend to breathtaking heights at Tokyo Skytree for panoramic city views, then explore Tokyo Solamachi's vibrant shops and eateries for a complete urban adventure.
Walk through the historic Kaminari-mon Gate (Furaijin-mon Gate) to reach Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo's oldest and most revered site, then enjoy nostalgic thrills at Hanayashiki, Japan's oldest amusement park.
Experience the thrill of sumo wrestling at Ryogoku Kokugikan, then step back in time at the Edo-Tokyo Museum to explore the rich history of Tokyo's transformation.
Explore the sophistication of Ginza with its luxury shopping, witness traditional performances at the historic Kabukiza Theatre, unwind in the serene Hibiya Park, and savor seafood delights in the vibrant Tsukiji Outer Market.
Begin your journey at the iconic Tokyo Station, a hub of architectural beauty and transportation, and stroll to the nearby Imperial Palace, where Japan's rich history and serene gardens await.
Stroll through the bustling Ameyoko market for unique finds, relax in the tranquil Ueno Park, visit the fascinating Ueno Zoological Gardens, and explore world-class art at the National Museum of Western Art, Tokyo.
Visit Yushima Tenmangu Shrine, a revered shrine dedicated to academic success and traditional beauty, known for its stunning plum blossoms in spring.
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Toyosu Market, Tokyo's premier seafood hub, where you can enjoy fresh sushi and witness the famous tuna auctions.
Explore the lively Takeshita Street for cutting-edge fashion and unique shops, then find serenity at the nearby Meiji Jingu Shrine, a peaceful sanctuary in the heart of the city.
Shibuya Crossing, one of Tokyo's most iconic spots. And at Shibuya Scramble Square, cutting-edge fashion, dining, and panoramic views of Tokyo await.
Ascend Tokyo Tower for breathtaking city views, explore the historic Zojoji Temple nestled in its shadow, and unwind in the tranquil beauty of Hama-Rikyu Gardens, where tradition and nature meet.
Delve into Akihabara Electric Town for the latest in electronics and pop culture, then visit Kanda-Jinja Shrine (Kanda Myoujin) , where centuries-old traditions meet modern devotion.
Escape to the serene beauty of Shinjuku Gyoen, a lush oasis in the city, and experience the vibrant energy of Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal, the gateway to exploring Tokyo and beyond.
There are transportation options that are ideal for sightseeing near our hotel, and we also provide tickets to make your trip more convenient.
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