Tokyo Neighborhoods: Shinagawa

Sergio
2020.09.04
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In this article I’d like to talk about an area that often gets overlooked by tourists, even though it is often one of the first areas they go through after they land in Japan. I’m talking about Shinagawa, a ten minute train ride away from Haneda airport, and the main hub connecting it and the rest of Tokyo. If you land at Haneda and are planning on staying in Tokyo, you will almost certainly go through Shinagawa station.

While it’s mostly known as a business area and at first glance it seems like there aren’t many things for visitors to do, some of my favourite places in Tokyo are in Shinagawa.

First, there’s Tennozu Isle. You can go to Tennozu Isle station, but it’s a 10 minute walk away from Shinagawa station, usually more convenient. There are some really great restaurants and terraces by the river here, which offer a view that’s not too common in Tokyo, a city somewhat lacking in terraces and water areas despite being by the sea and relatively sunny. T.Y. Harbor is a lovely restaurant that has a floating terrace. The food is really high quality and they have their own beer. It’s not the cheapest place, but the view and atmosphere are worth it.

Then there is Kyu-Tokaido Street, next to Kita-Shinagawa station, or another 10 minute walk from Shinagawa station. I recommend going at night, as it has its own unique street lamps. This, the tiled roads and Edo style bridges along the way give it a particular charm. It also has some nice restaurants and Japanese style bars to offer. It’s not particularly crowded, even on weekends.

One of the most popular places around the station is Shinagawa Aqua Park, a big aquarium where you can all sorts of see animals, small and big. The dolphin show is the highlight of this place.

Finally, if all you want to do is to enjoy a coffee in a park, then Shinagawa Season Terrace is the place for you. Here you’ll find some stylish cafes and food stalls, and the park is well maintained and relatively big. A perfect place to kill an hour with your family or friends.

If you’re planning on passing through Shinagawa station, this is as good a place as any to spend a few hours. Don’t pass it up.

Hi, I’m Sergio.
I’m from Spain, lived in the UK for seven years and came to Japan in 2012.
I majored in journalism in London and have been teaching English in Tokyo.
I like traveling, cycling, photography, movies, and spending time with friends.
I wrote articles about life in Japan as a foreigner and anything that I might find interesting.
My email is ” sergio.dom.jpn@gmail.com “, by all means contact me about anything!