Top 5 Attractions in Katsushika Tokyo, Travel Guide
※updated on July 19 2025
Katsushika City, located in eastern Tokyo along the Edo River, shares a border with Chiba prefecture. It is known for its nostalgic, heartwarming streets, the area blends a retro atmosphere with strong ties to anime, manga, and classic Japanese cinema. What makes Katsushika truly unique is that it serves as the setting for two of Japan’s most beloved pop culture works: The long-running comedy manga “Kochira Katsushika-ku Kameari Koen-mae Hashutsujo” (Kochikame). The iconic film series “Otoko wa Tsurai yo” (It’s Tough Being a Man), starring the lovable character Tora-san.
In addition, you’ll find statues of characters from the soccer manga “Captain Tsubasa” in the Yotsugi and Tateishi neighborhoods, making Katsushika a dream destination for anime and movie fans alike. Combined with its retro charm, this area offers an immersive and uniquely Japanese travel experience.
1) Kameari – The World of Kochikame
Kameari is best known as the setting of Kochikame, a Guinness World Record-holding manga series. Its main character, Ryo-san, is a wild yet lovable police officer who constantly gets into trouble—but always with heart. The story's humor and warmth have made it a favorite across generations.
Around JR Kameari station, you’ll find 15 bronze statues of Ryo-san and his colleagues—ranging from small to life-sized. It’s a fun and light-hearted way to enjoy the area—like going on a mini manga quest!
Also, look down! Japan is famous for decorative manhole covers that reflect local culture. In Kameari, there are six manhole covers inspired by Kochikame. Just be careful not to bump into anyone while looking for them!
📍 Access: Near JR Kameari Station
※OSAMU AKIMOTO, ATELIER BEEDAMA/SHUEISHA of Kochikame holds the copyright of all Kochikame-related photos on this page.
2) ⛩️ Kanamachi – Historic Shrine & Spiritual Hotspots
Located about 40 minutes by train from Tokyo Station, Kanamachi is a quiet riverside neighborhood bordered by the Nakagawa and Edogawa rivers.
Here you’ll find Kasai Shrine, established in 1185, home to unique “power spots” said to bring good fortune:
🐍 Nade-hebi (stroking snake) – for success, money, and romance
🐄 Nade-ushi (stroking cow) – connected to the god of learning
🪨 Chikara-ishi (power stone) – It is said to give you strength when touched
Exploring these spots is a great way to experience Japan’s spiritual culture while hoping for a little luck!
📍 Address: 6-10-5 Higashikanamachi, Katsushika City
🕒 Opening hours: Open 24 hours
🎟️ Price: Free
🚉 Access: 12 min walk from JR Kanamachi station
3) 🌉 Shin-Yotsugi Bridge – A Scenic Walk
The Shin-Yotsugi Bridge spans the Arakawa River between Sumida and Katsushika. Located just north of Tokyo Skytree, this bridge offers a unique walking experience with gradually changing Skytree views as you cross.
Though not widely known among tourists, the bridge provides a panoramic and uncrowded stroll—perfect for those who enjoy scenic photography, train spotting, and off-the-beaten-path experiences. On a clear day, bring your camera and enjoy the walk!
📍 Address: Yotsugi 1-chome, Katsushika City
🕒 Opening hours: Open 24 hours
🎟️ Price: Free
🚉 Access: 6-minute walk from Keisei Yotsugi Station
4) Horikiri Twelve Zodiac Statues – A Unique Spiritual Spot
The Twelve Zodiac signs, originally introduced from ancient China, have long been used in Japan to mark years. Each sign is represented by an animal and is a familiar topic of conversation in Japanese culture, especially around New Year.🐭🐯🐰
In Japanese spiritual tradition, these signs are each associated with a guardian deity, known collectively as the Twelve Zodiac Gods. Just a 3-minute walk from Horikiri-Shobuen Station in Tokyo’s Katsushika city, you’ll find a striking display of modern-style stone statues representing these guardian deities.
First-time visitors may be surprised by their contemporary and artistic designs, but the statues leave a strong impression. If you're exploring hidden spiritual sites in Tokyo, this memorable and photogenic spot is worth a visit.
📍 Address: 3-1 Horikiri, Katsushika city
🕒 Opening hours: Open 24 hours
🎟️ Price: Free
🚉 Access: 3 min walk from Horikiri-Shobuen Station
5) Shibamata Taishakuten – awe-inspiring sculpture gallery
If you want to experience the nostalgic atmosphere of Tokyo’s old downtown, Shibamata Taishakuten is highly recommended. Its charm lies in the retro-style approach lined with local shops and the breathtakingly intricate “Sculpture Gallery.”
The stone-paved approach from Keisei Shibamata Station stretches about 200 meters, lined with traditional sweet shops and souvenir stores. As you stroll along, you’ll feel as though you've stepped back in time to the Showa era. Along the way, you’ll also find a statue of “Tora-san,” the beloved character from the classic Japanese film series Otoko wa Tsurai yo, making it a popular spot for photos.
Inside the main hall, you'll be captivated by the elaborate carvings that adorn the structure. While many temples and shrines in Japan feature impressive sculptures, the Carving Gallery at Shibamata Taishakuten is truly exceptional—a stunning display of historical Japanese craftsmanship.
The area around Shibamata Taishakuten also offers many other attractions worth exploring.
If you're visiting Tokyo, this is a must-see destination.
For more details, please refer to the page.
📍 Address: 7-10-3 Shibamata, Katsushika-ku
🕒 Opening hours: 24 hours (office 9:00~18:00)
🎟️ Price: Free
🚉 Access: 4 minutes from Shibamata Station
🗾 Why Katsushika is worth exploring
Even though Katsushika is just a short distance from central Tokyo, it feels like another world—a time capsule of retro Tokyo infused with anime, cinema, and spiritual tradition.
In addition to the tourist spots listed above, there are other famous spots such as Taishakuten and Horikiri shobuen.
But, it’s not yet overrun with tourists, meaning you’ll find authentic, laid-back neighborhoods and plenty of new discoveries waiting to be made. Whether you're a pop culture fan, a history lover, or a curious traveler, Katsushika is a destination you’ll want to experience for yourself.
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