Top 3 Attractions in Koenji, Tokyo Travel
※updated on August 9 2025
About an 11-minute train ride from JR Shinjuku Station, there’s a deep and unique area beloved by Japanese comedians. Koenji is an attractive neighborhood with a lively mix of restaurants and izakayas near the station, as well as distinctive vintage and fashion shops.
With convenient access to Shinjuku and relatively affordable rent, it’s also a popular residential area. The neighborhood has a strong sense of individuality, and its residents tend to be interesting and unique people.
If you enjoy casual drinks and want to mingle easily with locals, Koenji is definitely a great option.
Here, we’ll introduce three recommended spots around Koenji Station.
1) Izakaya District
Around the south exit of Koenji Station, you’ll find the Koenji Pal Shopping Street, Etoile Street—known for its warm atmosphere with amber lanterns—and the Junjo Shopping Street near the north exit. These shopping streets are filled with everyday fashion and goods, alongside a variety of unique gourmet spots and izakayas.
You can enjoy food and drinks at relatively affordable prices. Some restaurants even set up tables outside, so you can sip beer under the summer night sky. Whether you come alone, with friends, or family, you’re welcome. Besides beer, you can also enjoy sake, wine, and other drinks—so feel free to indulge in your favorite beverage.
As mentioned earlier, this area has many izakayas, making it perfect for “hashigo-zake” — bar hopping from one place to another. You can enjoy a wide range of drinks and gourmet dishes all in one night.
2) Kisho Shrine
Kishō Shrine in Koenji, located in Suginami Ward, Tokyo, is a unique shrine dedicated to deities who govern weather and climate. It attracts visitors who pray for meteorology, stable weather, and disaster prevention, especially farmers and people living in regions prone to natural disasters.
Though small in size, the shrine offers a quiet and peaceful atmosphere, with seasonal festivals and prayer ceremonies held throughout the year. It’s within walking distance from Koenji Station and can be visited alongside the area’s distinctive shopping streets and cultural facilities.
As an unusual-themed shrine, it has become a local topic of interest and is recommended for those fascinated by weather or seeking a spiritual experience.
3) Mural Art
In Tokyo, mural art can be found scattered throughout the city, adding vibrant colors to the urban landscape. Sometimes you might stumble upon a mural while walking around and be instantly captivated by the artwork, or you might search for them in advance on social media and feel a sense of accomplishment when you see them in person. Either way, mural art undoubtedly brightens up the otherwise inorganic cityscape. It offers a different kind of charm compared to museums.
Near the south exit of Koenji Station, there is a colorful mural featuring a female motif in a comic book style. Mural art serves as a means to revitalize neighborhoods and attract people to the area.
Koenji’s mural art is painted on the block wall of a parking lot. Be sure to check it out when you visit Koenji.
Recommended Area
Popular Area
