Top 5 recommendations in Toshima
※updated on June 2 2025
Toshima City, centered around Ikebukuro, is a vibrant area where multicultural vibes thrive with large commercial complexes like Sunshine City. People come here to enjoy shopping, entertainment and food 🍣🛍️🎡. But once night falls, the streets transform—revealing a deep, fascinating side of Japan. From aquariums to cozy cafes and quirky side streets, there’s so much to explore in this unique and diverse district.🌃
1) Ikebukuro
Ikebukuro is one of Tokyo’s major terminal stations, offering easy access to areas like Saitama and Nerima. It’s a vibrant district full of shopping 🛍️, gourmet food 🍜, and entertainment 🎮, attracting visitors of all ages. Around the station, you'll find massive department stores like Seibu and Tobu, bustling with tourists enjoying a shopping spree.
The iconic Sunshine City is a landmark of Ikebukuro 🏙️. This large complex includes an aquarium, planetarium, observation park, and a shopping mall—all in one! From the Sunshine 60 observatory on the 60th floor, you can even see Mount Fuji 🗻 on a clear day.
There's also Otome Road, known as a sacred spot for fans of anime, manga, and games 🎨🎮. Alongside Akihabara, Ikebukuro has become a hub for Japan’s pop and subculture.
As night falls 🌃, the city transforms. The nightlife buzzes with energy, and the streets come alive with people seeking excitement. Just like Shinjuku, Ikebukuro offers a deep and thrilling atmosphere after dark 🌙.
Loved by both young people and adults, Ikebukuro is an urban sightseeing destination where you can enjoy a full day of fun. From shopping 🛒 and gourmet cuisine 🍣 to entertainment and art 🎭, Ikebukuro truly has it all!
2) ironowa hiro ba (In front of Otsuka Station)🌟
ironowa hiroba was created to serve as the new “face” of Otsuka, with the goal of providing a safe and welcoming space for everyone near the station 🚉. Through creative lighting design and the installation of unique monuments, the area has been transformed into a vibrant public space.
At night 🌃, the monuments and circular ring structures are illuminated with colorful LED lights 🌈, creating a magical, fantasy-like atmosphere of light ✨. This dazzling illumination adds to the charm of the area and makes it a captivating spot to visit.
ironowa hiroba symbolizes the diverse appeal of Ōtsuka and reflects a community forming its own new culture 🌟. If you're looking for a place that blends innovation, beauty, and local character, be sure to stop by and experience the evolving energy of Otsuka!
📍 Address: Kita-Otsuka 2-chome, Toshima
🕒 Opening Hours: 24 hours
🎟️ Price: Free
🚉 Access: 1 minutes from Otsuka Station
3) Sugamo Jizou-dori Shopping Street👵🏼
Known as “Grandma’s Harajuku,” this nostalgic shopping street is filled with stores for older generations—but it’s charming for visitors of any age! Enjoy a retro stroll, slow down, and soak in the warm, peaceful vibes of this cozy neighborhood 🧣👘🍡
📍 Address: 4-22-8 Sugamo, Toshima
🕒 Opening Hours: varies by store
🎟️ Price: varies by store
🚉 Access: 3 minutes from JR Sugamo Station
4) Sunshine City Observation Park
Located within the massive shopping and entertainment complex Sunshine City, which features shops, restaurants, and an aquarium, the Observation Park offers a stunning panoramic view of Tokyo’s glittering skyline. ✨ Just an 8-minute walk from JR Ikebukuro Station, this sky-high retreat sits on the 60th floor, surrounded by greenery and sky.
🌿 A small hill made of artificial grass creates a peaceful atmosphere, where couples can lie down and relax together while enjoying the view. Though it’s an observation deck, it also feels like a sky garden, making it a perfect spot to spend a special moment with a special someone. 💑🌤️
Whether you're sightseeing or seeking a romantic hideaway, this hidden gem in the sky is definitely worth a visit. 🌆💫
5) Ikebukuro Nishiguchi Park
Ikebukuro Nishiguchi Park is a spacious urban public space located just steps from the west exit of Ikebukuro Station in Tokyo's Toshima city. Renovated in 2019, the park is now home to the symbolic circular stage known as "GLOBAL RING", which serves as a local landmark. Depending on the season, the park is beautifully illuminated, offering a different atmosphere by day and night.
One of the park’s biggest attractions is its permanent live stage, which hosts a variety of cultural events such as music, dance, and theater performances. Be sure to check the latest event schedule and enjoy a unique cultural experience in the heart of Tokyo.
Ikebukuro Nishiguchi Park is also surrounded by major tourist spots like the Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre and Sunshine City. It's the perfect hub for exploring the vibrant Ikebukuro area while taking breaks in a relaxing, art-filled environment.
Toshima City is a vibrant area centered around Ikebukuro, one of Tokyo’s most dynamic neighborhoods known for shopping, entertainment, and gourmet food. While Ikebukuro tends to steal the spotlight, hidden gems like Sugamo and Ōtsuka offer a more local and nostalgic experience. The more you explore, the more you'll fall in love with the charm and depth of Toshima. It’s an area that deserves a visit—whether you're a first-timer or a repeat traveler to Tokyo.
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