Shinagawa Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, activities, food, accommodation, and transportation options, and get insider tips on local culture and customs in Shinagawa, Tokyo.


Introduction to Shinagawa

Shinagawa is a bustling ward in Tokyo, Japan, located on the southeastern side of the city, bordering Tokyo Bay. This vibrant area has long been a popular stopover for travelers, particularly those using the high-speed Shinkansen rail network, which connects Tokyo to other regions of Japan.

Shinagawa is known for its mix of modern and traditional culture, historic landmarks, and peaceful parks. It is also a great base for exploring nearby attractions, such as Yokohama and Kamakura.

List of Places to Visit in Shinagawa

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Shinagawa has a rich history that is evident in its landmarks and architecture. Visit the following places to learn more about the ward’s culture and history.

  • Sengakuji Temple: This 17th century Temple is best known for its association with the famous 47 Ronin Samurai. The temple houses their tombstones, as well as a museum dedicated to their story.
  • Gotenyama Garden: This traditional Japanese garden dates back to the Edo period and was once the site of a shogun’s summer villa. Visitors can enjoy strolling through the gardens, admiring the seasonal flowers, and learning about the history of the site.
  • Shinagawa History Museum: This museum explores the history of Shinagawa from the Edo period to the present day. The exhibits include models of old buildings, traditional crafts, and photographs of daily life in the ward.

Natural Attractions of Shinagawa: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Despite being in the heart of Tokyo, Shinagawa boasts some beautiful green spaces that are perfect for a leisurely stroll, bike ride, or picnic.

  • Happoen Garden: This stunning garden is famous for its cherry blossoms in spring and offers beautiful views of Tokyo Bay.
  • Togoshi Park: This park offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. Visitors can enjoy the walking paths, seasonal festivals, and playgrounds.
  • Tennozu Isle: This man-made island is connected to the mainland by a series of small bridges and offers a beautiful waterfront park with views of the city skyline.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Shinagawa

Shinagawa is not known for its hiking trails, but there are some good bike routes for those who want to explore the area on two wheels.

  • Shinagawa Seaside Park: This park offers a 3.5 km bike path with views of Tokyo Bay and Odaiba.
  • Tamagawa Riverside: This 23 km cycling route follows the Tamagawa River and offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.

Best Things to Do in Shinagawa: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of activities to keep you entertained in Shinagawa, from shopping to cooking classes to traditional Japanese art experiences.

  • Tokyo Kimono Experience: This company offers a unique opportunity to try on a beautiful traditional Japanese kimono and take a guided walk through the streets of Shinagawa.
  • Shinagawa Market Tour and Cooking Class: This tour takes you through a local market to gather fresh ingredients and then teaches you how to cook traditional Japanese dishes.
  • Shopping in Shinagawa: From department stores to local markets, Shinagawa is a shopping paradise. Check out the popular Sengakuji area for a selection of unique shops and boutiques.

Week-Long Itinerary for Shinagawa

If you have a week to spend in Shinagawa, here is a suggested itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Visit Sengakuji Temple and Gotenyama Garden
2 Explore Tokyo Bay by taking a boat tour or visiting Tennozu Isle
3 Take a cooking class and go shopping in Shinagawa
4 Visit the Shinagawa History Museum and Togoshi Park
5 Bike ride along the Tamagawa River
6 Take a day trip to nearby Yokohama or Kamakura
7 Enjoy the cherry blossoms at Happoen Garden

Food and Drink Scene of Shinagawa

Must-Try Dishes

Shinagawa is home to some delicious local cuisine, including:

  • Shinagawa Tamagawa Soba: This dish is made with buckwheat noodles and a light broth made from Tamagawa River water.
  • Yakitori: Grilled chicken skewers are a popular dish in Shinagawa, particularly at local izakayas (Japanese pubs).
  • Tai Meshi: This delicious rice bowl is topped with red snapper, a local delicacy.

Local Beverages

  • Sake: Sake is a traditional Japanese rice wine and is widely available in Shinagawa. Try the local Tamagawa Sake brewery for a unique taste.
  • Green Tea: Japan is famous for its green tea, and Shinagawa is no exception. Try some at a local tea house or buy some to take home.

Where to Stay in Shinagawa: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Shinagawa has accommodation options to suit all budgets, from luxury hotels to affordable hostels.

  • The Strings by InterContinental: This five-star hotel offers stunning views of Tokyo Bay, spacious rooms, and a range of amenities.
  • Tokyo Hostel ENISHI: This budget-friendly hostel offers clean, comfortable dorm rooms and a communal kitchen.
  • Hotel Mystays Premier Omori: This mid-range hotel is close to the train station and offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant on-site.

What to Buy in Shinagawa: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Bring home some unique souvenirs and local products from Shinagawa, such as:

  • Shinagawa-made Sweets: Try some delicious sweets made in Shinagawa, such as dorayaki (sweet bean-filled pancakes) and wagashi (traditional Japanese confections).
  • Local Crafts: Shinagawa is known for its craftsmen, particularly in the areas of pottery and textiles. Check out the local shops for unique and traditional gifts.

Local Culture and Customs of Shinagawa

Shinagawa is a traditional area of Tokyo, and visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions.

  • Shoes: When entering restaurants, temples, and homes, it is customary to remove your shoes and wear slippers instead.
  • Etiquette: It is important to be polite and respectful to local people, particularly when using public transport or visiting public spaces.

Best Time to Visit Shinagawa

The best time to visit Shinagawa is in the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November), when the weather is mild and the cherry blossoms or autumn leaves are in bloom. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter can be cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Shinagawa

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local cuisine and products.
  • Take off your shoes when entering restaurants, temples, and homes.

Don’t:

  • Be loud or disruptive in public spaces.
  • Eat or drink while walking in public.
  • Ignore local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Shinagawa

Shinagawa is a safe area of Tokyo, but visitors should still take precautions, such as:

  • Avoid leaving valuables unattended in public places.
  • Use a hotel safe to store passports and other important documents.

Health in Shinagawa

Shinagawa has good healthcare facilities, but visitors should still take care to:

  • Bring any necessary medications from home.
  • Stay hydrated during the hot summer months.

Getting to Shinagawa: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Shinagawa

The closest airport to Shinagawa is Haneda Airport, which is just a 15-minute train ride away.

Bus Stations Near Shinagawa

Shinagawa is well-connected by bus to other parts of Tokyo.

Other Options

Visitors to Shinagawa can also use the city’s extensive train network to get around. The main train station in Shinagawa is served by several lines, including the Shinkansen bullet train.

How to Get Around in Shinagawa

Shinagawa is a walkable area, but visitors can also use public transport, including trains and buses, to get around. Renting a bike is also a popular option.

Where to Go Next from Shinagawa: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to explore, consider visiting some nearby destinations from Shinagawa.

  • Yokohama: A vibrant port city famous for its Chinatown and beautiful bay area.
  • Kamakura: A historical city known for its temples, shrines, and stunning coastal scenery.
  • Mount Takao: For nature lovers, this mountain is the perfect place to hike and enjoy beautiful views of Tokyo and the surrounding countryside.

Conclusion

Shinagawa is a unique and vibrant area of Tokyo that offers a mix of modern and traditional culture, natural beauty, and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day in a park, an outdoor adventure, or a cultural experience, Shinagawa has something for everyone.

Location of Shinagawa in Tokyo Location of Shinagawa in Tokyo Outside Shinagawa station Outside Shinagawa station Sengakuji temple Sengakuji temple