9 Spots to Visit When You Go Sightseeing in Tsukishima! Discover Attractions Beyond Just Monjayaki

Tsukishima, located in the Chūō ward of Tokyo, is known for its local specialty, "monjayaki." While there are high-rise buildings nearby, Tsukishima still retains the atmosphere of an old-fashioned town, and if you take a short walk, you can even find traditional docks.

In this article, we'll focus on sightseeing spots in Tsukishima! We’ll introduce nine locations, including nearby areas like Tsukuda and Kachidoki, all within walking distance. Tsukishima is a place where families, couples, friends, or anyone can enjoy themselves, offering attractions beyond just monjayaki!

1. Tsukishima Monja Street

When it comes to sightseeing in Tsukishima, you can’t miss Tsukishima Monja Street! Located close to Tsukishima Station, which is served by both the Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line and the Toei Oedo Line, you'll find the Tsukishima Nishinakadori Shopping Street. This area is known as "Tsukishima Monja Street," where over 70 shops serving monjayaki, ranging from long-established businesses to newcomers, line the street.

Each shop offers unique flavors and menu items! At the Tsukishima Monja Promotion Association, located at the entrance of the shopping street, you can pick up a map, which is recommended for first-time visitors. They also sell souvenirs, perfect for commemorating your trip.

In addition to monjayaki shops, there are also famous melon bread shops, small eateries, and stylish bars, so be sure to explore the area while sightseeing.

2. Sumiyoshi Shrine

After satisfying your hunger at Monja Street, how about taking a short walk to visit a historical site? Located in Tsukuda, Chūō Ward, Sumiyoshi Shrine is dedicated to the three Sumiyoshi gods: Iso-Tsuchi-no-Okami, Naka-Tsuchi-no-Okami, and Omote-Tsuchi-no-Okami, as well as Empress Jingu and Tokugawa Ieyasu. It has long been revered by the shipping industry and various trading guilds, as it was once the gateway to the Edo Port and is considered the protector of maritime safety.

One of the highlights of this shrine is the ceramic plaque hanging on the torii gate, which features a blue-lettered inscription by Prince Arisugawa-no-miya. Additionally, the water basin for cleansing hands, built in the second year of the Meiji period, was donated by the cotton wholesaler "Shirako-gumi" in 1839. While immersing yourself in the history of the shrine, make sure to cleanse your hands and offer your prayers.

Sumiyoshi Shrine hosts an annual grand festival on August 6th and 7th, with the main festival occurring once every three years. If you’re visiting Tsukishima, it's worth timing your trip to join in the lively celebrations!

3. Kachidoki Bridge

Kachidoki Bridge is a must-see sightseeing spot in the Tsukishima area! Spanning the Sumida River, this bridge is one of the few remaining movable bridges in Japan, though it has not been raised since 1980.

The bridge is 246 meters long and has been designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. At night, the bridge is beautifully lit up, making it a great spot for a romantic date in Tsukishima. The bridge has appeared in many films, novels, and anime, so it's a great place to visit if you want to experience scenes from those works firsthand.

By the way, the substation used to raise and lower the bridge has been converted into a museum. Here, you can learn about the history of the bridge and even join a tour to visit the inside of one of the bridge piers. It’s definitely worth checking out if you're interested during your visit.

4. Tsukishima Kannon

As you approach the 3rd street of the Tsukishima Nishinakadori Shopping Street, better known as "Tsukishima Monja Street," you'll see the sign for "Tsukishima Kaiun Kannon-do." Heading into the building on the right will lead you to Tsukishima Kannon.

This small temple, built in 1951, enshrines Kannon (the Goddess of Mercy) and the Ikkō Sanzon Nyorai (Three Buddhas). Originally located down a small alley, it was relocated to its current location inside a building after redevelopment in 2001.

As the sign indicates, it is also called "Tsukishima Kaiun Kannon," and it is believed to bring blessings for good luck, wish fulfillment, and recovery from illness. It’s just a 3-minute walk from Tsukishima Station on the Toei Subway and Tokyo Metro, so why not visit after enjoying some monjayaki? You might just experience something good during your sightseeing in Tsukishima!

5. Tsukuda Tendai Jizo Son

The next sightseeing spot to introduce is Tsukuda Tendai Jizo Son. From Exit 6 of Tsukishima Station, turn left onto the road right outside and then turn right at the end of the street. After walking a short distance, you’ll see a banner that says "Tsukuda Tendai Jizo Son."
Proceed down the narrow alley, and you’ll find the entrance. On your right, there is a hand-washing area where you can purify your hands and mouth before your visit.

The formal name of this shrine is "Tsukuda Tendai Kosodate Jizo Son," and it was created by the great priest Myoun Dai-Oh of Ueno's Higashi-Eizan. The Jizo statue, depicted on a flat natural stone, is very rare, and the numerous red lanterns with names displayed around the Jizo reflect the deep faith of the local community.
This is definitely one of the must-visit spots when you come to Tsukishima.

6. Tsukuda Park

Tsukuda Park is a popular place for locals to relax, located along the Sumida River. The park features playground equipment such as slides, swings, and jungle gyms, which are sure to delight children.

In addition, the park has a terrace along the river where visitors can enjoy activities such as fishing, jogging, or walking their dogs. During the spring season, the park is a popular spot for tourists who want to enjoy the cherry blossoms along the Sumida River.

With its old-town charm and views of high-rise buildings, Tsukuda Park is a great place to take a break while sightseeing in Tsukishima.

7. Ishikawajima Museum

About a 6-minute walk from Tsukishima Station, which is served by both the Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway, you’ll find the Ishikawajima Museum, located in the high-rise residential area of River City 21.

This area was once Ishikawajima before it was reclaimed and is known as the birthplace of modern shipbuilding. At this museum, you can learn about the Ishikawajima Shipyard (now IHI) as well as the history and culture of Ishikawajima and Tsukuda Island.

The museum is divided into five thematic zones, showcasing diorama models that recreate the area’s past, along with valuable documents, photos, and displays. Some of the photos on display feature not only Japanese but also world-first products, giving you a glimpse into Japan’s heavy industry history through IHI's own evolution.

If you're interested in shipbuilding or heavy industry, or even if you're not, you may find yourself nostalgic for the history of this town and captivated by the exhibits. It’s also a recommended spot for a school field trip!

8. The Owl Shop

After indulging in delicious food and sightseeing in Tsukishima, why not visit a relaxing spot?
"The Owl Shop" is just that—a café where you can meet real owls! As soon as you step into the café, an owl will greet you. The café has a one-drink system, so once you’ve placed your order, it’s time for owl interaction!

You can pet the owls and take photos with them. You can even ask the staff to let you place one on your shoulder! Since owls are calm by nature, they will sit quietly without causing any trouble. During your visit, make sure to experience the soft feathers up close.

For souvenirs, they have a wide variety of owl-themed goods. The Owl Shop is undoubtedly one of the top attractions in Tsukishima for relaxation and charm!

9. Yu Park Tsukishima Tsukishima Onsen

The final spot to introduce is "Yu Park Tsukishima Tsukishima Onsen," located within Tsukishima Monja Street. This onsen uses soft water, which is said to have high moisturizing effects. Depending on the day, you can enjoy medicinal baths, jacuzzis, electric baths, and more.

For an additional fee, you can also use the outdoor bath and sauna. Towels are available for rent, so you can visit without having to bring anything. It has the feel of an old-fashioned public bath, but it was fully renovated in 2001, so it’s very clean and modern.

Whether you want to relax and unwind after a day of sightseeing in Tsukishima or take a refreshing bath before enjoying some delicious monjayaki and beer, you can tailor your visit to suit your sightseeing plan.

◎ Summary

We’ve introduced a total of 9 sightseeing spots. How did you like them? When you visit Tsukishima, you can’t miss the monjayaki, but it’s also nice to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of the town.

Since it’s close to popular tourist spots like Tsukiji, Toyosu, and Ginza, be sure to refer to this when planning your trip to Tokyo, and enjoy sightseeing in Tsukishima as well. You’re sure to be satisfied!

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9 Spots to Visit When You Go Sightseeing in Tsukishima! Discover Attractions Beyond Just Monjayaki