Have you had the chance to explore the lesser-known Tokyo enclave known as Tsukishima? Perhaps you’re contemplating a venture to this distinctive pocket of Tokyo, curious about its offerings and pondering the array of activities, sights, and culinary delights it boasts.
Tokyo brims with diverse neighborhoods, extending far beyond the renowned districts like Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Harajuku. Amidst this urban sprawl lie countless hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. For those seeking an authentic local experience and a glimpse into Tokyo’s lesser-explored corners, Tsukishima presents an enticing option.
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A Quick Primer to Tsukishima Ward
Many are familiar with Tsukishima for its famed monjayaki, a dish originating from this very locale. However, beyond monjayaki, Tsukishima offers a plethora of popular activities. With its stunning cityscapes, adorned with nature and night vistas, Tsukishima proves to be an ideal spot for a day trip in Tokyo.
Things to do in Tsukishima
Tsukuda Monjya Street 月島もんじゃストリート
Should you find yourself in Tsukishima, sampling monjayaki is a must. Along Tsukishima Monja Street, an array of captivating restaurants awaits, offering authentic flavours of this local delicacy. As Tsukishima Monja Street is replete with monjayaki establishments, it’s advisable to sample dishes from various venues, immersing yourself in the diverse tastes on offer.
Find out more about Tsukuda Monjya Street here on Google maps.
Sumiyoshi Shrine 住吉神社
Sumiyoshi Shrine stands as a revered sanctuary, drawing worshippers for generations, particularly from the shipping and wholesaler communities. Visitors flock here to beseech for maritime and travel safety. This tranquil shrine exudes a serene aura, providing respite from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Noteworthy events include the Kage Matsuri held annually on August 6th and 7th, along with the shrine’s triennial main festival, showcasing remarkable displays such as the octagonal “Hakaku Mikoshi” and the towering “Obori”.
Find out more about Sumiyoshi Shrine here on Google maps.
Tsukudakobashi Bridge 佃小橋
The vibrant crimson hue of Tsukuda Kobashi offers a striking contrast against the backdrop of skyscraper apartments and downtown dwellings. This picturesque locale, often featured in Japanese dramas, epitomizes local tranquility.
Find out more about Tsukudakobashi Bridge here on Google maps.
Tsukuda Park 中央区立佃公園
Tsukuda Park caters to visitors of all ages, boasting an array of facilities and amenities. Notable highlights include the Kenko Komichi, offering foot massages, and the scenic terrace overlooking the Sumida River. During cherry blossom season, the park’s cherry tree-lined terrace becomes a favoured spot for hanami enthusiasts.
Find out more about Tsukuda Park here on Google maps.
Ishikawajima Museum 石川島資料館
The Ishikawajima Museum pays homage to Tsukudajima and Ishikawajima’s rich maritime heritage, serving as a repository of historical artefacts and a diorama model depicting the shipyard’s heyday. History enthusiasts will find much to explore within its walls, with free admission on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Find out more about Ishikawajima Museum here on Google maps.
Kachidoki Bridge 勝鬨橋
While the Kachidoki Bridge no longer operates as a “jumping bridge,” visitors can learn about its illustrious past at the nearby Kachidoki Bridge Museum. Here, artefacts and informational displays provide insight into the bridge’s operation, offering a glimpse into Tokyo’s maritime history.
Find out more about Kachidoki Bridge here on Google maps.
Harumi Wharf 晴海埠頭
Harumi Wharf dazzles visitors with its enchanting night vistas, offering panoramic views of Tokyo’s iconic skyline, including Tokyo Tower and Rainbow Bridge. Luxury cruise ships from near and far grace its shores, adding to the allure of this romantic rendezvous spot.
Find out more about Harumi Wharf here on Google maps.
Tsukuda Tendai Jizō-son 佃天台地蔵尊
Tsukuda Tendai Jizō-son, nestled within a quaint alley, transports visitors back in time. The shrine’s centrepiece—a majestic ginkgo tree bursting through its roof—beckons seekers of tranquility and spiritual solace. Dedicated to Jizo, the Buddhist guardian deity of children, this shrine holds deep significance for locals and Buddhist adherents alike.
Find out more about Tsukuda Tendai Jizō-son here on Google maps.
Must-Visit Monja Restaurants in Tsukishima
Seafood Monja Moheji head office 月島もんじゃ もへじ 本店
Seafood Monja Moheji is a renowned monjayaki restaurant in Tsukishima. Established 150 years ago, it has long been a favourite among locals. The monja broth, crafted from eight varieties of seafood, delivers a concentrated flavour. We recommend the Mentaiko Mochi Monja, generously topped with mentaiko (cod roe) freshly brought in from Tsukiji every morning, and cheese. The combination of the mochi’s stickiness, melted cheese, and mashed mentaiko creates a truly delectable experience.
Tsukishima Monja Moheji Main Store, one of the most popular establishments, is open from 11:00 to 23:00, allowing you to enjoy monja throughout the day. To avoid long waits, it’s best to visit outside peak lunch and dinner times.
Find out more about Seafood Monja Moheji head office here on Google maps.
Kurumi 来る実
Kurumi is a cosy, family-run restaurant operated by a father and son. In addition to monjayaki, they offer a popular dessert, a Japanese crepe filled with red bean paste and other ingredients. The restaurant’s speciality, “amaebi monja”, features whole amaebi, with the shrimp’s flavour concentrated in the monja. The miso from the shrimp’s meat and head adds a sweet and rich depth to the dish.
Find out more about Kurumi here on Google maps.
Zaichi 在市
Zaichi Tsukishima Honten is known for its high-quality Hida beef, offering a simple, mature dining atmosphere. The Kujo-negi Horumon Set, featuring Kujo-negi (Japanese leeks) and seasoned with salt and pepper, highlights the meat’s flavour and is highly recommended. Another speciality is the “Gocha-maze-yaki”, a combination of various meats and a secret sauce that keeps customers returning for more.
Find out more about Zaichi here on Google maps.
Koboreya Honten 月島もんじゃ こぼれや 本店
Koboreya Honten, a modern and chic restaurant, provides a calm atmosphere perfect for a date. Their monjayaki menu boasts a variety of dishes, including a unique monja with whole oysters filled with plump meat. The freshness and abundance of oysters make this a must-try for oyster enthusiasts.
Find out more about Koboreya Honten here on Google maps.
Tsukishima Maruta もんじゃ まるた
Tsukishima Maruta’s monjayaki stands out for its originality and the motto “enjoy making and eating monja even more.” The hearty and visually impressive monja dishes attract tourists from across the country, served with meticulous care.
Find out more about Tsukishima Maruta here on Google maps.
Shinanoya もんじゃ しなのや
Monja Shinanoya is renowned for its meticulous approach to the dashi broth, which is crucial to the flavour of monja. Using carefully selected dried bonito flakes, kelp, and other ingredients, they create a light yet deeply flavoured broth that spreads delightfully in the mouth.
The restaurant’s speciality is the large “mentaiko monja,” featuring half a whole fillet of mentaiko. Compared to other restaurants, the most eye-catching aspect of this monja is the size of the mentaiko! The price is a bargain for mentaiko of this size. If you like monja, you must try this at least once.
Find out more about Shinanoya here on Google maps.
Other Must-Visit Restaurants in Tsukishima
Tsunematsu Kyuzo つねまつ久蔵商店
Shimane Prefecture is renowned for sake production, with numerous breweries and a high per capita consumption rate. The owner’s family has been brewing sake in Shimane since the Meiji era, and he serves as Shimane’s tourism ambassador. He opened a standing izakaya in Tsukishima to promote Shimane’s sake, offering about 20 varieties, including famous brands like Li Bai and Gassan, and lesser-known breweries. Fresh fish from Shimane, particularly flavoursome as the weather cools, pairs excellently with the sake, providing a taste of Shimane in downtown Tokyo.
Find out more about Tsunematsu Kyuzo here on Google maps.
Yamagatayama 山形山 月島店
In addition to standard yakiniku set menus, the restaurant offers over 20 lunch options, including roast beef, beef cutlet, yukke-don, kamameshi, and meat soba. Yamagata Prefecture, a treasure trove of ingredients, is represented by dishes designed to highlight the flavour of Yamagata Prefecture’s “Tsuyahime” rice. The menu of Yamagata beef, purchased from whole cows, is reasonably priced. The set menus feature offcuts of beef, including sirloin and other prime cuts, along with a generous spread of roast beef. The interior, reminiscent of an old private house, provides a comfortable dining experience.
Find out more about Yamagatayama here on Google maps.
Unveil the Hidden Treasures of Tsukishima
Tsukishima is most famous for its monjayaki. Whether you are a fan of this dish or not, you will want to visit Tsukishima to experience its local areas and hidden spots. With its slower pace of life, you will find relaxation here. Spend a day in Tsukishima and explore neighbouring areas for more fun activities. Enjoy your adventure around Tsukishima, and refer back to this guide whenever you need to! If you have any questions, feel free to reach out anytime!
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