101 things to do in Ginza

Putting a lottery stand next to a statue of Daikoku, the god of good harvest, is not a bad idea. As it turns out, this particular stand, at the central exit of Yurakucho Station, has produced an unusually large amount of winning tickets. Yurakucho Daikokuten

Style and sport come together at this urban lifestyle shop that sells both casualwear and running gear. Best of all it has a running station with recommended routes, lockers and a shower room. En Route Ginza

Choushiya claims to have created the original Japanese croquette. Founded in 1927, it still attracts queues of hungry office workers at lunchtime and, besides its famous croquettes, it also offers sandwiches and ham cutlets on request. Choushiya

In 1993, Toshikatsu Aoki Jr took over from his father as sushi chef at this vibrant restaurant and, while he upholds his family’s culinary traditions, he is also always putting new spins on Edo-style sushi. Sushi Aoki

The owner of this leather bag store, founded in 1874, is credited with devising the kanji character for ‘bag’ and is known for quality craftsmanship that’ll make you go ‘ooh’. Ginza Tanizawa

In a cranny between the skyscrapers, this statue of the god Inari stands on silent watch, attracting entertainers hoping for the blessing of success as well as people hoping for luck in love and marriage. Toyoiwa Inari Shrine

Immerse yourself in four storeys full of Japan’s favourite toys, including stuffed animals, games and character merchandise. The shop stocks a grand total of around 200,000 items. Hakuhinkan

It may look like a simple soba shop, but it's frequented by foodies who come to sample the local cuisine of Yamagata that's sold here. The restaurant uses buckwheat flour from Yamagata in their soba noodles, with the most popular item being the 'tori soba': soba and broth served with chicken meat. Yamagatada

Struggling to find shoe sizes that fit? This women’s footwear store stocks sizes up to 26cm, and expert staff will measure and customise until your feet finally find their perfect made-in-Japan shoe match. Ginza Kanematsu

Imagine Dracula invited you round for dinner – this is the kind of setting you can expect at Vampire Cafe, with its chandeliers, blood-red velvet curtains, and themed rooms like ‘Count Dracula’s Coffin’ and ‘St George’s Altar’. The cuisine is equally creative. Ginza Restaurant Vampire Cafe

Besides being one of Ginza’s leading high-end and historic department stores, Matsuya also offers lifestyle goods by local and international designers on the 7th floor as well as a fine collection of Japanese sake and foreign beers on the basement floor. Matsuya Ginza

Starting out as an ukiyo-e woodcut-print publisher and dealer, this store now sells ukiyo-e prints by the likes of Hiroshige and Hokusai, along with contemporary prints by artists such as Hasui Kawase. S.Watanabe Color Print Co.

This Showa era-style standing izakaya in Ginza Corridor-gai was the first place in Japan to introduce a highball server. They also have a diverse selection of beer, sake, shochu and wine, and their kushiyaki (grilled skewers) come highly recommended. Marugin

Try the speciality sweet Kuya Monaka, made of a crunchy outer shell that’s filled with home-made azuki bean paste. If they’re sold out (usually you need to reserve your order), the seasonal Japanese sweets on offer are also a treat. Kuya

A clothing store that emphasises the Japanese tradition of producing durable, comfortable fashion. The interior is modelled on an antique shop, so even just browsing is a pleasurable experience. 45R

Run by music producer Shinichi Osawa, this bar boasts a collection of over 3,000 records, from classics to contemporary hits, and employs top quality sound equipment to fill your night with aural pleasure. Ginza Music Bar

Pick up interesting Japanese antiques and curios that have survived through the ages, including things like beautifully crafted pipe cases and ornamental hairpins and accessories. Find it on the 1st floor of the Ginza 5 shopping mall. Yukari-antiques

Nair’s Restaurant continues to produce Indian cuisine made from the same recipes used by its founder, Ayappan Pillai Mhadavan Nair, when it opened in 1949. Most of the regulars opt for the restaurant’s famous Murugi Lunch. Nair's Restaurant

Known as the inventor of anpan (a sweet roll filled with azuki bean paste), this shop offers this confection in a variety of flavours, along with different styles of bread. Head upstairs for the café and up another flight for Restaurant Kimuraya. Ginza Kimuraya

Stop by this liquor store for a quick (and reasonably priced) sake or wine tasting, paired with cheese and other appetisers. If you’re looking to buy, they have 200 types of both sake and shochu, and 300 types of wine to choose from. Ginza Kimijimaya

For the ultimate Tokyo children’s clothing shopping experience, visit Ginza Sayegusa, the authority on styles for young 'uns since 1869. Housed in a four-storey Tudor-style building, this venerable establishment offers top-of-the-range goods and a made-to-order clothing service. Ginza Sayegusa

The flagship store of Sanrio, the company that brought Hello Kitty to life, sells all kinds of character-related items; you can even get ‘animated’ nail art done at the salon (reservations recommended, extra fees apply). Sanrio World Ginza

You know you're doing something right when the Imperial Household is on your client list. These specialists in shippo (traditional Japanese cloisonné) are renowned for the magnificent translucent colours of their brooches, vases and other products. Ando Cloisonne

Tonkatsu or pork cutlet may not be what Japanese cuisine is best known for, but it sure is pretty damn tasty. Nobukatsu Shibuya had a huge impact on how the dish is thought of and eaten today, so paying gourmet tributes at the shop he founded in 1927 feels appropriate. Ginza Bairin

Formed with the intention of creating a Japanese design community that invites designers, architects and critics alike to enjoy diverse exhibitions, Design Gallery 1953 showcases works by the likes of Naoto Fukasawa, Kenya Hara and Taku Satoh. Design Gallery 1953

Just near Kabuki-za theatre, this restaurant draws in lunchtime crowds with its fluffy omurice (omelette with fried rice). The dish takes a little time to prepare but it’s worth the wait. You

This specialist pencil and ballpoint pen shop – tucked away on a back street – is jam-packed with new and retro-styled stationery. If you’re looking for a gift, go for the lacquered pencils, made using traditional techniques. Gojuon

Founded in 1894, this fruit dealer offers only the highest quality seasonal wares and is particularly famed for its delicious Ginza Parfait, served at its Fruit Parlor. Ginza Sembikiya

With a selection of original and curated hats from stores like Borsalino and Christie’s, this millinery shop, which has been around since 1917, will surely bring you to the end of your hat hunt. Look for the chic Woven Roller Panama. Toraya Hat Shop

Founded as a tabi (socks) shop right across from the Kabuki-za, Oonoya still deals in traditional footwear, in addition to classy accessories like tenugui handkerchiefs. These beauties, decorated with the shop's original motifs, make for perfect souvenirs. Ginza Oonoya

Founded shortly after WWII, this restaurant is credited with inventing katsu curry, a popular dish in Japan consisting of breaded, deep-fried pork or chicken cutlets placed on top of curry rice. Ginza Swiss

Unlike conventional flower shops, this one primarily stocks wild grass. The seasonal plants and blooms they stock may be simple, but they're sourced from all over Japan and hold a certain charm. Nonohana Tsukasa

A remnant of the freight trains that ran between Shiodome Station and Tsukijishijo Station from 1931 to 1987, this railway crossing signal was preserved at the behest of residents after the railway itself was closed. The ruins of Hamarikyu-mae Railway Crossing

Mikawaya specialises in the kind of food that any commoner from old Edo would recognise. Pickles and other vegetables dominate the selection, but don't forget the Irizake – a slightly sour form of seasoning that's supposed to combine nicely with roast beef. Edo Slowfood Mikawaya

Designed to express 'beautiful chaos', Ginza's Dover Street Market concept shop is a multi-brand department store teeming with one-off collaborations. Dover Street Market Ginza

Owner and bartender Toshiyuki Kamiki once worked at an agricultural cooperative so he’s particular about the fruit and veggies he uses in his cocktails – they all meet the Japanese Agricultural Standards (JAS) for organic foods. You can taste the difference. Bar Yu-Nagi

In addition to Shiseido Parlour, cosmetics giant Shiseido's Ricardo Bofill-designed building also houses this historical, spacious gallery showcasing an international, accomplished cast of modern artists. Shiseido Gallery

Café Kinohana's main claim to fame is that it was once visited by John Lennon and Yoko Ono – the couple's autographs are prominently displayed inside. If you're looking to follow in their footsteps, know that John had some Colombian coffee and Yoko downed a cup of Darjeeling. Flor de Café Kinohana

Ginza's one and only 'show restaurant' puts on a colourful parade of both cross-dressing and straight dancers, all delivering memorable performances. You'll get the gist even with zero Japanese ability. Show the Konparu

As Japan’s staple carb, it’s not surprising rice has an entire shop and restaurant dedicated to it. The former is particularly impressive, stocking a seemingly endless selection of items, including a variety of grains and paraphernalia. Akomeya Tokyo

'Coffee Only' reads the sign outside Café de l'Ambre, which has been keeping the Ginza hordes well caffeinated since 1948. Remarkably, it's still run by the same man – centenarian Ichiro Sekiguchi, who makes no compromises when it comes to brew. Café de l'Ambre

If you're looking to wine and dine your date at a romantic spot, this restaurant fits the bill. The wine cellar has 2,000-plus bottles of wine stacked up to the ceiling, the lights are Swarovski-crystal encrusted, and the food is beautifully presented and served from an open kitchen. It's a pure delight from start to finish. Dazzle

Believe it or not, Hooters isn't just about the spunky waitresses. The Ginza outpost's spicy chicken wings combine nicely with a brew, and sports fans often gather here to watch big matches. Hooters Ginza

Making you forget all about shoddy flip-flops, Yoitaya specialises in artisanally crafted, traditional geta and zori sandals that can be adjusted to fit the shape of your foot and are guaranteed to up your Edo cred. Ginza Yoitaya

Model railways: they're just child's play, right? Not at Bar Ginza Panorama, a watering hole for train spotters who prefer their vehicles miniaturised. Sipping on a 'railroad cocktail' while you watch a model train speed by – how much geekier can it get? Some of the staff speak English. Bar Ginza Panorama

The largest Uniqlo branch in Japan, the 'fast fashion' empire's global flagship sprawls across 12 floors and carries just about any kind of clothing you could ask for. There's a tax-free counter on the premises. Uniqlo Ginza

Housing everything from a hair salon to a skincare counselling lounge and a 'Beauty Marche' cosmetic product zone, Shiseido's flagship complex fulfils any and all cosmetic needs. They offer make-up lessons, have a photo studio, and sell a world-famous lineup of beautifiers, too. Shiseido The Ginza

Since opening in 1928, this bar has been frequented by Japan’s leading writers such as Kyoka Izumi and Kan Kikuchi. The interior retains hints of the Showa period and features photos of the literary clientele. Lupin, Ginza

With a history dating back to the 1950s, New Castle's 'karai rice' (a kind of curry over rice) is not just about the spiciness. The thick pork stock is accented with ample veg and fruit, and reportedly tastes just like it did back in the heyday of the Showa era. New Castle

Sip your way around Japan with nihonshu, shochu, beer and wine from every corner of the country, but be careful not to overdo it – this tiny standing-only bar doesn't really allow for drunken slacking. Kunizake-ya

Ginza is full of shops with notable histories, but Toraya stands out even among such stiff competition: they've been making traditional Japanese confections since early 16th century – more than enough time to perfect the recipes. Toraya Ginza

The beauty of melt-in-your-mouth wagyu is on full display at this carnivore heaven specialising in sukiyaki and shabu-shabu. High rollers might want to book a private room complete with on-site cooking service. Ginza Yoshizawa

One of the first restaurants in Japan to serve locally adapted 'Western' cuisine, Rengatei regularly attracts queues of gourmands aching to taste some omelette over rice, crispy pork cutlet or deep-fried oysters. Rengatei

Featuring over 2,500 kinds of top quality chopsticks made from natural wood sourced from all over Japan and lacquered with non-chemical Japanese urushi, this store both curates and creates its products, which also include chopstick rests and goods for kids. Ginza Natsuno

In Ginza, even 'yoshoku' (Western-style cuisine) is luxurious. It gets the gourmet treatment here, with the beef stew and the Japanese tiger prawn au gratin being two of the highlights. Lunch sets start at ¥4,800. Gin-En-Tei

Loved by locals for more than half a century, the ramen here treads the path of tradition with soy sauce-based soup and medium-thick noodles. Those looking for variety will enjoy the takenoko-soba ('bamboo shoot noodles'). Kyoraku

Found in a nondescript basement, this gallery moved to its current spot in 2013 and hosts unique exhibits including erotic (think 'love doll' displays), avant-garde and gothic style paintings, photos and cartoons – a lineup quite unlike anywhere else. Also hosts regular events. Vanilla Gallery

Japanese confectionery and café Ginza Wakamatsu has been in business for well over 100 years and continues to attract sweets lovers with its classic anmitsu, a combo of jelly, sweet bean paste, fruit and syrup. Ginza Wakamatsu

Founded in Kyoto back in 1663 and run by the same family ever since, stationery maker Kyukyodo has been providing incense to the Imperial Court since the Edo period. Having undergone only minimal changes since those days, their wares make for gorgeous gifts. Kyukyodo

Striving to create kimonos fit for 21st-century streets, these innovators are extremely selective when it comes to fabric, using only the newest, fully domestic silk. Stroll the streets of Ginza in one of their creations and you'll be sure to turn heads. Motoji

Beginning with the doorknob, this shrine to doughnuts employs round shapes extremely liberally, making for a shop that looks like something Alice could have found down the rabbithole. Don't miss out on the Magical Choco Ring, their signature treat. Heart Bread Antique

Looking for a touch of traditional class? Dress up in authentic kabuki garb and have your picture taken, or rent a kimono for a stroll around Ginza. Studio-Alice Kabuki Photo Studio

Established in 1673 and now a recognisable landmark in the area, Ginza Mitsukoshi is one of the oldest department stores in Japan. The bronze lions guarding the entrance are a popular meeting spot. Ginza Mitsukoshi

Fans of miniature trees will have a field day marvelling at Uchikuan's bonsai selection, which ranges from palm-sized specimens to centuries-old masterpieces. The shop also carries a wide range of bonsai books and growing equipment. Ginza Uchikuan

Green tea like you've never had it before – the 'ocha-presso' at this shop/café is a superb espresso version of traditional green tea. Take time to browse the rest of the extensive leaf selection as well. Uogashi-Meicha Cha Ginza

An enduring carnivores' favourite, Bird Land cuts up branded chicken from Ibaraki in every way imaginable, serving up fine fowl in skewered, grilled, pâté-ed and boiled form. The wine and sake lists are worth exploring, too. Bird Land Ginza

Tile-shaped Japanese cookies with pretty seasonal designs and 'Japanese-style pancakes' served at the second-floor café are some of the highlights at this venerable snack shop that's been in business for over two centuries. Ginza Matsuzaki Senbei

Now home to around 20 art galleries, these 1930s apartments were once some of the most luxurious abodes in the neighbourhood. When visiting, make sure to check out the retro tiled exterior and Ginza's oldest manually operated lift. Okuno Building

Emphasising the 'beauty of everyday use', Takumi specialises in folk crafts from Japan, the rest of Asia and Latin America. If it's a unique souvenir you're after, this should be your stop. Ginza Takumi

There aren't many sushi shops that boast their own in-house 'vegetable sommelier', but Aoki doesn't aspire to be ordinary. Conventional nigiri line up next to vegetarian varieties, made from the finest seasonal produce, while choices like bagna càuda and wagyu skewers add to the fusion symphony. Sushi & Vege Japanese Cuisine Aoki Ginza

Need a vintage kimono or some collectable cups? You'll be sure to find whatever antiques you're after at this two-floor mall packed with quirky shops and stalls. Antique Mall Ginza

'American size' isn't just a marketing trick here – these huge, hearty sandwiches are available for take-out and will satisfy even the most ravenous of eaters. The egg version is their most popular offering. American

‘Would you like dorai kare [curried rice] with that?’ the staff invariably ask customers when they place their first order at this upscale yakitori restaurant in Ginza. Trust us: just say yes. Ginza Torishige

Aojiru ('green juice'), the kale-based nutritional drink famed for its bitterness, is the only thing on sale at this retro shop boasting a dedicated, predictably healthy following. Ginza Aojiru Stand

Named after Suntory's famed single malt, this elegant bar draws patrons both with its refined atmosphere and its all-female staff, who really know their way around the selection. Ginza Yamazaki

First built in 1889 and beautifully restored in 2013, the Kabuki-za is an iconic symbol of Ginza, combining the tradition of kabuki with state-of-the-art viewing aids (extra fees apply). Kabuki-za Theatre