Things To Do
in Katsushika-ku
Katsushika-ku is a special ward located in the eastern part of Tokyo, Japan. It is known for its traditional charm and historic sites, including the Shibamata area famous for its temple and shopping street. Katsushika also offers a variety of parks and recreational areas, such as the Mizumoto Park and Shibamata Taishakuten Sando.
With a mix of urban convenience and cultural richness, Katsushika-ku is a vibrant and inviting neighborhood for both residents and visitors alike.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Shibamata Taisho-ji Temple, a beautiful and serene place. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and take pictures of the stunning architecture.
Explore the historic Shibamata neighborhood and enjoy traditional snacks at local shops. Visit the Yoshitsune Shrine to learn more about local legends.
As the sun sets, head to the Edogawa River for a relaxing walk. Grab a bite at one of the local izakayas for an authentic Japanese dining experience.
Begin your morning visiting the Katsushika Historical Museum to delve into local history. The exhibits provide fascinating insights into the area's past.
Spend time in the nearby Katsushika Park, where you can enjoy a picnic surrounded by nature. Don't forget to take a stroll around the park and appreciate the scenery.
In the evening, check out a local onsen (hot spring) to unwind after an eventful day. The relaxation will be a perfect way to end your cultural adventure.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with traditional neighborhoods and temples.
- Affordable cost of living compared to central Tokyo areas.
- Good access to public transportation, making it easy to reach other parts of Tokyo.
- Beautiful parks and green spaces, such as the Edo River and Shioiri Park.
- A vibrant local community with a variety of shops, markets, and festivals.
- Less nightlife and entertainment options compared to more central areas of Tokyo.
- Fewer high-end shopping and dining experiences compared to upscale districts.
- Can be perceived as less modern, with some areas feeling outdated.
- Limited English signage and communication, which may be challenging for non-Japanese speakers.
- Traffic congestion during peak hours can be an issue, as in many parts of Tokyo.
Best Activities in Katsushika-ku
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a cycling along the scenic Edogawa River, which offers a great way to explore the natural beauty of Katsushika-ku.
Visit this expansive park for activities like picnicking, walking trails, and birdwatching, surrounded by beautiful greenery and cherry blossoms during spring.
Take a leisurely stroll along this traditional street lined with shops and eateries, and visit the historic Taishakuten Temple.
Tours
Uncover the best of Katsushika-ku with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Katsushika-ku
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a stunning view of the Tateishi area and the Arakawa River.
Known for its beautiful cherry blossoms and serene landscape, providing great photo opportunities.
A traditional temple and street lined with retro buildings, making it a picturesque location for photography.
Food in Katsushika-ku
Katsushika-ku Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Savor traditional Edo-style sushi, featuring fresh fish and vinegared rice. Visit renowned sushiya like Sushi Dai at Tsukiji Outer Market.
Must-Try!
Indulge in light and crispy tempura made with fresh local seafood and vegetables at Tempura Kondo, a celebrated tempura restaurant in Katsushika-ku.
Try Shiruko, a sweet red bean soup served with mochi. Experience authentic Shiruko at local tea houses and traditional sweet shops in Shibamata.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Katsushika-ku better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore Shibamata Taishakuten Sando for a variety of street food including yakitori, taiyaki, and imagawayaki. Don't miss out on trying the local specialty, Shibamata Manju.
Experience the vibrant Katsushika Night Market, known for its array of street food stalls offering takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and other savory treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Katsushika-ku and Japanese culture, it is customary to bow slightly when greeting someone as a sign of respect.
It is polite to remove your shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments in Katsushika-ku, as is common throughout Japan.
Addressing others with appropriate honorific titles, such as '-san' when referring to someone, shows respect in Japanese culture, including in Katsushika-ku.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Katsushika-ku with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Katsushika-ku
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Katsushika-ku, Japan. It is not expected or customary to tip in restaurants, hotels, or other service industries.
Payment in Katsushika-ku, Japan is predominantly done through cash. While credit cards are becoming more widely accepted, especially in larger establishments, it is still advisable to carry cash for smaller businesses and local shops.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Katsushika-ku.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to see cherry blossoms in full bloom
Warm weather, perfect for outdoor activities and festivals
Beautiful foliage and pleasant temperatures for sightseeing
Cold weather but chance to experience traditional New Year's celebrations
Katsushika-ku at Night
Hiking in Katsushika-ku
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A local park in Katsushika-ku that offers nature trails and walking paths, perfect for a casual hike.
A spacious park located nearby with scenic walking routes and green landscapes, suitable for a relaxed hiking experience.
Located near Tateishi Station, this park features trails and beautiful views, offering a nice escape into nature.
A shrine that has surrounding hills and walking paths, providing a peaceful hiking experience combined with cultural exploration.
A long, scenic path along the Edogawa River that is ideal for walking, jogging, and leisurely hikes, connecting several parks.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Katsushika-ku through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Katsushika-ku by plane.
Located approximately 60 kilometers east of Katsushika-ku, Narita International Airport is one of the major international airports serving Tokyo and the surrounding regions.
Also known as Tokyo International Airport, Haneda is located about 30 kilometers south of Katsushika-ku and is one of the busiest airports in the world for domestic and international flights.
Located around 250 kilometers west of Katsushika-ku, Chubu Centrair International Airport serves the Nagoya region and offers various international flights.
Situated about 500 kilometers west of Katsushika-ku, Kansai International Airport serves the Osaka area and is a hub for international travel to and from Japan.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Katsushika-ku, comprising the native Japanese population, with a mix of various regional backgrounds.
Includes various foreign nationals living in the area, particularly from countries such as Brazil, China, and South Korea.
A significant demographic in the area, reflecting Japan’s aging population trend, with many residents being over 65 years old.
Increasingly prominent as younger generations seek family-friendly neighborhoods, contributing to a growing population of children and new parents.
Consists of both local and international students, particularly in areas with educational institutions.
The Soul of Katsushika-ku
Discover the essence of Katsushika-ku through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Katsushika-ku, with many local teams and regular games played in the community.
Soccer enjoys strong popularity among youth and adults alike, with numerous local clubs and tournaments held throughout the year.
Basketball has a significant following, with local courts available for both recreation and organized competitions.
Various forms of martial arts, including judo and kendo, are practiced widely, with many dojos offering classes for all ages.
Running is a popular recreational activity, with parks and running tracks available, often used for local marathons and fun runs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Katsushika-ku.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Japanese cuisine heavily features seafood, several restaurants in Katsushika-ku offer vegetarian and vegan options. Look for Buddhist vegetarian restaurants offering shojin ryori.
Locating gluten-free options can be challenging, but some restaurants are accommodating to gluten-free diets. It's advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly and confirm ingredients with the staff.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Katsushika-ku with these cultural adventures.
