Things To Do
in Katsushika-ku

Katsushika-ku is a vibrant ward located in the northeastern part of Tokyo, Japan. Known for its rich history and cultural heritage, it offers a blend of traditional and modern Japanese life. The area is famous for its picturesque parks, historic temples, and the scenic Edo River.

Visitors to Katsushika-ku can enjoy a unique experience away from the hustle and bustle of central Tokyo while still having easy access to the city's attractions.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Historical Katsushika
morning
:

Start your day at the iconic Shibamata Taishakuten Temple, known for its beautiful wooden architecture and serene garden.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Taishakuten Temple's shopping street, where you can sample local snacks and shop for souvenirs.

evening
:

Conclude your day with dinner at a local izakaya in Shibamata, enjoying dishes like yakitori and seasonal sashimi.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a stroll through Katsushika's Mizumoto Park, which offers peaceful walking paths and beautiful flowers.

afternoon
:

Explore the Katsushika City Museum to learn about the area's history and culture, including the famous cartoon character, Fujiko F. Fujio.

evening
:

Head to the Ayase River for a relaxing evening walk, followed by dinner at a ramen shop to savor authentic Japanese noodles.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi meal$15
🍜Ramen bowl$10
☕️Coffee$3
🚌Public transport ticket$2
🏨Hotel per night$80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage with historic sites.
  • Less crowded than central Tokyo, offering a more local experience.
  • Accessible outdoor activities and parks.
  • Limited English signage in some areas.
  • Public transport may require transfers to reach central Tokyo attractions.
  • Fewer nightlife options compared to more tourist-heavy areas.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "おいしいです" - It's delicious
  • "トイレはどこですか?" - Where is the restroom?

Places to Visit in Katsushika-ku

Visit one of these nice places.

Shibamata Taishakuten

Capture the beauty of this historic temple with its stunning architecture and tranquil gardens.

Katsushika's Cherry Blossom Trees

In spring, the cherry blossom trees along the Edo River create a picturesque backdrop for stunning photographs.

Mizumoto Park

A serene park with beautiful nature, ideal for landscape photography and wildlife shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Katsushika-ku

Katsushika-ku boasts a delightful culinary scene where traditional Japanese flavors meet unique local specialties.

Katsushika-ku Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Katsushika Yakitori

Grilled chicken skewers seasoned with salt or a savory sauce, popular in local izakayas.

Must-Try!

Chirashi Sushi

A colorful bowl of sushi rice topped with assorted sashimi and vegetables, often enjoyed during special occasions.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Shibamata Shopping Street

A lively street market where you can find local snacks like ningyo-yaki (small cakes filled with sweet red bean paste) and grilled fish.

Climate Guide

Weather

Katsushika-ku experiences four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) can be hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Winters (December to February) are cold, with temperatures dropping to around 0°C (32°F) and occasional snowfall. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are mild and comfortable, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Always bow when greeting someone, and use polite language and gestures.

Shoes Off Indoors

Remove your shoes when entering homes and some traditional establishments.

Respect for Silence

Maintain a quiet demeanor in public transport and public spaces to respect others.

Safety Guide

Safety

Katsushika-ku is generally a safe area with low crime rates. However, as in any urban environment, it's advisable to stay alert, especially in crowded places. Emergency services are reliable, and locals are usually willing to help if you need assistance.

Tipping in Katsushika-ku

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan, and leaving money on the table may be considered rude.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but many places accept credit cards. Convenience stores and ATMs are readily available.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Enjoy the cherry blossoms in March and April, especially along the riverside, creating a picturesque landscape.

Summer

Expect hot and humid weather, perfect for enjoying local festivals and outdoor activities.

Autumn

Witness stunning autumn foliage in October and November, particularly in parks and gardens.

Winter

Although winters can be cold, Katsushika is less crowded, allowing for peaceful explorations of its cultural sites.

Nightlife Guide

Katsushika-ku at Night

Katsushika-ku offers a more laid-back nightlife compared to central Tokyo. Visitors can find cozy izakayas and local bars where they can enjoy delicious food and drinks. Karaoke bars are also popular, with many locals and visitors gathering to sing their favorite tunes. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it a great place to unwind after a day of exploration.

Hiking in Katsushika-ku

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Tamagawa Josui Trail

A scenic trail that follows the Tamagawa River, offering beautiful views and a peaceful hiking experience.

Nishi-Katsushika Trail

A local trail that provides a mix of natural scenery and urban landscapes, great for leisurely hikes.

Airports

How to reach Katsushika-ku by plane.

Narita International Airport

Located about 60 kilometers from Katsushika-ku, this airport serves international flights and offers access to Tokyo via train and bus.

Getting Around

Walkability

Katsushika-ku is quite walkable, especially in areas like Shibamata and Mizumoto Park, where sidewalks are well-maintained and pedestrian-friendly. The ward has a pleasant atmosphere for strolling, with many parks and local shops to explore on foot. Public transport options are also available for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Katsushika-ku has a significant number of families, often drawn to its parks and schools.

Elderly Residents

The ward is home to many elderly residents, thanks to its tranquil environment and community services.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is extremely popular in Japan, with local teams often playing in community leagues.

Soccer

Soccer has a growing following, with many local clubs and youth programs available.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Katsushika-ku can be busy during peak hours, but public transportation is efficient, with access to trains and buses. The area is well-connected to central Tokyo, making it easy to travel around the city. Bicycles are also a popular mode of transport, with dedicated lanes for cyclists.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Katsushika-ku.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan Options

While seafood is prevalent, some restaurants offer vegetarian dishes like tempura vegetables and soba noodles.

Gluten-Free Options

Many traditional dishes can be made gluten-free; check with the restaurant staff for specific options.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Katsushika-ku is accessible, with several hospitals and clinics available for both residents and visitors. The quality of care is high, and many medical professionals are trained to speak basic English. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide