Things To Do
in Shinagawa-ku

Shinagawa-ku is a vibrant district in Tokyo, Japan, known for its blend of modern urban life and historical sites. It is a major transportation hub, featuring the iconic Shinagawa Station, which connects to various train lines and the Shinkansen. The area boasts beautiful waterfront views along Tokyo Bay, complemented by numerous parks and cultural attractions.

Visitors can experience both the bustling city life and serene spots, making it a perfect destination for all types of travelers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Modern Shinagawa
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Tennozu Isle, where you can enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a waterfront café. Afterward, explore the nearby Hama-Rikyu Gardens, a beautiful park with traditional landscaping.

afternoon
:

Head to the Shinagawa Aquarium to discover a variety of marine life, then take a stroll around the vibrant shopping areas of Shinagawa, including the Atre shopping complex.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with dinner at one of the many izakayas in the area, followed by a visit to the nearby Odaiba for stunning views of the Rainbow Bridge.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural and Historical Insights
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the historic Sengaku-ji Temple, where the famous 47 Ronin are buried. Take time to appreciate the serene atmosphere and beautiful gardens.

afternoon
:

Visit the Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum, which showcases contemporary art in a stunning Art Deco building. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a local soba or udon noodle shop.

evening
:

Conclude your trip with a river cruise on the Sumida River, offering breathtaking views of the Tokyo skyline by night, followed by dinner at a restaurant along the riverside.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$20-50
🍜Ramen Bowl$10-15
🍱Bento Box$6-15
Coffee$3-6
🚌Public Transport Ticket$2-5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Convenient transportation access via Shinagawa Station.
  • A blend of modern attractions and traditional culture.
  • Abundance of dining options from street food to upscale restaurants.
  • Can be crowded, especially during rush hours.
  • Higher accommodation prices in central areas.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to other Tokyo districts.
  • "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 / I'm sorry
  • "はい" - Yes
  • "いいえ" - No

Places to Visit in Shinagawa-ku

Visit one of these nice places.

Hama-Rikyu Gardens

A beautiful park featuring traditional Japanese gardens, historic buildings, and a picturesque landscape perfect for photography.

Tennozu Isle

Offering stunning views of Tokyo Bay and the city skyline, this waterfront area is ideal for capturing sunset shots.

Shinagawa Aquarium

The colorful marine life and unique exhibits provide excellent opportunities for vibrant aquatic photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Shinagawa-ku

Shinagawa-ku offers a diverse culinary experience, blending traditional Japanese flavors with modern twists. From sushi and ramen to street food, there is something for every palate.

Shinagawa-ku Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sushi

Fresh and expertly prepared sushi is a must-try in Shinagawa, where several renowned sushi restaurants offer a delightful dining experience.

Must-Try!

Ramen

The district hosts various ramen shops serving rich broths and handmade noodles, perfect for a satisfying meal.

Kushi-katsu

These deep-fried skewers are a popular local snack, often enjoyed with a selection of dipping sauces.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Shinagawa Station Food Hall

This bustling food hall features a variety of vendors offering everything from bento boxes to sweet treats, perfect for a quick bite.

Yurakucho Street Food

Just a short train ride away, this area is known for its street food stalls serving hot skewers and other local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Shinagawa-ku experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C. Winters (December to February) are cold but mild compared to other regions, with temperatures averaging around 5°C. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Always use polite language and gestures, such as bowing when greeting someone.

Shoes off Indoors

Remove shoes when entering homes and certain traditional establishments; slippers may be provided.

Quiet Public Spaces

Maintain a low volume in public transport and places of worship to respect others.

Safety Guide

Safety

Shinagawa-ku is generally a safe area for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard safety precautions should be observed, such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 110 for police and 119 for fire and medical emergencies.

Tipping in Shinagawa-ku

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan and can be seen as rude. Exceptional service is typically included in the price.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas, but carrying cash is advisable for smaller shops and local markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Cherry blossoms bloom in March and April, making it a lovely time to visit parks and enjoy hanami (flower viewing) picnics.

Summer

Summer can be hot and humid, with temperatures reaching over 30°C. Plan for outdoor activities in the early morning or late evening.

Autumn

Autumn brings beautiful foliage, especially in parks like Hama-Rikyu. The weather is mild, making it perfect for exploring.

Winter

Winter is cold, with temperatures dropping to around 5°C. Enjoy seasonal illuminations and cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Shinagawa-ku at Night

Shinagawa-ku has a lively nightlife scene, with a mix of izakayas, bars, and karaoke establishments. The area is popular among locals and visitors alike for its vibrant atmosphere, especially around Shinagawa Station. Visitors can enjoy everything from casual dining to late-night entertainment, with many venues open until the early hours of the morning. The nearby Odaiba area also offers nightlife options with stunning views of the Tokyo skyline.

Hiking in Shinagawa-ku

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Takao Trail

Located about an hour from Shinagawa, Mount Takao offers various hiking trails with stunning views and natural scenery, ideal for day trips.

Meiji Jingu Forest

A serene forest area surrounding the Meiji Shrine, perfect for leisurely walks and enjoying nature while remaining in the city.

Airports

How to reach Shinagawa-ku by plane.

Tokyo Haneda Airport

Located approximately 15 minutes from Shinagawa by train, Haneda Airport is one of the two main airports serving Tokyo, offering both domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Shinagawa-ku is quite walkable, particularly around Shinagawa Station and the waterfront areas. Many attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance, making it easy to explore on foot. Pedestrian-friendly pathways and well-marked crossings enhance the walking experience, though some areas can be busy with traffic.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Business Professionals

Shinagawa is home to many corporate offices, attracting a significant number of business professionals who commute to work daily.

Tourists

The area sees a high influx of tourists drawn by its attractions, shopping centers, and dining options.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a hugely popular sport in Japan, with many local teams and games that draw enthusiastic crowds.

Sumo Wrestling

As the national sport, sumo wrestling events are a significant cultural attraction, with tournaments held several times a year in Tokyo.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Shinagawa can be congested during peak hours, particularly near major train stations. Public transportation is the preferred method of travel, with an extensive network of trains and buses connecting the area to other parts of Tokyo. The Tokyo Metro, JR East, and private railway lines provide efficient and reliable service, making it easy to navigate the city without a car.

Accomodations

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

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While traditional Japanese cuisine often includes fish and meat, many restaurants offer vegetarian-friendly dishes like vegetable tempura or soba noodles.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited, but rice dishes and certain noodle dishes can be suitable. Always check with the restaurant staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Shinagawa is accessible, with several hospitals and clinics available. Emergency services are efficient, and most hospitals have English-speaking staff. Visitors should ensure they have travel insurance that covers medical expenses during their stay.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide