Ginza is a place where expensive department stores and brand stores stands. It is famous for the first place in Japan to have street where vehicles are shut out temporarily and for the Chuo-dori, having the most expensive land price. Recently, foreign brands such as H&M and Abercrombie have joined the market. Therefore, Ginza is becoming more and more attractive; a city intermingled with refined fashion and old department stores.

The starting point for the Ginza stroll will be the 4 Cho-me crossing, a famous meeting spot. Ginza Wako is known as the symbol of Ginza. The neo renaissance style architecture takes you to the old days.

It will be lighten up during the night.

Facing Ginza Wako is Ginza Mitsukoshi. There is a lion statue next to the entrance. The model of this lion is the lion in Trafalgar Square, London.

As you walk toward the east of Harumi Street, you will find Miharabashi Underground District. There are movie theater and bars.

I would’ve liked to go until Kabukiza but since it is on construction, I will walk Yanagi Street. This yanagi (willow) became the symbol of Ginza.

Next is Police Museum, where both children and adults can enjoy. There are uniformfor children so that you can take pictures.

The white bike placed at the entrance is the symbol.

Facing the Police Museum is the birthplace of Edo kabuki. The monument was placed to commemorate the beginning of Edo kabuki. There is explanation not only in Japanese but in English as well.

There are the main pillars of Kyo-bashi close to the monument. Kyo-bashi and Nihon-bashi are the two bridges that represent Edo era. The pillars are preserved to remember those days.

You will find a monument to the memory of the birthplace of Ginza as you go back to Chuo-dori, towards Ginza Mitsukoshi. Ginza, “gin” literally means “silver”, is called this way because during Edo period, there was a government office that handled silver.

Along Chuo-dori stand many stylish buildings. On the weekdays there are many businessmen and on the weekends, there are many people shopping.

Shiseido Gallery is located pass the 4 Cho-me crossing. Established in 1919, it is the oldest art gallery in Japan. It is the largest among the district. Exhibition on modern art is held. The entrance fee is free.

Toyoiwa Inari Jinja is located on the end. The symbol is a stone monument that its name is craved on. Many women visit wishing for good partner.

The shrine is really located between the buildings.

Namiki-dori, where many brands shop such as Luis Vuitton stand. The streets in Ginza are laid out in a grid pattern so it is easy to walk around. Many brand shops are lined on both side of Namiki-dori.

Taimei Elementary School is the last destination to introduce. The building has arch shaped windows and fancy gate.

Besides what has been introduced here, in Ginza, there are many high quality restaurants that are listed on Michelin Guide Book. There are many cafes and sweets stores so you can enjoy both shopping and the food. Also historical sites and modern city are intermingled. It is an interesting place to stroll around.