Jiyugaoka Department Store is a unique commercial facility located in Tokyo’s Jiyugaoka area. While the area is known as a sophisticated neighborhood lined with stylish cafes and boutiques, Jiyugaoka Department Store stands out as a distinctive spot that retains a Showa-era atmosphere while incorporating modern trends.

What is Jiyugaoka Department Store?

Located just a few minutes’ walk from Jiyugaoka Station, Jiyugaoka Department Store is a commercial facility that blends retro ambiance with modern elements. Along its small alleyways, unique shops and restaurants gather, each offering its own distinct charm. From local regulars to tourists, a wide range of visitors can enjoy shopping and dining in its friendly atmosphere. Blending seamlessly into Jiyugaoka’s sophisticated streetscape, this department store offers visitors both new discoveries and nostalgic comfort.

History

The history of Jiyugaoka Department Store dates back to the Showa era. During the post-war recovery period, many shops gathered here, developing into an important commercial facility supporting the lives of local residents. During the Showa 30s and 40s (1955-1974), Jiyugaoka as a whole developed rapidly, establishing its position as a fashionable neighborhood. Within this trend, Jiyugaoka Department Store flourished as a place where shops deeply rooted in the community gathered while incorporating the latest fashion and culinary trends. Even today, the building and decorations retain the atmosphere of that era, evoking memories of the past for visitors.

The Appeal of Jiyugaoka Department Store

The charm of Jiyugaoka Department Store lies in its diversity and individuality. At traditional dining halls, you can enjoy homestyle cooking using local ingredients. For example, homemade Japanese and Western set meals all offer heartwarming flavors.

Recently, modern cafes and sweet shops have also increased, becoming popular among young people and tourists. Particularly recommended are the cafes with retro interiors. With walls covered in Showa-era posters, these spaces evoke a nostalgic atmosphere of the good old days. Here, you can enjoy delicious coffee alongside homemade sweets, making it perfect for taking photos. For instance, their fluffy pancakes and rich cheesecakes are exceptional in both appearance and taste.

Additionally, Jiyugaoka Department Store houses many unique fashion boutiques. Stocked with clothes and accessories featuring distinctive designs, it offers an enjoyable shopping experience. You might even find one-of-a-kind items created by local artists, making for a special shopping experience.

Tourist Attractions

When visiting Jiyugaoka Department Store, you won’t want to miss the surrounding tourist spots. Jiyugaoka is known as a fashionable neighborhood, and one of its pleasures is strolling through streets lined with sophisticated cafes and shops. Kumano Shrine is a place where you can feel the history of Jiyugaoka, with its quiet grounds offering an escape from urban bustle.

The shrine approach is adorned with seasonal flowers throughout the year, making it perfect for photography. Jiyugaoka Garden is a recommended spot for plant enthusiasts. The garden, which features various types of plants, provides beautiful scenery and a relaxing atmosphere. Here, you can gather gardening ideas or spend some leisurely time.

How to get there

Access to Jiyugaoka Department Store is very convenient. The nearest station is Jiyugaoka Station on the Tokyu Toyoko Line and Tokyu Oimachi Line, and it’s about a 3-minute walk from the station. There are also many bus stops in the area, making it easily accessible from various parts of Tokyo.

Experience a Japanese Snack-bar with a fun guide tour

After you enjoy the place, you can go to Snack Bars, beloved by many but you can’t enter without a guide. You can enjoy communication with the owner and other customers, as well as singing karaoke, allowing for a relaxing time.

Most snack bars have a policy of refusing entry to foreigners. However, with a tour, you’ll have a guide, so you can enter with peace of mind.

When visiting Japan, don’t just check off the tourist spots –
dive into local experiences for an unforgettable journey!

Once you experience it, you’ll be captivated too! The charm of snack bars.

New encounters with people! The camaraderie of singing at a snack bar! Conversations with the mama-san!