Nakano Sun Mall Shopping Street is a vibrant spot beloved by locals and tourists alike, located in Nakano Ward, Tokyo. Just a short walk from Nakano Station’s north exit, it features a 220-meter-long covered arcade. Visitors can enjoy shopping and dining regardless of weather conditions, making it an ideal destination even on rainy days. The street’s charm lies in its ability to meet diverse needs, from daily shopping to finding unique items.

Nakano Sun Mall Shopping Street

This commercial area features stores across various genres. Fashion boutiques, general stores, food shops, and bookstores line the street, with many establishments specializing in anime and manga-related merchandise popular among young people. This makes it a great place to experience otaku culture. The area also features retro-style cafes and traditional restaurants scattered throughout, offering new discoveries with each visit. It’s widely supported both as a daily shopping destination for locals and as a place for tourists to experience new culture.

History

The history of Nakano Sun Mall Shopping Street begins in the post-war reconstruction period. The arcade was developed in the 1950s, establishing its identity as a shopping district. Since then, stores have changed with the times, constantly incorporating new trends. During the bubble economy, local shops flourished as they ventured into new business models. Recent redevelopment projects and events have brought renewed vitality to the area. While maintaining its long history, the shopping street continues to change and evolve without losing its charm.

The Appeal of Nakano Sun Mall Shopping Street

The street is known for its numerous restaurants offering local flavors. From traditional Japanese cuisine to modern casual cafes, it provides a wide range of culinary experiences. Traditional Japanese restaurants serve seasonal dishes, including sushi, sashimi, and tempura crafted by skilled chefs. The area is particularly busy during lunch hours when authentic Japanese food is available at reasonable prices. Popular ramen shops with their signature broths and homemade noodles often have long queues. The street also features trendy cafes popular among young people and women, and numerous izakayas and bars that come alive in the evening.

Tourist Attractions Around Nakano Sun Mall

When visiting the shopping street, nearby attractions are worth exploring. Nakano Broadway is famous as a mecca for anime, manga, and figurine enthusiasts. Nakano Central Park offers green spaces perfect for walks and picnics. Nakano Sun Plaza regularly hosts concerts and events, making it a must-visit spot for music lovers.

Access

The shopping street is easily accessible, located just 3 minutes on foot from Nakano Station’s north exit (served by JR Chuo Line and Tokyo Metro Tozai Line). It’s conveniently located just 5 minutes by train from Shinjuku Station. Multiple bus routes serve the area, and there are several parking facilities nearby for those coming by car.