In Airbnb’s Summer 2024 Travel Trends, one Tokyo neighborhood stood out from thousands of global destinations: Arakawa Ward. This lesser-known area of Tokyo was named one of the “10 Hidden Gems to Visit This Summer,” alongside towns in Italy, Mexico, and Portugal. It’s a recognition that may surprise even Tokyoites—but for those who know Arakawa, it comes as no shock. This ward, tucked away in the northeast corner of the city, offers a rare blend of tradition, affordability, local charm, and accessibility that makes it a rising favorite among both domestic and international travelers.

Shitamachi Roots & Living Heritage

Arakawa Ward (荒川区), covering just over 10 square kilometers, is a microcosm of Tokyo’s “shitamachi”—an old downtown atmosphere brimming with retro appeal. Its neighborhoods like Nippori, Machiya, and Minami-Senju are dotted with mom-and-pop eateries, narrow alleys, nostalgic tramcars, and public bathhouses. One highlight is the Toden Arakawa Line, one of Tokyo’s last two remaining streetcars, which gives visitors a scenic ride through a part of the city that still feels untouched by time.

Arakawa’s history includes poignant sites such as Kozukappara, one of the Edo period’s major execution grounds, and Jōkan-ji temple, often referred to as the “throw-away temple” for its grim role in caring for the city’s forgotten dead. Yet today, the area is peaceful, walkable, and filled with the hum of everyday life—grandmothers shopping at local produce stalls, children playing in backstreets, and local bars serving loyal regulars.

Nature, Parks & Community Life

Despite its urban setting, Arakawa is impressively green. The flagship Arakawa Nature Park, constructed atop a water treatment facility, is a creative and eco-conscious space offering playgrounds, butterfly gardens, tennis courts, and relaxing walking paths. Families gather here on weekends, and the park has been recognized as one of the “New 100 Views of Tokyo” for its blend of innovation and tranquility.

Smaller community parks are scattered throughout the ward, and the nearby Sumida River offers cycling routes and peaceful riverside strolls. Community events—especially traditional matsuri festivals held at Susanoo and Ishihama shrines—light up the neighborhood during summer, reinforcing Arakawa’s deep community ties and seasonal vibrancy.

Access, Affordability & Local Flavor

One reason Arakawa was chosen by Airbnb is its accessibility. The ward is served by several train and metro lines, including the JR Yamanote Line, Keisei Line (with direct access to Narita Airport), Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line, and the nostalgic tram. From Arakawa, central Tokyo areas like Ueno, Asakusa, and Tokyo Station are all less than 20 minutes away.

Accommodations here are more affordable than in Shibuya or Shinjuku, and daily life remains down-to-earth. Locals dine at age-old soba shops, sip drinks at tiny neighborhood izakayas, and shop at Nippori’s Fabric Town, a must-visit destination for textile lovers. Arakawa is also drawing interest from creatives and young families looking to settle in a part of Tokyo that offers both space and soul.

Why Arakawa Stands Out

• Authentic Tokyo: Unlike the neon-lit, tourist-heavy wards, Arakawa gives a glimpse into Tokyo’s true daily rhythm—unfiltered and deeply rooted.
• Green City Living: Nature is always within reach, making it ideal for families, runners, and picnickers alike.
• Cultural Richness: From century-old temples to lively festivals, Arakawa has a deeply embedded cultural identity.
• Connected Yet Calm: The ward’s stellar transport options make it easy to explore Tokyo—while still offering a break from the city’s hustle.

Conclusion

Arakawa Ward may not have flashy landmarks or luxury shopping malls, but what it offers is far more enduring: quiet charm, community warmth, and a slower, more reflective way to experience Tokyo. Its recognition by Airbnb as a global hidden gem is a reminder that sometimes, the best discoveries are just off the beaten path—and just a tram ride away.