Discover Japan's Nightlife: Welcome to Snack Bars!

Yokocho

Tsukishima Monja Street: Beyond Monja — Food & Drink Delights

Just a few minutes’ walk from Tsukishima Station on the Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line, Monja Street is truly the sacred ground of monjayaki, boasting over 70 monja restaurants side by side. It bustles with both locals and tourists day and night. Monjayaki is made by mixing cabbage and other ingredients into a batter of flour dissolved in water, then grilled on a hotplate. Its creamy texture and savory aroma are irresistible, leaving a memorable taste after just one try. The street is filled with unique signboards and tempting aromas, making choosing a restaurant part of the fun. Besides monja, many shops offer okonomiyaki and other teppanyaki dishes, perfect for lively gatherings with family and friends. Enjoy a delicious time filled with traditional downtown charm in Tsukishima!

History of Tsukishima Monja Street

The history of Monja Street dates back to the Edo period. Its roots lie in “moji-yaki,” a playful snack loved by children at traditional candy stores, where letters or pictures were drawn on a hotplate while cooking. After World War II, during the reconstruction period, monjayaki gained popularity as an inexpensive and easy meal, leading to the opening of many monja restaurants throughout Tsukishima. Over the Showa era, the area developed into the well-organized “Monja Street” known today. The street still retains shops with old-fashioned charm, allowing visitors to feel the history and nostalgic atmosphere of downtown Tokyo simply by walking along it. It is a famous spot representing Tokyo’s flavor and culture.

Attractions of Tsukishima Monja Street

At night, Tsukishima Monja Street transforms into a hotspot irresistible to food lovers. Standing bars offer fresh seafood, fragrant yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), sashimi, tempura, and other classic Japanese dishes, where you can enjoy conversations with the staff over the counter. Hidden bars provide a cozy wooden interior where you can savor carefully selected sake, shochu, rare vintage whiskies, and specialty cocktails. Recently popular craft beer bars and natural wine shops have also flourished. You can casually enjoy unique local brews and organic wines by the glass. The street becomes livelier at night, filled with a mix of local regulars and tourists. Additionally, famous patisseries featured in magazines and popular dessert shops line the street, with seasonal tarts and stunning cakes perfect for sharing on social media.

Tourist Attractions near Tsukishima Monja Street

  • Kachidoki Bridge
    For a scenic stroll with a breeze from Tokyo Bay, start at the Kachidoki Bridge, completed in 1933. Known as a bascule bridge, it offers open views during the day and a magical illuminated sight at night that captivates visitors.

  • Harumi Pier & Harumi Pier Park
    A short walk further leads to Harumi Pier, where you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Tokyo Bay. Especially at sunset, the contrast of the orange sky and sea is spectacular. The park is perfect for a relaxing walk away from the city’s hustle and bustle.

  • Tsukishima Nishinaka Street Shopping District
    This shopping street carries a Showa-era atmosphere, lined with nostalgic shops selling sundries and artisan crafts. Just walking here feels like time slows down, offering a comforting experience.

Top 3 Snacks Bars Near Tsukishima Monja Street

  1. “Public Garden” — A Cozy Adult Hideaway Snack Bar You’ll Want to Return to in Tsukishima’s Nightscape

2.A veteran mama welcomes you! “Snack Waiwai” — a soothing snack bar full of traditional downtown charm

3.“Mikazuki” — A lively space to sing and laugh until morning, recharging your spirits

 

Access to Tsukishima Monja Street

  • Train: 3-minute walk from Exit 7 at Tsukishima Station (Tokyo Metro Yurakucho or Toei Oedo Line). The street entrance is right outside the station.
  • Bus:
    Toei Bus Route 05 (Tokyo Station to Harumi Pier), get off at “Tsukishima 3-chome” — 2-minute walk.
  • Toei Bus Route Mon 33 (Toyosu to Kameido), get off at “Tsukishima Ekimae” — 3-minute walk.
  • Car: 5–10 minutes from Ginza or Shintomicho exits on the Metropolitan Expressway. Plenty of coin parking nearby.

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!