Nakano Kitaguchi Ichibangai

Nakano Kitaguchi Ichibangai is a shopping street located at the north exit of Nakano Station in Nakano, Tokyo, known for its retro Showa-era charm. Loved by the locals, this shopping street features warm hospitality and a variety of shops, offering new discoveries with each visit. It is a place where people of all generations come together to spend a heartwarming time.

What is Nakano Kitaguchi Ichibangai?

Nakano Kitaguchi Ichibangai stretches right outside the north exit of Nakano Station. While preserving the nostalgic atmosphere of the Showa era, many shops incorporate modern elements, making the area appealing to visitors. The narrow alleys are lined with numerous eateries, creating a lively atmosphere both day and night. Many of the shops retain their original Showa-era decorations and signs, providing a soothing experience just by strolling around. The shopping street is also home to traditional coffee shops and diners, where the warm hospitality of the local people welcomes visitors.

The History of the Nakano Area

Close to Shinjuku, Nakano has thrived as an entertainment district since before World War II. Although it was destroyed by air raids during the war, it experienced a revival as a black market after the war. The black market along the Chuo Line was said to be the most prosperous, forming the foundation of the current shopping area around Nakano Station’s north exit, such as Sun Mall. A distinctive feature of the area is the many narrow alleys surrounding Nakano Station’s north exit. These alleys remain due to the lack of urban redevelopment after the war, preserving the original block layout. The names Ichibangai through Gobangai and Nakamise have existed since before the war, while Shirosen Street was named after the war.

The Charm of Nakano Kitaguchi Ichibangai

Nakano Kitaguchi Ichibangai boasts a variety of restaurants and snack bars. At the old-fashioned diners, visitors can enjoy home-style meals, especially during lunchtime when the area is bustling with local office workers and students. Retro-style coffee shops provide a cozy atmosphere where patrons can enjoy coffee and cake at a relaxed pace. In the evening, the izakayas (Japanese pubs) and snack bars light up, attracting locals for lively gatherings. Some snack bars offer karaoke, allowing visitors to enjoy singing and a fun time with the local crowd.

Nearby Attractions

Nakano Kitaguchi Ichibangai is also a great base to explore nearby attractions. Nakano Broadway is known as a mecca for anime, manga, and figurines, drawing many fans from Japan and abroad. Located about a five-minute walk from the north exit of Nakano Station, Nakano Central Park offers a green space that provides an escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Surrounded by buildings, this courtyard-like plaza is adorned with seasonal flowers, making it a perfect place for a stroll or picnic. Nearby, you’ll also find several cafes and restaurants where you can relax and enjoy your time. With many cafes and restaurants in the area around Nakano Station, there is plenty to enjoy throughout the day. Nakano offers a blend of culture and nature, ensuring a fulfilling experience.

How to Access

Nakano Kitaguchi Ichibangai is easily accessible, just a few minutes’ walk from the north exit of Nakano Station on the JR Chuo Line or Tokyo Metro Tozai Line. The route from the station to the shopping street is straightforward, so even first-time visitors can reach it without getting lost. Look for the sign that says “Chotto Ii Ichibangai” (“A Nice Little Ichibangai”) as a landmark.

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!