Japan is a fascinating and exotic destination to visit and travelling around the country’s beautiful cities and towns is an unforgettable experience. However, when it comes to navigating around Japan’s vibrant yet often crowded streets, knowing how to orient yourself is key. In Tokyo, a particularly great area to explore is Dawson Street. Located in the bustling commercial heart of the city, Dawson Street offers a plethora of exciting attractions, affordable hotels, tantalizing cuisine and is one of the city’s most charming neighbourhoods.
Situated next to the luxury shopping meccas Ginza and Nihonbashi, this 400-meter-long avenue links two of the city’s most iconic districts. Dawson Street is a hill-like shopping district full of little boutiques, clothing shops, restaurants, cafes and second-hand shops. Owing to its proximity to all the main attractions, lounges and dining in the street make for a pleasant short break from the busy city life. Additionally, you’ll find many helpful local bike shops where you can rent a bike for a leisurely ride along the Tanuki Bridge.
If you’re looking for a bite to eat, there are various reasonably priced Japanese restaurants, bars and izakayas. You could sample real ramen noodles or explore the selection of tantalizing sushi. Or, try a café for breakfast or afternoon tea and pick up some snacks from the bakery. There’s plenty of choice and an abundance of fresh ingredients.
For tourists who want to stay close to Dawson Street, there are plenty of affordable and quality hotels to choose from. Many of these accommodations provide views of the Imperial Palace, river and other attractions, while offering all the necessary conveniences for a pleasant stay. Daiwa Hotel, for example, offers guests an unbeatable selection of amenities, such as a fitness centre and an outdoor swimming pool. Another cozy hotel is Hotel Grand Green, conveniently located just 2 minutes’ walk from the Ueno station and 20 minutes from the Shohei-cho station.
Whether you’re looking for a bite to eat or a place to stay, Dawson Street is a great neighbourhood to explore in Tokyo. Besides the obvious choice of sampling Japanese cuisine and culture, this weathered yet still youthful street, serves as an exciting destination for the traveler who loves shopping, sightseeing and adventure. Although you won’t be able to fully experience all of what Dawson Street has to offer from the comfort of your home, it’s certainly worth a visit in your life time.
Exploring the Street Landmarks
As you roam around the area the streets will come alive, from the bustling restaurants and shops to the interesting historical landmarks that line the streets. Many of these dignified buildings date as far back as the Edo period and each street corner provides surprising glimpses of Japan’s past. One of the street’s main attractions is the Daiwa department store. Built in 1932, it is the oldest department store in Japan and a great starting point for shopping fans with the world-famous brand-name boutiques and luxury items.
Nearby is the Okamoto Clock, founded in 1924, which is now a symbol of limited edition watches and accessories. It offers users the chance to buy handmade luxury timepieces and designer jewellery at competitive prices. Another great spot to visit is the Nakamura-za, a restored traditional theatre that was originally built in 1802 and converted into a museum in 620. Here you’ll find advice on the traditional performing arts, as well as fascinating displays of life-size puppets, costumes and props.
There is also the Tsukiji bicycle path, a charming alley of galleries, shops and restaurants that is popular with locals and tourists alike. As you stroll through the path you’ll pass local artists’ galleries and popular hipster cafes. The alley boasts some of the best street food around including takoyakis, scotch eggs, waffles and ice cream, making it a great place to enjoy Tokyo’s nightlife.
Local Attractions
The area surrounding Dawson Street offers numerous opportunities to enjoy attractions geared towards travellers and locals alike. The Ishinomizu Shrine is an imposing temple and an ideal destination for tourists looking to learn about Japan’s history and culture. It is still in use today with traditional rituals and festivals held regularly and it’s a popular place for locals too.
Tanuki Bridge is an impressive engineering work that crosses the Sumida River, connecting the districts of Odaiba and Chiba Prefecture. Completed in 2015, it offers spectacular views of the Tokyo skyline and is perfect for a romantic stroll. Odaiba Marine Park, nearby, is another great destination. During the summer months there is an amusement park, water slides and a giant Ferris wheel. But most of all, the park is perfect for simply taking a leisurely stroll along the beach, or admiring the stunning Tokyo skyline.
Local Events
There are also lots of events held in and around Dawson Street each year. The most significant is the Rikishi Sumo tournament, held every year at the sumo arena on the 11th of October. It is a great opportunity for foreigners to explore the traditional sumo wrestling style in its fullest glory. If you visit in the fall, you’ll be able to witness the annual Aki Matsuri festival that celebrates its 200-year history with special events hosted throughout the city. Music fans will enjoy the SummerPop concert, featuring numerous stars on two different stages outdoors.
Although Dawson Street is best known for its shopping and restaurants, it’s also home to many exciting cultural experiences. Visiting the Rakugo Theatre to see an ancient form of comedic storytelling; or the world-class Ueno Park, featuring a museum; and a zoo these are all great options for a memorable family outing.
Nightlife
Nightlife in the area is particularly bustling with many places that cater to all tastes. From traditional pubs selling sake and beer, to bars and nightclubs, there is something for everyone. If you’re looking for a fun yet affordable way to socialize with locals and tourists alike, you should visit the famous Seven Club and enjoy themed parties, live music and DJ sets. The club is often crowded, but no one complains as it offers great discounts on drinks during the weekends.
If you’re looking for a slightly quieter experience, spend time at a jazz bar and listen to some incredible live music. Tokyo Jazz Bar and Mono Bar are great choices, with live entertainment in a relaxing environment. The Ginza district is also popular with the city’s elite and those looking to experience the nightlife on a higher level. Here, the abundance of trendy upscale restaurants, clubs and bars guarantee a comfortable and inviting atmosphere.
General Tips
Whether you’re looking to shop till you drop, take in the culture or simply go for a stroll, Dawson Street offers a great variety of experiences. To make the most of your time here, be sure to dress lightly because the weather can be quite hot in summer. Additionally, it is important to remember to carry both cash and a credit card as some shops may prefer cash payments while others are card-friendly.
When travelling on public transport, it is worth familiarising yourself with the intricate Tokyo Metro system to make sure you’re able to get around quickly and efficiently. English information is available on signs and station maps to help make your journey hassle-free. Lastly, keep in mind that while shopping, prices may differ between stores so it is always best to shop around to find the best deals.
