Toyosu Senkyaku Banrai — Attraction in Tokyo

It was clear to me that they spent quite a few yen on this combination shopping mall and food court, which was designed to look like a historic Edo-style village. Across the street from the Toyosu Fish Market and open only since February 2024, the set-up is clean and organized but on first impression, felt devoid of cultural authenticity.

Even though there are likely good food stalls here, overall it felt more like a Disney version of old Tokyo similar in approach to Chicago's Navy Pier and San Francisco's Pier 39. There was even a samurai performance in the plaza complete with selfie opps. Perhaps not as blatantly commercial as other commercial hubs, it was nearly as derivative because you can find the food and retail merchandise elsewhere in Tokyo.

In fact, Kawagoe is a more evocative and historically accurate recreation of Edo than Senkyaku could ever aspire to be. On the upside, there are over seventy businesses in operation here, mostly on the second floor - food stalls, stores, cafes and restaurants. There are also open dining areas and more upscale options on the third floor. We did try one item - the ¥1,000 Yame Matcha Mont Blanc - at Hamakaze Sabou.

It was an ultra-sweet dessert of matcha cream extruded into soba-like green noodles wrapped around a core of mashed candied chestnuts. We weren't fans. Listen, if you have limited time in Tokyo, this market might be a viable option for you to check off boxes quickly with the various specialty foods and souvenirs available. However, if I had my druthers, I much prefer the chaotic earthiness of Tsukiji Outer Market or the more localized appeal of...

PROS ➕ Unique and beautiful

CONS ➖ None

Date visited: 05/02/2024

This place is located along the highway to Odaiba Beach. It stands out significantly compared to other buildings in the area, so naturally, I wander in like any curious tourist would.

It’s quite crowded during Golden Week, with people filling up the alleys within the mall and drifting in and out of stores. The mall mimics the busy streets of feudal Japan—a slice of the past that I genuinely enjoy.

There are multiple floors and indoor areas with a more modern design. Restaurants dominate the space, ranging from small food vendors to high-end bistros. I find the least busy one that sells snacks; even so, there are already a few people ahead of me.

Though crowded, people respect each other, and there’s no chaos or incidents while I’m there. The general area is also kept clean and hygienic. I wish I could visit on a less busy day to fully appreciate the unique atmosphere.

A strange thought crosses my mind on the way out. One day, an apocalypse of sorts might happen, and this place could become the last haven of humanity—or at least for the people in the surrounding areas. Would that not be a sight to behold—an ancient town atop a hill, surrounded by broken glass and concrete skeletons of things that...

Toyosu Senkyaku Banrai is a vibrant destination offering something for everyone, especially foodies. I had a red bean butter taiyaki—crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside—some uni sushi wrapped in a fried tofu pouch (inari sushi) that was a delightful mix of sweet and savory, and grilled buttered abalone that was so delicious it didn’t last long enough for a photo!

Nearby, the Tokyo Toyosu Manyo Club is a wonderful place to relax. You can soak in authentic onsen baths with water sourced daily from Hakone and Yugawara or enjoy the free rooftop foot bath while taking in stunning views of Tokyo Bay and Rainbow Bridge. It’s a serene escape after a busy day.

Toyosu is a must-visit for food, shopping, and relaxation. Arrive early to avoid crowds and fully enjoy everything this lively area has to offer!

Practical Tips for Toyosu Senkyaku Banrai and Tokyo Toyosu Manyo Club:

Arrive Early: Beat the crowds by visiting in the morning, especially on weekends or holidays. Cash on Hand: Some smaller vendors at Toyosu Senkyaku Banrai may only accept cash. Combine Visits: Pair your trip with nearby attractions like teamLab Planets to...