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Katsushika-ku

Katsushika-ku, Tōkyō, Japan

Step into Old Tokyo in Katsushika Ward Escape the neon lights and modern bustle of central Tokyo with a visit to Katsushika Ward, a charming and authentic slice of old Edo (Tokyo's historical name). Nestled on the easter…

#urban#residential#cultural#historical#traditional

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Katsushika-ku.

Top Hotels in Katsushika-ku

Top Flights to Katsushika-ku

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Katsushika-ku.

Tours

Exploring Shibamata

Wander through the historic streets of Shibamata, a classic Edo period townscape, perfect for an afternoon stroll.

Shopping

Shopping at Ario Kameari

A modern shopping complex offering a wide range of shops, dining options, and entertainment facilities.

Outdoor

Edogawa Green Park

A sprawling park along the Edogawa River, ideal for picnics, jogging, and enjoying nature.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Katsushika-ku.

Currency

¥ | JPY | Japanese Yen

Population

1.5 million

Languages

Japanese, Japanese

Average weather

Katsushika-ku

Jan

10°1°

Feb

10°2°

Mar

13°5°

Apr

18°10°

May

23°15°

Jun

25°19°

Jul

29°23°

Aug

31°24°

Sep

27°21°

Oct

21°15°

Nov

16°9°

Dec

12°4°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Katsushika-ku.

What people love

Katsushika-ku, located in Tokyo, Japan, offers a unique blend of traditional and modern attractions for travelers to enjoy. Here are some pros of traveling to Katsushika-ku:

Shibamata Taishakuten Temple: This historic temple is a popular attraction in Katsushika-ku, known for its stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and cultural significance. Visitors can explore the temple grounds, admire the intricate wood carvings, and experience a sense of tranquility amidst the bustling city.
Shibamata Shopping Street: The quaint streets of Shibamata are lined with traditional shops selling local snacks, souvenirs, and handicrafts. Travelers can immerse themselves in the nostalgic atmosphere of old Tokyo while sampling delicious street food and browsing for unique gifts.
Katsushika Shibamata Tora-san Museum: This museum is dedicated to the popular Japanese film series "Otoko wa Tsurai yo" (It's Tough Being a Man), which was set in Shibamata. Visitors can learn about the history of the films, see props and costumes from the series, and gain insight into Japanese cinema culture.
Edogawa River: Katsushika-ku is bordered by the scenic Edogawa River, offering opportunities for leisurely strolls, boat cruises, and picnics along the waterfront. The river provides a peaceful escape from the urban hustle and bustle, with cherry blossoms in spring and colorful foliage in autumn.
Local Festivals and Events: Katsushika-ku hosts various traditional festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Shibamata Taishakuten Sando Summer Festival and the Katsushika Fireworks Festival. Travelers can witness lively performances, vibrant parades, and fireworks displays that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Overall, traveling to Katsushika-ku in Tokyo, Japan, offers a blend of historical charm, natural beauty, cultural experiences, and local hospitality that can create lasting memories for visitors.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Katsushika-ku in Tokyo, Japan could include:

Distance from popular tourist areas: Katsushika-ku is located in the eastern part of Tokyo, which may be farther from popular tourist attractions in central Tokyo such as Shinjuku, Shibuya, or Ginza. This could result in longer travel times to reach other parts of the city.
Limited nightlife options: Compared to more central areas of Tokyo, Katsushika-ku may have fewer nightlife options such as bars, clubs, and entertainment venues. Travelers looking for a vibrant nightlife scene may need to travel to other parts of Tokyo.
Language barrier: While Tokyo is a global city with many English speakers, travelers to Katsushika-ku may encounter fewer English signs and speakers compared to more touristy areas. This could potentially make communication more challenging.
Limited accommodation options: Katsushika-ku may have fewer hotels and accommodation choices compared to other parts of Tokyo, which could limit travelers' options and potentially result in higher prices or less availability during peak travel seasons.
Limited dining options: While Katsushika-ku likely has local dining options such as traditional Japanese restaurants and street food stalls, it may have fewer international dining options compared to more cosmopolitan areas of Tokyo. Travelers looking for a diverse range of cuisines may need to travel to other neighborhoods.

Overall, while Katsushika-ku offers a more local and authentic Tokyo experience, travelers should consider these potential cons when planning their trip.

Katsushika-ku is one of the 23 special wards of Tokyo, Japan, known for its rich history and cultural significance. Here is a detailed history including significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks in Katsushika-ku:

Historical Background

Ancient to Edo Period: Katsushika has been inhabited since ancient times, with evidence of settlements dating back to the Jōmon period. During the Edo period (1603-1868), the area was a rural part of the outskirts of Edo (now Tokyo). It was primarily agricultural, with rice paddies and small villages.
Meiji Restoration and Modernization: With the Meiji Restoration in 1868, Japan modernized rapidly and Katsushika saw gradual urban development. The area began to transform with the extension of railways and improved infrastructure, connecting it more closely to Tokyo.
Post-War Era: After World War II, Katsushika, like much of Tokyo, underwent significant rebuilding and modernization. The population increased as people moved from rural areas to urban centers.

Significant Events

Formation as a Ward: In 1947, the current system of special wards was established in Tokyo, and Katsushika was officially designated as one of these wards.
Development and Urbanization: The late 20th century saw extensive urban development in Katsushika, with residential neighborhoods, commercial centers, and transportation networks expanding significantly.

Historical Figures

Katsushika Hokusai: Although not directly from Katsushika-ku, Katsushika Hokusai, one of Japan’s most famous ukiyo-e painters, is associated with the area due to his family name. He is known for works like "The Great Wave off Kanagawa".

Important Landmarks

Shibamata Taishakuten: A historic Buddhist temple founded in 1629, known for its beautiful wood carvings and serene garden. It is a significant cultural site and attracts many visitors.
Yamamoto-tei: Located near Shibamata Taishakuten, this traditional Japanese house and garden is a fine example of early 20th-century architecture.
Tora-san Museum: Dedicated to the popular Japanese movie series "Otoko wa Tsurai yo," which features the character Tora-san, who is from Shibamata in Katsushika.
Horikiri Shobuen: A well-known iris garden that dates back to the Edo period, famous for its beautiful irises that bloom in June.
Edogawa River: The scenic river runs along the eastern boundary of Katsushika and is a popular area for leisure activities and seasonal events.

Cultural Significance

Katsushika-ku is known for its traditional atmosphere, with areas like Shibamata maintaining a nostalgic feel reminiscent of the Showa era. It is also recognized for its community festivals and vibrant local culture.

Overall, Katsushika-ku is a unique blend of historical charm and modern urban living, offering a glimpse into both the traditional and contemporary aspects of Tokyo life.