TOKYO STATION CITY, MUCH MORE THAN A TRAIN STATION

One of my favorite places in Tokyo was Tokyo Station City. Located on Marunouchi district it’s one of Japan’s busiest railway stations with 28 platforms and more than 3,500 trains departing or arriving each day.

The Station building dates from 1914 and its design is based on that of Amsterdam Central Station. Part of it was damaged during World War II and rebuilt in 1947.

Tokyo Station City’s 182,000 square meters include not only the railway platforms and five subway stations, but also two hotels, one art museum and more than 10 shopping malls with hundreds of stores and restaurants, plus coin lockers, baggage store and money exchange facilities.

While we browsed through various stores we learned a curious costume of Japanese people. Every time they travel somewhere, they’re “socially obliged” to bring back presents for all their co-workers, family and friends, traditionally something that is produced in or unique to the place they visited. That’s the reason for the thousands of stores around the country that sell food treats, usually wrapped individually and placed into beautiful big boxes (omiyage- which is the Japanese name for these souvenirs- have to be perfectly presented).

After searching for the perfect omiyage for your own friends, you can visit two famous corridors inside Tokyo Station City, both located on B1.

The first is Tokyo Ramen Street, and as its name indicates it’s a place where you can find eight of the best ramen restaurants in Tokyo. We ate at Soranoiro Nippon which offers Edo-style ramen and includes vegan options in the menu. Don’t forget to place your order in the machine located at the entrance, collect your ticket and place it in your table… the waitress will know what to do next.

The second is Tokyo Character Street, where you’ll find memorabilia of popular cartoons and manga characters, including Hello Kitty, Pokemon, Ghibli Studios (Totoro!), Ultraman, Lego, Tamagochi, among others (we’re really not that otaku, sorry!!).

One of the coolest souvenirs Monica bought were Sailor Moon gadgets 🙂

Finally, your trip will not be complete unless you try the most delicious cheese tarts in all of Japan (according to us), BAKE CHEESE TARTS located on B1 as well. You will not regret buying a few dozen, simple or lemon.

Try not to lose yourself in all the amazing things surrounding you. Remember, the main reason you are here is to take a train! Find which platform you’re departing from and run!

Tell us about your own journey exploring Tokyo Station. Comment below!