Local Tokyo Secrets: Exploring the Nostalgic Heart of Shibamata
- Peter
- May 7
- 4 min read
Updated: May 7
Before coming to Japan, I remember watching anime like Your Name or 5 Centimeters per Second and thinking: “Where are these dreamy streets in real life? I want to see what Makoto Shinkai saw that inspired such beautiful art.” Shibamata will leave you in awe of its magical streets that whisk you away into an anime-like setting reminiscent of countryside Japan, all while remaining on the outskirts of Tokyo.
From Showa-era stores and nostalgia to the magical Taishakuten Sandō pointing towards Taishakuten Roho, there’s a beautiful scenic day out waiting for you here, with no crowds to ruin your perfect pictures.
Let me take you through some of the must-visit spots my Tour Leader showed me during our walk through Shibamata!
Our Favorite Store: Local Charm at Tamaya
This store feels like it’s straight out of a bustling market, offering an eclectic mix of goods. But the real highlight is the owner, Ayako-san, a bright, cheerful soul who genuinely loves meeting travelers. She even appears in several of our Instagram reels, where her warm personality is always a hit with viewers.
Meeting friendly locals in lesser-traveled areas like this is one of the best parts of exploring local Tokyo secret spots. It adds something special to the experience and will certainly cheer up your mood!
Step Back in Time: Haikara-Yokocho Candy Shop
At the start of the town’s main street, Taishakuten Sandō, you’ll find a small, unassuming store that feels like a time capsule. Selling mostly candy and snacks, it still stocks Showa-era sweets and even has vintage pinball machines tucked away in the back. With their all-metal build and retro charm, it’s easy to lose yourself here for 40 minutes or more.
Inside Haikara-yokocho shop | Photos by Peter Mazur
Nostalgic Treats: Showa Retro Cafe Sepia
Just around the corner is this charming retro café serving delicious desserts, drinks, and meals like omurice. But the real magic lies in its atmosphere. While you wait for your order, you can browse vintage vinyls, magazines, dolls, cameras, and even preserved Showa-era soaps. There’s also an upstairs room (entry: 500 yen), though the main seating area and adjoining rooms are just as special.
Food, drink and desserts at Café Sepia | Photos by Peter Mazur
Classic Flavors: Takagiya Roho Dango and Tea
Along the main street, you’ll find plenty of spots selling dango, senbei, and even unagi (which I highly recommend trying!). At Takagiya Roho, order the dango set, it comes with both popular and traditional flavors alongside a small serving of rice. It’s a delicious way to take in the local flavors of Shibamata.
Dango set at Takagiya Roho | Photos by Peter Mazur
Peace and Matcha: Yamamoto-Tei Teahouse
Just behind Taishakuten Temple is Yamamoto-Tei, a peaceful Japanese teahouse (also known as kissaten). For just 100 yen, you can enter, enjoy authentic matcha and snacks, and take in the stunning garden views through large wooden-framed windows. You can also book a traditional tea ceremony, but even just relaxing here is well worth it.
Tea and snacks in Tamamoto-Tei | Photos by Peter Mazur
Sacred Woodwork: Shibamata Taishakuten Temple
This temple is never overcrowded, and its structure is both unique and breathtaking. At the entrance, a massive “dragon tree” hovers above the temple grounds. Inside, for a small fee, you can view an incredible collection of hand-carved wooden panels depicting Buddhist and Shinto mythology.
Bonus: There are English explanations so you can follow the stories and appreciate the craftsmanship without needing prior knowledge.
Garden Escape: Suikeien Garden
With your Taishakuten Temple ticket, you also gain access to the serene Suikeien Garden behind it. Expect carefully manicured landscapes, koi ponds, Zen views—and maybe even a few turtles sunbathing on rocks. It’s the perfect place to breathe, sit, and reflect.
Who Is Tora-san? The Face of Shibamata
During my time teaching English to elderly Japanese people online, I often asked for movie recommendations. Nearly everyone mentioned Otoko wa Tsurai yo (“It’s Tough Being a Man”), a beloved film series with 49 installments, mostly featuring the same cast.
Tora-san, the lead character, is deeply tied to Shibamata, his hometown in the films. Today, you’ll see his face everywhere: from restaurant walls to the bronze statue outside the station. You don’t need to know the movies to feel something here, Tora-san represents postwar Japan’s humor, resilience, and heart.
Ride into the Past: Crossing the Edo-Gawa River
One of Tora-san’s iconic travel scenes shows him boarding a yagiri no watashi, or “bridge-boat.” Amazingly, you can still ride this historic boat across the Edo-Gawa River today. Once a staple of local travel, the fare has gone from just a few cents to around 200 yen. It’s a living piece of Japan’s history, and a peaceful ride through time.
Why Shibamata is a Must-Visit for Local Tokyo Secrets Seekers
Shibamata isn’t just a quiet corner of Tokyo, it’s a living postcard of Japan’s past, filled with charm, character, and history. From Showa-era shops and warm-hearted locals to the stunning Taishakuten Temple and peaceful gardens, every part of this town invites you to slow down and take it all in.
Whether you're a fan of anime, classic films, or just seeking a more authentic, less touristy side of Tokyo, Shibamata delivers in every way.
Want to discover it with someone who knows all the hidden spots? Book a friendly local guide through the TOMOGO! app and experience the magic first-hand.
Comments