Break the boundaries and discover Tokyo from a different perspective. If you think Tokyo is only about the Shibuya Crossing, Ginza, or Tokyo Tower, think again. There’s a destination in the Japanese capital that blends history with sophistication: Shinagawa.
Wondering what to do in Shinagawa? In this guide, we will highlight the best things to do in Shinagawa City to give you fun and unique travel ideas!
1. Embark on a Tour Back in Time at Shinagawa Historical Museum
Start your Shinagawa adventure with something that will take you back in time. The Shinagawa Historical Museum opens as early as 9 AM. This museum displays exhibits featuring the early prosperous eras of Shinagawa, particularly when it became the first post station along Tokaido Road. Prehistoric archaeological artifacts are also found here.
2. Fill Your Stomach With Delicious Food Before the Rest of Your Trip
The historical museum was a fantastic place to start, but more are coming your way. Before you continue your journey, you can fill your stomach with Shinagawa’s best delights. Try ramen, order at a sushi conveyor belt (a must-try), and try Shingawa’s famous shaved ice or kakigori.
3. Relive the Story of the 47 Ronin at Sengaku-Ji Temple
The true story of the 47 rōnin (wandering samurai with no lords or masters), which happened sometime in the 18th century, tells about how these samurai became rōnin because of the treacherous murder of their lord. The rōnin avenged his death by assassinating Kira, who they said was responsible for their lord’s murder. They took Kira’s head to the Sengaku-ji temple. Your visit here will certainly give you some chills.
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4. Find Cinnamoroll Around Shinagawa
Now, let’s wash away those dark moments in Japanese history and look at the bright side as you go scavenger-hunting for cinnamorolls around the city. Cinnamoroll is Sanrio’s white puppy with chubby and pink ears, as well as blue eyes. This adorable pet got its name from its tail, which looks like a cinnamon roll.
Cinnamoroll is the official tourist ambassador of Shinagawa, which is why you can find it all over the place. Head to landmarks like Shinakan PLAZA and info&cafe SQUARE, among others, to track Cinnamoroll’s whereabouts.
5. Visit the Quirky Museum of Package Culture
In this world that more and more embraces online shopping, there’s a museum that pays tribute to how the products you purchase are packaged. A museum dedicated to product packaging? That’s right.
Create more bright memories at the Museum of Package Culture located in the Higashigotanda district, which showcases what goes into the process of packaging the products you buy.
6. Bring Your Family to Shinagawa Kumin Par
There’s no Disneyland or Harry Potter World nearby, but nothing will perhaps beat the experience of taking your family to a retreat to nature. Here at Kumin Park, you and your kids can relax with cherry trees, flowers, a lake, and recreational areas around.
7. Marvel at Cherry Blossoms Along the Banks of Meguro River
The Meguro River plays a significant role in the lives of the locals. This river meanders nearly eight kilometers through various chic neighborhoods before it empties into Tokyo Bay. When in season, you can find magnificent cherry blossoms lined along the riverbank.
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8. Visit Shinagawa Shrine
Shinagawa Shrine is among the Ten Shrines of Tokyo that is very historic as it was designated as a place for worship for Japan’s prosperity by former Emperor Meiji who reigned from 1867 to 1912. While you’re here, don’t miss viewing the tiny replica of Mount Fuji.
9. Experience Dark Tourism at Suzugamori Execution Grounds
The Suzugamori execution grounds were among the several sites around Edo where the influential Tokugawa shogunate executed criminals, Christians, and those conspiring against the government from the early 17th century to the mid-19th century. If you really want to feel this dark past in such a way, it sends chills down your spine, visit during nighttime.
10. Attend Shinagawa’s Festivals
Or, you might want to schedule your trip based on the events happening in the city. Upcoming festivals include the mackerel pike festival, where you get grilled fish for free, and the vibrant Shinagawa Shukuba Matsuri, where you can see people in costumes. There are also anime and Sakura festivals happening later this year and in 2025, respectively.
These attractions and activities in Shinagawa are set amidst the backdrop of sophisticated business districts, hotels, and more. Shinagawa City is a must-visit destination.
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