Katsushika, Japan: travel guide
An old-fashioned Tokyo ward of canals, temple streets and Tora-san nostalgia
A working-class Tokyo ward on the Edogawa River, Katsushika is famous as the setting of the beloved manga Kochikame and the birthplace of ukiyo-e master Katsushika Hokusai. Shibamata's Tora-san Shrine and old shitamachi streets draw nostalgic visitors.
About Katsushika
Katsushika is one of the eastern wards of Tokyo, on the Edogawa River, and it offers a slower, older version of the capital. Local life centres on traditional shopping streets rather than skyscrapers, and the pace is relaxed.
The main visitor draw is Shibamata, where the Taishakuten temple and the lane that leads to it, Shibamata Sando, are lined with old-style sweet and snack shops, and the area is tied to the Tora-san film series. Horikiri has an iris garden, Kameari is known for the Kochikame manga statues, and a ferry crosses the river nearby.
It suits travellers who have seen the central sights and want a nostalgic afternoon. Early summer, when the irises bloom, is a particularly good time to go.
- Country
- Japan
- Currency
- JPY
- Time zone
- Asia/Tokyo
- Nearest airport
- TYO
Last updated
Top places to visit in Katsushika
Shibamata Taishakuten
Temple · about 1.3 h · entry ¥400 (≈ ₹240)
Nichiren Buddhist temple (Daikyoji) famed for exquisite carved-wood reliefs and a suikeien garden.
Shibamata Sando
Market · about 0.8 h · check the fee at the gate
Retro Showa-era approach street to Taishakuten, lined with dango shops and the world of "Tora-san".
Tora-san Museum
Museum · about 1 h · entry ¥500 (≈ ₹300)
Museum devoted to the beloved film series "Otoko wa Tsurai yo" and director Yoji Yamada.
Yamamoto-tei
Heritage · about 0.8 h · entry ¥100 (≈ ₹60)
Taisho-era merchant villa blending Japanese and Western design, with a fine garden and a tearoom.
Yagiri no Watashi
Cultural · about 0.5 h · entry ¥200 (≈ ₹120)
Tokyo's last hand-rowed ferry, crossing the Edogawa River as it has since the Edo period.
Horikiri Iris Garden
Nature · about 0.8 h · check the fee at the gate
Historic iris garden depicted in Hiroshige woodblock prints, spectacular in June.
Mizumoto Park
Nature · about 1.5 h · check the fee at the gate
Tokyo's largest waterside park, with poplar avenues, iris beds and birdwatching along old riverbeds.
Kameari (Kochikame Town)
Cultural · about 0.8 h · check the fee at the gate
Neighbourhood dotted with bronze statues of characters from the manga "Kochikame".
Things to do
- Shibamata Retro Town Walk Tour · 2.5 h · from JPY 4,000 per person
- Yagiri no Watashi Ferry & Yamamoto-tei Experience · 1.5 h · from JPY 1,000 per person
Where to stay in Katsushika
- Ward Area about JPY 3,000 per night
Tokyo ward with local accommodation
Where to eat
- Kawachiya Unagi, Japanese · about JPY 3,500 per person
- Toraya Sweets, Teahouse · about JPY 700 per person
- Takagiya Rouho Sweets, Teahouse · about JPY 600 per person
Getting to Katsushika
Airport: Tokyo, Narita Airport (NRT)
Getting around
- Metro
- Transit Pass
- Walking
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Frequently asked questions about Katsushika
- What are the main places to visit in Katsushika?
- Places covered in our Katsushika guide include Shibamata Taishakuten, Shibamata Sando, Tora-san Museum, Yamamoto-tei, Yagiri no Watashi.
- Where should I stay in Katsushika?
- Our guide covers these areas to stay in Katsushika: Ward Area.
- How do I get around Katsushika?
- Ways to get around Katsushika covered in our guide: Metro, Transit pass, Walking.
- Which airport is nearest to Katsushika?
- The nearest airport to Katsushika has the code TYO.