Ichigaya Fish Center
Catch your own dinner in Tokyo! This urban fishing center offers a unique, fun, and affordable experience for all ages.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better catch
Ichigaya Fish Center
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better catch
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Catch your own dinner in Tokyo! This urban fishing center offers a unique, fun, and affordable experience for all ages.
"It was a fun and very different Tokyo experience!"
🎯 Book Your Session Online
Scan the QR code for English ordering and payment. Easy for foreigners!
🎣 Rod Rental & Bait
Rentals are affordable. Bait can be tricky to apply but fish bite quickly!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Carp Fishing Frenzy
Main Angling Pools
Try your luck catching impressive carp! Many visitors report catching multiple fish within an hour.
Goldfish Feeding Fun
Dedicated Feeding Area
A delightful activity for all ages, especially kids, to feed the smaller goldfish.
Springtime Blossom Views
Pondside
During cherry blossom season, enjoy picturesque views while you fish.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Catch Your Own Dinner Adventure
Timing is Key for a Good Catch
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Your Session Online
Scan the QR code for English ordering and payment. Easy for foreigners!
🎣 Rod Rental & Bait
Rentals are affordable. Bait can be tricky to apply but fish bite quickly!
⏱️ 2 Hours is Plenty
Most visitors find 2 hours is enough for a fun and successful fishing experience.
🤝 Friendly but Limited English
Staff are friendly, but communication might be challenging. Be patient!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Your Session Online
Scan the QR code for English ordering and payment. Easy for foreigners!
🎣 Rod Rental & Bait
Rentals are affordable. Bait can be tricky to apply but fish bite quickly!
⏱️ 2 Hours is Plenty
Most visitors find 2 hours is enough for a fun and successful fishing experience.
🤝 Friendly but Limited English
Staff are friendly, but communication might be challenging. Be patient!
🌸 Springtime Beauty
Visit during cherry blossom season for a truly scenic and relaxing fishing spot.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Ichigaya Fish Center for its unique urban fishing adventure and the thrill of catching their own fish. It's praised as a fun, affordable, and memorable experience, especially for families. Some note that catching fish can be challenging at times, and communication with staff might require patience.
"This was a cool inner city fishing adventure in Shinjuku! I did the 1 hour set which included the pole and bait for ¥1200. After learning how to attract the fish by throwing a few pellets on the water I ended up catching 7 fish. It was a fun and very different Tokyo experience!"
gsuskid72
"Awesome experience! Very easy to catch fish. The people there were nice and we rented fishing poles. They gave us bait to catch the carp with. There were nets and fish unhookers to use. My family of four caught over 20 fish in the hour we bought. There are also baby carp that can be fed for 100 yen. Would definitely recommend Ichigaya fish center!"
Tessa Lew
"nice place and easy to figure out as a foreigner, there are english signs. you have to “order” by scanning a barcode ( they have in english as well).
staff doesnt understand English but is friendly, i did the rainbow trout fishing, area was a bit small and hard to catch as fish were unresponsive to the bait. some might bait you and try to eat a small nibble before swimming away again. i think i got lucky with a dumb fish.
was there for two hours and caught one fish. at the end my fish flipped upside down, maybe it died from trauma. maybe of them were like that from what i saw"
claribel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ichigaya Fish Center is conveniently located in central Tokyo. You can reach it via the JR Chuo Line to Ichigaya Station or the Tokyo Metro Yurakucho, Namboku, or Shinjuku lines to Ichigaya Station. It's a short walk from the station.
Yes, it's quite accessible. Look for signs directing you to the fishing pond. Some visitors mention English signs are available, making it easier for international travelers.
While there isn't specific parking mentioned, it's best to rely on Tokyo's excellent public transportation system. Parking in central Tokyo can be expensive and difficult to find.
The closest station is Ichigaya Station, served by multiple JR and Tokyo Metro lines, making it very accessible from various parts of the city.
The area around the ponds might be a bit uneven, so navigating with a stroller could be challenging. It's more suited for walking.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Pricing varies by session length. A 1-hour session typically costs around ¥1200-¥1500, which includes the pole and bait. Full-day options are also available. +1
Advance booking isn't usually necessary, especially on weekdays. You can typically pay upon arrival or by scanning a QR code for ordering.
The standard fee usually includes the fishing rod and bait. Nets and fish unhookers are also provided for use.
Yes, you can choose different types of fishing, such as for carp or rainbow trout. The experience and difficulty might vary. +1
Yes, it is a catch and release facility. Visitors are encouraged to treat the fish kindly.
🎫 🎣 Onsite Experience
Many visitors find it quite easy to catch fish, with some catching over 20 fish in an hour! The key is learning how to attract them with bait. +2
You can catch various types of fish, including carp and goldfish. Rainbow trout fishing is also an option. +1
Wear comfortable, casual clothing. Consider shoes that can get a little wet or are easy to clean, as you'll be near the water.
Absolutely! It's a great activity for families. The goldfish feeding is particularly popular with younger visitors.
Hours can vary, but it's generally open during daylight hours. Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, Ichigaya Fish Center is a catch-and-release facility. You cannot take the fish you catch home to eat.
The center itself is focused on fishing. There are no restaurants on-site, but you can find many dining options in the surrounding Ichigaya area.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally acceptable to bring snacks and non-alcoholic beverages to enjoy during your fishing session. Check with staff if unsure.
After a fun fishing session, explore the Ichigaya neighborhood for diverse dining options, from casual izakayas to more formal restaurants.
Vending machines for drinks are often available at such recreational spots in Japan, but it's wise to bring your own water.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, it offers unique photo opportunities, especially during cherry blossom season when the ponds are framed by beautiful blooms.
Capture the action of casting lines, the serene pond reflections, and the contrast of nature within the urban landscape. The cherry blossoms add a special touch.
Certainly! Many visitors enjoy photographing their catches before releasing them back into the pond. +1
Drone usage is generally restricted in urban areas and public parks in Tokyo. It's best to assume they are not permitted to avoid issues.
Morning light can be soft and beautiful, while late afternoon offers a warm glow. Golden hour can provide stunning shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a great opportunity for kids to learn about patience and the basics of fishing in a safe, controlled environment. The catch-and-release aspect teaches them about respecting aquatic life.
💰 Budget Travelers
Instead of spending money on a meal, you can enjoy the thrill of catching your own (catch-and-release) fish. This activity provides entertainment and a memorable story without breaking the bank. It's a great way to experience a local pastime and get a break from the usual sightseeing.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 During cherry blossom season, the scene transforms into a picturesque setting, ideal for capturing delicate blooms alongside the angling activity. Focus on capturing the action of casting lines, the serene reflections on the water, and the expressions of people enjoying their catch. The golden hour light can add a magical quality to your shots.
It's a chance to document a quirky and charming aspect of Tokyo life that many tourists miss. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ichigaya Fish Center Experience
Beyond the thrill of the catch, the center provides a glimpse into a different pace of life. It's a spot that embodies a certain 'vibe,' as described by some visitors, offering a scenic and slow-life oriented corner of the city. During spring, the ponds are surrounded by beautiful cherry blossoms, adding a picturesque backdrop to your angling adventure.
+1 This makes it not just a fishing spot, but a visually appealing destination. The staff are friendly, though English communication can be limited, so a bit of patience and a translation app can be helpful. While it's a catch-and-release facility, the satisfaction comes from the act of fishing itself and the unique experience it offers. It’s a great way to spend a few hours, especially for those looking for something out of the ordinary in Tokyo. The affordability of the sessions also makes it an attractive option for travelers.
Tips for a Successful Catch
When a fish bites, it's important to pull with a steady hand to avoid the hook coming off. If the hook detaches, there's a small fee to get it fixed.
Consider the time of day and day of the week. Weekdays are generally less crowded, offering more space and potentially more active fish.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit