Nihonbashi Takashimaya Main Building - People walking up stairs towards a large modern building entrance.
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Nihonbashi Takashimaya Main Building

4.1
·12k reviews·Chuo City, Japan

A historic Tokyo department store blending classic architecture with a vibrant food hall and unique shopping experiences.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, serene shopping

CrowdLow
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Nihonbashi Takashimaya Main Building - People walking up stairs towards a large modern building entrance.

Nihonbashi Takashimaya Main Building

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, serene shopping

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic Tokyo department store blending classic architecture with a vibrant food hall and unique shopping experiences.

4.1
(12k reviews)

"Fantastic mix of old and new, with a superb basement food hall and a luxurious shopping experience."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Explore the Food Hall

Don't miss the basement food hall for an incredible variety of delicious Japanese treats and meals.

🕰️ Appreciate the History

Take time to admire the classic architecture and traditional service, like manned elevators.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Architecture

Historic Architecture

Admire the timeless elegance of this iconic department store, a blend of classic design and enduring style.

Basement Food Hall

Basement Food Hall

A gourmet paradise offering a vast array of Japanese delicacies, perfect for sampling or takeaway.

Manned Elevators

Manned Elevators

Experience a touch of nostalgia with traditional elevator operators, a unique service rarely found today.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Classic Charm

Nihonbashi Takashimaya Main Building is a historical gem. While it offers modern shopping, its classic architecture and traditional service, like manned elevators, are part of its unique appeal. Plan for a leisurely visit to soak in the atmosphere.

Food Hall Delights

The basement food hall is a must-visit for a diverse culinary experience. From sushi to dumplings, it's a great spot for takeaway or a quick bite. Be prepared for potential queues at popular stalls, especially during peak hours.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, serene shopping
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday evenings
Why
Relaxed atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Dieses Restaurant hat einen besonderen Platz in meinem Herzen! Gebt einfach das hier bei Google Maps ein: 📍 Sunada Dondon Hakozaki T-CAT 22-1 Nihonbashihakozakicho, Chuo City, Tokyo 103-0015, Japan #japan #japantrip #japanesefood #udon
@johnbang8
32.7K likes • 404.9K views

🎯 Explore the Food Hall

Don't miss the basement food hall for an incredible variety of delicious Japanese treats and meals. Reddit

🕰️ Appreciate the History

Take time to admire the classic architecture and traditional service, like manned elevators. Instagram

Ôtô BMW bốc cháy trong hầm trung tâm thương mại Takashimaya ở TP HCM #tiktoknews #vnexpress #vne #vnego #tinnong #takashimaya
@vnexpress.official
18.6K likes • 1.1M views
Nihonbashi Takashimaya Department store building is so historical and main building hasn’t changed for decades. 高島屋、中に入ったらいまだに変わらぬシャッター付きのエレベーター。 買い物予定がないけれど、建物を愛でてきました。 素晴らしい古き良き建築は、そのまま残しておいてほしいものです。 #nihonbashi #takashimaya #日本橋 #高島屋 #歴史的建造物が好き
makikonakatanijp
8 likes • 328 views

🛍️ Mofusand Finds

Check out the Household Department for adorable Mofusand merchandise, from bottles to bags. TikTok

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Friendly

This mall is very clean, well-maintained, and stroller-friendly, with courteous staff. Reddit

Tokyo POP UP Nihonbashi Takashimaya Main Building 1st Floor SPACE1-1 Feb 5-18, 2025 #japanesedesign #elemoodbygoodjob #elemood #popupshop #popupstore #tokyo #takashimaya #nihonbashi
elemood.official
15 likes • 415 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Explore the Food Hall

Don't miss the basement food hall for an incredible variety of delicious Japanese treats and meals. Reddit

🕰️ Appreciate the History

Take time to admire the classic architecture and traditional service, like manned elevators. Instagram

🛍️ Mofusand Finds

Check out the Household Department for adorable Mofusand merchandise, from bottles to bags. TikTok

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Friendly

This mall is very clean, well-maintained, and stroller-friendly, with courteous staff. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.1
(12k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Nihonbashi Takashimaya Main Building for its fantastic blend of historical charm and modern retail, highlighting its classic architecture and attentive service. The basement food hall is a major draw, offering an impressive variety of delicious options. While some find restaurant queues long, the overall experience is described as luxurious and pleasant.

"Fantastic mix of old and new. We shopped here for some food in the basement and children's clothing. The sushi shop (can't recall its name but it's right in the corner) was superb for the price"

Clare Milford

"Superb mall in Tokyo! Clean and well maintained. Elevators are manned by very courteous service staff. Very pleasant experience here! Kids and stroller friendly. 👍🏻"

Leville

"We visited this Takashimaya that has a retro vibe. The sakura trees next to the building were in full bloom. The architecture is classic and we were amazed to see the lifts with a lift operator turning the control lever to move the lift. The shopping experience here is one of luxury. The staff were helpful."

S L Chong

What People Like

Historic architecture
Excellent food hall
Traditional service

What People Dislike

Restaurant queues

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Nihonbashi Takashimaya Main Building is easily accessible via public transport. It's a short walk from Nihonbashi Station, served by the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, Tozai Line, and Toei Asakusa Line. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available. However, given Tokyo's efficient public transport, using the subway is often more convenient. Reddit

Taxis are readily available in Tokyo. You can direct your driver to Nihonbashi Takashimaya Main Building. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to the department store itself is free. Tickets are only required for specific exhibitions or events held within the building. Instagram

Opening hours typically vary slightly by department, but generally, the store is open from around 10:30 AM to 7:30 PM. It's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information. Instagram

The main building of Nihonbashi Takashimaya is a department store, so there are no general entrance fees. You only pay for the items you purchase or for specific event tickets. Instagram

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Services

Nihonbashi Takashimaya offers a wide range of products, including fashion for men, women, and children, cosmetics, accessories, home goods, and a renowned basement food hall. TikTokReddit

Absolutely! The basement food hall is excellent for edible souvenirs like high-quality Japanese sweets and snacks. You can also find unique accessories and homeware on other floors. Reddit

Yes, Nihonbashi Takashimaya typically offers tax-free shopping for eligible international visitors. Be sure to bring your passport. Reddit

Yes, they often have multilingual staff and information desks to assist international shoppers. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The basement food hall offers an incredible variety of prepared foods, from sushi and bento boxes to pastries and international cuisine. There are also several restaurants on the upper floors. Reddit+1

Yes, the basement food hall is perfect for a quick and delicious meal. You can grab takeaway items or find small stalls with limited seating for immediate consumption. Reddit

While options can vary, the diverse food hall often has some vegetable-based dishes and salads. It's best to inquire at individual stalls. Reddit

Yes, some levels, like the 8th floor, offer rooftop or al fresco dining options, providing a pleasant atmosphere for a meal. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed for personal use, especially to capture the building's architecture and displays. However, it's always polite to be mindful of other shoppers and avoid photographing specific products or individuals without permission. Instagram

The grand entrance, the classic interior architecture, and the food displays in the basement are great for photos. The exterior, especially with seasonal decorations or nearby sakura trees, is also picturesque. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Nihonbashi Takashimaya Main Building is a surprisingly family-friendly destination. The department store is known for being clean, well-maintained, and accommodating for strollers. Elevators are manned, making navigation easier, and there are often dedicated children's clothing and toy sections. Reddit

The basement food hall is also a hit with families, offering a wide array of appealing options that can satisfy picky eaters. You can grab a variety of snacks and meals to enjoy together, perhaps even on the rooftop dining area for a pleasant break. Reddit

🛍️ Shoppers Seeking Unique Finds

For those who appreciate classic department store experiences and unique finds, Nihonbashi Takashimaya is a must-visit. Beyond the usual fashion and accessories, keep an eye out for special pop-up shops and exhibitions that showcase local designers and artists. Instagram+1

The basement food hall is a treasure trove for gourmet souvenirs, offering beautifully packaged sweets, teas, and savory treats that are perfect for bringing a taste of Japan home. The store's commitment to traditional service, like the manned elevators, adds a layer of luxury to the shopping experience. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History and Architecture

The Nihonbashi Takashimaya Main Building is more than just a department store; it's a landmark steeped in history. Opened in 1933, it was one of Japan's first modern department stores and retains much of its original, elegant architecture. Visitors often marvel at the classic design and the sense of stepping back in time. The building's enduring charm is a significant draw for those interested in historical architecture and the evolution of retail in Tokyo. Instagram

One of the most frequently mentioned features is the manned elevators. Unlike the automated lifts common today, these elevators are operated by staff who manually turn the control levers, offering a unique and nostalgic experience. This attention to traditional service contributes to the store's luxurious and refined atmosphere, making the shopping experience feel particularly special. Reddit

Beyond its historical facade, the building also hosts various exhibitions and pop-up shops, showcasing art, design, and seasonal themes. These events add a dynamic layer to the traditional department store, attracting a diverse range of visitors. Instagram+1

Culinary Adventures in the Basement

The basement food hall, or 'depachika,' at Nihonbashi Takashimaya is a legendary destination for food lovers. It's a vibrant marketplace brimming with an astonishing variety of high-quality prepared foods, from exquisite sushi and sashimi to delicate pastries, savory bento boxes, and international delicacies. This is the perfect place to explore if you're looking for a gourmet picnic, a quick and delicious lunch, or edible souvenirs. Reddit

Travelers often rave about the quality and variety available. You can find everything from traditional Japanese sweets (wagashi) to Western-style baked goods, gourmet cheeses, and ready-to-eat meals. Many stalls offer samples, allowing you to taste before you buy. The atmosphere is bustling yet organized, with vendors presenting their offerings beautifully. Reddit

For those seeking a more casual dining experience, many stalls offer takeaway options, allowing you to enjoy your finds on the rooftop or at a nearby park. Some smaller stalls also provide limited seating for immediate consumption. It's a fantastic way to sample a wide range of Japanese cuisine without committing to a full restaurant meal. Reddit

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