🏮 A complete guide to Sugamo Jizo-dori Shopping Street

—— The editor takes you to "Grandma's Harajuku" and Changshou Common People Street

📍 Where is Sugamo Jizo-dori Shopping Street?

Sugamo Jizō-dōri Shopping Street (巣驚地蔵通り商店街, Sugamo Jizō-dōri Shopping Street) is located in Toshima Ward, Tokyo. It stretches approximately 800 meters and features over 200 shops. It runs from the North Exit of JR Sugamo Station to Kogan-ji Temple, commonly known as the "Sugamo Jizo-son."

What's most unique about this area is that it's nicknamed "Obachan-no-Harajuku" (Grandma's Harajuku) . Unlike Harajuku's Takeshita-dori, popular with young people, Sugamo Jizo-dori is a strolling paradise for many older people. However, I'd like to point out that this street isn't just for the elderly; in recent years, it's also attracted many foreign tourists and young people. This street is filled with nostalgic atmosphere, affordable food, and a warm and friendly atmosphere. It's a walk that's sure to make you fall in love!

🌟 The unique atmosphere of Sugamo Jizo-dori

👵🏻 Grandma's Harajuku

• There are many products suitable for seniors sold here, such as comfortable shoes, health foods, and gentle herbal teas.
• But at the same time, you will also find a variety of nostalgic snacks, traditional Japanese confectionery, and popular snacks that are also loved by modern young people.
• The atmosphere is relaxed and not as crowded as Shinjuku or Shibuya, making it a great place for a leisurely stroll.

🏮 A shopping street that combines faith

Sugamo Jizo-dori is more than just a shopping street; it's also closely connected to religious culture. At the end of the shopping street, Koganji Temple (Sugamo Jizo-son) enshrines the "Bath Jizo," a statue believed to be associated with good health if one washes the body of Jizo with water. Many elders come here to pray, making it a key feature of the shopping street.

I feel that this place is not just a commercial street, but more like a common people's avenue where "life and faith are integrated."

🍢 Must-try food recommendations

Sugamo Jizo-dori offers a wide variety of delicious food, from traditional dim sum to freshly baked snacks.

🍡 Classic snacks

• Shio Daifuku (顩大福) : A specialty of Sugamo! A sweet yet salty treat, the red bean paste and mochi complement each other beautifully.
• Pancakes : Japanese senbei with various flavors, crispy and delicious.
• Taiyaki and mochi : nostalgic flavors, best enjoyed while walking.
• Grilled dumplings (みたらし団子) : Sweet and salty sauce wrapped around glutinous rice balls, super healing.

🍜 Restaurant selection

• Soba and udon shops : affordable prices and authentic flavors.
• Izakaya : At night, you can experience the daily life of local office workers.
• Traditional Japanese confectionery shops : They sell a variety of traditional sweets, perfect for souvenirs.

My favorite is the "Salt Daifuku". It looks simple but is surprisingly delicious. No wonder it has become the representative dessert of Sugamo.

👗 Shopping and specialty shops

👚 The Legend of Red Underwear

You might see a lot of shops selling red underwear ! It's a specialty of Sugamo.

• The Japanese believe that red symbolizes vitality and brings health and longevity.
• Many elderly people buy red underwear to pray for good health, and even give it to relatives and friends as gifts.
• In recent years, young people have also found it very interesting and bought it as a souvenir.

🛍️ Other specialty shops

• Herbal tea and health food specialty stores : a favorite of the elders.
• Japanese groceries and daily necessities : practical and full of nostalgia.
• Traditional clothing shop : kimono accessories, wooden clogs, etc.

The editor feels that the shopping experience here is very special because what you buy is not just goods, but a kind of "blessing and culture."

🎎 Faith and cultural experience

Sugamo Jizo-dori is closely connected to Koganji Temple , so don't miss this temple when you're shopping.

• Bathing Ksitigarbha : Use a towel dipped in water to wipe the body of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, which is said to cure the corresponding disease.
• On the 4th, 14th, and 24th of each month , temple fairs are held, with vendors lining the streets and creating a lively atmosphere.

The editor recommends choosing a special day to come, because at that time the whole street is like a carnival, and you can experience the most lively atmosphere of the common people.

🚉 Transportation

Sugamo Jizo-dori is very convenient to access:

• JR Yamanote Line/Toei Mita Line : Get off at Sugamo Station and walk about 5 minutes.
• It is easily accessible from major areas such as Ueno, Shinjuku, and Ikebukuro, making it a great option for a half-day trip.

The editor recommends taking a walk along Sugamo Jizo-dori in the morning and enjoying some delicious food, and then moving on to Ikebukuro or Ueno at noon. This is a perfect itinerary.

💡 A friendly reminder from the editor

✨ The atmosphere is relaxed on weekdays, but gets very lively on holidays and festivals.
✨ Don’t miss the “Salt Daifuku” and “Red Underwear”, both of which are representative souvenirs.
✨ Bring some cash with you, as some older shops may not accept electronic payments.
✨ The street is not long, but it takes a lot of time to walk through it carefully. It is recommended to set aside 2 to 3 hours.

🌟 Editor's summary

Sugamo Jizo-dori Shopping Street is a street steeped in the atmosphere of everyday life, religious culture, and nostalgic cuisine . While it may not be as youthful and trendy as Shibuya or Harajuku, it possesses a warm, everyday feel.

To me, this place feels like a "blessings-filled common people's avenue," where every step is a fusion of history, culture, and human touch. Whether you're seeking health, savoring common people's delicacies, or simply want to experience a different side of Tokyo, Sugamo Jizo-dori is well worth a visit! 🎉