Chūō-ku

Chūō is a special ward in central Tokyo that brings together three main districts: Nihonbashi, Kyobashi, and Tsukishima across an area of just over 10 square kilometers (about 4 square miles). The zone stretches from the business quarter of Nihonbashi through the polished shopping streets of Ginza to the modern towers and waterways around Tsukishima.

The ward came into being in 1947 when the Tokyo authorities merged two older districts, Kyobashi and Nihonbashi, into a single administrative unit. This reorganization reflected the postwar reshaping of the capital and set the foundation for the financial and retail hub that exists today.

The name Ginza refers to a silver coin mint that stood here during the Edo period, before the neighborhood became one of the most expensive retail areas in the world. Wide streets lined with international brands and department stores now draw locals and visitors who browse shop windows or dine in the many restaurants.

Six Shinkansen lines and several subway routes intersect at major stations throughout the ward, making it easy to move between neighborhoods. Pavements are wide and most main roads have pedestrian crossings with clear signals, which helps with finding your way around.

The ward population shifts dramatically throughout the day: around 170,000 people live here at night and on weekends, but the number rises to around 650,000 during working hours. This daily influx transforms quiet residential streets into busy office districts and fills restaurants and shops during lunchtime.