S h i b a m a t a

After visited Kawagoe and loving it so much, I want to search for a similar place where we could go. That is where Shibamata popped out after a google search. It is a small scale version of Kawagoe, but exudes the same old town charm. Shibamata is located at the eastern part of Tokyo City, and getting there requires several changes of transport. 

I took it one step further, by adding a ride on the Toden Arakawa Tram enroute to Shibamata.

If Shinkasen is the fastest train in Japan, the Toden has to be the slowest train, and I simply love travelling on it! This streetcar is possibly the oldest train system in Japan, serving on the Arakawa line that passes from Minowabashi to Waseda. You can purchase a day-pass (500 yen) with unlimited stops to visit Tokyo's less popular but picturesque residential neighbourhood.

Being based in Ikebukuro, we boarded from the nearest train station at Higashi-Ikebukuro. As we only wanted to visit Shibamata, we did not make stops along the Arakawa line. If given time, I would ride the Toden again and make stops at the residential estates. I am sure there are plenty of interesting sights along the line. 

After changing 3 trains, we arrived at Shibamata Station. The statue outside the station is of Tora-san, a famous actor from the drama series Otoko wa tsurai yo.

The uniqueness of Shibamata is there are several pedestrain crossings on the train track, and you can freely take photos before the train comes.

This is the entrance to the traditional Edo buildings that are now housing food and souvenir shops.

It is not crowded, today being a Monday.

Many would turn up on weekends to visit the famous Shibamata Taishakuten Shrine.

Distractions along the way to the Shrine.

Tasty Senbei. Yummy!

You can never leave this place empty handed.

Photo taking in front of Shibamata Taishakuten Shrine.

Regardless of your religion, the way to eternity is your faith.

Peek-a-boo.

The family's portrait taken and members blessed at the Shrine.

Ok, not exactly a Samurai yet.

Now, where did I put my thesis on longevity?

Inner court of the Shrine.

As always, I am intrigued by the architecture details and constructions of traditional buildings.

Impressive details. It is hard to find artisans to craft such artwork now.

  Wood crafted lintel above the doorway.

Of course, I am also attracted to the street food.

Interesting art pieces on the facade of this shop that sells sweets and toys from yesteryears.

You can find games & toys from the 60s to 80s here. Definitely brought back many memories for me.

Sweets galore!

Another shop that sells Daruma.

This is another place where you would not leave the shop empty handed, guaranteed.

Domo arigato, Mr Roboto.

Pinball machines are definitely a rarity in today's gaming context.

Coloured pinwheels.

Rolls of gumball machines. Not exactly gumballs, but toys kept in small & round plastic containers.

Here are the modern ones vs the older generations above.

Although it is relatively short, we had a lot of fun venturing the streets of Taishakuten Sando in Shibamata. Just like in Kawagoe and Yanaka Ginza, you can find many traditional buildings, food and things here. It is a recommended & wonderful place to spend a quiet morning and to enjoy all things in traditional Japanese. If you run out of places to visit in Tokyo, do keep this place in your thoughts.

And another travel trip awaiting....