Curious about a place nicknamed Granny’s Harajuku? That’s Sugamo. Today, we’re exploring Sugamo. This neighborhood offers a unique glimpse into Tokyo’s past. Sugamo is located in Toshima. It is known for its Jizo Dori Shopping Street. This street is especially popular with older generations.
Sugamo’s Jizo Dori was established in 1903. The street was the first pit stop on the Nakasendo Road. This road connected Tokyo to Kyoto. Pilgrims used this route. Sugamo has kept its nostalgic feel. It now caters to those over sixty. You’ll find traditional street food, clothing shops, and wagashi sweets. Younger generations are gradually opening stores here too.
Jizo Dori Shopping Street is flat. Textured bricks prevent slipping. This makes it accessible for elderly shoppers. Over 200 shops line the street. Here you can find clothing stores and traditional goods.
The main attraction on Jizo Dori is Koganji Temple. It is home to Togenuki Jizo the splinter-removing Buddha. Many believe a visit here can cure ailments. Small festivals occur on the 4th, 14th, and 24th of each month. Street vendors fill Jizo Dori on these days. People enjoy shopping and street food like takoyaki.
While in Sugamo, consider shopping for lucky red underwear. Red symbolizes luck and longevity in Japan. Maruji sells red underwear. It is a signature Sugamo souvenir.
Koganji Temple is also known for healing. You can apply incense smoke to injured areas. You can also buy an omikage for 100 yen. This paper wrap contains images of Jizo. Attach them to areas you want to heal. Some people even eat them.
Don’t forget to meet Sugamo’s mascot Sugamon. Sugamon is a cute duck character. The entrance to Jizo Dori has a fluffy ball. It represents Sugamon’s bottom. Touching it is said to bring marriage luck. Touching it gently means you won’t need extra help when you get old.
For a peaceful escape, visit Rikugien Gardens. It is located east of Sugamo. Aristocratic garden paths surround a man-made pond.
Several foods are a must-try in Sugamo. Raijindo sells nuresenbei moist rice crackers. These soft crackers are covered in sweet soy sauce. Mizuno sells shio daifuku salted mochi. These mochi have a red bean filling that isn’t too sweet.
Sugi Honey Products offers ice cream with honeycomb. Koshin Sweet Potatoes sells daigakuimo candied sweet potato. These potatoes are fried and covered in sweet sauce. Isoage Maruten sells isoage fish cakes.
Sugamo offers a unique experience. It is different from Tokyo’s tourist areas. You’ll find friendly shopkeepers and a nostalgic atmosphere. Remember the lucky red panties. Keep an eye out for Sugamon the duck. Sugamo is a gem worth exploring.