Ikebukuro in Tokyo
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Facts & Figures
The Ikebukuro district is one of the huge commercial and entertainment centers in Tokyo. The districts heart is the busy Ikebukuro Station.
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This station is with 2.71 million passengers/day the second busiest railway station in the world. Shinjuku Station is holding the first place.
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History
Ikebukuro was the location of the Sugamo Prison. The prison was constructed in 1895. After World War 2 it became nationwide known as the prison for war criminals waiting for their trial. In 1971 the building was removed and in 1978 the construction of the Sunshine 60 (for less than 10 years the highest skyscraper in East Asia) building started.
Location
Ikebukuro is located within the Toshima-ku (ward) in Tokyo at the northwestern part of the JR Yamanote Line.
How to get to Ikebukuro?
- Ikebukuro Station is served by JR Saikyo Line, JR Yamanote Line, Tobu Tojo Line
- JR Shonan Shinjuku Line, Seibu Ikebukuro Line and
- Yurakucho, Marunouchi and Fukutoshin Subway Lines
Sightseeing spots
Top:
Sunshine City - huge shopping and entertainment complex (opened in 1978) including skyscraper Sunshine 60 (240m)
Observation deck Sunshine 60 - enjoy this amazing open air view from the top (60th floor) of the building
Sunshine Aquarium - discover this underwater world located in the World Import Mart Building
Toyota showroom Amlux - great place to check out the latest models and technology from Toyota, located near Sunshine City
Paper Museum - opened in 1950, learn as much as you can about the history and making of paper
Otome Road - hot spot for the otaku culture (manga, anime and cosplay shops) but more focused on female shoppers
Tokyo Metropolitan Art Space - Tokyo Metropolitan Art Space is the biggest concert hall in Ikebukuro
Festival & Events (dates can change without notice)
September/October
Fukuro Matsuri (the Owl Festival) (last weekend Sep., first weekend in Oct.)
This Yosakoi competition (unique Japanese style of dance from Kochi) is one of the largest in Tokyo. Enjoy the colorful and energetic performances of this street festival.
October
Oeshiki Matsuri (16th till 18th)
The procession of giant lanterns at night is the highlight during the festival (located near Ikebukuro station).
Where to stay in Tokyo?
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Day trips from Tokyo
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