Sugamo

Sugamo, located in Tokyo’s Toshima Ward, is a charming neighborhood often called the “Harajuku for the elderly” due to its popularity with older generations. The heart of the area is Jizo Dori Shopping Street, an 800-meter stretch filled with shops selling traditional goods, snacks like shio daifuku (salted rice cakes), and health-related products. Sugamo is also home to Koganji Temple, where the Togenuki Jizo statue is believed to have healing powers, attracting worshippers who wash the statue with water in hopes of curing ailments. The neighborhood’s nostalgic atmosphere, slower pace, and sense of community make it a unique destination where visitors can experience a more traditional and down-to-earth side of Tokyo.

Here are some of the photos I captured during my visits. Enjoy your virtual tour!