A Detailed Guide to the History and Overview of Sugamo Jizo-dori Shopping Street

 

　Table of Contents

1. Overview of Sugamo Jizo-dori Shopping Street
2. History of Sugamo Jizo-dori Shopping Street
3. Recommended Gourmet Spots at Sugamo Jizo-dori Shopping Street

 Introduction 

In this article, we provide a detailed introduction to “Sugamo Jizo-dori Shopping Street,” located in Toshima Ward, Tokyo. Known as “Harajuku for Grandmas,” this shopping street is a historic place beloved by locals and tourists alike.

Through the shopping street’s origins, history, and recommended spots and gourmet options, we will fully convey the charm of Sugamo Jizo-dori Shopping Street. Enjoy strolling through Sugamo while soaking in the local atmosphere and traditional culture.

Overview of Sugamo Jizo-dori Shopping Street

Sugamo Jizo-dori Shopping Street is a popular shopping street located in Sugamo, Toshima Ward, Tokyo, widely known as “Harajuku for Grandmas.” This shopping street is a place visited by many people, particularly the elderly, where you can not only enjoy the local atmosphere but also experience the special charm of traditional Japanese culture and daily life.

At the heart of the shopping street stands Koganji Temple, famous for its “Togenuki Jizo” (Thorn-Removing Jizo). Many worshippers visit specifically for this temple. The Togenuki Jizo is believed to bring blessings for health and recovery from illness, and is especially popular among those with physical ailments. Koganji Temple was founded in the early Edo period in 1661. It became known as “Togenuki Jizo” from the Meiji era onwards. The name originates from an anecdote about a devout woman who swallowed a paper charm bearing the image of Jizo Bodhisattva, which reportedly removed a thorn from inside her body.

Sugamo Jizo-dori Shopping Street has approximately 200 shops lining the street, ranging from stores selling daily necessities such as clothing, food, sundries, and pharmacies, to traditional restaurants. Numerous traditional shops and eateries line the street, and visitors can enjoy specialties such as “shio daifuku” (salt-flavored rice cakes) and “osekihan” (red bean rice). Additionally, various events are regularly held in the shopping street where locals and tourists interact, creating a lively atmosphere.

Access to this shopping street is very convenient, located just a short walk from Sugamo Station on the JR Yamanote Line.

History of Sugamo Jizo-dori Shopping Street

Here, we explain the major events in the history of Sugamo Jizo-dori Shopping Street based on accurate and detailed information, organized by topic.

　1. Founding and Early History (Early Edo Period: 1661~)

The history of Sugamo Jizo-dori Shopping Street is deeply tied to Koganji Temple (Togenuki Jizo), founded in 1661. Koganji Temple was originally located in Ueno before being relocated to Sugamo, and was established in the early Edo period. This temple later gained widespread devotion as “Togenuki Jizo,” greatly influencing the development of the surrounding area. Initially, shops catering to worshippers, selling temple-related goods and souvenirs, formed the core of the area.

　2. Birth of Togenuki Jizo (Meiji Era)

The name “Togenuki Jizo” became widely known during the Meiji era. During this period, the Jizo Bodhisattva of Koganji Temple became famous as “Togenuki Jizo.” The origin is based on a legend in which a devout woman swallowed a paper charm bearing the image of Jizo Bodhisattva, which removed a thorn from inside her body. As this story spread, many worshippers began visiting from across the country, believing in its blessings for recovery from illness and warding off misfortune. From this time, the shopping street gradually expanded, with more shops opening to cater to the visiting pilgrims.

　3. Pre-war to Post-war Development (Early to Mid-Showa Era)

In the early Showa era, Sugamo Jizo-dori Shopping Street further developed as a down-to-earth shopping street for the common people. From the pre-war to post-war period, Sugamo became more accessible by transportation, and many people came to live in the area. During the post-war reconstruction period in particular, the shopping street became an indispensable part of life for local residents, with shops selling daily necessities and food opening one after another. During this time, Koganji Temple at the center of the shopping street became a symbol of the area, and the entire shopping street bustled with worshippers and tourists.

　4. Establishment as “Harajuku for Grandmas” (Late Showa to Early Heisei Era)

From the late Showa era to the early Heisei era, Sugamo Jizo-dori Shopping Street became widely known as “Harajuku for Grandmas.” This nickname was given because the shopping street offered many products and services geared toward the elderly. In particular, the street was well-stocked with health goods, Japanese sweets, and nursing care products, establishing its image as a shopping street familiar and welcoming to senior citizens. During this period, many elderly people from across Japan began visiting Sugamo, and the shopping street became known nationwide.

　5. Sugamo Jizo-dori Shopping Street Today (Late Heisei to Reiwa Era)

From the late Heisei era to the Reiwa era, Sugamo Jizo-dori Shopping Street has evolved as a shopping street that retains the rich atmosphere of the Showa era while incorporating modern elements. In addition to products and services for the elderly, recently there has been an increase in shops and events that young people and tourists can also enjoy, making it a shopping street beloved by people of all generations. While cherishing local traditional culture and history, the street has deepened its ties with the local community and is working toward revitalization. The monthly “Jizo-sama Day” festival continues to this day, attracting many people as an important event of the shopping street.

Recommended Gourmet at Sugamo Jizo-dori Shopping Street

Sugamo Jizo-dori Shopping Street is a historic shopping street located in Sugamo, Toshima Ward, Tokyo, widely enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. Known as “Harajuku for Grandmas,” it is particularly well-equipped with shops and restaurants catering to the elderly, but in recent years it has also become increasingly popular among younger generations. Here, we provide a detailed introduction to recommended spots you should visit at Sugamo Jizo-dori Shopping Street.

　■ Togenuki Jizo (Koganji Temple)
Koganji Temple, famous as Togenuki Jizo, is a Soto Zen temple located at the center of Sugamo Jizo-dori Shopping Street. Founded in 1596, this temple is believed to bring blessings for recovery from illness and longevity, attracting many worshippers from across the country. The “Arai Kannon” (Washing Kannon), where visitors pour water over the same area of the statue that corresponds to their ailment, is particularly popular among those hoping for physical recovery. The festival held three times a month (on the 4th, 14th, and 24th of each month) fills the entire shopping street with energy as locals and tourists gather.

　■ Ganso Shio Daifuku Mizuno

Founded in 1937, “Ganso Shio Daifuku Mizuno” is a long-established Japanese confectionery shop on Sugamo Jizo-dori Shopping Street. The shio daifuku (salt-flavored rice cakes) sold here are a masterpiece in which a moderate saltiness enhances the sweetness, beloved by many Japanese sweets enthusiasts. The red bean paste uses Hokkaido-grown azuki beans, and the mochi rice is sourced from Miyagi Prefecture, reflecting a commitment to quality ingredients. The packaging featuring an illustration of Togenuki Jizo makes it an ideal souvenir.

　■ Isoage Maruten Sugamo Branch

“Isoage Maruten Sugamo Branch” is a specialty shop for nerimono (fish cake products) made from fresh seafood sourced from Ise-Shima. The popular “tako-bo” (octopus sticks), “cheese-bo” (cheese sticks), and “ebi mayo-bo” (shrimp mayo sticks) are served freshly fried on skewers, making them perfect for eating while walking. The shop also offers a wide selection of take-home products that can be enjoyed as accompaniments to rice or snacks with drinks.

　■ Kakigori Kobo Sekka

“Kakigori Kobo Sekka” is a specialty shop where you can enjoy fluffy shaved ice made with natural ice from Mt. Fuji. The shop owner’s handmade syrups use seasonal fruits generously, allowing customers to enjoy different flavors every day. The popular “Strawberry Milk Shortcake Style” and “Pistachio Milk” are especially recommended for sweets lovers. A unique feature of this shop is that shaved ice can be enjoyed even in winter.

　■ Kifukudo

“Kifukudo” is a historic bakery founded in 1916 (Taisho 5), with its signature product being “Japan’s best anpan” (red bean bread). Available in two varieties — smooth and chunky red bean paste — both feature a rich yet refined sweetness. The retro atmosphere of the shop interior is also part of the charm unique to Sugamo Jizo-dori Shopping Street. Their cream bread and other baked goods are also excellent, offering the taste of a bygone era.

　■ Raijindo Main Store

“Raijindo Main Store” is a senbei (rice cracker) specialty shop located at the entrance of Sugamo Jizo-dori Shopping Street. Inside the shop, you’ll find a variety of rice crackers including warimochi senbei, available from just 50 yen per piece, making it easy to enjoy snacking while walking. The fact that you can enjoy freshly baked senbei on the spot is also a popular reason for visiting.

　■ Tobiyasu

“Tobiyasu” is a taiyaki (fish-shaped cake) specialty shop located near Koshinzuka Station, known for its crispy skin and generous filling of red bean paste. These taiyaki are offered at an affordable price of 100 yen and are one of Sugamo’s beloved specialties, cherished by both locals and tourists. This shop offers a simple yet nostalgic taste and evokes a charming, old-fashioned atmosphere.

Summary

In conclusion, Sugamo Jizo-dori Shopping Street is a special place where the daily lives of local people and traditional Japanese culture come alive. With its historic temples, long-established Japanese confectionery shops, and heartwarming street food spots, there is always something new to discover with each visit.

This shopping street, which evokes a sense of nostalgia, is a place where everyone can spend a relaxing time. Please visit Sugamo Jizo-dori Shopping Street and experience its charm firsthand.