"Monzen Nakacho" has been one of the major city centers since the Edo period. The rich history is best represented by the famous architectures such as the Fukagawa Temple and the Tomioka Hachiman Shrine. Many historical figures lived in the area and their heritage still occupy a very important position to the local citizens.
Although some of the cultural treasures were lost in earthquakes and war, a lot of them survived together with many shops and restaurants, dating back to the early 20th century. Despite the rapid modernization in the districts nearby, "Mon-naka" still retains the warm-heartness among the people and is proud of the modern & retro coexistance.
Nowadays Mon-naka is connected to the rest of Tokyo by as many as 6 train lines, the perfect spot for going out. Plus the numerous restaurants serving a wide variety of cuisines from all over the world, Mon-naka will keep you entertained all day long.
The Convenient Monzen Nakacho
All the major city centers are right in front of your doorstep
You can access many popular places in less than 30 minutes by 6 train lines nearby.
The Gourmet Monzen Nakacho
A gourmet tour along the streets is also highly recommended!
Please click the map below to see the detail!
The Historical Monzen Nakacho
The Fukugawa Temple, Eidaiji and Tomioka Hachiman are the most important historical symbols in the area.
The Fukugawa Temple is completed in late 19th century but its origin dates back as early as 1703. The temple also organizes the "Fukugawa Ennichi", which is a famous local street marketplace held 3 times a month on the 1st, 15th and 28th respectively. Spread along the Eidai-dori between Mon-naka and Tomioka-hachiman, the stalls bring you back to the summer last year by serving tako-yaki, anzu-ame as well as many favorite gadgets.
The Eidaiji is another important Buddhist temple which gave its name to the area. Because the character "Mon" in Mon-naka is about this temple's main gate, therefore Monzen Nakacho literally means the street in front of Eidaiji. Besides, Eidaiji is also one of the 88 temples in Tokyo designated by the emperor back in the Edo period.
Tomioka-hachiman is famous for being the birthplace of Edo Sumo. More than 300 years ago, Sumo wrestling was designated to carry out inside the shrine during the spring and autumn tournaments. The tradition went on for more than 100 years, laying a solid foundation sport's modern rules and regulations. Moreover, antique (1st & 2nd Sunday) and flee marketplaces (15th & 28th) are regularly held inside the temple each month. Why not try setting up your own stall in the flee market?
In the year of 1900, the 12th Yokozuna (the strongest Sumo wrestler) setup a monument in Tomioka-hachiman to commemorate the achievements of fellow Yokozunas in the past. Measuring 3.5m tall, 3.0m wide and 20t in weight, it is the best representation of Yokozunas' power and spirit. Nowadays the naming of new Yokozunas and their ring ceremonies are still being held in the palace, continuing the legend as ever for many years to come.
