Toshima and Kita wards

C Block encompasses the area from Toshima Ward to Kita Ward.

Around Ikebukuro Station in Toshima Ward, you’ll find one of Tokyo’s most vibrant districts. Large commercial facilities, specialty shops, and restaurants line the streets, offering opportunities for enjoyable shopping and gourmet experiences. Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre hosts daily theatrical performances and concerts, while “Otome Road,” known as the holy land of anime, features anime-related shops and facilities. You might even encounter anime fans dressed in cosplay.

On the other hand, near Sugamo Station, the “Togenuki Jizo” is a place of faith for the elderly, with the approach lined with fashion and goods shops catering to seniors. As the name suggests, this unique Buddhist statue of Jizo is covered with numerous small needles. It has become an object of devotion, endearing itself to the local residents and tourists alike.

Kita Ward boasts the expansive Asukayama Park, where you can enjoy strolls and picnics. Situated on a small hill with an elevation of approximately 25 meters, Asukayama Park is a tranquil haven, allowing visitors to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The park features various flowers, with cherry blossoms taking center stage seasonally. Notably, the sakura trees were planted during the Edo period by the 8th Shogun, Tokugawa Yoshimune, to provide commoners with a place for cherry blossom viewing. You can also catch glimpses of Shinkansen (bullet trains) from the park.

In the past, Kita Ward thrived in the paper industry, and the “Paper Museum” allows visitors to explore the history of Japan’s paper manufacturing. The only remaining tram in Tokyo, the “Toden,” is still in use as a means of transportation for locals. Taking a leisurely sightseeing tour on the tram might be a delightful way to explore the area.