Chiyoda, Chuo, Minato, Bunkyo, Koto wards
and the island area

Block A encompasses a diverse range of areas, primarily focused on Tokyo tourism, including Chiyoda Ward, where the Imperial Palace is located, as well as Chuo Ward, Minato Ward, Bunkyo Ward, Koto Ward, and the island area. In particular, Chiyoda and Chuo Wards were the central districts of Edo (the former name for Tokyo), established in 1603. The Edo Castle (now the Imperial Palace) built during that time still features a rich forest within the 5-kilometer perimeter surrounded by moats, making it a popular jogging course for Tokyo residents.

Even today, these wards remain at the heart of Japanese politics, hosting government buildings such as the National Diet Building and serving as the starting point for the country’s largest railway terminal, Tokyo Station. Meanwhile, the Nihonbashi area in Chuo Ward, once a thriving commercial center near Edo Castle during the Edo period (17th-19th century), is dotted with longstanding establishments that have inherited a history of over a century. The Nihonbashi Bridge, built in 1603 when Edo became the capital, is renowned as one of Japan’s most famous bridges, and the Mitsukoshi Main Store, located at its base, dates back to the 17th century.

Adjacent to Chiyoda and Chuo Wards, Minato Ward is known for having the highest average income in the country. Luxurious apartments and residential areas, including Azabu and Roppongi, attract many foreign expatriates. However, it seems that some foreigners, despite staying for several years, leave without learning Japanese, perhaps due to the perception that it is a city where one can live solely in English.

On the other hand, the area around Shimbashi Station boasts many budget-friendly eateries, known as the “salaryman’s sanctuary,” where colleagues gather after work. You can witness lively and cheerful comments from inebriated individuals in the station square during street interviews on television news.

Tokyo Tower, which held the title of Japan’s tallest structure for a long time at 333 meters, and the Odaiba area, connected by the Rainbow Bridge spanning Tokyo Bay with water buses, are popular tourist spots. In November 2023, Japan’s tallest building, Azabu-Dai Hills, a 330-meter tall complex featuring residences, commercial spaces, and offices, was inaugurated.

Across the Sumida River from Chuo and Minato Wards lies Koto Ward, an area that expanded after land reclamation in the 17th century. Canals such as Oyokawa, Yokojukken, and Konamiki that once facilitated water transportation before the shift to land routes still flow through the ward. Konamiki Canal boasts only two locks in Tokyo, safeguarding the low-lying area from floods. The Oyokawa Canal, near Fukagawa, is lined with cherry blossoms on both banks, drawing crowds during the annual Fukagawa Sakura Festival. The district extends towards Tokyo Bay, and the Tokyo International Cruise Terminal, opened in 2020, is also located in Koto Ward.

Bunkyo Ward is known for its many residential areas with a long history. The Hongo area, where the University of Tokyo is situated, is renowned as an educational district, hosting numerous printing and bookbinding-related businesses. Visiting the representative Japanese gardens, Rikugien and Koishikawa Korakuen, provides an opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a relaxing time.

Connected by sea routes from the Takashiba Pier in Minato Ward is the “Izu Seven Islands,” also known as the Island Area of Tokyo. Many people use ferries, high-speed boats, or planes to reach the largest island, Oshima. In the central part of this approximately 120-kilometer distance from the city center, the active volcano, Mt. Miharayama, stands tall. Hiking from the outer rim to the summit allows you to witness the changes in lava and post-eruption vegetation. The crater can be circled, offering a breathtaking view.

Approximately 300 kilometers south of the city center, Hachijo Island enjoys a warm climate throughout the year, featuring the Bougainvillea Festival in spring. The traditional craft of weaving known as “Kihachijo” is a representative craft on the island, and visitors can experience hand weaving.”