A guide to Nakano City. By Vincent.
May 26, 2025
Just a few stops from Shinjuku on the Chuo Line, is the area of Nakano City, known well by locals, less so by tourists. A laid-back slice of Tokyo just west of Shinjuku, we chose to base ourselves here for the cheaper accommodation options, and to try a less visited area than the usual spots we were used to hearing about.
If you’re wanting to be right in the middle of the action, you’re better sticking to Shibuya and Shinjuku - but if you’re after a place (still close to the main tourist hubs) where local life blossoms in the night against the red sea of glowing izakaya lanterns, look no further.
Nakano blends local charm with pop culture quirk. Known for Nakano Broadway - a treasure trove for anime, manga, and vintage toy collectors - you’ll also find narrow alleys packed with casual izakayas, ramen joints, and old-school shopping arcades. It’s Tokyo without the tourist rush, giving you a glimpse into everyday city life while still being just minutes from the action.
Tokyo Ramen - MAP LINK
Vincent’s review: Delicious shoyu (I think) broth. On the saltier end, with tones of fishyness in a good way. Masterful bowl of ramen. Noodles are thick, bitey. Meat components are tasty, and not overly fatty compared to your usual chashu, they selected leaner parts but still yum. Tamago was good. Wonton was a highlight.
Daily Chiko [Ice Cream shop] - MAP LINK
So many flavours. It just felt right to order an icecream walking around the basement level. I remember sitting side by side this middle-aged lady, as we both tended to our cones.
Walk around Broadway - take in the sights of Otaku paradise.
It’s a haven for anime, manga and vintage collectors offering everything from rare figurines to retro memorabilia. Whilst not as weeby intense as Akihabara.
Explore the underground shopping level
I remember being mesmerised watching the locals doing their groceries here. Had a real Pokemon department store vibe to it. There’s also a cool icecream store there.
Immerse yourself in the local Izakaya culture
Once the sun goes down, the izakayas come out to play.
