Beautiful Night Views of Kyobashi
As December begins, winter has truly arrived. Christmas is just around the corner. With the longer nights, the city’s illuminations have grown even more enchanting. In the November blog, I introduced the night views of Nihonbashi, so this time, I’d like to showcase the night views of Kyobashi.
TOKYO SQUARE GARDEN
This is a multi-purpose office building located in Kyobashi. From the basement level up to the 6th floor, it serves as a commercial and service zone with various shops and restaurants. The basement also houses the studio of Chuo FM, the FM radio station of Chuo City, where correspondents from the Chuo City Tourism Association frequently appear on programs.
Illumination at Tokyo Square Garden
A little south of Tokyo Square Garden, where the Shuto Expressway now runs, there used to be the Kyobashi River, with the iconic Kyobashi Bridge spanning it. The area is now home to the Police Museum, a popular spot for children and an enjoyable place for adults as well.
Chuo-dori Avenue bends slightly at the site of the former Kyobashi Bridge, offering a straight-line view towards Ginza from the sidewalk. This hidden gem provides a quietly spectacular perspective.
Looking towards the Ginza area from the site of Kyobashi Bridge
MEIDI-YA Kyobashi Building
Meidi-ya, widely known as an established store handling high-quality imported foods and wines, is itself designated as a Tangible Cultural Property of Chuo Ward. The basement of the building connects directly to a subway station, making it the oldest existing private building designed with such a structure.
Meidi-ya Kyobashi Building
KYOBASHI EDOGRAND
This complex urban redevelopment project in Kyobashi comprises three buildings: the historic Meidi-ya Kyobashi Building and two newly constructed redevelopment towers. In the central plaza, a large Christmas tree delights passersby during the season.
Christmas Tree at Kyobashi Edogrand
From Chuo-dori Avenue, you can enjoy the view of the Christmas tree as you walk further inside to find an escalator—a hidden gem for photo enthusiasts. In fact, the cover photo of the official guidebook for the 16th Chuo Ward Tourism Certification Exam, "歩いてわかる 中央区 ものしり百科", was taken at this spot.
Escalator at Kyobashi Edgrand
In conclusion
The areas around Nihonbashi, Kyobashi, and Ginza are among the most vibrant streets in Tokyo. In winter, the illuminations in various locations create stunning night views. Strolling along the main thoroughfare, Chuo-dori Avenue, while admiring the dazzling shop windows and winter-only illuminations is truly delightful. As the New Year approaches, the city’s atmosphere will gradually transition to spring. Personally, I believe the season around Christmas offers the most beautiful nightscapes. December is almost over, so don’t miss these breathtaking views!
Illumination on Chuo-dori Avenue