Shimbashi station: the complete guide to easy travel in Tokyo

How do I get to Shimbashi station and find my way around?

Located on the Yamanote circular line, Shimbashi station is easily accessible from Tokyo's main stations, such as Tokyo Station, Shibuya and Shinjuku. Its main entrances overlook the lively districts of Shiodome to the east and Shimbashi to the west, renowned for its izakayas and small bars under the tracks.

Inside, the station is organized on several levels, with JR platforms above ground, subway platforms underground and the Yurikamome overhead line. Signs in English will help you find your platform and the exits to the various districts.

Which train and subway lines pass through Shimbashi station?

Shimbashi station is a railway hub, served by 4 companies:

• JR East: Yamanote, Keihin-Tohoku, Tokaido and Yokosuka lines
• Tokyo Metro: Ginza line
• Toei: Asakusa line
• Yurikamome: overhead line to Odaiba

It's an ideal connection point between the Yamanote line and many other lines, to reach Tokyo's main districts as well as more distant cities such as Yokohama and Kamakura.

Yamanote line, JR lines and the Japan Rail Pass: everything you need to know

With your Japan Rail Pass, you can use all JR lines passing through Shimbashi at no extra charge. All you have to do is present your pass at the gates. It's particularly useful for :

• Touring Tokyo on the Yamanote line
• Getting to tourist towns like Yokohama or Kamakura on the Tokaido and Yokosuka lines
• Haneda airport (via the Keikyu line) and Narita airport (using the Keisei line via Nippori)

For other lines, you'll need to buy a ticket or use a Pasmo/Suica prepaid card.

What to do and see around Shimbashi station?

In the immediate vicinity of the station, you can :

Restaurants, cafés, bars: where to eat and drink in Shimbashi?

If you're looking for a gourmet break or a drink, Shimbashi station and the surrounding area are full of addresses to suit all tastes and budgets:

• Department store restaurants and cafés in and around the station for a quick, inexpensive meal
• Izakayas and tachinomiya (standing bars) under the tracks for a quick bite to eat in a lively atmosphere
• More refined gastronomic addresses such as the French restaurant La Rochelle or the Japanese kaiseki Kinobu
• The unmissable Hama-Rikyû garden tea room for a contemplative break

The possibilities are endless for having a great time while immersing yourself in the district's distinctive atmosphere!

Shimbashi station, a place steeped in railway history

So while you're waiting for your train, take the time to immerse yourself in the fascinating railway past that has shaped the Tokyo of today! And if you want to continue this journey through time, don't hesitate to take the Yamanote line to discover other emblematic stations such as Tokyo Station or Ueno Station. Discover Yamanote and its rich heritage!