This central ward of Tokyo is known for its bustling shopping districts, food streets, varied museums and laid-back waterfront parks.

Chuo City presents an enthralling mix of dining, retail and recreational attractions in an area dating back over 400 years and newly named in 1947. One of Tokyo’s 23 special wards, Chuo began during the Edo period as the city’s business and cultural heart. Visit Chuo to find glitzy shopping malls alongside traditional theaters and parks filled with cherry blossoms.

Energetic Ginza is the beating heart of Tokyo’s luxury lifestyles. Shop for art, upscale fashion and the latest technology trends at malls such as Ginza Place, Ginza Six and Tokyu Plaza Ginza. Listen to the Westminster chimes sounding from the clock tower of Ginza Wako mall. Ginza’s Kabuki-za Theatre puts on year-round performances of classical kabuki dramas.

In Nihonbashi, ultra-modern towers rise above traditional Shinto shrines such as the Suitengo Shrine. Find traditional crafts at Coredo Muromachi, luxury fashion at Mitsukoshi Nihonbashi and an old-world charm on Amazakeyokocho Street. Watch traders in action at the Tokyo Stock Exchange and then mingle with them at boisterous izakaya pubs. Trace monetary history at the Bank of Japan Currency Museum and browse some of the more than 3,000 kites of the Kite Museum collection.

See a slice of Tokyo’s fishing heritage at Tsukiji Outer Market in the Tsukiji district. Sample fresh sushi at bars lining the alleys. A sense of tranquility fills Hamarikyu Gardens, notable for springtime cherry blossom bloom and fall foliage. Don’t miss the Buddhist Tsukiji Honganji Temple with a style influenced by Indian temples.

Cross the Kachidoki Bridge to the man-made island of Tsukishima and admire views of the city skyline from riverfront pathways and Ishikawajima Park. Feast on pan-fried monjayaki pancakes at over 75 restaurants on Tsukishima Monja Street. The view from Harumi Wharf includes the emblematic Rainbow Bridge.

Chuo is easy to reach via train or metro travel. Experience alternative views of the area on a boat cruise along the canal or river. Chiyoda, Koto and Minato are other popular Tokyo wards located nearby.