74: The bustle of Musashikoyama shopping street 武蔵小山商店街のにぎわい

The Bustle of Musashikoyama Shopping Street – Retro Charm in Full Swing

Musashikoyama Shotengai (武蔵小山商店街) is one of Tokyo’s longest covered shopping arcades, stretching over 800 meters with a lively mix of local shops, cafes, restaurants, greengrocers, and everyday services. Also known as “Palm,” the arcade has been a favorite of locals since the postwar era and remains a beloved centerpiece of Shinagawa Ward’s daily life.

The arcade’s origins trace back to 1937, when the first commercial association was formed in the wake of the 1923 opening of the Meguro-Kamata Line (now Tokyu Meguro Line). It was devastated by bombing during WWII but was swiftly rebuilt by local residents, officially becoming the “Musashikoyama Shopping Street Cooperative Association” in 1947.

In 1956, it became one of Tokyo’s first covered shopping streets, making shopping possible in any weather. The arcade’s popularity exploded during Japan’s postwar economic recovery, with visitors coming from far afield. A major modernization occurred in 1985, when it was rebranded “Palm” through a public naming contest. It has since introduced its own credit and points systems and adapted to the digital age with apps and e-payment systems.

Today, Palm blends retro vibes with contemporary convenience, offering everything from classic croquettes to modern fashion — and always under a roof.

The bustling atmosphere, nostalgic storefronts, and glowing signage make it a walk through both the past and the present. Come rain or shine, you’ll find residents, students, and seniors strolling, chatting, and shopping here. It’s a living reminder that Tokyo is made not only of skyscrapers but of community streets like these.

🛍️ A Walk Through Everyday Tokyo

Unlike flashy districts designed for tourists, Musashikoyama’s charm lies in its ordinariness — and that’s a compliment. You’ll find homemade croquettes, retro kissaten, traditional sweets, modern boutiques, and cozy izakaya. Locals come for groceries, gossip, and gyoza — and visitors often leave with a smile and a shopping bag or two.

🧭 Visitor Information

Address: 3-15-1 Koyama, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo

Best season: Year-round

Admission: Free

Official Info: Musashikoyama Palm

Note: It gets crowded during weekends and holidays. Watch for crossing cars and bicycles!