Sugamo station

Published on : 28/03/2024
by : O.F.

Quais de la gare Yamanote à la gare Sugamo

Located in the north of Tokyo, Sugamo station is a gateway to a unique district, nicknamed the "Grannies' Harajuku". Inaugurated on April 1, 1903, this medium-sized station now handles some 80,000 passengers daily. It is served by two major lines: the Yamanote line and the Mita line. With its traditional atmosphere and shops geared to senior citizens, Sugamo offers an authentic experience of the Tokyo of yesteryear, while remaining within easy reach of the city center.

Sugamo station overview and location

Sugamo station is located inToshima district, north of Tokyo. It is strategically located between Komagome and Otsuka stations on the Yamanote line. This position gives it an important role in Tokyo's transportation network. The station is also just a 30-minute walk from the Ikebukuro district and its famous Sunshine City, offering a convenient connection to one of Tokyo's liveliest shopping areas.

The station's precise geographical coordinates are 35° 44′ 00.57″ north and 139° 44′ 21.64″ east. This location places Sugamo in a relatively quiet area of the capital, while remaining well connected to the metropolitan transport network. Its proximity to the shopping street, Jizô-dôri, the beating heart of the district, makes the station an ideal starting point for exploring this unique part of Tokyo.

History and development of the station

Sugamo Station's history dates back to the early 20th century. Inaugurated on April 1, 1903, it is one of Tokyo's historic stations that has seen the city transform over the decades. Originally, Sugamo was an important stop on the Nakasendo, one of the five main roads linking Edo (Tokyo's former name) to Kyoto during the Edo period (1603-1868).

Over time, the station expanded to meet the growing needs of the local population and visitors alike. The addition of the Mita line to the Yamanote line considerably improved the area's accessibility. Today, Sugamo station plays a crucial role in the daily lives of thousands of Tokyoites, while retaining its old-world charm that attracts many visitors, particularly senior citizens.

Quartier de Sugamo — Sugamo district
George N

Services and infrastructure

Sugamo station offers a range of services and facilities tailored to the needs of its users, particularly senior citizens. Here's an overview of the main facilities:

ATRE shopping center: Built around and above the station, it houses numerous stores, restaurants and even a bakery.
Ticket offices and automatic ticketing machines: for buying tickets and recharging travel cards.
Elevators and escalators: Facilitating access to platforms for people with reduced mobility.
Multilingual information panels: To guide Japanese and foreign travelers.
Automated lockers: Convenient for travelers wishing to explore the area unhindered.

The station is also equipped with public toilets and comfortable waiting areas. These facilities reflect the attention paid to the comfort of users, especially the elderly who regularly visit the Sugamo district.

Transport lines serving the station

Sugamo station is served by two major transport lines, offering excellent connectivity with the rest of Tokyo:

Yamanote Line: Managed by JR East, this iconic circular line circles central Tokyo. It connects Sugamo with key areas such as Shinjuku, Shibuya and Tokyo Station.
The Mita line: Operated by Toei (Tokyo Metropolitan Transport Bureau), this line links Meguro station to Nishi-Takashimadaira station, passing through some of Tokyo's most important districts.

Both lines offer high-frequency service, with trains passing every 2 to 4 minutes at peak times. The Yamanote line, in particular, provides easy access to many of Tokyo's points of interest, making Sugamo a convenient base for exploring the city.

The Sugamo district: "Grannies' Harajuku

The area around Sugamo station is affectionately nicknamed the "Grannies' Harajuku", in reference to the trendy Harajuku district frequented by young people. Sugamo attracts mainly a senior clientele, giving it a unique atmosphere in Tokyo.

The district's main attraction is the 800-meter-long Jizô-dôri shopping street. It is home to some 200 stores selling a variety of products from traditional clothing to Japanese sweets. A notable feature is the sale of red underwear, considered a good-luck charm for the elderly according to Japanese tradition.

The district is also known for its mascot, a small white duck named Sugamon. Visitors can find representations of this mascot on mailboxes around the station, adding a touch of local charm to the experience.

Attractions and points of interest around the station

Despite its reputation as a district for senior citizens, Sugamo offers interesting attractions for visitors of all ages:

Kogan-ji temple: Located a five-minute walk from the station, this temple is famous for its statue of Togenuki Jizo, believed to watch over the health of the faithful.
Traditional stores: Numerous stalls sell handicrafts and local culinary specialties.
Local restaurants: Sample traditional Japanese dishes such as okomiyaki or yakitori in the neighborhood's small restaurants.
Rikuji-en Garden: A magnificent Japanese garden located halfway between Komagome and Sugamo stations, particularly beautiful during the cherry blossoms in spring and the red maple leaves in autumn.

These attractions offer a unique blend of Japanese culture, history and daily life, making Sugamo a fascinating destination for visitors looking to discover a more traditional side of Tokyo.

Events and local traditions not to be missed

Sugamo is renowned for its events and traditions, which attract locals and visitors alike:

Monthly market: On the 4th, 14th and 24th of each month, a lively matsuri (festival) is held on Jizo-dori street. It's an opportunity to discover a typically Japanese braderie, with food stalls and local handicrafts.
Taste local specialties: don't miss daigaku imo (fried sweet potatoes), okomiyaki and the famous shio daifuku (mochi filled with red beans and lightly salted).
Ritual at Kogan-ji temple: Observe or take part in the ritual of washing the Togenuki Jizo statue for good health.
Seasonal illuminations: At nearby Rikuji-en garden, enjoy spectacular illuminations organized around cherry blossoms in spring and red maple leaves in autumn.

These events and traditions offer an authentic immersion in Sugamo's local culture. They allow visitors to enjoy unique experiences and discover the customs that give this atypical Tokyo district its charm. Whether you're interested in history, gastronomy or simply the special atmosphere of this "granny's Harajuku", Sugamo has something to offer every visitor.