Koenji Pal Shopping Street (高円寺パル商店街)

Flow of the course

About this spot

This covered shopping arcade extending from the south exit of Koenji Station is the neighborhood's heart and also a performance venue for Awa Odori in the evening. Ramen, curry, set meals, and takeout side dishes offer plenty of choices—perfect for refueling before the performances start. The arcade's roof shields you from the harsh sun, making it ideal for conserving energy before watching the festival in the heat of summer. As 5 p.m. approaches and the festival begins in earnest, the street fills with spectators and the paper lanterns around the shops light up, and the festival's energy suddenly intensifies.

Tips

Enter a restaurant before 4 p.m. if possible (after 5 p.m., lines and traffic restrictions make entry difficult). If ordering takeout, stock up extra on drinks. Use restaurants' restrooms before the festival starts—it'll make your evening watching more comfortable.

Best time to visit

About 40 minutes. The early-4 p.m. hour is ideal—before the dinner rush but early enough to grab a seat.

Access & map

〒166-0003 東京都杉並区高円寺南４丁目２５