Overview
Jimbocho's bookshops and Ochanomizu's musical instrument stores occupy neighboring parts of central Tokyo. The walk between Jimbocho's main intersection and the JR Ochanomizubashi Exit takes about ten minutes. Cafes and curry restaurants give you places to stop while visiting the two districts.
Their stations serve different networks. Jimbocho has three subway lines, while Ochanomizu has JR services and a separate station on the Marunouchi Line.
Books, music and food
Jimbocho's shops sell new, secondhand and rare books, with some specializing in particular subjects. You don't need a shopping list. Browsing the shelves, stopping for coffee and choosing a curry restaurant can fill an afternoon.
Around Ochanomizu, stores sell guitars, keyboards and orchestral instruments alongside used and vintage equipment. The shops near the JR Ochanomizubashi Exit are a good starting point for instrument shopping. Some dealers specialize in one type of instrument, so compare several shops before making a larger purchase.
