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SL Square: Shimbashi's Steam Locomotive Landmark

A nostalgic Tokyo landmark featuring a historic steam locomotive, marking the start of Japan's railway era and a popular meeting spot.

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SL Square, officially Shimbashi Station West Entrance Square, is a popular meeting spot in Tokyo marked by a prominent steam locomotive. Created in 1972 to celebrate the centenary of Japan's railway system, it's a nostalgic reminder of the area's history as the original Tokyo terminus.

A brief summary to SL Square (Shimbashi Station West Entrance Square)

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Arrive a few minutes before noon, 3 PM, or 6 PM to hear the steam locomotive's whistle.
  • Visit during the winter season to see the locomotive and square illuminated with festive lights.
  • Explore the numerous restaurants and bars in the surrounding Shimbashi district.
  • Use SL Square as a convenient and easily recognizable meeting point when exploring Tokyo.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Ginza area, walk west towards Shimbashi. Use the elevated railway tracks as a guide. SL Square is located directly outside the West Exit of Shimbashi Station. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    Take the JR Yamanote Line to Shimbashi Station. Exit through the West Exit. SL Square is immediately in front of you as you exit the station. The fare depends on your starting station, but a typical short-distance fare within central Tokyo is around ¥140-200. Alternatively, take the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line or Toei Asakusa Line to Shimbashi Station. Follow signs to the West Exit upon exiting the ticket gates. Subway fares are typically ¥170-200 for a short trip.

  • Taxi

    From anywhere in the Ginza or Yurakucho districts, a taxi to Shimbashi Station West Exit (Shimbashi Eki Nishi-guchi) is a quick and convenient option. The ride typically takes 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. Expect to pay around ¥730-1000 for a short taxi ride within central Tokyo.

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Discover more about SL Square (Shimbashi Station West Entrance Square)

SL Square, known formally as Shimbashi Station West Entrance Square, is a bustling public space in Tokyo's Minato City, serving as a vibrant landmark and a nostalgic tribute to Japan's railway heritage. The square's centerpiece is a C11-292 steam locomotive, a type used from 1945 to 1972, which lends the square its popular name. Established in 1972 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Japan's railway system, SL Square stands near the site of the original Shimbashi Station, which opened in 1872 as the terminus for the first railway line between Tokyo and Yokohama. Though the original station was slightly east of the current Shimbashi Station, SL Square serves as a symbolic reminder of this pioneering era. The square has become a popular rendezvous point, especially for those visiting the numerous izakaya-style bars and restaurants in the Shimbashi district. The steam locomotive at SL Square is more than just a static display; it blows its whistle three times daily, connecting visitors to the history of rail travel. During the winter months, the locomotive and square are illuminated with festive lights, creating a popular evening attraction. SL Square is conveniently located at the west entrance of Shimbashi Station, making it easily accessible and a recognizable landmark for both locals and tourists.

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