20 Apr 2026
Tags: tokyo, Japan, Old meets New, local life, cost performance, Japanese Food, Japanese cuisine, Japanese culture, Tokyo local, authentic experience, new hotels, new attractions, downtown vibe, Foodie
Travellers to Tokyo are increasingly looking beyond the city's well-known districts, and one local neighbourhood is emerging as a compelling place to both eat and stay. Located in Shinagawa City, Oimachi has long been a favourite among locals for its relaxed atmosphere, diverse food scene and strong “cosu-pa”, a Japanese concept that refers to quality relative to price. Now, with the recent opening of OIMACHI TRACKS, the area is gaining attention as an accessible base for travellers seeking great food, everyday value and easy access across the city.
For Australian visitors, it offers a chance to experience Tokyo's dining culture beyond the usual hotspots while staying connected to major destinations without the premium price tag. “Oimachi has long been a local secret, so hearing Brad Pitt had visited was a surprise. With its authentic food culture and recent development, it is easy to see why it is gaining wider attention,” said Alison Roberts-Brown, Tokyo Tourism Representative, Australia.
Where Value Meets Authentic Tokyo Flavours
Oimachi's food scene is built on trust. Restaurants rely on loyal local customers, so quality must be consistent and prices must feel fair. Whether it is a simple bowl of noodles or a carefully prepared dinner, the focus is on delivering real value. Unlike Tokyo's more polished dining districts, Oimachi offers a more grounded perspective on how the city really eats, where flavour, familiarity and affordability take priority
Experience Yokocho Dining like a Local
At the heart of Oimachi's culinary identity are its “yokocho” alleyways, narrow laneways lined with small bars and eateries serving everything from grilled skewers to home-style dishes. These spaces are ideal for experiencing Tokyo's casual dining culture, including standing bars and bar hopping from one venue to the next. The atmosphere is welcoming and social, with locals and visitors often sharing space, conversation and recommendations.
A Neighbourhood Entering a New Phase
The opening of OIMACHI-TRACKS marks a significant moment for the area. The large-scale development brings together more than 80 shops, dining venues, accommodation and wellness facilities, adding a contemporary layer to Oimachi's established local character.
Your New Base in Tokyo?
Beyond its dining scene, Oimachi offers a well-rounded Tokyo experience and an increasingly compelling place to stay. Visitors can explore local shopping streets, browse everyday Japanese goods or discover a wide mix of food retailers, from gourmet boutiques to bulk wholesalers.
The neighbourhood is also home to several hot spring bath houses and saunas, offering a place to unwind after a day in the city. Nearby attractions such as the Shinagawa Aquarium provide additional options for families and couples.
With direct train access to major destinations including Shibuya, Shinjuku, Tokyo Station and Odaiba, Oimachi serves as a convenient base for exploring the wider city.
Accommodation options are expanding alongside the area's growth. The newly opened Hotel Metropolitan Oimachi Tracks Tokyo (open March 2026) and Oakwood Oimachi Tracks Tokyo serviced apartments (opening June 2026) provide modern, comfortable stays within easy reach of the station, making it easy to experience the neighbourhood like a local while staying connected to Tokyo.
Discover It Now
As interest grows in more authentic and accessible travel experiences, Oimachi stands out as a neighbourhood that delivers both. For travellers seeking great food, local atmosphere and genuine value, it offers a compelling new reason to explore a different side of Tokyo.
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About Tokyo Convention & Visitors Bureau:
Founded by the Tokyo Chamber of Commerce and Industry and private enterprises and launched in 1997, TCVB is the official tourism organization of Tokyo. The mission of TCVB is to promote Tokyo as a tourist destination to increase overseas visitors and satisfy their needs, to attract international business events to Tokyo and to support community development through tourism. Along with 580 travel industry partners, TCVB is your travel concierge in Tokyo.
Official Tokyo Travel Guide: www.gotokyo.org/en
About the Tourism Representatives of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government:
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government has Tokyo Tourism Representatives appointed in Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York, London, Paris, Munich, Milano, Madrid, Sydney, Toronto, Beijing, Seoul, Taiwan, and Malaysia (Thai/Singapore). The role of the representatives is to work with the travel industry and the media to encourage attention towards Tokyo's tourism by circulating tourist information and promoting travel sales to Tokyo.
Contact: alison@tourismgarden.com.au
Alison Roberts-Brown, Tokyo Tourism Representative Office- Sydney
Tokyo Convention & Visitors Bureau, c/o Tourism Garden Pty Ltd
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Official Tokyo Travel Guide: www.gotokyo.org