The main avenue running through Ginza is Tokyo's version of New York's Fifth Avenue. Some of its stores are attractions unto themselves, showcasing items such as typical wedding-kimono ensembles and scheduling everything from fashion shows to tea ceremonies. In recent years, major European-fashion and luxury-goods houses have opened major outlets on the main street. The small side streets and shops away from the main roads are distinctive. Volunteer English-speaking guides staff the police box at the main Ginza crossing (across from Waco and Mitsukoshi department stores) and at the crossing opposite the Sony showroom. Even if you hate crowds and are bored by retail districts, this area is worth a look, especially in the evening when the neon and shop illuminations are at their peak. Anyone interested in state-of-the-art consumer electronics should drop in to see the displays of cutting-edge gadgetry in the Sony Building.
