Ikebukuro
in Toshima-ku has the terminal for JR Yamanote Line, Saikyo
Line and Takasaki Line, subways Marunouchi Line and Yurakucho
Line, Seibu Ikebukuro Line and Tobu Tojo Line. It is a prominent
downtown rivaling with the Ginza, Shinjuku, Shibuya and Asakusa.
As it has often been selected as the scene for TV dramas and
novels in recent years, the young people who are keen on the
trend cast eager eyes on Ikebukuro. It is divided into the west
side and east side areas by JR Ikebukuro Station
In the eastern
side, department stores and large size fashion industry buildings
stand side by side. There is the Sunshine City around a super-high-rise
building "Sunshine 60" to the east of the shopping
street that leads to the station. Also, in the area of the Sunshine
City, there are an aquarium, planetarium, hotel, shopping mall
and convention center with display facilities.
In the west
side, there is the Tokyo Art Theater and some universities among
department stores and shopping streets. Many university students
walk around the town, and it gives off literary flavor that
sets up a clear distinction from the hustle and bustle on the
eastern side.
