The Kamikawabata Shopping Arcade was opened in 1971 and is about 400 metres long. It connects the department stores River Rain (on the north side) and Canal City (on the south side). Its ideal location means easy access as well as a great way to get around the area.
Kamikawabata Shopping Arcade is designed like many of Japan’s traditional shopping arcades. The arcade has more connections with the local area and its history. While shopping malls like Canal City are well known, the Kamikawabata Arcade is perhaps not so popular or known among tourists.
The arcade is also connected to the culture of the area. During the famous Hakata Gion Yamakasa, the floats for the parades are stored here when not in use. Other local festivals like the Hakata Dontaku go through this arcade.
With around 100 shops, there is plenty to see. The arcade has everything from clothes to cafes, as well as hair salons and even clinics. There are modern as well as traditional shops, with a variety of price ranges. There are some local restaurants as well as chains like Italian Tomato. You can find some unique and more expensive cuisine, or more affordable food including 290 yen ramen.
One of the several izkayas in the arcade.
Kamikawabata Arcade even has its own famous speciality, “Kawabata Zenzai.” Zenzai is a kind of Japanese dessert with hot sweet bean soup and dumplings. This is available all year on weekends and holidays.
The shops close at varying times but the arcade itself is always open.
Decorations in the overhead area.
The arcade can be accessed from Nakasu-Kawabata Station, and is also close to popular sites like Kushida Shrine and Canal City. For a shopping trip with a cultural background and traditional atmosphere, stop by the Kamikawabata Shopping Arcade!
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