Ikebukuro is a busy station and transportation hub on the Yamanote Line, the loop train line in Tokyo, Japan. It has a very high passenger flow and population density and can be regarded as a very prosperous area in central Tokyo.
If you’ve ever been to Ikebukuro, you may have noticed the many owl statues and murals close to the station. Ikebukuro (池袋), written as Ike (pond) + bukuro (bag) in kanji, contains “fukuro” or “bukuro,” a homonym for owl. This linguistic connection has made the owl the unofficial representative of this area.
East Exit Landmarks
The most famous sculpture is the stone statue of a mother owl and her owlets at the East Exit of Ikebukuro Station. Like the Hachiko Statue in Shibuya, this Owl Statue in Ikebukuro is very popular as a meeting point.
From the East Exit, you can also see the Ikebukuro Police Station on the other side of the road, which is designed like an owl. If you do something bad, its eyes will be watching you (LOL)!
Owls stand guard on the road divider close to the police station, featuring owls too.
Those who like anime and manga may be familiar with Naka-Ikebukuro Park, which often sees many gatherings of anime and pop culture enthusiasts. It’s a place for youngsters to exchange information related to anime as well as transforming into their favorite anime or manga characters. There is also a stone statue of an owl standing on a book in the park.
Close to Naka-Ikebukuro Park is the Ikebukuro Post Office, featuring a bright yellow owl mailbox. Isn’t it adorable?
West Exit and Conclusion
Let’s take a look at the west exit of Ikebukuro. There is a whole line of owls waiting for you as soon as you leave the West Exit. Large and small, there are owls reading books here. Often you see people reading books seated in front of these owls too.
Many spots on the road are covered with owl-shaped floor tiles.
The hand-painted dustbins on the street also feature owls.
There is also an owl guard at the entrance of Rikkyo University, one of Tokyo’s six prestigious schools in Ikebukuro.
Want to try something different?
If you plan on visiting Ikebukuro during your next trip to Tokyo, look for some of these owls as a challenge and adventure. Make your journey more fun and exited.
