TOKYO

Yanaka Ginza

A Nostalgic Stroll Through Tokyo Shitamachi

Yanaka Ginza is a quaint shopping street in Tokyo that transports visitors back in time to the charm of a traditional downtown district. Located just minutes from Nippori Station, this 170-meter street offers a mix of Japanese street food, unique shops, and a warm atmosphere. This is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a glimpse of shitamachi – Tokyo’s old-fashioned neighborhoods.

Eat & Drink Nature & Views Experience & Activities Shopping

Access

A blend of tradition and modern community spirit

Part of the larger Yanesen district, which includes Yanaka, Nezu, and Sendagi, Yanaka Ginza has been a hub of activity since it spontaneously formed around 1945. Over the decades, it has evolved to meet modern demands while preserving its nostalgic atmosphere. Today, about 60 stores, from family-run eateries to specialty shops selling artisanal goods, line the short but lively street. Here, you can savor freshly fried takoyaki, try a traditional wagashi sweet with matcha, or sip some locally brewed sake while chatting with shop owners. The “Yuuyake Dandan” (Sunset Stairs) at one end of the street offers breathtaking sunset views over the area, creating a magical moment to end your stroll.
The heart of Yanaka Ginza lies in its community spirit. In recent years, it has evolved from a neighborhood shopping street into a location attracting visitors from a wider area and even from overseas. Today, locals, regular customers, and international tourists all contribute to sustain this historic shopping district.

Preserving the past and passing the torch to future generations

The community is dedicated to preserving the “Yanaka Ginza style” for future generations by adapting traditions to modern times. In 2008, a generational shift changed the management of the shopping arcade, bringing together experienced business owners who had long operated in the area and young newcomers launching their ventures in Yanaka. The new leadership has revitalized Yanaka Ginza by reimagining festivals and events, and working together with neighboring shopping streets to energize the area. Now, Yanaka Ginza even has an official mascot, a kawaii cat named Sen-chan, who appears on merchandise and in a stamp rally.

With its surroundings rich with historic temples and shrines, Yanaka Ginza continues to evolve, striving to become a timeless treasure that will make visitors think “I can’t believe a place like this still exists!”

Access to Yanaka Ginza

You can reach Yanaka Ginza by a 5-minute walk from the JR and Keisei Nippori Station, or from Sendagi Station on the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line.

Address

3 Chome-13-1 Yanaka, Taito-ku, Tokyo 110-0001

Contact

Email: yanakaginzainfo＠yahoo.co.jp

Business hours

Varies by store in Yanaka Ginza.
Reference link: https://www.yanakaginza.com/%E8%B0%B7%E4%B8%AD%E3%81%8E%E3%82%93%E3%81%96%E5%BA%97%E8%88%97%E4%B8%80%E8%A6%A7/

WEB site

https://www.yanakaginza.com/

Digital Map