Yanaka Ginza

YANAKA 

    ~ A temple town with rich history

Yanaka is known as old-town district, or Shitamachi in Japanese, in Taito ward in Tokyo.  It is a great place to experience old and nostalgic Tokyo. It has become popular among young people and foreign visitors to Japan in recent years. 

Yanaka is rich in history and offers a glimpse into the traditional Japanese streetscapes.  You will find the old houses have been converted into cafes and galleries selling stylish products.

Yanaka Ginza is the liveliest part of the district where there are delicious snacks, mince croquette.  There are a number of small locally owned shops, cafes and small bars.  

There's a famous spot, "Yuyake Dandan" which is sloped stairs at the approach to the shopping street.  Because of the stairs, the street closed to all vehicles. It is specially lovely around sunset.  

It is about 5 mins walk from JR Nippori Station, and a walking distance from Ueno.

Yanaka Reien (Yanaka Cemetery) is one of the most famous graveyards in Tokyo.  You will see so many temples and graveyards in the area. 

Although Yanaka Reien is a cemetary, its main path is lined with cherry trees.  When I went there, the cherry blossom season was unfortunately   over.  When the cherry trees are blooming in spring time, it is a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing.

It is a good place for shopping especially for traditional handicrafts. It is a nice spot to spend a couple of nostalgic hours in Tokyo.