2018-02-14
Living in Kagurazaka: What is it Like for Foreigners?
- Advice
Tokyo has been one of the most visited cities for foreigners who are seeking a new journey and a change of pace. The hearts of its visitors are definitely enchanted with its beauty. One of the most sought after places in Tokyo is Kagurazaka.
Looking for a place that will really delight your taste buds with their mouth-watering menu? Kagurazaka’s plentiful cafes and restaurants are known to offer different types of foods ranging from traditional Japanese foods to Italian, French, and even different Asian cuisines.
Kagurazaka is perfect for shopping, leisure, and fresh sights! The district is also known to still have Geisha houses catch the attention of tourists and residents alike.
Kagurazaka – Tokyo’s Dizzying Array of Exciting Shops and Restaurants
The best choice to explore a place filled with bursting chic and modern shopping malls, bustling bazaars, a screenful of bona fide branded fashion clothing, bags, and shoes is Kagurazaka. Kagurazaka is not only a shopping district, but also a place for reasonable and delicious dining. With numerous places to visit, the foreigners will be endlessly entertained with walkable suburbs, tourist attractions, and historical architecture.
Access
- From Tokyo Station, you can walk 8 minutes to Otemachi Station. Ride Tozai Line (approx. 8 minutes and 4 stops) to Kagurazaka Station. (total approx. 16 minutes).
- From Shibuya Station, take the Hanzomon Line (approx. 12 minutes and 5 stops) up to Kudanshita Station. From Kudanshita Station, Take the Tozai line towards Nakano for 2 stops to arrive at Kagurazaka Station. (total approx. 18 minutes)
- From Shinjuku Station, take the Yamanote line to Takadanobaba Station with 2 stops. At Takadanobaba Station, transfer to the Tozai line and ride approx. 5 minutes for 2 stops to arrive at Kagurazaka station.(total approx. 15 minutes)
Famous Locations
1. The French Institute in Tokyo
Upon visiting the extremely aesthetically pleasing French Institute of Tokyo, you will feel as if you are not in Japan. While it is definitely not a place to visit to get a taste of Japanese culture, the institute can serve as a place for serenity; you can take a break from the busy streets of Tokyo and enjoy a new setting.
Inside the institute, there is a courtyard and a French library. For people who want to eat something other than Japanese food, you can try eating at “La Brasserie,” a French restaurant that serves various and delicious French dishes.
Access:
- Address: 15 Ichigaya Funagawaramachi, Shinjuku, Tokyo
- Directions: From JR Kagurazaka Station, take a 12 minute walk southeast.
2. Bishamonten Zenkokuji Temple
One of the most renowned places in Tokyo is the Bishamonten Zenkokuji Temple. Due to its architectural design and history, the temple is popular with the tourists who are on a quest for something historical and iconically Japanese.
Its name originally came from the god of fortune who wards off evil and was worshiped by Indians.The place is now a school for Buddhism to maintain and preserve its cultural significance. Tourists head here frequently for the temple’s nights market and street performances.
Access:
- Address: 5 Chome−36, Kagurazaka, Shinjuku, Tokyo
- Directions: From JR Kagurazaka Station, take a 6 minute walk southeast along Waseda Road.
3. Akagi Shrine
A Shrine with a modern Italian café called Akagi Café is the best place where you can enjoy the scenery and a delicious coffee at the same time. It is the perfect break to a tiring exploration and worth adding to anyone’s itinerary.
The Café has a light Scandinavian touch which captures guests who appreciate a stylish environment.
Access
- Address: Address: 1-10 Akagi Motomachi, Shinjuku, Tokyo
- Directions: From Kagurazaka station, walk 2 minutes north-east.
Why Foreigners live in Kagurazaka
Gourmet Paradise
Numerous food stalls, cafes, and modern restaurants are built along the many roads of Kagurazaka. The business for food and drinks is a hit for visiting foreigners and residents alike.
Aside from the other perks the area has to offer, many tourists are choosing to stay or move to Kagurazaka due to its countless restaurants and cafes that offer any kind of cuisine that you can imagine.
In specific, many French and Italian foreigners choose to settle in Kagurazaka to start their business venture when it comes to food and beverage.
Shop and Night Life
Kagurazaka is known for its historical past. During the Edo period (1603-1867) when old mansions and traditional buildings were built, the district was filled with entertainment and nightlife.
Tradesmen and even ministers are visiting the alleys of Kagurazaka to enjoy and have a good time. Kagurazaka geishas are also known to be present even today.
Shops for clothing, shoes, and gently used clothing is also one of the many reasons why foreigners are attracted to Kagurazaka. Shopping centers here are accessible and very convenient to everyone.
Foreigner-friendly Residential Community
Known as the “Little Paris” of Tokyo, Kagurazaka is an excellent environment for foreigners. Most foreigners easily adjust with the help of the friendly and accommodating neighbors. The sloped paths and townscape is also very eccentric while also catering to a traditional atmosphere.
Although it is known as a French town in the heart of Shinjuku, Kagurazaka can be a place for every foreigner, especially for those who want to enjoy the tastes and feelings of Europe.
Conclusion:
As part of the Geisha District in Tokyo and one of the most visited areas for its historical background, Kagurazaka is considered a lively and bright commercial district. The alleys are filled with endless shops, café, and izakayas.
Kagurazaka does have an amazing history, but its beauty is not limited to just its past. Up until this day, this area is full of mesmerizing spots, some of which feature a glimpse of diverse cultures across from across the globe.
Whatever your nationality is, Kagurazaka is surely a place in Tokyo that you should consider making your home.
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