An unforgettable adventure right into the heart of Japanese history.

When it comes to the Japanese capital, you’ll have more than a few places to go and sights to see in terms of experiencing the marvels of modern architecture. But if you prefer the rustic charm of historic areas,you may find yourself with a limited number of places to visit in Tokyo—unfortunately, many of Tokyo’s historic neighborhoods were destroyed as a result of firebombing during World War II.

Thankfully, however, a few spots are still intact, and those neighborhoods retain the same old-fashioned charm today. If that sounds like your kind of place, one area that will surely spark your interest is the neighborhood of Yanaka. 

What is Yanaka Famous For?

Yanaka, located in Tokyo’s Taito Ward, is one of the most popular places to visit in Tokyo, because it is one of the very few areas in the city that survived the firebombing of World War II. Today, it stands as the most traditional district in Tokyo. The sector’s unwavering loyalty to its roots and past is what makes it famous, and the many things to do in Yanaka only add to its appeal.

What Can You Do in Yanaka?

Taking a trip to Yanaka feels like travelling back in time to the Tokyo of years gone by. With various vendors and stalls lined up on the streets, you can get a firsthand look at exclusive items such as traditional ink prints, classic jewelry, and finely-crafted pottery. You can even taste exquisite traditional Japanese cuisine without having to go to a fancy restaurant. 

You can also meet locals who are doing everything they can to preserve the neighborhood in its original state. Speaking to them for just a few minutes can help you understand more about Tokyo’s rich past, better than spending hours on a paid walking tour. Thanks to the efforts of the locals, the area retains the old-fashioned charm that made it famous and unarguably one of the best places to visit in Tokyo. 

Here’s a small list of things to do for curious travelers:

Rent a bicycle to get around easily

Go to the Asakura Museum of Sculpture

Try Shaved Ice at Himitsudo

Buy Senbei, Yanaka's premier souvenir

Visit Kayaba Coffee

Go for the Culture, Stay for the Architecture

While some of the most exciting things to do in Yanaka are related to its culture, the adventure goes way beyond traditional cuisine and music. As one of the most traditional places to visit in Tokyo, the neighborhood of Yanaka has ensured that it steers clear of modern buildings, and as a result, the area has protected its original essence and form. 

This means that you won’t find skyscrapers, modern electronic shops, or restaurants with charging stations in Yanaka. Instead, you’ll find smaller buildings, charming construction and renovation projects, and classical decorations in all their glory. If you are a fan of the complexity of older Japanese architecture, then a visit to Yanaka will not disappoint you. 

All in all, Yanaka has a lot to offer to any international tourist, or anybody who wants to enjoy and pay respects to Tokyo’s origins and history. If you fall under either category, then a trip to this charming neighborhood will be one of the best experiences you can have in Tokyo.

Editorial Department

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