Nippori, located in Tokyo’s Arakawa Ward, is a town that retains a strong sense of old Japan. It is a favorite destination for many visitors who enjoy its many tourist attractions, delicious food, and unique cultural experiences.
Sightseeing Spots
Yanaka Ginza Shopping Street One of the highlights of Nippori, Yanaka Ginza Shopping Street is a retro shopping street where visitors can feel the atmosphere of the Showa period. Here you will find many small eateries offering fresh foods, handmade souvenirs, and local delicacies. The Yanaka Ginza croquettes are especially excellent and popular among many tourists.
Sendagi/Yanaka Area The Sendagi/Yanaka area, located within walking distance from Nippori, is dotted with old temples and shrines. There are many historical buildings, and you can feel the traditional Japanese culture while strolling around. Especially, “Yuyake-dandan” is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike because of its beautiful sunset.
Gourmet
There are many places to enjoy delicious food in Nippori. The local ramen restaurant “Izumiya” is well known for its rich tonkotsu (pork bone) ramen. Also, “Nippori Cafe” offers delicious coffee and desserts in a relaxed atmosphere.
Culture and Events
Various festivals and events are held throughout the year in Nippori. In particular, the “Nippori Summer Festival” attracts a large number of people, who enjoy traditional dances and stalls. The “Nippori Art Gallery” exhibits works by local artists and is a great opportunity to experience art.
Transportation Access
Access to Nippori is very convenient: the JR Yamanote, Keihin Tohoku, Joban, and Keisei lines are available, providing easy access from central Tokyo. Major tourist attractions are within walking distance from Nippori Station, so walking is recommended.
Recommended Spending Time
To enjoy a full day in Nippori, first have breakfast at Yanaka Ginza shopping street, then stroll around Sendagi and Yanaka area. For lunch, we recommend a meal at a local ramen restaurant, and in the afternoon, plan to enjoy visiting art galleries and temples. In the evening, enjoy a relaxing moment while watching the beautiful sunset at “Yuyake Dandan.
Recommended Accommodations
There are several lodging facilities in the Nippori area. Nippori Hotel” offers clean rooms at reasonable prices and is an ideal base for sightseeing. We also recommend “Nippori Onsen Hotel” where you can enjoy hot spring baths.
Nippori: A town with a good old Japanese scene
Nippori in Tokyo’s Arakawa Ward is a charming town where history and modernity are in harmony. With many attractions such as the Yanaka Ginza Shopping Street and the Sendagi/Yanaka area, there is something new to discover every time you visit.
Yanaka Ginza Shopping Street
The first place to visit is Yanaka Ginza Shopping Street. This shopping district, with its Showa-era atmosphere, is lined with small eateries and souvenir stores. In particular, the Yanaka Ginza croquette is a must-try. The hot and crispy croquettes are loved by locals and tourists alike. In the evening, the shopping street is lit up, creating a fantastic atmosphere.
Sendagi/Yanaka Area
The Sendagi/Yanaka area is the next area to visit. There are numerous temples and shrines scattered throughout the area, and you can enjoy a quiet and tranquil stroll. The “Yuyake-dandan” in particular is a spot where, as the name suggests, the sunset is beautiful. Climbing the stairs and watching the sunset will make you forget the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Gourmet
Nippori is also full of excellent gourmet spots. At “Izumiya,” a local ramen restaurant with a good reputation, you can enjoy rich tonkotsu (pork bone) ramen. You can also enjoy delicious coffee and sweets in a relaxed atmosphere at the Nippori Café. The homemade cakes, in particular, are unforgettable once you try them.
Culture and Events
Various festivals and events are held throughout the year in Nippori. For example, the “Nippori Summer Festival” offers a great opportunity to get in touch with local people through traditional dances and stalls. Also, the “Nippori Art Gallery” exhibits works by local artists, offering a rare opportunity to experience art.
Transportation Access
Access to Nippori is very convenient; the JR Yamanote Line, Keihin Tohoku Line, Joban Line, and Keisei Line are all available, providing easy access from central Tokyo. Major tourist attractions are within walking distance from Nippori Station, making it easy to explore the area.
Recommended Spending Time
To enjoy Nippori on a day trip, we recommend having breakfast in the morning at Yanaka Ginza shopping street and then exploring Sendagi and Yanaka area. A good plan is to eat at a ramen restaurant for lunch and enjoy visiting art galleries and temples in the afternoon. In the evening, relax and enjoy the beautiful sunset at “Yuyake Dandan”.
History of Nippori
Pre-Edo Period Origins
It is said that Nippori got its name from the meaning of “so beautiful that the villagers want to stay even after nightfall. Originally, it was a small farming village with rich nature and peaceful life.
Development in the Edo Period
In the Edo period (1603-1867), Nippori began to develop not only as a farming area but also as a town of artisans. The textile industry was particularly active, with local people producing textiles and supplying them to people living in Edo (present-day Tokyo). Nippori in this period was one of the most important areas supporting the lives of Edo commoners.
Changes in the Meiji Era
In the Meiji era (1868-1912), Nippori underwent further transformation with the opening of the railroad in 1872 and the establishment of Nippori Station, which greatly improved transportation accessibility. As a result, Nippori rapidly developed from a farming village to an industrial area, with many factories lining the streets. The textile industry was particularly prosperous, attracting many workers.
Taisho and Showa Periods
From the Taisho era (1912-1926) to the early Showa era (1926-1989), Nippori continued to grow as a part of Tokyo. Along with the development of industry, residential areas increased and the town became home to many people. Despite the effects of the Great Kanto Earthquake and World War II, Nippori recovered and strengthened its role as a commercial district.
Modern Nippori
Modern Nippori is known for its diverse attractions. While many historical buildings remain, modern commercial facilities and restaurants are also abundant, blending old and new charms. The Yanaka Ginza shopping district in particular, while retaining the retro atmosphere of the Showa period, is lined with many stores that meet modern needs, and is loved by tourists and locals alike.
Furthermore, Nippori is home to many cultural facilities and art galleries, making it a center for local culture and art. Various events and festivals held throughout the year are another element of the community’s vitality.
An attractive tourist spot where history and modernity coexist
Nippori, located in Tokyo’s Arakawa Ward, is known as a town that retains the atmosphere of old Japan. Here, you can enjoy historical buildings, cultural facilities, and beautiful nature, while also enjoying modern gourmet food and shopping. When visiting Nippori, be sure to check out the following spots.
Yanaka Ginza Shopping Street
One of Nippori’s most popular tourist spots is Yanaka Ginza Shopping Street. This shopping street retains a strong Showa-era atmosphere, with its retro storefronts being a major attraction. It is lined with small eateries and cafes loved by locals, as well as stores selling handmade souvenirs. Especially recommended is the Yanaka Ginza Croquette. The crispy batter is filled with juicy ingredients, and once you try it, you will never forget the taste. In the evening, the shopping street is lit up, creating a fantastic atmosphere.
Yuyake Dan Dan
Located near Yanaka Ginza Shopping Arcade, “Yuyake Dandan” is a spot where, as the name suggests, the sunset is beautiful. Ascending the stairs, there is a point from which one can enjoy a panoramic view of the Tokyo cityscape, which attracts many people, especially in the evening. The sunset seen here is sure to soothe and calm your mind after the fatigue of daily life.
Asakura Sculpture Museum
The Asakura Sculpture Museum, where sculptor Fumio Asakura’s works are on display, is a must-see for those interested in art. The museum exhibits a wide variety of sculptures, from his masterpieces to works created in his daily life. Visitors can also tour the studio and residence that Fumio Asakura actually used, and catch a glimpse of his creative process and his life. A beautiful Japanese garden is also located here, where visitors can enjoy the scenery of the four seasons.
Yanaka Cemetery
Yanaka Cemetery, with its historical background, is another place to visit. Within its vast grounds are the gravesites of many famous people, and visitors can learn about Japanese history and culture. Especially in spring, visitors can stroll among the beautifully blooming cherry trees. In the quiet and serene atmosphere, strolling while thinking about history is a pleasant experience.
Nippori Textile Street
For those who enjoy shopping, the Nippori Textile Town is a great place to visit. Here, you can find a variety of fabrics and handicrafts. It is the perfect place for those who like to be creative, especially with a wide variety of materials for making handmade clothes and accessories. You will find unique fabrics, buttons with designs, and other items that are fun to look at.
Yanaka Button Shop
As the name suggests, Yanaka Button Shop specializes in buttons. The store is crammed with uniquely designed buttons, and you can find the perfect accessory or accent for your clothing. It is a fun time to look for your favorite buttons in the retro atmosphere of the store.
A Treasure Trove of Delicious Food
Menya Musashi
If you want to enjoy ramen in Nippori, the first place you should visit is Menya Musashi. Known for its rich pork bone soup, this restaurant is loved by many ramen lovers. One bite of the soup will fill your mouth with its rich and delicious flavor, warming both your body and soul. The pork chashu (pork cutlet) topping is especially tender and goes especially well with the soup.
Ginza Ichiyanagi
Next, we recommend Ginza Ichiyanagi. Here, you can enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine. Dishes using fresh seasonal ingredients are beautiful to the eye and exquisite in taste. Particularly recommended is the lunchtime set meal menu. The well-balanced menu includes grilled fish, simmered dishes, and small bowls of cooked food, allowing you to experience the four seasons in Japan. In the evening, you can also enjoy a sumptuous dinner of sushi and tempura.
Nippori Kitchen Car
One thing you should not miss when visiting Nippori is the street food provided by the kitchen cars. These kitchen cars, which are easy to stop by, make it easy to enjoy a delicious meal. For example, “Taco Tommy” offers authentic Mexican food, and their juicy tacos and burritos are popular. Also, at the “Gourmet Burger Kitchen Car,” visitors can enjoy hearty burgers made with thick patties and fresh vegetables. It is a great way to enjoy a quick yet satisfying meal.
Korean Cuisine Dongko
For those who prefer ethnic cuisine, we recommend Korean Cuisine Dongko. At this restaurant, you can enjoy authentic Korean cuisine, with bibimbap and barbecued meat being particularly popular. The bibimbap is a well-balanced dish of colorful vegetables and meat, accented with a sweet and spicy gochujang sauce. The yakiniku is juicy meat marinated in a special sauce and grilled to perfection. The restaurant’s at-home atmosphere makes for an enjoyable dining experience with friends and family.
Cafe Matias
Last but not least is Café Mathias, where you can spend a relaxing time in a calm atmosphere. At this cafe, you can enjoy homemade sweets along with delicious coffee. Especially recommended is the homemade cheesecake. The rich and creamy cheesecake has an unforgettable taste. The store also offers a wide selection of teas, making it a perfect place for tea time. Enjoy a relaxing moment amidst the calm interior and soothing music.
A Guide to Recommended Spots
Nippori is a charming area located in Tokyo’s Arakawa Ward, where you can enjoy a diverse blend of historical and modern scenery. It is especially rich in Instagram-worthy spots, making it a perfect photo location for photography enthusiasts. Here we introduce some of the most Instagram-worthy spots in Nippori.
Streetscape around Nippori Station
The first thing to note is the streetscape around Nippori Station. In this area, you will find cobblestone streets with a good old Japanese atmosphere and colorful signboards. Especially at dusk, the entire town is enveloped in warm light, creating a nostalgic scene. As you stroll along, you are sure to encounter scenes that will make you want to take a camera.
Ukiyo Koji Shopping Street
Next, we will introduce you to the Ukiyo Koji Shopping Street. This shopping street is lined with old-fashioned stores and cafes, offering a retro atmosphere. The wooden buildings, signboards, and lanterns hanging from the eaves make the area look as if it has slipped back in time. The bustling atmosphere, especially on weekends, attracts many tourists, which adds to the Instagrammability of the area. It is also recommended to take pictures while holding sweets and drinks purchased at local stores.
Nippori Sake Brewery Street
Nippori Sake Brewery Street is an area lined with historical sake breweries and restaurants where you can take pictures while enjoying a delicious meal. The old sake brewery buildings are especially attractive with their stately atmosphere and beautiful wood grain. With seasonal decorations and lights, this is a great place to take pictures day and night. It is a perfect place to enjoy a good time with friends and family while savoring local cuisine and taking commemorative photos.
Nippori Tenjinsha Shrine
Nippori Tenjinsha is an Instagram-worthy spot for its beautiful shrine grounds and seasonal scenery. With cherry blossoms in full bloom in the spring and colorful autumn leaves in the fall, visitors can take pictures with the beauty of nature in each season as a backdrop. The shrine’s uniquely austere atmosphere adds depth to the photos, making it a picturesque spot no matter what angle you choose to shoot from. In particular, the moment when visitors pass through the torii gate and photos with the main shrine building in the background are popular with many people.
Yanaka Ginza Shopping Street
Lastly, we will introduce the Yanaka Ginza Shopping Street. This shopping street is a place where the retro atmosphere of the Showa period (1926-1989) remains, and is loved by many tourists. Especially in the evening, the entire shopping street is wrapped in soft lights, creating a fantastic atmosphere. Standing at the entrance of the shopping street, you will be tempted to take pictures of the lively people and small stores that line the street. Or, simply grab a delicious local sweet or light snack and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere while taking pictures.
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