Yanaka Ginza is a charming district in Tokyo that still preserves its traditional Japanese atmosphere and culture. Nestled in the Taito District, this area is often referred to as Tokyo's "old district," boasting a rich history and unique character. Yanaka Ginza's narrow streets, lined with quaint shops and inviting eateries, draw both tourists and locals who come to experience its warm, nostalgic ambiance. In this feature, we'll take you on a journey through this fascinating town, offering a deeper understanding of what makes Yanaka Ginza so special.
- Getting There
- Lovingly Known as Cat Town
- Handmade Goods
- Niku no Suzuki an Old Butcher's Shop
- Yanaka Shippoya
- Cannele de Papin
- Yanaka Beer Hall
- Nezu Shrine
Getting There
Getting to Yanaka Ginza is simple and convenient, with several accessible routes:
1. Take the JR Yamanote Line, get off at Nippori Station, and enjoy a 5-10 minute walk.
2. Take the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line, get off at Sendagi Station, and walk for 5 minutes.
Lovingly Known as Cat Town
Yanaka, often referred to as "Cat Town," is a peaceful area known for its abundance of feline residents. As you wander through its quiet streets, you'll encounter numerous cats, each well-cared for and thriving in this community. These cats aren't strays; they're part of the town's fabric, evident from their healthy appearances. For cat lovers, Yanaka is a must-visit, offering a unique experience that's hard to find elsewhere.
Handmade Goods
This town's rich history is reflected in its many traditional shops, where you'll find a variety of handcrafted and vintage items. Each piece is a work of art, embodying Japan's meticulous craftsmanship.
Whether you're searching for handkerchiefs, cloth bags, rugs, or home decor, Yanaka's fabric shops offer a wide selection of original items, each with its own story passed down through generations. Though some shops may have a more international flair, they've seamlessly blended foreign influences with Japanese tradition to create unique products.
Many of these stores also embrace the town's feline theme, incorporating cat motifs into their merchandise—from bowls and cups to stuffed animals and other decorations. As you explore Yanaka's shops, you'll undoubtedly feel the charm of this "Cat Town," where the love for cats is woven into the very fabric of the community.
Niku no Suzuki, an Old Butcher's Shop
Niku no Suzuki is a long-established shop in the heart of Yanaka Ginza, known for its rich history and exceptional offerings. Founded in 1933, this beloved establishment is now managed by the third generation of the founding family. The star of the menu is their famous menchi katsu—a breaded and fried meat patty that's a must-try when strolling through Yanaka. Made from a blend of 100% high-quality beef, combining tender Japanese shoulder cuts with flavorful Australian thigh meat, this menchi katsu is crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with savory goodness.
As you take a bite, you'll immediately be greeted by the rich, juicy flavor of premium beef. But the shop's offerings don't stop there—Niku no Suzuki also serves a variety of other fillings, including pork, mushrooms, and eggplant, making it a delicious option for vegetarians and non-beef eaters alike. Whether you're a meat lover or prefer a plant-based option, Niku no Suzuki has something to satisfy your taste buds.
Details
Opening hours: 10:30-18:00 (Closed Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday)
Google map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/D24abtzjAPHZEGVh7
Yanaka Shippoya
Yanaka Shippoya is a charming donut shop that's famous for its unique cat tail-shaped treats, making it a beloved spot among both tourists and locals. These adorable snacks perfectly capture the essence of Yanaka, the "Cat Town," blending delicious flavors with a playful design that pays homage to the town's feline residents. Whether you're snapping a photo for your social media or indulging in a sweet treat, these donuts are a delightful way to experience Yanaka's quirky charm.
Each donut is crafted to resemble a real cat's tail, complete with intricate patterns like stripes, spots, and varying shades of brown and black. The flavor names add an extra layer of fun, as they're inspired by common cat names in Japan, such as Otome (cream flavor), Nana (banana cream), Chokomaru (chocolate cream), and Buchi (chocolate chip). It’s a fun experience to see if you can find a donut named after a cat that matches your own! Whether you're a cat lover or just a fan of cute and tasty snacks, Yanaka Shippoya is a must-visit spot in this feline-friendly neighborhood.
Details
Opening hours: 10:30-18:00 (Closed Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday)
Google map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/D24abtzjAPHZEGVh7
Cannele de Papin
Cannele de Papin specializes in canelés, a classic French dessert made from a blend of flour, sugar, eggs, milk, and vanilla. These little treats are known for their contrast between a soft, custardy interior and a caramelized, crispy exterior. The canelés at Cannele de Papin come in a variety of flavors, offering something for every palate. The shop itself has a charming atmosphere, making it a perfect spot to relax with a coffee, indulge in some sweets, and snap a few photos.
As part of a chain that also includes a French restaurant, the canelés here stay true to their roots, offering an authentic, not-too-sweet taste that’s characteristic of traditional French desserts. They pair wonderfully with both coffee and wine. With a rotating selection of seasonal flavors, there’s always something new to try. If you’re a fan of French pastries or simply curious, Cannele de Papin is the perfect place to savor authentic, French-style canelés in a cozy setting.
Details
Opening hours: 11:00-19:00 (Closed Monday)
Google map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/67NRvm9qkPgFEhZc7
Yanaka Beer Hall
Yanaka Beer Hall is nestled in a historic wooden building, offering a cozy and traditional Japanese atmosphere. The beer hall boasts an impressive menu featuring a wide variety of beers, including both local and craft brews produced in Japan. One of the highlights is the Yanaka Ale, known for its distinctive flavor and aroma, making it a must-try for beer enthusiasts.
The venue offers a selection of five different craft beers, allowing you to savor a range of unique tastes. For those who want to sample a bit of everything, there's even a tasting set that includes four of the most popular beers on the menu. Whether you're a seasoned beer lover or just looking to enjoy a refreshing drink in a traditional setting, Yanaka Beer Hall is the perfect spot to experience craft beer that you won't find anywhere else.
Details
Opening hours: 11:00-20:00 (Closed Monday)
Google map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/QoqpYEaa3QxFm6qK6
Nezu Shrine
In addition to its charming restaurants, cafes, and souvenir shops, Yanaka is also home to Nezu Shrine, a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Japanese culture and history. With over 1,900 years of history, Nezu Shrine is one of Tokyo's oldest and most significant shrines.
Located in the Bunkyo district, Nezu Shrine is recognized as one of the "Ten Important Shrines of Tokyo" and is renowned for its stunning architecture and serene gardens.
One of the shrine's most iconic features is the row of vibrant red torii gates that gracefully line the pathway leading to the main shrine, creating a picturesque and unique sight. The shrine is especially famous for its annual Azalea Festival, held from the end of April to the beginning of May, when the gardens are awash with the vivid colors of blooming azaleas.
The main shrine building, constructed in 1706 during the Edo period, remains in its original form and is registered as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. Nezu Shrine offers a tranquil escape and a deep connection to Japan's rich heritage, making it an essential stop for visitors to Tokyo, particularly those with an interest in history, art, and traditional culture. Don’t miss the chance to admire the beautiful azaleas in the spring while exploring this historic gem.
Details
Opening hours: 6:00-17:00
Google map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/kUD2z8XLWydDwNKm9
Hopefully, this feature has given you a deeper appreciation for the charm of the Yanaka area. On your next trip to Japan, be sure to stop by and take a stroll through this delightful and picturesque cat town.
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