🏮 A complete guide to Yanaka Ginza Shopping Street

—— The editor takes you to Tokyo's most nostalgic common people's stroll street

📍Where is Yanaka Ginza?

Yanaka Ginza Shopping Street is located in Taito Ward, Tokyo, near Nippori and Sendagi Stations. With over 60 shops, it stretches approximately 170 meters and exudes a rich Showa-era atmosphere.

My first time visiting Yanaka Ginza felt like stepping back in time to old Tokyo: the narrow alleys, the vintage wooden storefronts, the simple yet warm atmosphere, all evoke a sense of nostalgia. It lacks the bustle of Shibuya or the hustle and bustle of Shinjuku, but instead possesses a unique, down-to-earth charm that captivates.

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🐾 Why is Yanaka Ginza so popular?

Miraculously escaping heavy bombing during World War II, the Yanaka area retains much of its traditional architecture and atmosphere. The area boasts a unique walking area known as "Yanesen" (Yanaka, Nezu, and Sendagi), popular with both Japanese and international tourists.

✨ Charming Features

• Showa nostalgic atmosphere : many old shops and traditional buildings are preserved on the street.
• A haven for affordable food : fried snacks, grilled skewers, desserts, and more.
• Cat Street : You can see cat statues and cat merchandise everywhere, and you may even encounter real cats.
• Strong human touch : The bosses are friendly and enthusiastic, making people feel like they are living in the local area.

I think the charm of Yanaka Ginza lies in the fact that it is not a tourist attraction, but rather a "natural expression of ordinary people's daily life."

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🍢 Must-try food at Yanaka Ginza

Although the street is not long, there are so many delicious foods that it is difficult to choose.

🍡 Classic street food

• Croquettes (コロッケ) : The most famous one is the "Yanaka Specialty Croquettes", which are cheap and have a variety of flavors.
• Kushikatsu (Kushikatsu) : Crispy crust wrapped with juicy ingredients, best eaten on the go.
• Grilled chicken skewers (焼き鳥) : The aroma of charcoal fire is fragrant and is suitable for drinking or as a snack.
• Takoyaki and mochi : classic Japanese snacks, hot and super comforting.

🍵 Editor's personal recommendation

My favorite is the red bean mochi at the Old Shop Dessert Shop. It's soft, sweet, and perfect with a cup of matcha. There are also some coffee shops hidden in the alleys where you can sit down and soak up the relaxed atmosphere of the valley.

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🐱 Cat Paradise

Yanaka Ginza is known as " Cat Street " for the following reasons:

• There are cat statues, cat paintings, and cat goods everywhere on the street.
• Many stores sell cat-themed products, which drive cat lovers crazy.
• You can often see cats taking leisurely walks in the nearby residential areas.

As a cat lover, I absolutely love this place! Every time I visit Yanaka Ginza, I can't resist buying a few cat charms or postcards to take home.

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🎎 Shopping Highlights

In addition to delicious food, Yanaka Ginza also has many specialty shops:

• Traditional grocery store : sells Japanese daily necessities with a retro feel.
• Handicraft shop : wood carvings, pottery, and fabric works, suitable for buying souvenirs.
• Local supermarkets : You can see the local residents doing their daily shopping.

I particularly like the Showa-style shop, where each item feels like part of a story, transporting people back to the old days of Japan.

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🌅 Must-see attraction: Sunset Stairs

At the entrance to Yanaka Ginza, there's a long staircase known as the " Sunset Stairs ." This is a classic photo spot, especially at dusk , when the setting sun casts a shadow over the shopping streets, creating a scene as romantic as a scene from a Japanese drama.

The editor recommends that you come in the evening to capture this most healing moment.

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🚶♀️ Transportation

It is very convenient to get to Yanaka Ginza:

• JR Yamanote Line/Keihin-Tohoku Line : Get off at Nippori Station and walk about 5 minutes.
• Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line : Get off at Sendagi Station and walk about 5 minutes.

The editor recommends arranging a " Yanesen Sansaku Tour " from Nezu Shrine → Sendagi Alley → Yanaka Ginza → Ueno. The entire itinerary is full of culture and food!

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💡 Editor's Tips

✨ It’s most leisurely to come on weekday afternoons, when the crowds won’t be too crowded.
✨ If you want to take pictures of the sunset, remember to check the sunset time.
✨ Bring some small change so you can buy snacks at any time.
✨ For those who like taking photos, it is recommended to wear comfortable shoes, as the nearby alleys are also worth exploring.

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🌟 Editor's summary

Yanaka Ginza Shopping Street is a great place to experience Tokyo's nostalgic atmosphere, affordable local cuisine, and a vibrant atmosphere full of cats . While it's not as bustling as Shinjuku or Shibuya, it offers a sense of slow-paced bliss.

For me, Yanaka Ginza is like a time capsule , always finding new surprises. Whether you're looking for a snack, souvenirs, vintage photos, or simply a place to slow down, it's got it all.

Next time you're in Tokyo, why not take a stroll through Yanaka Ginza and experience the daily lives of ordinary people during the Showa era? 🎐