Yanaka

The basics

Along with a dense concentration of temples, the district is home to Yanaka Ginza, a bustling shopping street that runs through its center and is lined with many of the same vendors—selling everything from groceries to toys and clothing—who have operated there for many years. Stroll through the neighborhood's backstreets to visit galleries, cafés, and craft stores selling Japanese pottery, ink prints, textiles, jewelry, and stationery. Tranquil paths wind through the vast Yanaka Cemetery, where sakura trees shade some 7,000 graves.

One of the best ways to explore Yanaka is with a guided tour. Visiting with a guide offers deeper insights into the district’s cultures and traditions than you’d be able to find by yourself—especially if you don’t speak Japanese.

Things to know before you go

• Yanaka offers an interesting contrast to ultra-modern, metropolitan Tokyo.

• The district is a great place to buy small snacks—and prices are lower than elsewhere in Tokyo.

• The Yanesen Tourist Information Center offers information about Yanaka, as well as classes in ink painting, calligraphy, and more, aimed at international tourists.

How to get there

Yanaka Ginza is a 5-to-10-minute walk west of Nippori Station, which is served by the JR Yamanote Line, the JR Keihin-Tohoku Line, and the Keisei Line. The area is a 20-minute walk north of Ueno Park, which is a good add-on to a visit.

When to get there

Most shops along Yanaka Ginza start opening up in the late morning. The many sakura trees surrounding the cemetery make it a great location to view blooming cherry blossoms in the spring.

Art in a bathhouse

Housed in a 200-year-old former bathhouse, SCAI The Bathhouse is one of Tokyo’s best contemporary art galleries. The gallery hosts rotating exhibitions of work by post-war Japanese and international artists. It’s worth a visit for the minimal, high-ceilinged building alone, which retains the bath's original features, such as tiles and numbered towel lockers.

Ways to explore

Along with a dense concentration of temples, the district is home to Yanaka Ginza, a bustling shopping street lined with vendors selling everything from groceries to toys and clothing. Stroll through the neighborhood's backstreets to visit galleries, cafés, and craft stores selling Japanese pottery, textiles, jewelry, and stationery. Tranquil paths wind through the vast Yanaka Cemetery, where cherry trees shade some 7,000 graves.

One of the best ways to explore Yanaka is on a guided tour. Expect to gain insights into the district’s cultures and traditions that you wouldn't be able to find by yourself—especially if you don’t speak Japanese.

Accessibility

Wheelchair users will find it easiest to access Yanaka Ginza from Sendagi Station, as the road is less hilly than other approaches. A wheelchair is available to borrow at the cemetery.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Reusable shopping bags for souvenir purchases.

What to wear

Comfortable shoes, light jacket, small bag

Not allowed

Walking and eating is generally frowned upon in Japan, so find somewhere to sit if you’re snacking on the go.

Amenities

Find restrooms in the nearby train stations, or use the facilities at the restaurants you patronize.

Address

Yanaka is just north of central Tokyo. Like most of the rest of Tokyo, it’s best to reach Yanaka by public transportation. It’s also a 20-minute walk north of Ueno Park, which is a good add-on to a visit.

Driving

Driving in central Tokyo isn’t recommended, as parking fees and road tolls can add up. If you must drive, head up to Ueno Park and navigate from there using a GPS app. You’ll find paid parking lots around Nippori Station and Yanaka Ginza.

Public transportation

Yanaka Ginza is a 5–10-minute walk west of Nippori Station, which is served by the JR Yamanote Line, the JR Keihin-Tohoku Line, and the Keisei Line. Sendagi Station (Tokyo Metro) is also close.

Best times to visit

Most shops along Yanaka Ginza open up in the late morning. Temples are typically open from around 9am until late afternoon or evening, and the cemetery is open similar hours.

Best days to visit

The shopping areas (and train station) are particularly busy on weekends, so visit midweek if you can.

Best months to visit

The many cherry trees surrounding the cemetery make it a great location to view blooming cherry blossoms in the spring (March–April).

Special events

Visit in mid-October for Yanaka Matsuri, a traditional community festival with dancing, food, and games.