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Kagurazaka neighbourhood, Tokyo

, Shinjuku City, Tokyo

Description

Kagurazaka is a neighbourhood of central Tokyo known for its numerous traditional craft and souvenir shops, cafés, and restaurants. Many of those are ryotei half hidden in the back streets but there are also several French and other western restaurants due to the large number of expat residents. Historically, it was a prominent geisha entertainment district. The Akagi Shrine is located there.

Access & Transport

The neighbourhood is 1.5km northwest of the Imperial Palace, next to the Iidabashi station (train + N, T, Y lines). The Kagurazaka station (T) and Ushigome-kagurazaka (E) are also practical options.

Instructions & Recommendations

We suggest combining a visit to the Yasukini Shrine, a 15mins' walk away, with an evening exploration of the neighbourhood + dinner.

Meta review

A regular feature in travel magazines, online reviewers describe it as a great place to stroll, especially the back-alleys with their historical charm, away from the hustle and bustle of Shinjuku and modern-day Tokyo. Visitors enjoy the variety of traditional shops there but it is the restaurants, both French and Japanese, that are the real draw. Akagi Shrine also gets positive feedback for its modern look.

Environmental & Social

Urban setting with little green spaces. Preserves some architectural and cultural aspects of the city.

Conclusion

Kagurazaka is perhaps the closest Tokyo gets to Kyoto's Gion district; it is also a fantastic place for foodies and those just happy to explore neighbourhoods that have partially preserved some of their traditional features. Not a priority but deserves to be included for tourists with more than 3 days in the city.

Key positive

Many good restaurants

Interesting maze of back-alleys

Key negative

No unmissable monument or definite tourist highlight

Suitability

No restrictions

About this Rating

TYPE

Desktop

RESEARCHED IN

August 2024

PROVIDER

Koreval

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit

av. transport time:0h 25m

est. visit time:1h 20m

Sunlight based

Sunrise / early morningNo

MorningOk

Lunch timeOk

AfternoonOk

Sunset / eveningOk

Night – bef. midnightOk

Night – aft. midnightNo

Pricing
Free

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