Ueno, Yanaka, Nezu and Sendagi Heritage Walk

Overview

See the old-school side of Tokyo on this walking tour of the retro neighborhoods of Ueno, Yanaka, Nezu and Sendagi.

Highlights

Key Information

Description

Located in the former grounds of the historic Kanei-ji temple, the spacious Ueno Park is a favourite spot for Tokyoites during the cherry blossom season. Although a destination in itself, the area is also home to a wealth of Japanese arts and culture. Within a small vicinity are some of Japan's best museums, such as Tokyo National Museum, National Science Museum and National Museum of Western Art. Even though it is close to the center of Tokyo and the skyscrapers of the central business district, you can still get a sense of the area's rich history in the atmospheric backstreets of Yanaka and it’s lively shopping street, Yanaka Ginza. Here you can sample freshly made street food or enjoy a drink with locals at a cozy izakaya (Japanese style pub). As the Tokugawa family temple, Kanei-ji was the spiritual center of old Tokyo, and the surrounding area boasts many beautifully kept temples and shrines. It is also possible to see good examples of traditional buildings and architecture inside this area. You can find vendors specializing in traditional art supplies in Yanaka, too. One of the most popular is Isetatsu, a washi (Japanese handmade paper) supplier. Enjoy a change of pace from the hustle and bustle of the metropolis on a leisurely stroll around Yanaka, while watching locals go about their daily lives.