Local Secret · Yanaka
Yanaka Ginza 谷中銀座商店街
A 170 m shotengai of family-run snack stands and old shops descending from the 'Yuyake Dandan' sunset steps: the heart of old-Tokyo Yanesen.
HoursShops ~10:00–19:00
ClosedSome shops closed Monday
PriceFree
Getting thereNippori Station (JR), West Exit, 5 min; Sendagi (Chiyoda) 5 min
Time needed1 hour
Best timeLate afternoon
Address3-13 Yanaka, Taito City, Tokyo
Websiteyanakaginza.com
About
Yanaka Ginza is a slice of Showa downtown life that survived the war's bombings: around 60 shops selling menchi-katsu, croquettes, senbei, pickles, tea and cat-themed sweets. The street begins at the top with 'Yuyake Dandan', a staircase known for its sunsets and resident cats. Locals still do their daily shopping here, and you're encouraged to eat at the stands' benches (eating while walking is discouraged on the street itself).
Highlights
- Yuyake Dandan steps at sunset
- Menchi-katsu and croquettes fresh from the fryer
- Cat-themed snacks and wooden cat statues on rooftops
- Family shops trading for generations
Tips
- Arrive by 15:00, many shops close around 18:00
- Eat at the shop's bench, not while walking
- Continue to Yanaka Cemetery and Nezu Shrine on foot
Open in Google Maps · Info checked 2026-10-09
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