【Walking in Japan】From Nippori to Yanaka: A Journey Through Historic Tokyo

Discovering the Heart of Old Tokyo: A Walk Through Nippori and Yanaka-Ginza

Tokyo, a city known for its towering skyscrapers and neon lights, also harbors pockets of tranquility and history. The neighborhoods of Nippori and Yanaka-Ginza offer a rare glimpse into the city's Edo-period past, with narrow streets, traditional wooden houses, and historic temples that have survived natural disasters and wars.

Starting from Nippori Station, the journey leads you through quiet alleys where the pace of life slows down. Yanaka-Ginza, a shopping street that retains its Showa-era charm, is lined with family-run shops selling everything from handmade crafts to local delicacies.

A visit to Tennoji Temple reveals a serene garden and a bronze Buddha statue dating back to 1690 . Nearby, Yanaka Cemetery offers a peaceful stroll among cherry blossom trees and historic graves, including that of the last shogun, Tokugawa Yoshinobu .

Nezu Shrine, with its tunnel of vermilion torii gates, provides a picturesque end to the walk . The shrine's lush surroundings and traditional architecture encapsulate the enduring spirit of old Tokyo.

This walk through Nippori and Yanaka-Ginza is more than a journey through streets; it's a journey through time, offering insights into the city's rich cultural tapestry.