Yanaka Ginza is a 170m shopping street in the Yanaka old-town district north of Ueno — sixty independent shops in classic wooden shopfronts, mostly food and household goods, almost untouched since the Showa period. The area survived WWII bombing largely intact and the post-war redevelopment never reached it; today it’s the closest you’ll get to walking 1950s Tokyo.
What to Expect
Walk down Yuyake Dandan (Sunset Steps) at the south entrance — sixteen stone steps that frame the shopping street as a sunset photo. The street itself runs west-east for 170m. Try menchi-katsu (deep-fried minced beef cutlets, ¥300, sold from Niku no Suzuki); taiyaki (fish-shaped pastries with sweet bean paste); and croquettes from the shops with the longest queues. Several cat motifs scattered along the street — Yanaka has been called Tokyo’s cat town since the Edo period, and the area shelters dozens of stray cats.
Allow 60 minutes for the full walk + snacks. Most shops cash-only.
How to Get There
Getting There
- 1Take JR Yamanote Line → Nippori Station
- 2Walk west to Yuyake Dandan steps → Yanaka Ginza south entrance
- 1Take JR Yamanote Line (1 stop) → Nippori Station
- 2Walk west to Yuyake Dandan → Yanaka Ginza south entrance
Tips
- Sunset is the photo. Yuyake Dandan steps face west; arrive 30 min before sunset.
- Menchi-katsu and croquettes are the food story. Try at multiple stalls — locals stop in for the same things every day.
- Combine with Nezu Shrine. 15 min walk south to Nezu Shrine; full half-day in Yanaka old town.
- Cat shrines and statues. Spot the seven cat-themed shops along the street; locals call this Tokyo’s cat capital.
FAQ
How long do I need at Yanaka Ginza?
60 minutes for the street + snacks. Half a day for full Yanaka old town walking (Yanaka Cemetery, Nezu Shrine, side streets).
Are there really cats?
Yes — Yanaka has long sheltered stray cats and the area shops have adopted cat aesthetics. You’ll typically see 3–5 cats per visit, plus dozens of cat ornaments and shop signs.
Best food to try?
Menchi-katsu (deep-fried minced beef) at Niku no Suzuki, taiyaki at the queue stall, croquettes at any of the front shops. ¥1,500 covers a full snack tour.
