Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Amazake Yokocho is the nickname for a historic shopping street in Ningyocho, Nihonbashi, Chuo Ward, Tokyo. It is part of the Ningyocho area's streetscape dating back to the Edo period, and was once lined with shops selling amazake (sweet sake), hence the name "Amazake Yokocho." Even today, traditional Japanese sweet shops, long-established grocery stores, restaurants, artisan shops and more remain, making it a charming strolling spot with a downtown atmosphere and a mix of old and new.
Highlights
- Long-established Japanese sweets and dessert shops: There are shops selling seasonal Japanese sweets, including ningyo-yaki and amazake. You can enjoy choosing souvenirs while admiring the charming storefronts.
- Restaurants and Izakayas: There are many traditional restaurants serving set meals, small Izakayas, and Japanese food, so you won't have any trouble finding something to eat for lunch or dinner.
- Downtown: Narrow alleys, Japanese-style signs, and traditional storefronts remain. Perfect for taking photos.
- Seasonal events: During local festivals and events, the number of stalls and crowds increases, creating a lively atmosphere (the dates change each year).
- Artisan shops and specialty stores: Another attraction is the abundance of traditional craft and specialty stores selling knives, seals, Japanese goods, and more.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
Location: Around Nihonbashi Ningyocho, Chuo Ward, Tokyo (location may vary depending on the street as it is an alley)
- Nearest station: Ningyocho Station (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line, Toei Asakusa Line), orWithin walking distance from Ningyocho Station, Nihonbashi Station, and Suitengumae Station in the Ningyocho areaIt is especially conveniently located just a few minutes walk from Ningyocho Station.
- From various parts of Tokyo: Easily accessible by subway from Tokyo Station or Nihonbashi. If you are coming by car, please use the nearby paid parking lots (public transportation is recommended as there are few parking spaces and the roads are narrow).
- Bus: Metropolitan bus routes pass through the area, but please check for bus stops near your destination.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- A quick stroll: 30-45 minutes (enough to walk around the street and try one Japanese sweet or local specialty)
- Take your time: 1 to 2 hours (if you want to enjoy shopping and dining at multiple stores)
- Combine with sightseeing in the surrounding shrines: Half a day to a full day (when combining with sightseeing in the nearby Suitengu Shrine and Nihonbashi area)
Nearby spots
- Suitengu Shrine (famous for praying for safe childbirth) - within walking distance
- Nihonbashi Area (Commercial Facilities and Long-established Shops) — Enjoy the historic bridge, department stores, and food culture
- Hamacho Park and Hamacho Area — A park perfect for a stroll or a short break
- Ningyocho's alleyways and shopping streets — perfect for exploring other long-established shops and small arts and crafts stores
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: It gets very crowded on weekends, public holidays, and during local festivals and events. If you want to take your time looking around, we recommend going on weekday mornings.
- Cash/Payment: Some small, long-established shops and street stalls only accept cash. It's a good idea to have cash on hand in case electronic payments aren't available.
- Narrow streets: Alleys and side streets are narrow, making it difficult for wheelchairs and strollers to pass each other. Please be considerate of those around you when the streets are crowded.
- Business days and hours: Each store has different closing days and business hours. If there is a store you want to visit, we recommend checking in advance.
- Seasonal notes: Hot drinks such as amazake are popular in winter, and in summer you will need to take measures against the heat (drinks, hats, etc.). Also, please bring rain gear during the rainy season.
- Photography etiquette: Please be considerate and ask the store owner before taking photos in front of a store. Please ask permission before taking photos inside a store or taking photos of products.
Amazake Yokocho is a typical strolling spot in the Ningyocho area, which still retains the atmosphere of the Edo period. You can enjoy the atmosphere of the old downtown area in a short amount of time, and it's also a great place to go for food tours and Japanese sweets. Check the opening hours of the stores you want to visit before you go to make your visit even more enjoyable.
