Amazake Yokocho

Quaint and historic Amazake Yokocho is a little known gem in the big city. Translating to 'sweet sake alley' after the sweet sake shop that once occupied a corner here during the Meiji period, this unique Tokyo attraction demonstrates the city’s seamless balance of old and new.

Amazake alley is full of traditional-fronted shops selling Japanese crafts such as shamisen guitars and kimonos, making it a great place to find unusual gifts. Food lovers will also have plenty of things to choose from, with establishments selling sweet sake, fish-shaped pancakes filled with bean jam, and tasty tofu snacks. Many of the restaurants have been serving authentic food to the city for decades, giving the area a feel of old Edo, though recently opened bars also offer fantastic places to spend an evening.

You may stumble across the Karakuri Yagura mechanical clocks around the station. Striking the hour from 11:00-19:00 to reveal small dancing dolls, they’re a tribute to the area’s old puppet theaters. This enchanting display complements the Edo period ambiance of the area and presents a charming contrast to the more modern areas of Tokyo City.
A snapshot of the past in one of the most modern capitals of the world, Amazake Yokocho is a unique place, worthy of a visit during any sightseeing trip to the city.