I first came across Yanaka from a recommended walking tour of Tokyo years ago, but never had a chance to visit it. In previous trips, I was with elders and long walks in winter is never an ideal itinerary for them. This time, with the wife's approval, I am determined to see more of Tokyo than the touristy attractions.
Yanaka is an old town and is known for its concentration of temples and shrines within its perimeter.
Temple ground is neatly swept and well maintained.
The shrines are very well accessible and within walking distance of each other.
Bronze Buddha near Tennoji Temple.
Yanaka has the largest cemetery in Tokyo where famous writers and public figures of era past were buried.
Traditional house that is well constructed and preserved.
Old structure that withstood time, some of which has been converted to businesses.
A well and manual hand pump where water was drawn from.
Local mode of transport.
More traditional houses-turned-shops
Hatsune-koji, narrow alley of nostalgic bars
Sakura street at Yanaka Cemetery.
Local wares on display near Yuuyake dandan.
Fresh flowers and oranges.
Most of the stuff are handcrafted, made or printed.
Artwork at Yanaka Ginza.
Yanaka Ginza, the main shopping street, is constantly vibrant with activities.
Toys of the past.
Yanaka senbei (rice cracker) shop.
Nostalgic charm exudes in this town.
Figurines found behind the windows.
Out for a walk.
I deduced from the visit to Yanaka that Japanese love cats!
They are everywhere...
...on the roof...
...on the street...
...and on the signboard.
I spotted this tabby taking a peek at me.
Soon, the target was being followed by a bigger fan.
Getting as much heat from the sun as possible.
You can customise your name chop in this shop.
Another shop selling cats stuff.
Wife having fun browsing inside the 'cat' shop.
I love old towns and I definitely fell in love with Yanaka. It has a lot of charm - from the flourishing shops at Yanaka Ginza to the peace and quiet that surround the cemetery & shrines, and finally to the tasty senbei found in Hatsune-koji. This town has not changed its essence, and remains an unspoilt urban quarter where visitors can enjoy its traditional atmosphere. Where Tokyo is rapidly changing with new attractions & developments, Yanaka has no major department stores to attract tourists. There are no crowds & there is very little traffic, and the pace of life is slow. If the crowded Tokyo is getting on your nerves, this is a great place to refresh & relax. This walking tour has made me happy :)
And another travel trip awaiting....
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