Tokyo Northern Cultural Exploration: A Journey of Nostalgia and Serenity

Northern Tokyo is home to quaint streets and serene shrines, offering a stark contrast to the bustling city center. From nostalgic shopping streets to beautiful shrines and cozy alleys in Sugamo, this journey is filled with the charm of traditional culture. Attraction 1: Yanaka Ginza Shopping Street In the morning, take a stroll through Yanaka Ginza Shopping Street, and it feels like traveling back to the Showa era. The streets are lined with small shops selling handicrafts, Japanese snacks, and nostalgic items, exuding a warm human touch. It is recommended to try a handmade croquette or Japanese snack skewer while walking and experiencing the local slow life. Highlights: • Handicrafts: Local specialty wooden carvings or fabric handbags, full of unique craftsmanship. • Local snacks: Croquettes, fried skewers, and takoyaki are very popular, enjoy them while soaking in the nostalgic atmosphere of the street. Attraction 2: Nezu Shrine Next, head to the picturesque Nezu Shrine. This shrine is famous for its spectacular Senbon Torii, a tunnel formed by bright red torii gates, perfect for photos. The shrine is surrounded by seasonal flowers, especially the Azalea Festival held every spring, attracting many visitors. Travel Tips: • Best photo spot: The torii tunnel is a must-see, and it is recommended to visit early in the morning to avoid the crowd. • Flower viewing: If time permits, bring a bento and have a picnic among the flowers for added travel fun. Attraction 3: Sugamo Jizo-dori Shopping Street In the afternoon, visit Sugamo Jizo-dori Shopping Street, known as the "Harajuku for the elderly." This street blends tradition and modernity, selling various health products, Japanese kimonos, and daily necessities. There are also many cozy tea houses offering matcha and wagashi, a great place to experience Japanese hospitality. Highlights: • Health products: Local herbal teas or onsen powders are popular as souvenirs. • Jizo Temple: There is a small temple dedicated to Jizo Bodhisattva within the shopping street, remember to pray for health and peace. Accommodation Recommendation: Asakusa Tobu Hotel Hotel Features: • Location: Conveniently located in northern Tokyo, close to Yanaka and Sugamo, ideal for independent travelers. • Design: The hotel interior is simple and bright, combining Japanese elements, with fully equipped rooms and high cost performance. • Convenient transportation: The hotel offers easy access to other popular attractions, making it an ideal base for exploring northern Tokyo. Tips: • There are several convenience stores and small Japanese restaurants near the hotel, perfect for experiencing local cuisine for dinner. • If visiting during cherry blossom season, the cherry blossom avenues around Yanaka Ginza and Nezu Shrine are worth seeing. Travel Tips: 1. Transportation: Take the JR Yamanote Line to Sugamo Station or Nezu Station to easily reach the above attractions. 2. Best travel seasons: The Azalea Festival in spring and the autumn foliage are the best times to experience this area. 3. Carry cash: Some shops in Yanaka Ginza and Sugamo still mainly transact in cash, so it is recommended to carry some yen. Summary This exploration of northern Tokyo is filled with nostalgia and cultural atmosphere, from ancient shopping streets to serene shrines, and the interesting Jizo Shopping Street, each place exudes a unique lifestyle. Choosing to stay at the convenient and comfortable Asakusa Tobu Hotel will make your journey more relaxed and enjoyable, allowing you to experience the unique charm of Tokyo!