You’ve probably heard of Shibuya, Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, Akihabara, and many other popular areas in Tokyo. But have you ever heard of Yurakucho? Yurakucho is a unique district of Tokyo located in Chiyoda, between Ginza, Marunouchi, and Hibiya Park, offering shopping, local culture, events, street food, and much more.
Like many parts of Tokyo, Yurakucho was originally established during the Edo period (1603-1868). Later, Oda Nagamasu (1547-1622), also known as Yuraku, gave his name to the area while building his mansion on land that had been granted by Tokugawa Ieyasu.
During the Meiji period (1868-1945), many theaters, newspapers, and offices were located in Yurakucho. After World War II, black market activities started to influence the neighborhood. These activities and their related stores have since been removed, and in 1965, a building called Kotsu Kaikan, presently known for many varieties of food and shopping, was built in their place. Though newspaper offices and theaters have gradually disappeared, the district is still a very lively, popular, and animated place, especially during after-work hours.
Yurakucho Gado Shita – Photo Credit: TokyoBling Blog
Food to Enjoy
One of the most unique experiences that Yurakucho offers is the chance to enjoy a meal directly under the elevated train tracks of the JR Yamanote Line. This busy food district is also called Gado Shita, literally meaning “below the rails.” Having a drink or meal here will make you feel like you’re traveling to another time while enjoying a traditional izakaya atmosphere. The area has a special ambiance thanks to the narrow streets lit by lanterns, and is often found to be crowded with businessmen seeking relaxation after a long day of work. Foreign foods can also be found here, such as French wine, Italian restaurants, and even German beer!
Shin Hinomoto Fresh Seafood – Photo Credit: Japan Travel
If it is your first time in Yurakucho, a must-try izakaya is Shin Hinomoto. This is an old izakaya that has been enjoyed from generation to generation and still provides an authentic experience to its guests. If you love curry, Yurakucho Itocia is touted as having one of the best curries in Japan. Another option is Yakitori Alley, located at the South of Harumi Street, offering convenient and quick meals to go.
Yakitori Stall – Photo Credit: Tokyo Cheapo
Apart from izakaya, yakitori, and stalls below the rails, Yurakucho also offers fine dining experiences such as kaiseki, grilled meat, and seafood. Head to The Peninsula Tokyo and find a variety of restaurants to choose from. You can even enjoy dinner on the 24th floor, overlooking the Imperial Palace Gardens and Hibiya Park.
Not far from Yurakucho Station, you can also discover a wide selection of local foods at Kotsukaikan. Here, more than 10 shops feature various regional specialties of Japan.
Yurakucho ITOCiA Mall – Photo Credit: Japan Guide
Walk and Shop
In addition to excellent food, Yurakucho is a shopper’s paradise. Influenced by its up-scale neighbor of Ginza, Yurakucho’s shopping district includes rooftop gardens, notable architecture, such as the Tokyo International Forum, and an abundance of art galleries. Ginza Place and Ginza Six are two popular buildings where visitors can find countless restaurants, stores, and entertainment. Nearby, Yurakucho Mullion, a large mall, is also worth exploring for any additional shopping needs.
Yurakucho is a hidden spot serving the bustling business world of Tokyo while still offering a place to pause and take in the city at a slower pace. After experiencing massive shopping centers and impressive architectural sites, head to Yurakucho to lose yourself in the special atmosphere that washes over the neighborhood at night. At this time of day, it’s easy to enjoy a hot meal and low-key conversations with locals over beer.
Asahi Inari Shrine – Photo Credit: The Royal Park Campus
If you have extra time during your exploration of Yurakucho and appreciate shrines, Ginza has several spots that will delight you! We recommend the Toyoiwa Inari Shrine, located in an easily overlooked alleyway. This mysterious location offers a local’s view of Tokyo — if you manage to find the entrance! Asahi Inari Shrine, located on a nearby rooftop, offers an unforgettable experience that will remind animation lovers of a famous movie by Makoto Shinkai. Be careful not to be dragged into another world by mistake!
Yurakucho area is a must-see district if you are looking for a local experience paired with a mysterious and lively atmosphere. Feel free to explore this nostalgic Japanese town, packed with cozy and inviting izakaya and restaurants, entertaining venues, and unique little shops with nearly every good you can think of. The charming, lantern-lit streets of Yurakucho will help guide you!
Featured Photo Credit: TokyoBling Blog
