A walk in Tokyo

Yanaka old town

谷中・根津さんぽ

Best from 2 pm · Spring cherries, Nezu azaleas in April

2.5 km, about 2.5 h, 7 stops from Nippori Station, West Exit. Every stop with its Japanese name and what to look for.

Start Nippori Station, West Exit

Tennō-ji天王寺
A copper Buddha cast in 1690 sits out in the open in the temple yard.
Yanaka Cemetery谷中霊園
Cherry trees arch over the main avenue. Tokugawa Yoshinobu, the last shogun, rests here.
Asakura Museum of Sculpture朝倉彫塑館
A sculptor's home and studio with a rooftop garden. Closed Mondays and Thursdays.
Yūyake Dandan夕やけだんだん
The 'sunset steps'. Pause at the top for the view down the shopping street.
Yanaka Ginza谷中銀座
About 60 small shops on one short street. Pick up snacks for the walk.
Hebimichiへび道
A narrow lane that twists like a snake between quiet houses.
Nezu Shrine根津神社
Red torii lead to a small fox shrine. In April the azalea slope is in full colour.

Paths can be steep or slippery, and places close or change their hours. Check before you go.

Plan the rest

Sources

Our summary of the sources below, checked Nov 9, 2026