Tokyo: 13 Must-Visit Spots in Ueno and Yanesen

The “Ueno” and “Yanesen” areas are fascinating regions located in Tokyo’s Taito and Bunkyo wards, where history and culture intersect. This area retains its old-world charm while also offering many modern tourist attractions, ensuring visitors never get bored. In this article, we will provide an in-depth look at the highlights of the “Ueno” and “Yanesen” areas.

*Event dates introduced in this article may change. Please check the official website of the facility for the latest schedule.

Overview of the “Ueno” and “Yanesen” Areas

The “Ueno” and “Yanesen” areas are centrally located in Tokyo and are easily accessible from “Ueno Station”. “Ueno Station” can be reached quickly by using the JR Yamanote Line, Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, or Hibiya Line. This area is rich in historical and cultural backgrounds, with many places related to literature and art scattered throughout. Specifically, the areas of “Yanaka”, “Nezu”, and “Sendagi” are collectively known as “Yanesen”, and they have preserved the atmosphere of the Showa era, having escaped war damage and large-scale redevelopment.

Highlights of the “Ueno” Area

The “Ueno” area is an attractive tourist spot where nature and culture richly blend. Centered around “Ueno Park”, visitors can enjoy a variety of experiences at the zoo, art museums, and museums. Additionally, there are bustling shopping streets and traditional eateries, offering various delights to visitors.

“Ueno Zoo”

“Ueno Zoo” is Japan’s oldest zoo, home to many animals including pandas. The expansive grounds make it enjoyable for families and couples. The baby pandas, in particular, are a major attraction and well worth a visit.

“Tokyo National Museum”

The “Tokyo National Museum”, established in 1872, is Japan’s oldest museum. It houses approximately 120,000 Japanese and Asian art pieces and archaeological artifacts. Many national treasures and important cultural properties are on display, making it a must-see.

“Ueno Park”

“Ueno Park” is a nature-rich park located in the heart of Tokyo. Within its vast grounds are “Ueno Zoo”, Japan’s oldest zoo, and cultural facilities like the “Tokyo National Museum”. In spring, the park is adorned with cherry blossoms, attracting many flower-viewing visitors.

“Shinobazu Pond”

“Shinobazu Pond” is located within “Ueno Park” and is famous for its beautiful lotus flowers. In summer, the pond is covered with blooming lotus flowers, making it a highly photogenic spot. Visitors can also rent boats to enjoy a relaxing time on the water.

“Ueno Toshogu Shrine”

“Ueno Toshogu Shrine” is a shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, featuring a splendid golden shrine building. This building is designated as an important cultural property of Japan, and there are many points of interest. It is believed to bring good luck in competitions and attracts many visitors.

“Ameya-Yokocho Market Street”

“Ameya-Yokocho Market Street” stretches about 500 meters from JR “Ueno Station” to “Okachimachi Station”. Here, you can find fresh food and reasonably priced fashion items. It is particularly famous for its B-grade gourmet foods, making it a spot where you can enjoy eating while walking.

“Tokyo University of the Arts”

“Tokyo University of the Arts” is Japan’s premier institution for art and music education. The campus houses art galleries and cafes where visitors can appreciate students’ works. Particularly, “NoM cafe” is popular for offering delicious coffee in a cultural atmosphere.

Highlights of the “Yanesen” Area

The “Yanesen” area (Yanaka, Nezu, Sendagi) retains a strong sense of Tokyo’s traditional downtown atmosphere. The area is lined with old buildings and narrow alleys, exuding a nostalgic charm. Here, you can enjoy historical buildings, shrines, and local food spots beloved by the residents.

“Yanaka Ginza Shopping Street”

“Yanaka Ginza Shopping Street” is a particularly popular walking spot in the “Yanesen” area. The 170-meter street is lined with about 60 shops, offering a nostalgic downtown feel. There are many shops where you can enjoy eating while walking, and the “Yuyake Dandan” stairs, known for their beautiful sunset view, are also a highlight.

“Yuyake Dandan”

The “Yuyake Dandan” stairs are located on the way to “Yanaka Ginza Shopping Street”. The sunset view from these stairs is iconic of “Yanesen”, attracting many tourists for photography. The retro atmosphere evokes a sense of nostalgia, making it a charming spot.

“Nezu Shrine”

“Nezu Shrine” is a historic shrine established in 1706 by order of the fifth shogun Tokugawa Tsunayoshi. Within its grounds, you can find the “Bungo Ikoi no Ishi” (Stone of Literary Figures’ Relaxation), a spot visited by many literary figures such as Natsume Soseki. In spring, the azaleas bloom beautifully, allowing visitors to enjoy the scenic garden.

“Asakura Sculpture Hall”

“Asakura Sculpture Hall” was the atelier and residence of sculptor Fumio Asakura. The building combines a modern atelier wing with a traditional Japanese-style residence and is registered as a tangible cultural property of Japan. It is a must-see spot for art enthusiasts.

“Dangozaka”

“Dangozaka” is a historic slope in “Sendagi” that appears in many literary works. Nearby, you can find the former residences of literary figures such as Mori Ogai and Natsume Soseki, making it perfect for a literary stroll. The “Mori Ogai Memorial Museum” in particular offers insights into his life and works, making it a must-visit for literature fans.

“Yanaka Cemetery”

“Yanaka Cemetery” is a vast graveyard with about 7,000 graves. Here you can find the graves of historical figures such as the 15th shogun Tokugawa Yoshinobu and Shibusawa Eiichi, making it a fascinating place for history enthusiasts. In spring, the cemetery is adorned with cherry blossoms, making it an ideal place for a stroll.