Yanaka

If there is one thing I love when I travel is to discover places like Yanaka.
Places that contrast a lot with all the rest. Yanaka is one of this place. This is the oldest district of Tokyo so you can find many old houses and stores here. It really felt like being in a village here. Away from the high tech and busy Tokyo. Yanaka is an oasis of peace that breath authenticity. A human scale district where you can slow down and simply be.

Many cafés and craft stores here.

Yanaka is famous for his cimetery. Yes you heard it. It might feels strange to visit a cimetery but it really isnt in that one. There is small roads in it where Japanese go for walks.

The sun was setting down which really gave a mystical vibe to this place. There were not many people. Nice little meditative walk.

An organic farmer was selling apples and juices. I baught one apple for 200y. 1.5 euro is expensive for one apple but in Japan there is less room for fruits (and they dont grow everywhere , remember Japan is a long vertical island with different climate) therefore it’s expensive. I also got an artisanal rice drink. This will be my breakfast for tomorrow. Should be good.

Small and raw houses here. A lot of old woods.

I then found the Yanaka Ginza which is the main commercial street of Yanaka. I fell in love with this place. Small , cosy , hearty and simple. In places like this one you feel more proximity with the locals. Less stress also means more room to exchange. Take a look.

This shop had many teapots and cups. I love the details. Very elegant.
Another sweet shop. Actually they were selling sweet stuff.

I love how the shops here feels simple yet pretty and cosy. Feng Shui is something that is part of Japanses culture and you can feel it. There is never too much or too little. Always a good balance between colors , materials and content.

Sometime having no plan leads you to places like “Yanaka Kenshindo”. A 1st floor café with a view of the Yanaka Ginza street. Great for a little rest.

Go to the first floor.

And you will find a cosy nest overtaking the street. Perfect to rest and reflect.

I wanted to try something different this time. Hojicha or roasted green tea.
This tasted wonderful.

Yanaka is one of thoses places that has a beautiful soul. It’s simple and allows you to go back to the essence. I’m glad I discovered this area after all the craziness of the previous days.

Another day in Tokyo. A city were you go from one extreme to the other. Tokyo has a lot to offer.  Two more full days here for some cool off the beaten path district to explore.

See you for the next adventure my friends.

Happy ,Ureshi うれし