Yanaka is surrounded by Himalayan cedar trees, which have all but become a characteristic symbol for the area.

Downtown customs and culture are preserved in the “Downtown Customs Museum,” where the old-fashionedness of the area can be seen on display.

On display inside of the building are furniture and household supplies that were used in the past.

Various items inside the museum

The area is a bustling art spot, with many art museums and galleries gathered around. There are also several confectionery shops and cafés along the way to make a leisurely walk even more enjoyable.

The “Space Oguraya” is a building which was a pawn shop during the Edo period (1847) and was used as an art studio in the Taisho period (1917). There are several different genres of art displayed inside of this old building.

This building, “SCAI THE BATH HOUSE,” was once a public bathhouse but is now used as a gallery for local, Japanese art. The bathhouse was called Kashiwayu, and it is said that Yasunari Kawabata used to frequent it.

Next along the alley is the Yanaka Cemetary. With an area of over 100,000 meters squared, this cemetery is once of Tokyo`s three largest.

The cherry blossom pathway toward the cemetery. During the flower viewing season, many sightseers visit to glimpse the beautiful flowers in bloom.

With the graves of many famous artists such as Japanese painter Taikan Yokoyama, there is much history that can be learned here.

The Kannonji Temple is located in Yanaka Ginza. The temple building itself is, unfortunately, not very attractive, but instead is known for the roofed mud walls (tsuijibei) around the side roads. These mud walls are known to be used at the Kyoto Imperial Palace, other temples and castles as an outer wall.

The mud walls around Kannonji Temple are unique in that they are layered with roof tile, a style which is not often found anywhere else.

Made over 200 years ago, this is the mud wall of Kannonji. (Due to the great Kanto earthquake of 1923, part of the wall was destroyed, but is daily being repaired)

The final destination of today’s trip is Yanaka Ginza. With a strong “downtown” feel, this shopping district feels almost nostalgic. The streets are lined with shops selling craft items, confectionery, and foodstuffs. While it is not a large scale shopping center, it is filled with liveliness and energy.

At the entrance to the shopping district there is a sign with “Yanaka Ginza” written on it

The scenery reminds me of some downtown townscape

The famous “Yuyake Dandan” (Sunset staircase), known for being an excellent sunset viewing spot. The numerous cats which live in the area have also become well-known.

Yanaka’s famous cats

With these feline creatures here and there along the way, let’s enjoy a memorable stroll through the area.

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