Just like the Asagao fair in Iriya, the Hozuki fair in Asakusa tells the feeling of summer. This fair has a long history, supported by the local people of Edo and Tokyo.

Since hozuki blossoms on June and July, there are many Hozuki Fair being held all over Japan during this season.

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Thousands of little paper lanterns are lined up along the beach.

Thousands of little paper lanterns are lined up along the beach.

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.

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I took a walk around the area nicknamed “Yanesen,” surrounded by the Nippori, Nezu, and Sendagi, which has a retro “downtown” feel to it.

The route which I would like to introduce to you today starts at Dangozaka Hill (Dumpling Hill) and goes through to Nezujinja Shrine, Yanaka Ginza, and is a very popular walking course. First let’s head up Dangozaka towards Sendagi. This area in particular has many staircases with a unique Tokyo feel.

There are two explanations for how Dangozaka Hill came to be. First, it is said that there was a dumpling store close by, and second, due to the road condition, you would apparently turn into a dumpling if you fell and rolled down it.

Perfect for a walk with the great weather and abundant greenery

Riding up the hill on a bicycle is difficult with the sudden slope

With the numerous staircases, it is important to make a point to wear easy-walking shoes. You can see the house in which literary master Natsume Soseki used to live in the residential area near Nippon Medical University. Although the house is gone, a stone tablet remains to make the area.

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