2026/02/13

Experience the Real Tokyo in Yanaka part1

Tokyo’s true charm is not found among skyscrapers and luxury shopping districts.
It lives quietly in its downtown neighborhoods.

In these old-town areas, traditional streets remain, and generations of local residents continue to call the neighborhood home. It is here — In this friendly neighborhood, people still connect face to face. Daily life is built on real conversations and personal relationships that continue to be valued and preserved, can you believe?

SAKURA HOTEL NIPPORI is located in Yanaka, one of Tokyo’s most beloved traditional downtown neighborhoods.

From beautiful morning light over wooden houses to golden sunsets glowing above the rooftops, Yanaka offers the perfect base for those who wish to stay in and experience authentic downtown Tokyo.

Let us introduce what it feels like to stay in Yanaka — and discover a side of Tokyo that many travelers never see.

Let's start with Yanaka-Ginza Shopping street!

① Yanaka Ginza – The Heart of Local Tokyo

Yanaka Ginza is not a theme park or a commercial mall.
It is a living shopping street where local families shop every day.

Here you can:

• Try fresh fruits
• Buy handmade crafts
• Taste traditional sweets
• Watch locals greet each other by name

Unlike modern Tokyo, Yanaka Ginza feels human and warm.
You are not just a visitor — you become part of the neighborhood.

In Yanaka, you’ll often see small neighborhood greengrocers displaying fresh seasonal vegetables and fruits in front of their shops.

For travelers, visiting a local greengrocer offers:

• A glimpse into authentic Japanese daily life
• Seasonal fruits you may not see at home
• The warmth of human interaction

Even if you don’t buy anything, simply walking past these shops lets you feel the rhythm of the neighborhood.

　Our guest Mario-san from Argentina enjoyed strawberries at Jimsei Shokuhin, a greengrocers in Yanaka Ginza Shopping street close to Sakura Hotel Nippori.

He loved them because of its quality!
Please check our blog here!

② Safe, Peaceful, and Full of Downtown Charm

🌿 A Town So Peaceful, Even Children Walk Alone

Yanaka is known for its calm and safe atmosphere.
It is common to see children walking to school alone, neighbors chatting in front of their homes, and elderly residents tending small gardens.

This is a side of Tokyo many travelers never see.

No loud traffic.
No rush.
Just everyday life.

The wooden houses, narrow streets, and friendly smiles create a nostalgic feeling — a reminder that Tokyo is also a town of community.

③ The Backstreets Hold the True Flavor of Downtown

Walking without a plan is the best way to explore.
Every corner feels like a secret waiting to be found.

This is not sightseeing.
This is experiencing Tokyo life.

A Hidden Path That Curves Like a Snake

Hebi-michi (literally “Snake Road”) is one of Yanaka’s most charming hidden streets.

Unlike straight modern roads, this narrow path gently curves through the neighborhood — just like a snake. The road follows the route of an old river that once flowed here, giving it its unique shape.

There were a lot of backstreet photos this time, lol.
That's why strolling the backstreets of Yanaka area is the most rewarding part of the experience.

You can see the lives of local people, their conversations, and their communities right next to you, something you can't see in tourist spots. You can get a real feel for their everyday lives.

We still have much more to discover about Yanaka, so we've decided to continue next time!
Don't miss it!