The Ultimate Guide to Ameya Yokocho: Tokyo's Vibrant Shopping Street
Amidst the hustle and bustle of Tokyo stands Ameya Yokocho, commonly known as "Ameyoko," a shopping street with a unique atmosphere.
I first visited Ameyoko when I was a student. I vividly remember walking down the lively street and being overwhelmed by the energetic calls of the shopkeepers, causing me to stop in my tracks.
Since then, I've visited Ameyoko countless times, and its charm never ceases to amaze me.
From people enjoying multinational cuisines to young folks searching for rare imported goods, and foreign tourists experiencing Tokyo's downtown culture, this diverse shopping street is a must-visit spot for Tokyo sightseeing.
In this article, I'll introduce my favorite gourmet spots, Ameyoko's unique "tatakinuri" culture, and nearby tourist attractions - all the insider information you need to enjoy Ameyoko to the fullest.
I hope you'll use this article as a guide to fully experience the vibrant charm of Ameyoko!
Table of Contents
・What is Ueno's Ameyoko?
・Top 5 Gourmet Spots in Ameyoko
・Shopping in Ameyoko: What is Shimura Shoten's "Tatakinuri"?
・Spots to Visit Along with Ameyoko
・Tours to Fully Enjoy Ameyoko
・Frequently Asked Questions about Ameyoko
What is Ueno's Ameyoko?
Ameyoko is a unique shopping street located in the heart of Tokyo. Its official name is "Ameya Yokocho," but it's affectionately known as "Ameyoko" by many people.
Located between JR Ueno Station and Okachimachi Station, its accessibility is one of its charms. With a historical background of developing from a black market after World War II, it still retains that atmosphere strongly today.
What I particularly like about Ameyoko is its diversity. From traditional food stores to multinational restaurants including Chinese cuisine, various shops line the street. This diversity is arguably Ameyoko's greatest charm.
On the official Ameyoko website, you can check the latest information and event details. It's a good idea to check it before your visit for a more fulfilling experience.
Website: https://www.ameyoko.net/
The Origin of Ameyoko
There are actually several theories about the origin of Ameyoko's name.
The most prevalent theory is that it was called "Ameya Yokocho" because many candy shops (called "ameya" in Japanese) lined the street after the war. Another theory suggests that it's an abbreviation of "America Yokocho" due to the numerous shops dealing with American products after the war.
The history of Ameyoko is, in a sense, the history of Tokyo's post-war recovery. It was born as a black market during the post-war period of material shortages and was developed into a legal shopping street in the 1950s. It then greatly expanded during the Olympic boom and the period of high economic growth, leading to its current form.
What I find particularly interesting is that Ameyoko continues to change to meet the needs of the times.
While traditional shops line the street, new trendy stores continue to open one after another.
For foreign tourists as well, it's a valuable spot where you can experience both the history and present of Tokyo.
Access to Ameyoko
Access to Ameyoko is very convenient. It's located just a 3-minute walk from JR Ueno Station, one of Tokyo's major stations.
If you're using JR Ueno Station, I recommend exiting from either the "Hirokoji Exit" or the "Shinobazu Exit".
Ueno Station is served by major lines such as the JR Yamanote Line, Keihin-Tohoku Line, and Tohoku Shinkansen, making it easily accessible from anywhere in Tokyo. It's also within walking distance from Ueno Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line and Hibiya Line.
My recommendation, if you have some extra time, is to walk to Ameyoko from Okachimachi Station. This route allows you to walk the entire length of Ameyoko and fully enjoy its vibrant atmosphere.
Ameyoko is also close to major Tokyo tourist spots like Ueno Park and Ueno Zoo. Combining these places with your visit can make for a more fulfilling Tokyo sightseeing experience.
Top 5 Gourmet Spots in Ameyoko
One of the charms of Ameyoko is the abundance of food stalls and small eateries where you can enjoy eating while walking.
Moreover, with multinational restaurants scattered around, you can enjoy flavors from around the world all at once. This is an attractive experience for foreign tourists as well, like taking a culinary world tour while in Tokyo.
Now, let me introduce my top 5 gourmet recommendations. I'll guide you through the world of Ameyoko's cuisine, sharing each store's characteristics and charm, along with my personal experiences.
Niku no Ohyama
Source: Google Map by Yoichiro Fujiwara
"Niku no Ohyama" is one of the must-visit famous stores in Ameyoko. Established in 1932, this long-standing meat wholesale store is known for its history and high quality.
The reason I particularly like "Niku no Ohyama" is its surprisingly reasonable pricing. They offer high-quality meat products at unbelievably low prices.
The store is divided into two areas. One is a shop cum standing corner, and the other is an in-store restaurant.
The specialty of "Niku no Ohyama" is undoubtedly their menchi-katsu (minced meat cutlet). There are three types (150 yen, 220 yen, 420 yen), with different ingredients and methods depending on the price.
I particularly like the 220 yen menchi-katsu and always buy it every time I visit. It's crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, with the umami of the meat spreading throughout your mouth.
Also, the "Addictive Croquette" (80 yen) is an absolute must-try. As the name suggests, it's so delicious that you'll get hooked after one bite.
I myself have made it a habit to buy these croquettes to take home every time I visit "Niku no Ohyama".
<Store Information>
Address: 2F Watanabe Ueno Building, 6-13-2 Ueno, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0005
Closed: None
Phone: 03-3831-9007
Hours: 11 AM–11 PM
Website: http://www.ohyama.com/ueno
Kacchan
Source: Google Map by Mikado
"Kacchan" is one of the most popular tempura restaurants in Ameyoko. I first visited this store on a friend's recommendation. The shockingly delicious taste I experienced then is still vivid in my memory.
The charm of "Kacchan" is undoubtedly its exquisite tempura made with fresh ingredients. The perfect balance between the crispy batter and the umami of the ingredients inside creates an unforgettable taste.
The store has a standing area on the first floor and table seats on the second floor. I recommend the standing area on the first floor.
Here, you can enjoy the first floor-limited "Senbero Set" (1,200 yen). This set includes an assortment of tempura or a daily special dish, and up to 4 drinks.
It offers excellent value for money and allows you to fully enjoy the Ameyoko dining experience.
<Store Information>
Address: 6 Chome-12-13 Ueno, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0005
Closed: None
Phone: 03-3831-0317
Hours: 11 AM–10 PM
Website: https://twitter.com/kacchan_ueno
Minatoya
Source: Tabelog by kai1221
"Minatoya" is one of the stores in Ameyoko that I have a particular attachment to. This store, where you can enjoy takoyaki (octopus balls) and seafood rice bowls, can be said to be a representative of Ameyoko's eat-and-walk gourmet.
The charm of "Minatoya's" takoyaki lies in its great value for money. You can enjoy authentic takoyaki for just 300 yen for 4 pieces. I always end up buying a large amount every time.
Moreover, the appeal of this store is not just its deliciousness. Even when there's a line, you can buy relatively quickly. It's very convenient to be able to stop by and quickly recharge your energy with delicious takoyaki when you're tired from walking around Ameyoko.
<Store Information>
Address: 4 Chome-1-9 Ueno, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0015
Closed: None
Phone: 03-3831-4350
Hours: 11 AM–7 PM
Hours (Saturdays, Sundays): 11 AM–7:30 PM
Website: https://tabelog.com/en/tokyo/A1311/A131101/13018461/
Uokusa
Source: Tabelog by 036ike
"Uokusa" is one of my favorite standing bars in Ameyoko. It's rich in seafood dishes and Japanese sake, and a place where you can fully enjoy the atmosphere of Ameyoko.
The biggest charm of "Uokusa" is its unique system. With a 30-minute limit and up to 2 drinks, it's perfect for "bar hopping" or "eat-and-walk" style dining.
The menu mainly consists of dishes using fresh seafood, and most are priced within 1,000 yen, which is also attractive. Enjoying seafood dishes with Japanese sake is truly a blissful moment.
<Store Information>
Address: Ameyoko Plaza, 6-10-7 Ueno, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0005
Closed: Wednesdays
Phone: 03-4400-3264
Hours: 12 PM–7:30 PM
Website: https://tabelog.com/en/tokyo/A1311/A131101/13164551/
Heisei Fuku Jun
Source: Tabelog by maro-j
"Heisei Fuku Jun" is a Chinese restaurant in Ameyoko that particularly impressed me. With an atmosphere like a Chinese food stall, it's a precious place where you can enjoy authentic flavors.
I first visited this store when I was craving authentic Chinese cuisine. In Tokyo, where many Chinese restaurants are adapted to Japanese tastes, I immediately went there after hearing that it offers authentic flavors. The shockingly delicious taste I experienced then is still unforgettable.
The greatest charm of "Heisei Fuku Jun" is its authentic taste and reasonable prices. Most menu items are within 1,000 yen each, allowing you to casually enjoy authentic Chinese cuisine.
<Store Information>
Address: 6-chōme-10 Ueno, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0005
Closed: None
Phone: 03-3834-8226
Hours: 8 AM–8 PM
Website: https://heisei-fukujyun.com/restau3/index.html
Shopping in Ameyoko: What is Shimura Shoten's "Tatakinuri"?
Source: Google Map by Hotaro Hayashida
The charm of Ameyoko isn't just in its delicious gourmet food. While it has many American casual items available, the unique shopping culture is also a big feature of this shopping street. Among these, what's particularly impressive is the sales method called "tatakinuri".
"Tatakinuri" is a unique Ameyoko style where they sell a large quantity of products at once at a bargain price while loudly promoting the products. It's characterized by selling multiple products together in the form of "All for ¥XX!". Once you experience its powerful atmosphere, you'll never forget it.
Unfortunately, the number of stores practicing "tatakinuri" has been decreasing in recent years.
However, "Shimura Shoten" is a store that still maintains the tradition of "tatakinuri". Here, the "tatakinuri" of chocolate snacks is famous, known for being able to buy a lot of chocolates for 1,000 yen.
I myself have visited "Shimura Shoten's" "tatakinuri" many times. Each time, I can feel the old-time vigor of Ameyoko first-hand, and it makes my heart leap.
For foreign tourists as well, "tatakinuri" can be a very unique Tokyo commercial culture experience. Even if you don't understand the language, it's an attractive Ameyoko-specific attraction that can be fully enjoyed just for its atmosphere.
When you visit Ameyoko, please make sure to stop by "Shimura Shoten" and experience the essence of "tatakinuri".
<Store Information>
Address: 6 Chome-11-3 Ueno, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0005
Closed: None
Phone: 03-3831-2454
Hours: 10 AM–5:30 PM
Hours (Saturdays, Sundays): 11 AM–7:30 PM
Website: http://ameyoko.la.coocan.jp/
Spots to Visit Along with Ameyoko
After fully enjoying the charm of Ameyoko, why not visit the surrounding tourist spots? The Ueno area has many attractive places besides Ameyoko.
Here, I'll introduce four spots that I particularly recommend. By combining these places, you can enjoy a more fulfilling Ueno and Tokyo sightseeing experience.
Ueno Park
Ueno Park is one of Tokyo's representative parks, located right next to Ameyoko. It's known as one of Japan's oldest public parks.
The charm of Ueno Park changes with the seasons. In spring, about 1,000 cherry trees bloom, making it one of Tokyo's best cherry blossom viewing spots. I visit every year with my friends to see the cherry blossoms, and I'm moved by their beauty every time.
Moreover, Ueno Park is home to various cultural facilities. Art museums and museums such as the Tokyo National Museum, Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, and National Museum of Western Art are scattered throughout, allowing you to experience art and history.
My recommendation is the Tokyo National Museum, where you can learn deeply about the history and culture of Tokyo and Japan.
At Shinobazu Pond within the park, you can ride boats or observe waterfowl. Despite being in bustling Tokyo, you can spend peaceful time here.
Ueno Park is a place where you can enjoy a calm atmosphere in contrast to the bustle of Ameyoko. Visiting after shopping and dining in Ameyoko allows you to experience the diverse charms of Tokyo at once.
Website: https://www.kensetsu.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/jimusho/toubuk/ueno/en_index.html
Ueno Zoo
Ueno Zoo, within walking distance from Ameyoko, is Japan's oldest zoo. It has been loved by many people since its opening in 1882.
The biggest attraction of Ueno Zoo is undoubtedly the pandas. Since the first panda arrived in 1972, they have become symbolic of Ueno Zoo. I've visited many times to see the pandas since I was a child, and their adorable appearance always warms my heart no matter how many times I see them.
Besides pandas, about 260 species of animals are kept and exhibited. From popular large animals like elephants, giraffes, and lions to rare small animals, the diversity of creatures you can encounter is also part of its charm.
Website: https://www.tokyo-zoo.net/zoo/ueno/
Asakusa
Asakusa is a tourist spot representing Tokyo's downtown culture, located not far from Ameyoko. For me, Asakusa is a place filled with memories of visiting with my family since childhood, and I still visit regularly.
The center of Asakusa is, needless to say, Sensoji Temple.
Known as the oldest temple in Tokyo, it's a famous spot visited by many tourists from both within Japan and abroad. What I find particularly impressive is the Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate), the symbolic entrance to Sensoji Temple.
The huge red lantern, about 11.7 meters high and weighing about 4 tons, is overwhelming, and I feel a sense of solemnity every time I pass under it.
After passing through the Kaminarimon, the approach to Sensoji Temple, "Nakamise Street," stretches out. Along this approximately 250-meter street, shops selling Japanese sweets, traditional crafts, and souvenirs line up side by side.
Asakusa also has many places where you can experience unique cultural experiences. For example, there are rickshaw tours to explore the townscape and kimono rental shops.
Using the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, you can access Asakusa Station from Ueno Station in about 5 minutes.
Akihabara Electric Town
Akihabara Electric Town is a world-famous electronics district located not far from Ameyoko. For me, Akihabara is a place full of memories from my student days, and I still visit regularly to look for new gadgets.
In Akihabara, all kinds of electronics stores, from large electronics retailers to specialty stores, line the streets.
Here, you can find everything from the latest smartphones, computers, and cameras to niche electronic components.
Moreover, Akihabara is also known as a mecca for pop culture such as anime, manga, and games.
Large anime shops and stores specializing in figures are gathered here, making it a place where you can fully enjoy otaku culture. I sometimes visit to look for goods from my favorite anime, and I'm always amazed by the wide variety of items available.
The charm of Akihabara isn't just in shopping. It's also characterized by unique subculture experiences such as maid cafes and cosplay shops.
Access is very convenient, just one stop from Ueno Station on the JR Yamanote Line or Keihin-Tohoku Line to Akihabara Station.
You can also access it on foot in about 20 minutes. It's a recommended place not only for those interested in the latest technology and pop culture but also for those who want to experience unique Tokyo culture.
Website: https://akiba.or.jp/
Yanaka Ginza Shopping Street
Yanaka Ginza Shopping Street is a shopping street full of downtown atmosphere, located slightly north of Ameyoko.
The greatest charm of Yanaka Ginza is its unique atmosphere. Along the approximately 170m shopping street, old-fashioned charm and modern elements are beautifully fused.
About 80 shops line up, ranging from long-established Japanese confectionery stores and butcher shops to new cafes and galleries.
This shopping street, affectionately known as "Yanaka Ginza," sells many goods and products related to cats, with the "Yanaka Ginza Cat" as a motif. This atmosphere as a "cat town" is also one of the big charms of Yanaka Ginza.
Moreover, Yanaka Ginza is also characterized by its abundance of eat-and-walk gourmet food.
My favorite is the freshly fried menchi-katsu (minced meat cutlet). It's a popular shop with long queues, but the taste is well worth the wait. There are also many nostalgic foods, such as handmade Japanese sweets and old-fashioned candy shops.
To access Yanaka Ginza, it's convenient to take the JR Yamanote Line from Ueno Station and get off at "Nippori Station", which is one stop away. You can also walk from Ueno Station in about 20-25 minutes.
Website: https://www.yanakaginza.com/
Tours to Fully Enjoy Ameyoko
For those who want to enjoy the charm of Ameyoko more deeply and efficiently, I recommend guided tours. Here, I'll introduce two tours that I find particularly attractive.
"All-You-Can-Drink Bar Hopping Tour in Ueno" by Magical Trip
This tour is a night bar hopping tour in Ueno provided by us at Magical Trip. You can explore the deep drinking alleys around Ameyoko and enjoy authentic tastes and atmosphere at spots popular with locals.
The biggest charm of the tour is that drinks and food are included. You can participate in the tour hands-free and enjoy nighttime Ueno safely with a local guide.
The tour lasts 3.5 hours and costs about 102 USD per person.
I recommend participating in this tour as the night portion after enjoying shopping and eating in Ameyoko during the day. You'll be able to discover a different face of Ueno at night and experience Tokyo's drinking culture more deeply.
Click here for more details: All-You-Can-Drink Bar Hopping Tour in Ueno
"Ueno & Tokyo National Museum Tour" by True Japan Tour
Source: True Japan Tour
This tour is a guided 4-hour tour that covers Ueno Park and the Tokyo National Museum. It's recommended for those who want to learn deeply about the culture and history of Ueno.
The charm of the tour is that you can efficiently visit the main spots in Ueno Park. Also, this tour includes a stop at Ameyoko. With the guide's explanation, you can learn in detail about the history of Ameyoko and its popular stores.
The tour fee is about 6,000 yen per person, not including food and drink expenses. However, the ability to efficiently enjoy the entire Ueno area within 4 hours is a big attraction. It's especially recommended for those visiting Ueno for the first time or those who want to experience the charm of Ueno to the fullest in a limited time.
Click here for more details: Ueno & Tokyo National Museum Tour
These tours offer a different perspective on experiencing Ueno compared to going around on your own, and you're sure to make new discoveries. Please enjoy a more fulfilling Ueno sightseeing experience by combining these with shopping and dining in Ameyoko.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ameyoko
There are many questions that people often have when visiting Ameyoko. Here, I'll answer common questions, incorporating my own experiences.
What payment methods can be used in Ameyoko?
Regarding payment methods in Ameyoko, the most important point is that "cash is the most common". I always make sure to bring cash when I visit Ameyoko.
Many stores, especially eat-and-walk shops and small specialty stores, only accept cash. I feel this is also a factor in maintaining the atmosphere of Ameyoko as a historic shopping street.
However, recently, some stores have started accepting credit cards and electronic money. But since it's not available at all stores, it's safer to bring cash.
My recommendation is to prepare about 5,000 to 10,000 yen in cash per person when visiting Ameyoko. This amount should be enough to fully enjoy eat-and-walk and small item shopping.
Is Ameyoko safe for foreign tourists?
To conclude, Ameyoko is a very safe area even for foreign tourists. I have guided foreign friends to Ameyoko several times, and everyone was able to enjoy it safely.
Ameyoko is known as a generally safe area. Not only during the day, but also at night, many restaurants are open, so there's always a flow of people. This constantly bustling atmosphere naturally enhances safety.
Also, as Ameyoko is famous as a tourist spot, it's not uncommon to see foreign tourists. Local people are used to foreign tourists and there's a friendly atmosphere.
As long as you take basic precautions like being careful with your valuables, Ameyoko is a very enjoyable and safe place even for foreign tourists.
Ameyoko is a unique shopping street where Tokyo's downtown culture and modern vibrancy merge.
With its unique atmosphere born from its historical background, diverse gourmet options, shopping appeal, and synergy with surrounding tourist spots, Ameyoko offers a comprehensive Tokyo experience beyond just a shopping spot.
When visiting Ameyoko, please try to visit the five gourmet spots I introduced in this article. Also, by enjoying unique commercial practices like "tatakinuri" and combining your visit with nearby tourist spots like Ueno Park, Asakusa, Akihabara, and Yanaka Ginza, you can realize a more fulfilling Tokyo sightseeing experience.
Furthermore, if you use guided tours, you can discover hidden charms of Ameyoko and experience a new side of Ueno at night.
I hope you'll use this article as a reference to enjoy your own Ameyoko experience. I sincerely hope that you'll have a wonderful journey discovering the true charm of Tokyo in the vibrant Ameyoko!
