By Tokyo Ninja Walk
Experience the unique old town charm of Tokyo’s east side with this immersive night walk through Taito City. Beginning just before 8 PM at Kuramae Station, this video guides viewers through the tranquil neighborhoods that characterize Tokyo’s traditional downtown. The route, thoughtfully mapped, takes you past iconic small shrines—including Torikoe Shrine, Jinnai Shrine, and Ogiinari Shrine—each offering a glimpse into Tokyo’s spiritual life tucked quietly among the urban landscape.
One of the highlights of the walk is the visit to Torikoe Shrine during a seasonal ritual, where locals don yukata and the summer night air fills with lively festival energy. The video captures the atmospherics of this classic Tokyo summer event, showcasing the community’s dedication to keeping their traditions alive amidst the city’s rapid changes. Smaller shrines such as Jinnai and Ogiinari provide a quieter, more hidden contrast, hidden in Taito’s peaceful side streets.
Midway through the walk, you explore Okazu Yokochō Street, a nostalgic shopping street dating back to the postwar era. Though much quieter at night, its retro storefronts and lantern-lit passageways evoke a bygone Tokyo. The walking tour concludes at Shin-Okachimachi Station as the bustling city transitions into night’s stillness, providing a perfect balance between history, spirituality, and the authentic everyday texture of life in Tokyo’s heart.
For those planning to visit, Taito City (台東区, Taito-ku) is well known for its historical atmosphere and proximity to sights like Asakusa and Ueno. Kuramae Station provides convenient subway access, while Shin-Okachimachi connects to the city’s extensive rail network. Okazu Yokocho’s unique mix of old shops and eateries makes it ideal for a daytime stroll, though the nighttime ambiance, as seen in the video, offers a different, quieter perspective on this tradition-steeped neighborhood.