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Kakurenbo Yokocho Alley
A hidden alleyway dotted with renowned gourmet restaurants, preserving the refined elegance of the traditional geisha district.
Kagurazaka, stretching between Kagurazaka Station and Iidabashi Station, is a hidden gem within Shinjuku, known for its secluded charm.
Tucked away in the yokocho (narrow alleyways branching off the main Kagurazaka Street), you'll find traditional ryotei, renovated townhouses, and an eclectic mix of Japanese, Italian, French, and Chinese fine dining establishments. These alleys create a unique fusion of Edo-period town planning, Meiji-era Western influences, and modern culture, forming a fascinating blend of old and new, East and West.
One such alley, Kakurenbo Yokocho Alley, lies between Kagurazaka Naka-dori and Honda Yokocho. The name, meaning "Hide-and-Seek Alley," originates from its maze-like layout, where a person slipping into a side path could easily disappear from sight.
The beautifully paved cobblestone streets, lined with historic machiya townhouses, have made it a sought-after location for film and drama shoots. By night, the softly glowing paper lanterns cast a dreamlike, nostalgic atmosphere, blending traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern sophistication.
Highlights
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The beautiful cobblestone streets and black wooden fences, reminiscent of Japan’s traditional geisha districts, have been featured in movies and TV dramas.
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A popular area in Shinjuku where visitors can enjoy both a relaxing stroll and exquisite cuisine.
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Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the slopes and cobblestone streets around Kakurenbo Yokocho Alley.
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Just a street away lies Geisha Shindō, an alley that retains the nostalgic charm of the old geisha district.
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Conveniently accessible within 20 minutes from major Tokyo stations such as Shinjuku, Shibuya, Ikebukuro, and Tokyo.
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As the area includes private residences, visitors are encouraged to explore quietly and respectfully.
Photos
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The pedestrian-only alleys twist and turn like a maze, making for an enjoyable stroll even during the day.
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The beautiful stone-paved paths and black-walled alleys, reminiscent of the former geisha district, have been featured in films and TV dramas.
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The nighttime ambiance of Kakurenbo Yokocho Alley exudes a quiet, refined charm.
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One of Tokyo’s top gourmet districts, home to renowned restaurants serving Japanese, Italian, French, and Chinese cuisine.
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A peaceful and serene atmosphere that feels worlds away from the bustling metropolis of Shinjuku.
Official FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Are there any brochures or signage available in foreign languages? (If so, please specify the languages.)
There is a "Shinjuku Tourist Map (Kagurazaka)" produced by Shinjuku City and the Shinjuku Tourism Promotion Association. It is available in Japanese, English, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, Korean, and Spanish. (Distributed at locations such as the Shinjuku Tourist Information Center.)
Reviews
Details
- Name in Japanese
- かくれんぼ横丁
- Postal Code
- 162-0825
- Address
- Around 3-chome Kagurazaka, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
- Access
- About 5 minutes walk from JR・Tokyo Metro・Toei Subway Iidabashi Station, Tokyo Metro Kagurazaka Station, Toei Subway Ushigome- Kagurazaka Station.
- Official Website
- Shinjuku Convention & Visitors Bureau (English)