Geisha Alley

Verified [Verified] denotes information that has been published with confirmation of its owing parties.

Geisha Alley

A hidden lane in Kagurazaka once frequented by geisha, echoing the elegance of a bygone era.

3.95 1

Last update :

Tucked between Kenban Yokocho and Oguri Street on the west side of Kagurazaka-dori lies Geisha Komichi — a narrow, winding alley once walked by geisha heading from their office, known as the kenban, to their evening engagements. This historic passage is also known as the Atami-yu Stairs, named after the nearby public bathhouse Atami-yu.

Though only about 20 to 30 meters long, this short lane is lined with acclaimed eateries, including a Michelin Bib Gourmand–awarded Spanish restaurant and refined Japanese dining spots that radiate traditional charm.

Framed by stone steps, wooden facades, and modern storefronts, Geisha Komichi transforms as night falls. Gentle lights begin to glow, casting a soft, romantic atmosphere over the alley. With its nostalgic air and picture-perfect views, it’s an ideal place for an evening stroll—camera in hand.

Highlights

  • Kenban Yokocho and Oguri Street on the west side of Kagurazaka.
  • Also known as the "Atami-yu Stairs," named after the nearby public bathhouse Atami-yu.
  • Lined with stylish, Japanese-modern restaurants on both sides, it's a popular photo spot.
  • As the alley includes private residences, please be respectful and keep noise to a minimum while exploring.

Photos

  • Restaurants and traditional eateries line the narrow, stone-paved stairway.

    Restaurants and traditional eateries line the narrow, stone-paved stairway.

  • Scattered lights at night create a magical, dreamlike atmosphere.

    Scattered lights at night create a magical, dreamlike atmosphere.

  • This charming stairway path is one of Kagurazaka’s most beloved spots for an evening stroll.

    This charming stairway path is one of Kagurazaka’s most beloved spots for an evening stroll.

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.)

A

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

1
  • 劉思薇

    藝者小道充滿濃厚江戶風情,燈籠點綴小巷,氛圍幽靜迷人,是體驗傳統日本文化的絕佳去處!

Details

Name in Japanese
芸者小道
Postal Code
162-0825
Address
Around 3-10 Kagurazaka, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Access
About 4 minutes walk from JR・Tokyo Metro・Toei Subway Iidabashi Station.