Kuramae Guide - Tokyo's Brooklyn of Creativity and Culture
Charming storefronts at Okazu Yokocho Kuramae
Nestled right beneath the famous Asakusa lies Kuramae, a charming neighborhood steeped in history and brimming with creativity. Once known for its warehouses and commercial centers during the Edo Period, Kuramae has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, blossoming into a hub for artisans, craftsmen, and trendsetting cafes, dubbed "Tokyo's Brooklyn" for its fusion of tradition and modernity.
We take you on a journey through the area and explore what all it has to offer.
In this Kuramae Guide
The Evolution of Kuramae
The Coffee
The Food
Craftsmanship and Culture in Kuramae
How to get to Kuramae
Old shops in Kuramae
The Evolution of Kuramae
Kuramae has seen an evolution from a hub of commerce to a haven for creativity. A new generation of entrepreneurs and artisans breathed new life into the neighborhood, repurposing old warehouses and revitalizing the streets with their innovative ventures. Today, Kuramae pulsates with a vibrant energy while still radiating the antique and classic architecture, giving the district its unique charm.
The streets of Kuramae
The Coffee of Kuramae
Coffee shops are all over the place in Tokyo, but not every area has an offering so qualitative as Kuramae. From expert roasters to minimalistic coffee stand, here are our 3 best coffee picks in Kuramae.
Coffee Wrights
Start your day with a fresh cup of coffee at Coffee Wrights. This small roastery and café has two locations in Tokyo. This one in Kuramae serves as Coffee Wrights’ primary roastery, making new batches every two to three days.
Coffee Wrights Kuramae
ARC
More coffee, and a calming atmosphere, at ARC. This elegantly quirky coffee shop with its signature dotted counter, offers dark-roasted beans resulting in a more bitter brew. A perfect location for a midday break or late night talks, as they remain open until 11pm.
ARC Kuramae
Leaves Coffee Apartment
The facade of Leaves Coffee Apartment stands for what is probably one of the most minimalistic coffee stands in Tokyo. With its minimalistic aesthetic and impeccable brews, Leaves Coffee Apartment is the best option for your to-go coffee while exploring Kuramae.
Leaves Coffee Apartment Kuramae
The Food of Kuramae
Besides coffee to start your day, Kuramae has a collection of authentic, non touristy lunch and dining offerings. While it’s always a good idea to venture off on your own and stumble upon good restaurants, here are some places we can recommend to get you started.
Kuraya
For your portion of seafood for the day make a stop at Kuraya. In this small take-out only shop, you’ll find a variation of traditional fish and rice bowls like Tuna Yamakake Don or poké bowls. The Taito Kuritsu Seika Park, which is located 2 minutes from Kuraya, is the perfect location for a quick break to eat.
Kuraya Kuramae
Musasanjin Kuramae
Looking for a delightful ramen experience? We’ve got you covered. Musasanjin is a straight forward authentic ramen shop. Get in, pick your ramen and extras at the old vending machine and take place at one of the limited counter seats. You know you’re in the right place when you need cash.
Musasanjin Kuramae
Dandelion chocolate
For chocolate aficionados, a visit to Dandelion Chocolate is a must. Step into this San Francisco-based bean-to-bar chocolate store and embark on a journey through the art of chocolate making. From single-origin chocolates to indulgent desserts, Dandelion Chocolate promises an experience that will surprise your taste buds.
Dandelion Chocolate Kuramae
Almost Perfect Tokyo
Okazu Yokocho
While Yokocho’s are often filled with izakayas, bars, or small restaurants, the Okazu Yokocho in Kuramae is a little different. The cozy alley holds some small restaurants and take-out stands, but overall it consists of a mix of grocery stores, florists, barbers, everything locals need for errands and a chat with neighbors.
Okazu Yokocho Kuramae
Koncent
Koncent showcases the best of Japanese design, with a curated selection of lifestyle products that seamlessly blend form and function. From kitchen utensils to home decorations, each item reflects the attention to detail and innovative spirit of its creators.
Koncent Kuramae
Torikoe Shrine
As you delve deeper into Kuramae's labyrinthine streets, you find Torikoe Shrine. Steeped in history and tradition, Torigoe shrine provides a sanctuary for quiet reflection amidst the cityscape. Every year in June you have the chance to join the Torikoe Matsuri, where the mikoshi is manoeuvred through the steets filled with yatai stalls.
Torikoe shrine Kuramae
Kuramae stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Tokyo's old downtown, where tradition and innovation converge to create a rich combo of culture and creativity. Whether you're going for artisanal chocolates, crafting your own stationery, or immersing yourself in the neighborhood's storied past, Kuramae promises a journey of discovery.
How to get to Kuramae
Kuramae can be reached via two separate train lines: the Asakusa Subway Line and the Oedo Subway Line.
Kuramae Station on the Oedo Line is designated as station E-11.
Kuramae Station on the Asakusa Line is situated just south of the Oedo Line station, is known as station A-17.
Discover other neighborhoods of Tokyo
