The essence of the Showa era lingers in the district of Yanesen. In the nearby residential area called “Uenosakuragi”, a new tourist spot by the name of “Uenosakuragi Atari” has been born. Model Saki Shibata pays a visit and expresses her love for the area, as the real authentic essence of Japan can be felt here. Today, we’re joining Saki-chan as she takes a stroll around the elegant and old Japanese-style neighbourhood.

A living space you can share

After a short walk from Yanesen, we stumbled upon the residential area “Uenosakuragi Atari”, where a residential complex that was built 80 years ago had been refurbished. Many institutions sit snug in the complex, including a beer hall, bakery, salt and olive stores, rental spaces and much more.

Uenosakuragi Atari is only a 10-minute walk from JR Nippori station, JR Ueno station, Tokyo Metro Nezu station and Sendagi station. You can also get there quickly from Shibuya station and Harajuku station!

These three buildings were once used as a place of residence and was built in the 13^th year of the Showa era. Whilst the outside retains its authentic appearance from the past, the inside has been renovated. Looking at the outside of the building, you would see a building from long ago. As you inspect the shops, each step you take reveals the extent of its beauty.

When the council stumbled upon the old building, they pondered over whether it should be turned into a new car park, or whether it should serve as a new apartment complex. At that moment, the idea of renovating it came to mind. This is how the renovation came to be.

From children to the elderly, people join together here to enjoy the neighbourhood. Uenosakuragi was created as a place where one can live in harmony with others.

The bakery locals love

The love for Kayaba Bakery spreads not just amongst the tourists, but also the locals. This is the bakery of the famous coffee shop Yanaka Coffee.

The wheat used to make the bread is grown in Japan. Enjoy the soft and springy texture of this cutely-shaped bread – all of them look so delicious! The variety looked so good that Saki-chan took ages to decide which one to buy!

Small breads and small prices – that’s why we recommend you to buy lots and try lots! Look at Saki-chan, sat on a bench outside, stuffing her cheeks with the store’s popular “Jyagapan” (potato bread). The scent of rosemary from the bread wafting through the air will definitely catch you off guard.

Breakfast, lunch or a quick snack – if you’re peckish and looking for a petit treat, this sweat bread is perfect!

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Enjoy craft beer and a Japanse-style barbeque in an old, traditional house

Next up: Yanaka Beer Hall. This is your opportunity to try beer that you cannot obtain elsewhere. You must also try the “Wa no BBQ”, which is a Japanese-style barbeque made in an earthenware pot. Beer in an extravagant, old house….just the thought of it made Saki-chan’s heart pound restlessly with excitement. She pulled back the small, traditional noren curtain to enter the building…

The interior is split into two floors, both decorated with a traditional atmosphere. There were many windows, from which sunlight poured into the room. The room was very comfortable. It seems that a lot of customers come alone, and that this place is really popular with the locals. See the above picture? This cat is also a regular!

Saki-chan ordered the “Nomi-kurabe Set” which is an assortment of 5 beers to taste and compare….but she didn’t stop there! She also ordered Tsukiji-san’s recommendation; Kyoto Eggplant Sashimi (Mizunasu Sashimi). There was so much variety in this smokey-flavoured meal, and before she knew it, everything was gone! The seasonal side dishes are a big hit with customers. During the summer, eggplant dishes and edamame beans are very popular, whilst during autumn, potatoes and pumpkins are in abundance! The smoked food is made in an earthenware pot – hence the Japanese-style “Wa no BBQ”.

Gazing out of the window for a long time, Saki-chan noticed that quite a few foreigners passed by every now and then. Just seeing everyone taking their time, relaxing and sightseeing made us truly happy. From time to time, we looked up unexpectedly to the sound of wind chimes to realise that this is the sound of the true essence of Yanaka.

Indulging in beer in an old, traditional Japanese-style house and enjoying delicious bread…what a way to spend a relaxing summer in Uenosakuragi!

So, how about it? If you’re sightseeing in Tokyo, please visit Uenosakuragi!