Tokyo's Off The Beaten Path: Akabane

Guided Photo Tour of Akabane

Tokyo is known for its vibrant boroughs, which are exciting and frenetic. The off-the-beaten-path locations are just as entertaining as Shibuya or Shinjuku, and they show another side of this beautiful city beyond the busy streets we all know and love.  

A place like Akabane in the north of Tokyo offers convenience and charm without overcrowding. The Saikyo and Kehintohoku train lines serve the station, allowing travel from east and west Tokyo. Near the JR train station is a subway station with the Namboku line, which travels through central and west Tokyo.

The station itself is large enough to offer all the modern conveniences. However, just across the street from the station lies old Tokyo. Every kind of shop and restaurant awaits you in the labyrinth of side streets. The atmosphere feels exclusive to locals, but everyone is welcome in this one-of-a-kind neighbourhood.

A few blocks into Akabane, you will find a delightful covered shopping street typically reserved for pedestrians only. In Japanese, it is called Shotengai. Akabane has two: the main one I mentioned and Shotengai Ichiban, which means "number one shopping street." This street is full of restaurants and izakayas, which are small local bars.   

The people of Akabane are entirely locals. It is not a significant destination and offers little aside from its charm. This is where Akabane shines: It has a lot of charm and a warm character, which makes it an ideal place to visit. It is excellent for lunch and even better for dinner.  

I have spent many days in Akabane and consider it one of the most treasured areas in Tokyo. I love to walk the streets with my camera and photograph people, shops, and signs. It is a great way to spend a half or even full day in Tokyo. 

Take a chance on Akabane. You won't regret it.  It is easy to navigate independently, but I am happy to be your private tour guide or even create a photo workshop for you.   Akabane is rustic and charming, filled with character and photographic opportunity.

 

 

Discover the magic of Tokyo on a delightful city tour tailored just for you! Join our friendly, professional photographer, an expert travel guide, for a wonderful private photography experience. This walking photo workshop is perfect for everyone—from beginners to seasoned pros—allowing you to learn and explore at the right pace.