🏮 A Day in Yanaka, Nezu & Sendagi: Street Food, Traditional Crafts & Friendly Cats

Looking to escape the crowds of Shibuya or Shinjuku for something more nostalgic and slow-paced?
Welcome to Yanaka, Nezu, and Sendagi — collectively known as “Yanesen,” a charming Tokyo neighborhood that blends retro vibes, local flavors, handmade crafts, and yes… lots of friendly stray cats.

In this blog post, we’ll take you on a walking tour filled with local eats, quiet alleys, craft workshops, and unexpected feline encounters — perfect for travelers seeking something uniquely Japanese and heartwarming.

🍙 1. Start at Sendagi Station: Snack Your Way Through Yanaka Ginza

Kick off your adventure at Sendagi Station, and head straight to the nostalgic shopping street known as Yanaka Ginza.
This local arcade is filled with friendly vendors, traditional shops, and plenty of street food options.

🍢 Must-Try Street Foods:

• Yanaka Shippoya: Cat tail-shaped donuts with various flavors — cute and delicious!

• Niku no Suzuki: Grab their famous freshly fried menchi-katsu (minced meat cutlet). Crispy outside, juicy inside.

• Yanaka Beer Hall: Enjoy a refreshing craft beer in a retro-style interior — perfect for a midday break.

🐾 2. Meet the Cats of Yanaka: Chill Vibes & Furry Friends

Yanaka is often called “The Cat Town” of Tokyo, and for good reason.
It’s home to a surprisingly large population of street cats, many of whom are well cared for by locals and incredibly photogenic.

🐈‍⬛ Where to Spot Cats:

• Yuyake Dandan (Sunset Stairs): A popular photo spot where cats often lounge on the steps.

• Hebimichi (“Snake Path”): A narrow winding alley loved by both cats and photographers.

• Yanaka Cemetery: A peaceful, shaded area where cats roam freely among the gravestones.

📸 Cat Etiquette:

• Don’t chase or pick them up — let them come to you

• Avoid flash photography

• Bring treats only if it’s safe and allowed

Meeting these calm, curious cats is one of the most healing parts of the walk. It feels like a Studio Ghibli film brought to life.

🧵 3. Dive Into Japanese Culture: Traditional Craft Experiences

Yanesen isn’t just about eating and strolling — it’s also a great place to learn hands-on crafts rooted in Japanese tradition.

🖌 Recommended Workshops:

🎨 Dyeing Workshop – Fukuya Dye Studio (Yanaka)

Try your hand at traditional stencil dyeing. Choose your patterns and colors to make a one-of-a-kind handkerchief or tenugui cloth.

📜 Washi Paper Art – Isetatsu (Sendagi)

This long-established shop offers washi paper workshops where you can craft your own mini uchiwa fans or envelopes using Edo-style designs.

🖼 Hyougu (Mounting) Experience – Matsunoya (Yanaka)

Learn the art of Japanese mounting — from scrolls to shoji screens — with real craftsmen. A rare opportunity to experience traditional interior design culture.

⛩ 4. Take a Break at the Historic Nezu Shrine

A short walk brings you to Nezu Shrine, a serene spot surrounded by trees and known for its rows of vermilion torii gates.
It’s beautiful year-round, but especially stunning during the azalea season (April–May) and autumn foliage.

The shrine offers a quiet, spiritual pause before you head back into the city bustle.

🍵 5. End Your Journey with Retro Café Time

After walking and exploring, it’s time to rest those legs and treat yourself to some traditional sweets or coffee.

• Kayaba Coffee (Yanaka): A beautifully restored Showa-era house café. Their fluffy egg sandwich and hand-drip coffee are beloved by locals and tourists alike.

• Imojin (Nezu): A classic Japanese dessert shop serving handmade monaka (wafer ice cream) and anmitsu. A taste of Tokyo’s sweet history!

🗺 Access Info

• Metro Access:

  • Chiyoda Line – Nezu Station or Sendagi Station

  • JR Yamanote Line – Nippori Station (a great starting point too)

• Walking Distance: Around 3–4km total — comfortable for a half-day trip

📝 Final Thoughts: A Tokyo Stroll That Feels Like a Gentle Time Slip

Yanaka, Nezu, and Sendagi offer a side of Tokyo that’s far from the neon and noise — where cats nap in the sun, locals greet you with a smile, and artisanal crafts still thrive.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or family, this neighborhood promises slow travel, warm memories, and beautiful snapshots you won’t find anywhere else.