Area Guide: Kagurazaka
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Here is our video guide for Kagurazaka. Enjoy the walk with belongingJAPAN.
Kagurazaka is in Shinjuku Ward and has a subway line called Tozai. It’s easy to get to Otemachi Station, which connects directly to Tokyo Station in just 8 minutes on the Tozai Line. Kagurazaka is known for its historical significance, with samurai residences dating back to the Edo period. The Bishamonten Zenkoku-ji temple, originally founded by Tokugawa Ieyasu in Nihonbashi Umamicho, relocated to Kagurazaka in 1792 following a fire. The temple’s festivals attracted many visitors, contributing to the area’s lively atmosphere. From the Meiji era to the early Showa era, Kagurazaka was renowned as an entertainment district, and to this day, it boasts traditional restaurants frequented by politicians. In 1952, the Institut français de Tokyo, a French government-recognized language school and cultural centre, opened its doors. Since then, the neighbourhood has developed a unique ambience, blending French influences with Japan’s traditional landscape, evident in the establishment of French-owned restaurants and more.
The popular French pastry shop “Aux Merveilleux de Fred” is known for its unique confections. When you step into the store, you’ll be greeted by a display of beautiful sweets and skilled artisans crafting each cake and pastry. Every sweet is meticulously made by these artisans, ensuring that you can enjoy freshly crafted delights. Their shop in Kagurazaka, is their first venture into Asia.
For lunch or dinner, consider visiting Japan’s first crêperie, Le Bretagne, which opened in 1996. They offer French galettes and crêpes. Next to the restaurant, there is a shop where you can buy imported food and beverages from France.
There aren’t many specialty cheese stores in Japan, but if you’re looking for one, we recommend Fromagerie Alpage. They offer a diverse range of cheeses from France, Switzerland, Denmark, Greece, Italy, and Japan. You can find cheeses with fruit pulp, herb-infused varieties, and options that pair well with Japanese sake, champagne, or wine.
If you’re looking for a place to experience Japanese culture, consider visiting YOULUCK. They specialize in handmade Japanese pottery, offering a wide array of colors, shapes, and textures in plates, cups, and more to cater to diverse preferences and lifestyles.