Overview
Tokyo's smallest central municipality, Taito City Ward undoubtedly packs the largest punch. So full of things to see, the city could easily satisfy an entire trip to Japan with space left over for more trips. Here is an introduction to just some of the many landmarks and historical spots in Taito and how to reach them.
Ameyoko
This 400m-long institution in Ueno is a treasure of hustle and bustle street market authenticity. Ameyoko emerged after World War II as the classic Tokyo black market and is now an almost-maze of under-the-rail-track vendors offering street foods and mrchandise. A classic visit, it is easy to imagine yourself getting lost in downtown splendour here.
A 2-minute walk from Ueno Station on the JR Yamanote Line.
Asakusa Nakamise Shopping Street
One of the most famous shopping streets in Tokyo, if not Japan, Asakusa Nakamise Shopping Street is a 250m maelstrom of souvenir shopping and snacking. Leading directly to the famous Sensoji Temple, the street was first established in the Edo period making it not only popular but also one of the oldest shopping streets in Tokyo.
A 3-minute walk from Asakusa Station on any of the Ginza, Toei Asakusa or Toby Skytree lines.
Hakubutsukan Dobutsuen Station
Hakubutsukan Dobutsuen Station is an understated relic of the old railway lines that existed from the early 20th century. Effectively closed in the 1960s but officially so in the 1990s, the station underwent a brief opening as a gallery space in the late 2010s. The stately design - along with the eerie ghost-like ambience when open - is worth the visit.
A 9-minute walk from Uguisudani Station on the JR Keihin-Tohku or Yamanote lines.
Hanayashiki Amusement Park
Japan's oldest amusement park, Hanayashiki Amusement Park originally started out as a flower park in 1853. Full of quirky amusement rides and memorial spills and thrills, the park's retro atmosphere is a throwback to the good old days of simple thrills and spills. Admission is JPY1000 with ride tickets set at JPY100.
A 5-minute walk from Asakusa Station on any of the Tobu Skytree, Ginza or Toei Asakusa lines.
