A Walk Through Ochanomizu

Overview

‘Ochanomizu’ literally means ‘tea water’ and the location name already gives you a little hint about the history and importance of water in the area. Ochanomizu, located next to the Kanda River, was redirected during the Edo period and used as a source for the Shogun’s tea water. Nowadays the neighborhood is mostly known for its variety of second hand shops selling musical instruments and winter sports equipment. But it has more to offer than vintage music and having popular Akihabara as a neighbor.

Temples & Shrines

Kanda Myojin Shrine

This important Shinto shrine hosts one of Japan’s three biggest festivals, the Kanda Matsuri. People come to Kanda Myojin to pray for success in business, good health and happy marriages. Due to its proximity to Akihabara, the shrine also offers blessings for electronic devices. Admission is free.

Yushima Seido Temple

Yushima Seido is Tokyo’s largest Confucian temple and houses the world’s largest statue of Confucius. It is a place where Confucius is revered as the god of learning, so when entrance exams are starting in Japan, students come here with their families to offer their prayers for academic success. The suggested donation for admission is ¥300.

Museums & Workshops

Tokyo Waterworks Museum

Visit this museum to learn about the history of Edo’s (now Tokyo's), demand for safe water that came with the city’s growth. Visiting the Tokyo Waterworks Museum is a great way to learn about the history of Tokyo’s water supply. Admission is free.

Origami Kaikan

Comprising a shop, an exhibition, and a workshop floor, Origami Kaikan offers everything origami related. Here you can admire beautiful paper art, learn how to make origami yourself and get all the supplies you need to craft at home. Admission is free.

Japan Football Museum

The Japan Football Museum is all about celebrating the country's achievements in the game. Here you can watch football in 3D, marvel at all sorts of signed merchandise and even test your own skills by playing a round of table football or having a match on the provided Play Station. ¥500 admission.

Cafés, Bars & Restaurants

Rangitoto Tokyo

A fantastic bar and restaurant, Rangitoto specializes in wine form New Zealand and Japanese craft sake. Come to Rangitoto Tokyo to enjoy high quality food and beverages for lunch or dinner and have a chat with the venue’s owner Wayne Shennen, a certified wine sommelier and advanced sake professional.

Imasa

First built in 1603, Imasa is a great example of a traditional shop building from the Edo period. You can admire the beautiful seasonal displays in the shop front, get a house tour, or simply enjoy a cup of tea in the café.