Kappabashi is Tokyo’s longest street devoted to all things culinary. The shops here sell everything that a chef or restaurant owner might need, from knives and chopsticks to aprons and uniforms. Though it’s not specifically a tourist attraction, it is popular with travelers and food lovers looking for a quirky shopping or browsing destination. People often visit Kappabashi before or after visiting the nearby Asakusa neighborhood, and some guided tours include both areas.
Kappabashi lies between the lively Ueno and Asakusa neighborhoods. The easiest way to get there is to get off at the Tawaramachi Station on the Ginza subway line. Alternatively, Ueno station on several JR train lines is about a 15-minute walk away.
Visit Kappabashi during normal business hours on weekdays, when the shops will be open. Most shops will also be open on Saturdays, but just a few on Sundays and public holidays.
Near Kappabashi is the old neighborhood of Asakusa, a very popular district with tourists because of its traditional craft shops and the ancient Senso-Ji temple. It’s a good idea to visit Kappabashi and Asakusa on the same day, as you can walk between the two areas. Plus, Asakusa is a great place to grab lunch or dinner because there are many traditional izakaya restaurants and yakitori (grilled meat) stalls.
