The Nezu and Sendagi area, located in Tokyo’s old downtown district (shitamachi), retains a strong sense of traditional charm. With its historic shrines, old townhouses, and atmospheric backstreets, it’s a neighborhood that invites leisurely exploration.
Adding to its allure is the cultural atmosphere left behind by some of Japan’s most renowned literary figures, such as Mori Ōgai and Natsume Sōseki, who once lived in the area. Why not take a stroll through the nostalgic shopping streets and narrow alleys, while visiting shrines and museums to discover the rich history and culture of the neighborhood?
Nezu and Sendagi are home to many spots that breathe history and culture. From Nezu Shrine, famous for its Azalea Festival, to the Bunkyo Historical Museum and the Mori Ōgai Memorial Museum, there are plenty of places to deepen your understanding of the area’s cultural heritage.
This area is also known as a literary haven where many great writers like Natsume Sōseki and Kyōka Izumi once lived, making it the perfect place to enjoy a literary walking tour. Nearby, the Yanaka Cemetery is the final resting place of many notable cultural and historical figures, offering a glimpse into modern Japanese history.
Located in Bunkyo Ward, Tokyo, Nezu Shrine is said to have over 1,900 years of history. According to legend, it was founded by the mythical hero Yamato Takeru. In the Edo period, the fifth shogun Tokugawa Tsunayoshi commissioned the construction of the current shrine buildings, which are excellent examples of the gongen-zukuri architectural style and are designated as Important Cultural Properties.
Within the grounds, you’ll find the Otome Inari Shrine, famous for its rows of vermilion torii gates, and the azalea garden, known for the annual Azalea Festival held in April. With about 3,000 azalea bushes in around 100 varieties, the spectacle in spring is breathtaking. Despite being in the city center, the shrine offers a lush and spiritual escape, making it a popular power spot.
The Mori Ōgai Memorial Museum is dedicated to one of Japan’s most prominent modern literary figures. It opened in 2012 to commemorate the 150th anniversary of Ōgai’s birth and is located on the site of his final residence, the “Kanchōrō.”
Inside the museum, you’ll find a permanent exhibition that traces the timeline of his life, featuring valuable manuscripts and personal belongings. The special exhibition room hosts rotating exhibits on his wide-ranging activities and his connections with other contemporary writers. This museum is a must-visit for literature lovers and anyone interested in Japan’s modern history.
The Bunkyo Historical Museum offers an in-depth look into the history and culture of Bunkyo Ward. Through a range of materials and displays, it illustrates the area’s journey from the Edo period to the present day.
Highlights include a diorama recreating the townscape of Edo-era Bunkyo and exhibits about the lifestyles of literary giants from the Meiji era. For literature fans especially, the displays tracing the footsteps of local writers are not to be missed.
The backstreets of Nezu are full of old-town charm and character. Around Nezu Station, you’ll find narrow alleys lined with traditional houses, tiny shops, and hidden cafés—offering a time-travel-like experience.
These quiet lanes are perfect for a slow-paced stroll, where you’ll often spot seasonal flowers and neighborhood cats along the way. It’s also a favorite destination for photography enthusiasts hoping to capture retro, picturesque scenes.
Yanaka Ginza, a nostalgic shopping street cherished by locals, is one of the area’s most popular spots. Stretching about 170 meters, the street is lined with around 60 unique stores, exuding the warmth of a traditional downtown.
You’ll find long-standing shops like “Gotō no Ame” (a candy store founded in 1922), the famous menchi-katsu (fried minced meat cutlets) from “Niku no Suzuki,” and the homestyle deli “Ichifuji.” Just walking around is a delightful experience.
One of the highlights here is the “Yuyake Dandan” staircase, a local symbol. The view of the sunset from the top of the stairs is breathtaking, offering a nostalgic scene of Tokyo’s old town.
The Nezu and Sendagi area is filled with charming spots rich in history and culture. From the historical grandeur of Nezu Shrine to the educational exhibits at the Bunkyo Historical Museum and the Mori Ōgai Memorial Museum, to the joys of food and shopping in cozy alleyways—there’s something here for everyone.
Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, and enjoy a relaxing stroll through this culturally vibrant neighborhood.