Activities in Kiyosumi Shirakawa: A Guide for Visitors
Say so long to the city rat race and head to Kiyosumi Shirakawa, a historic district in Tokyo's Fukagawa area. In the good old days of the Edo Period (1603-1868), this low-lying, densely populated area was dubbed "Low Town" due to its lower-class population. Nowadays, it's known as a hidden gem with an authentic vibe, filled with art spaces, coffee cafes, and bike paths.
Wanna grab a brew? Tokyo's "Coffee Town" has you covered. Sip on espresso at Blue Bottle Coffee or experience authentic Japanese coffee at ARiSE Coffee Entangle. If you're coming from Down Under, Allpress Espresso will make you feel right at home. And don't forget to check out Iki Espresso or Fukadaso Cafe, both popular coffee destinations in the hood.
Up for some culture? Wander over to the stunning Kiyosumi Garden with its seasonal foliage, traditional landscape garden, and floating-style luxurious Japanese restaurant. The Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo, remodeled in 2019, is another must-see, showcasing contemporary art, fashion, designs, and architectural works from famous artists such as Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein.
History buffs won't want to miss the Fukagawa Edo Museum, where you can take a step back in time and experience life in the Edo period. And for those into traditional Japanese poet Matsuo Basho, be sure to visit the Basho Inari Shrine, Basho Memorial Park, and the Basho Museum.
Feeling adventurous? Rent a bike and explore Kiyosumi Shirakawa like a local. Trails through Kiyosumi Park, Kiyosumi Shirakawa Shopping District, and Tatsumi Shinmichi offer breathtaking sights and a unique way to experience the area.
Looking for the inside scoop on Tokyo? Our travel agency offers guided tours for the best experiences in Japan. From private walking tours to delicious food and drink tours, we've got you covered!
Kiyosumi Shirakawa is a charming destination for those seeking a taste of Tokyo's rich history alongside its vibrant contemporary culture. So why wait? Come explore this hidden gem today!
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Sources:
- Kiyosumi Shirakawa, AKA Kiyosumi-Shirakawa, Tokyo: Hidden Charms Await in Tokyo's Art Space and Historical District. (2019, May 29). Tokyo Weekender. Retrieved from https://www.tokyoweekender.com/2019/05/29/kiyosumi-shirakawa/
- The 5 Best Things To Do In Kiyosumi Shirakawa, Tokyo. (n.d.). The Japan Guy. Retrieved from https://www.thejapanguy.com/things-to-do/kiyosumi-shirakawa-tokyo/
- Kiyosumi Shirakawa: Tokyo's Hidden Edo-era Charms Await You. (2020, March 5). DeepJapan. Retrieved from https://blog.deepjapan.org/en/destinations/kiyosumi-shirakawa/
- Port of Edo: Matsugaya, Tokyo's Merchant Quarter. (2017, December 15). The Tokyo Guide. Retrieved from https://thetokyoguide.com/shibamata/edo-merchant-quarter/
- Kiyosumi Shirakawa District, Tokyo: Historical and Modern Charm. (n.d.). Japan Guide. Retrieved from https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2097.html
- Immerse yourself in the rich history of Kiyosumi Shirakawa, a charming district in Tokyo's Fukagawa area, previously known as "Low Town" during the Edo Period.
- Experience the unique blend of culture and contemporary lifestyle in Kiyosumi Shirakawa, where art spaces, coffee cafes, bike paths, and traditional Japanese gardens coexist.
- If you're a coffee connoisseur, don't miss visiting Blue Bottle Coffee, ARiSE Coffee Entangle, Allpress Espresso, Iki Espresso, or Fukadaso Cafe for an authentic coffee experience.
- History buffs can step back in time at the Fukagawa Edo Museum, taking a glimpse into life during the Edo Period, or visit the Basho Inari Shrine, Basho Memorial Park, and the Basho Museum dedicated to the renowned Japanese poet Matsuo Basho.
- Rent a bike and explore Kiyosumi Shirakawa like a local, biking through Kiyosumi Park, the Kiyosumi Shirakawa Shopping District, and Tatsumi Shinmichi for a unique perspective and breathtaking views of this hidden gem.
