We explore Ameya-Yokocho, a lively open-air market street located near Ueno Station.

Known locally as “Ameyoko,” this bustling area developed as a black market after World War II and still retains the vibrant energy of Tokyo’s traditional downtown (shitamachi).

Today, the narrow street is lined with small shops selling fresh seafood, sweets, cosmetics, and discount goods.

As we stroll through the market, you can enjoy the lively atmosphere and discover local food spots, including Daitoryo (President) and Gyoza Shoryu (Rising Dragon) in the railway underpass, as well as Tarumatsu, a long-established izakaya.

Take a short break at this modern dining and shopping complex beside Ueno Station.

The site was once home to Ueno Shochiku Department Store, a familiar landmark for about half a century.

The old building was replaced by Ueno no Mori Sakura Terrace in 2014.

Take the elevator or escalator up to the rooftop terrace, which connects directly to Ueno Park.

From the observation deck, you can enjoy views of the trains arriving and departing from Ueno Station, as well as Tokyo Skytree.

It is a great spot to experience the lively railway atmosphere of Ueno while enjoying a view of the surrounding park.

We also step down into an underground food market beneath Ameyoko, where the atmosphere changes dramatically. This maze-like space is filled with small shops offering ingredients from across Asia.

You may find ingredients and food products that are less familiar to visitors from overseas, often with labels in languages other than Japanese or English.

Here, you might encounter ingredients such as tamarind, cassava, or papad, offering a glimpse into the multicultural food scene of Tokyo and the everyday lives of its diverse communities.

Amid the busy market, we visit Marishiten Tokudaiji Temple, a historic temple quietly tucked between the shops. It is dedicated to Marishiten, a Buddhist guardian deity believed to bring victory, protection, and good fortune.

Samurai warriors once prayed here before going into battle, adding a layer of history and spirituality to this vibrant area.

Explore this long-established local food market in front of Okachimachi Station.

The 1st floor features a wide selection of fresh fish and seafood, while the basement floors offer a variety of groceries, prepared foods, vegetables, local specialties, sake, wine, and everyday goods.

You can take photos inside the supermarket areas, making it a great place to see the variety of ingredients and food culture in Japan.

On the 9th floor, Yoshiike Shokudo brings together Japanese, Western, and sushi restaurants in one dining space. From the free seating area, you can enjoy views of Tokyo Skytree and see the variety of restaurants and seafood dishes available.

Supermarket floors: 9:30 AM - 8:30 PM / 9th-floor

restaurants: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM.

Video recording is not permitted in the supermarket areas.

Stop by Hanakagura Panda-yaki, located just outside the north ticket gates of JR Okachimachi Station, and learn about these adorable panda-shaped cakes, a popular local snack in the Ueno and Okachimachi area.

Made in several flavors, Panda-yaki is a distinctive local snack and a fun example of the food culture around Ueno and Okachimachi.

Located on a small hill in Ueno Park, Ueno Daibutsu is a unique historical site where only the face of a once much larger Buddha statue remains.

The statue was originally built in the 17th century and was repeatedly damaged by earthquakes and fire. During World War II, most of the remaining statue was melted down for metal, leaving only the Buddha’s face.

Today, the Ueno Daibutsu is also known as a symbol of good luck for students taking entrance exams. The Japanese expression “fall” can mean both physically falling and failing an exam, so the Buddha has become associated with the wish to “never fall again.”

Take a closer look at the Buddha’s distinctive expression and peaceful presence before continuing our exploration of Ueno Park.