Koenji Nakadori Shopping Street — Local services in Tokyo

Awa Odori Festival visit 24 Aug 2025 (5-8 pm)

A whirl of movement, sound, and smiles. following the hypnotic rhythm of taiko drums and the chant of “Yatto-sa, yatto-sa!”

Walking into Koenji during the Awa Odori Festival feels like stepping into a moving celebration. The energy hits you immediately—taiko drums echoing through the streets, the heat of the summer air mixing with the smell of street food, and everywhere you look, people are dancing, clapping, and smiling. Dance Groups The highlight is without a doubt the dance groups, or ren. Each group brings its own style—some traditional in straw hats and kimono, others more modern with kids in sneakers. What’s amazing is that everyone dances with the same joy, whether they’re seasoned performers or tiny kids barely keeping up. I joined a small, local ren for a few minutes when they invited onlookers to dance—no pressure, just fun. It was chaotic and unforgettable. Local People’s Joy The local community truly owns this festival. Shopkeepers step out to cheer, families sit curbside eating yakitori, and older folks nod along to the music with proud smiles. Everyone seems to know each other, and even as a tourist, you feel folded into the celebration. Tourist Experience As a visitor, the festival is accessible and incredibly welcoming. English signage is minimal, but that almost adds to the charm—you learn by being present. Locals are more than happy to guide you, offer food recommendations, or explain the meaning of a chant. It’s one of the rare festivals where you don’t just watch—you feel part of it. Street Food The food is street-level heaven. Stalls line the side streets with everything from crispy karaage (Japanese fried chicken) to freshly grilled squid, okonomiyaki, and icy kakigori to beat the heat. I had a sweet soy-glazed dango that still lingers in my memory—simple, warm,...

Looking for Tokyo beyond the usual tourist trails? Head to Koenji Nakadori Shopping Street, a narrow stretch packed with character, creativity, and a dash of retro chaos.

This isn’t your typical glitzy shopping district. It’s where vintage shops sit next to mom-and-pop rice cracker stalls, and you can hop from a thrift store with 80s leather jackets to a tiny jazz bar tucked behind a curtain. Every storefront has a story, and no two shops are alike.

What makes Koenji Nakadori so special is its raw, unfiltered vibe. It feels lived-in, authentic, and a little rebellious.

It’s also a hotspot for Tokyo’s indie crowd, so don’t be surprised if you stumble into an impromptu gig or art pop-up.

Perfect for an afternoon wander, a slow coffee, or spontaneous shopping finds you won’t get anywhere else.

Pro tip: Don’t rush. The magic of Koenji is in the details and...

下町の商店街で道幅も広くありませんが、カフェや雑貨店など新しい店も増えていますので、高円寺に来たら行ってみてください！ 駅近くに焼きとんが食べられる四文屋さんもあります スターウォーズ好きならスターケースによってね！二階で分かりにくいけど目印は一階に三代目茂蔵さ...