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Sugamo, on the JR Yamanote line, is popularly known as "Grandma's Harajuku" (obaachan no Harajuku), and indeed most shops in the area do seem targeted towards a geriatric clientele. For the (rare) tourist, however, this means a plentiful supply of tea, pottery, kitchen implements and clothes in styles that went out of fashion 50 years ago. The area is at its liveliest on the 4th, 14th and 24th of each month when a street market is held.
Northern Tokyo (王子、巣鴨、日暮里)
Terminal Station: Oji Station
Major Spots: Arakawa Nature Park, Arakawa Yuen, Toshimaen, Tokyo Metropolitan Art Space.
Northern Tokyo is an area containing Adachi(足立区), Kita(北区), Itabashi(板橋区), and Nerima(練馬区). This area is known as a traditional residence area for higher class. Throughout Edo period, this area was occupied by rich and powerful. Today, this area is considered to be traditinonal, historical, and mature. Those who live in the area are respected to be the highest rank in cultural sense. Some of the famous spots in this area are Toshima-en, Asukayama, Sugamo, Komagome, and Nippori.
Fireworks at Arakawa River![]()
Hanami at Otonashi Park![]()
Hanami at Asukayama park![]()
Sugamo Jizo Strip![]()