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Yoyogi Uehara Area Guide

Undulating landscape made up of luxurious, high-class detatched housing and low-rise apartments.

Last Updated on December 15, 2022

Overview

Once known as “Ueppara”, meaning “a field on the top of the hill”, the Yoyogi-Uehara area is an undulating landscape made up of luxurious, high-class detached housing and low-rise apartments. Particularly noteworthy amongst the mix of pre-war housing and modern masterpieces is Kazuo Shinohara’s small two-story “House in Uehara”, a 1976 design made from exposed reinforced concrete and the embodiment of the influential Japanese architect’s declaration that “A house is a work of art.” Additionally, the multitude of nearby embassies make for a truly international and family-friendly neighborhood which offers great access to some of Tokyo’s most popular locations.

Yoyogi-Uehara Station shares its platforms with both the Odakyu and Chiyoda Lines. The former goes deep into the Southwestern suburbs of Tokyo, whereas the latter snakes through to the north of Tokyo, stopping at major hubs such as Omotesando, Otemachi, Nippori and Kita-Senju along the route. It’s also the first stop on the line, making the odds of getting a seat on an early morning commute much more favorable.

For an even greater range of transportation options, JR Yoyogi Station is a short walk away and provides access to the Yamanote and Chuo Lines, as well as the Oedo Line on the Toei underground network. The neighborhood is also on the school bus route for the American School in Japan, whilst other international schools such as Yoyogi International School and The British School in Tokyo are within range, located on the outskirts of Yoyogi Park.

Food and Drink

The Yoyogi-Uehara area has developed a reputation for being one of Tokyo’s top places to get baked goods and great coffee. From the Parisian-influenced stylings of Boulangerie et Cafe Main Mano (whose head chef holds the accolade of being the first from Japan to be appointed to the luxurious Hotel de Crillon in France) to the more sleek, modern establishments such as Astérisque or Bien-Être Patisserie and its exquisite parfaits, there’s no shortage of places to relax in and soak up the cozy, neighborly ambience. Locals can take advantage of places such as Haritts, a donut shop that blends so well into the neighborhood it’s a bit of a tricky find, and grab some of its delicious doughy balls before they sell out.

Other favourites include Mi Choripan, which sells Choripan (chorizo sausage in a roll, the street food of choice for many Argentines) with various custom toppings or as part of a salad platter, and Otaya Tofu Shop, a long-standing and popular store selling fresh, locally produced tofu. Once the evening rolls around, pair a glass of wine with a variety of crab dishes at the Whisky Gibier Bar & Shop, or knock back some cocktails at the Fireking Cafe; just two options amongst many others waiting to be discovered.

What to do

Tokyo Camii & Turkish Cultrural Center

Exemplifying the inclusive, international atmosphere of the neighborhood is the grand structure of The Tokyo Camii & Turkish Cultural Center, the largest Islamic mosque in Japan. The current building was opened in June 2000, standing on the site of its predecessor which was built in 1938 by refugees from Russia following the 1917 October Revolution before being torn down in 1986 due to severe structural damage.

With beautiful Arabic calligraphy and other designs characteristic to Islamic architecture throughout, the Camii and offers plenty beyond a place to pray and is a great place to visit, Muslim or not. The ground floor contains a small shop selling Turkish souvenirs and a library for worshipers to relax and study in, whilst up on the second floor, the marbled terrace and decorated arches momentarily gives you a feeling of being in a different country altogether.

As the religion dictates, there is a separate area of worship for women (it should also be noted that all women entering the prayer area must keep their hair covered with a scarf, which is provided if needed).

Koga Masao Museum of Music

Another large landmark in Yoyogi-Uehara is the Koga Masao Museum of Music. Built on the location of the former residence of the man who gave the museum its name, Masao Koga, the venue also includes a concert hall that can be rented for public use. The museum itself contains a replica of the popular Showa-era melody maker’s dwellings, various memorabilia related to his legacy and a complete library of his works. There’s als a small Hall of Fame that pays tribute to other stalwarts of Japan’s pop culture past, although unfortunately, no English information is available other than the complimentary pamphlet.

Parks

Residents of Yoyogi-Uehara in need of some green are spoiled by having one of Tokyo’s largest parks just up the road toward neighboring Yoyogi Koen Station. Created on the site of a former U.S. military barracks as part of the development for the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, the iconic Yoyogi park is popular for runners, joggers or just those looking for a relaxing stroll with pets, kids, friends and family. The warmer seasons see the lawns taken up with sunbathers, picnickers and musicians, and it should come as no surprise that it’s one of the most popular cherry blossom viewing locations in the city. More recently, it also held many Olympic events for Tokyo 2020 and has facilities for futsal, basketball and many other track and field events for sporty types to take advantage of.

Things to do

Shopping

Just by walking down Omotesando Boulevard, you’ll pass by stores such as Hermes, Bottega Veneta, Dior and the like. For those who want a more indoor experience, check out Omotesando Hills for a classy mall shopping spree. Off of the main street is where things get a bit more interesting. Turning off onto any alleyway, you will find boutique shops selling vintage shoes, thrift stores, and more. For second-hand designer clothes with reasonable price tags, head to RAGTAG. From shoes to formalwear to sweatshirts, they have it all. For a more classic thrifting experience, check out Kinji Used Clothing. Aesthetically organized and well kept pieces at better prices than you can find anywhere else.

For those who don’t want to go luxury, but aren’t interested in thrifting, Cat Street may be the perfect option. Connecting Shibuya with Harajuku, Cat Street is a winding walkway with plenty of boutique and international brand apparel stores. Here, you’ll find everything from ALLSAINTS to Patagonia.

Arts/Culture

For perhaps one of the most impressive collections of pre-modern East Asian Art, pay a visit to Nezu Museum. Here you’ll not only enjoy various exhibits of paintings and sculptures, but the space itself. The building, designed by renowned architect Kengo Kuma, looks out onto a beautiful Japanese garden, which is free to access with a museum ticket. For contemporary art lovers, check out Yoku Moku Museum for their wonderful Picasso exhibits while enjoying their famous cookies.

Parks

If you have children, Minato City Aoyama Park would be a great place to release some energy. Beautifully kept flowers and baseball fields. For more of a picnic-vibe, Aoyama Park North Section would be the best option for its vast grass patches and shady trees.

Transportation

Trains: With access to Meiji-Jingumae, Omotesando, and Aoyama Itchome stations, there are plenty of options for train lines, such as the Fukutoshin, Ginza, Hanzomon, and Chiyoda lines.

Buses: Fairly well serviced with direct routes to and from Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, Shibuya, and Roppongi.

Taxis: Taxis are very easy to hail once you get on Omotesando Boulevard.