Ameya-Yokocho, often shortened to Ameyoko, is a bustling street market nestled alongside the railway tracks connecting JR Ueno Station and Okachimachi Station. This vibrant thoroughfare is a treasure trove of small shops offering an eclectic mix of goods, from fresh seafood, fruits, and vegetables to everyday groceries, discounted apparel, fashion accessories, cosmetics, watches, and sweets. Beyond the retail offerings, Ameyoko is famed for its enticing array of street food stalls, affordable eateries, cozy cafes, and lively bars, creating an atmosphere that’s both energetic and inviting.
The entrance to Ameya-Yokocho (Ameyoko) market
Ameyoko’s magnetic appeal draws in a diverse crowd, with international tourists making up over half of its visitors. This guide will delve into the best shopping and dining experiences that Ueno Ameyoko Shopping Street has to offer, ensuring you make the most of your visit to this iconic Tokyo market.
Stepping Back in Time: The History of Ameyoko
The area that is now Ameya-Yokocho was once a densely populated residential district in downtown Tokyo, characterized by closely packed wooden homes. However, the landscape dramatically changed during World War II when the entire neighborhood was tragically razed to the ground in an air raid. In the aftermath of the war, as reconstruction efforts began, shops and street stalls spontaneously emerged in the area. During this period of scarcity, essential goods were in short supply, giving rise to a thriving black market that traded these necessities at inflated prices. In 1946, local authorities initiated regulations in the area, marking the formal beginnings of the bustling street market we know today.
There are over 400 stores lining Ameya-Yokocho street market
The origin of the name “Ameya-Yokocho” remains a subject of local lore with a couple of intriguing theories. One popular explanation points to the post-war era when sugar was a rare commodity. The market became renowned for stalls selling affordable candies. In Japanese, “ame” translates to “candy,” “ya” signifies “shop,” and “yokocho” denotes “alley.” Thus, Ameya-Yokocho could be interpreted as “candy shop alley.” Another compelling theory suggests that “ame” is derived from “America,” as many stalls at the time traded in inexpensive American army surplus goods. Regardless of the true etymology, candy stores remain a fixture on Ameyoko, though today, the street is more commonly and affectionately known as simply “Ameyoko.”
Ameyoko: A Food Lover’s Paradise
Ueno Ameyoko Shopping Street is a culinary adventure waiting to be explored. It’s an ideal destination to sample a wide variety of Japanese street foods, snacks, and sweet treats that represent the heart of Tokyo’s downtown food culture. Here, you can find classic Tokyo favorites like yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), takoyaki (octopus dumplings), and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes). Adding to the global flavor, Ameyoko boasts a rich tapestry of international cuisines, including Chinese, Thai, Indian, Turkish, and Korean food stalls and eateries. Here are some highly recommended dining spots within Ameyoko:
Hyakkaen New Fruit
Hyakkaen New Fruit
Located on the eastern side of Ameyoko, Hyakkaen New Fruit is a visually striking fruit shop instantly recognizable by its storefront tables overflowing with vibrant, colorful fruits. It’s a popular spot, often bustling with customers eager to purchase fresh fruit slices. Served conveniently on a stick, these fruit slices are a cheap and refreshing snack, perfect for a quick bite while exploring the market. For just 100 to 200 yen, you can enjoy seasonal fruits like pineapple, melon, watermelon, and juicy strawberries. Freshly squeezed juices are also available, providing a healthy and invigorating treat.
Buying a pineapple slice at Hyakkaen New Fruit
Address: 6-chome-10-12 Ueno, Taito, Tokyo 110-0005 (map)
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM, Closed Wednesdays
All the meat you can eat at Niku no Ohyama
Niku no Ohyama
Tucked away in a side street just off Ameyoko’s east side, Niku no Ohyama is a small yet renowned eatery and snack shop. It’s particularly famous for its “menchi katsu”, minced-meat cakes. These savory beef patties are coated in crispy breadcrumbs and deep-fried to a perfect golden brown. You can grab menchi katsu as a takeaway snack to enjoy while wandering through Ameyoko, or dine in and pair them with a refreshing beer. As the name suggests (“niku” means “meat” in Japanese), Niku no Ohyama offers a wide-ranging menu featuring other meat-centric dishes, including steaks, burgers, flavorful curries, and beef croquettes.
Address: 6-13-2 Ueno, Taito, Tokyo 110-0005 (map)
Opening Hours: Monday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM (Last orders: 10:00 PM), Sundays & Holidays: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Last orders: 9:00 PM), Closed: January 1st
Seafood store and standing bar, Uokusa
Uokusa
Situated on the exterior of the Ameyoko Plaza shopping mall, Uokusa is a unique establishment that functions as both a seafood store and a standing bar. Here, you can savor fresh oysters, scallops, crab, and other delectable seafood snacks while enjoying your choice of beverage. It’s a perfect spot to take a break from shopping and indulge in the ocean’s bounty.
Address: 6-10-7 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo 110-0005 (map)
Opening Hours: Weekdays: 11:00 AM – 8:15 PM (Last orders: 8:00 PM), Weekends & Holidays: 11:00 AM – 7:15 PM (Last orders: 7:00 PM), Closed: The 2nd Wednesday of each month
Korean street food at Uncle Joe
Uncle Joe
Another gem located on the periphery of Ameyoko Plaza is Uncle Joe, a Korean street food stall renowned for its tteok-bokki. This popular Korean dish features spicy stir-fried rice cakes, customizable with various toppings such as cheese, seafood, or savory barbecued beef. Uncle Joe’s menu also includes savory chijimi pancakes, sweet hotteok pancakes, kimmari (deep-fried seaweed and noodle rolls), and tteokochi (skewered rice cakes). Complement your Korean street food feast with a refreshing choice from their extensive selection of smoothies, juices, and teas.
Address: 6-10-7 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo 110-0005 (map)
Opening Hours: 10:30 AM – 6:00 PM, Closed: The 3rd Wednesday of each month
Chinese street food at Tentenraku
Tentenraku
Located on the 1st floor of the Ameyoko Center Building, Tentenraku is a casual Chinese eatery offering a diverse and vibrant menu. From steamed dumplings and fluffy pork buns to crispy spring rolls, spicy and sour noodle soups, and comforting wonton soup, Tentenraku provides a wide range of Chinese culinary delights. Explore unique dishes like liangpi noodles, savory xianbing meat pies, flavorful smoked duck, and spicy mala hot pot dishes for a truly authentic Chinese food experience in Ameyoko.
Address: 4−7−8 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo 110-0005 (map)
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Minatoya
Minatoya
Minatoya is a beloved Japanese seafood restaurant in Ameyoko, famous for its signature dish, kaisendon. This satisfying meal consists of fresh sashimi (raw fish) artfully arranged over a bed of hot, fluffy rice. Outside the restaurant, a large, enticing picture menu showcases the various kaisendon options, allowing you to choose your preferred toppings, including tuna, salmon, squid, and glistening salmon roe. Minatoya’s kaisendon is not only delicious and filling but also offers excellent value for money. For a lighter option, Minatoya also serves freshly baked takoyaki octopus dumplings. Depending on your appetite, you can choose from 4 takoyaki for 200 yen, 6 for 300 yen, or 8 for 400 yen.
There is a large picture menu hanging outside the restaurant
Address: 4-1-9 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo 110-0015 (map)
Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM, Closed: January 1st – 2nd
Looking for a perfect place to stay near Ameyoko? Explore our guide on where to stay in Ueno for recommended accommodations.
Shopping Spree at Ameyoko: A Bargain Hunter’s Haven
Beyond its culinary delights, Ameya-Yokocho is a true paradise for shoppers seeking great deals. This bustling market is a treasure trove of fashion, cosmetics, accessories, medicines, and everyday groceries, all available at incredibly discounted prices. Whether you’re looking for trendy clothing, Japanese skincare products, unique souvenirs, or simply stocking up on daily necessities, Ameyoko offers a diverse and budget-friendly shopping experience. Here are some standout shopping destinations within Ameyoko:
Matsumoto Kiyoshi at Ameyoko Market
Matsumoto Kiyoshi
Matsumoto Kiyoshi is a highly popular discount drugstore chain in Japan, and its Ameyoko branch is a prime destination for affordable pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, health foods, insect repellents, hair-care products, bathroom essentials, sanitary items, and even soft drinks and snacks. This large, two-story store, located near the northern entrance of Ameyoko, boasts an extensive selection of budget-friendly health and beauty products, alongside a wide range of everyday groceries. It’s the perfect place to stock up on Japanese beauty favorites and travel essentials without breaking the bank.
Address: 4-10-16 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo 110-0005 (map)
Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 10:00 PM
Cha-no-Kiminoen tea shop
Cha-no-Kiminoen
Established in 1946, Cha-no-Kiminoen is a specialty green tea shop with a rich history and a curated selection of fine tea varieties. This store offers a diverse array of Japanese green teas, including sencha (a standard green tea with a mellow taste and refreshing aroma), hojicha (roasted green tea with a rich, savory flavor and low caffeine), genmaicha (tea blended with brown rice for a mellow, nutty flavor), and matcha (powdered green tea used in tea ceremonies). Cha-no-Kiminoen is an excellent place to purchase unique and authentic souvenir teas from Japan. On the second floor, you’ll also find a selection of teapots, cups, tea caddies, and other tea-making utensils. In recent years, the shop has also gained popularity for its delicious ice creams, available in milk, matcha, and a swirl of both flavors.
Address: 4-9-13 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo 110-0005 (map)
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM, Closed: The 3rd Tuesday of each month
Garakuta Boeki
Garakuta Boeki
Garakuta Boeki is a vibrant import store specializing in a wide range of American lifestyle products. Here you can discover clothing, footwear, kitchenware, home décor items, furniture, toys, bags, watches, accessories, and general sundries, all with an American flair. The store boasts a colorful and inviting atmosphere with a touch of retro charm, complemented by friendly and helpful staff. It’s a great place to find unique and nostalgic American goods in the heart of Tokyo.
Address: 6-9-21 Ueno, Taito, Tokyo 110-0005 (map)
Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM, Closed: January 1st
Niki-no-Kashi Number 1 Store
Niki-no-Kashi Number 1 Store
Niki-no-Kashi is a legendary confectionery store, stocking an astounding selection of over 5,000 different snacks and sweets. Founded in 1947, this long-established business is renowned for its incredible variety of delicious confections sold at incredibly affordable prices. At Niki-no-Kashi, you can find everything from popular chocolates, candies, cakes, and cookies to traditional Japanese sweets, high-quality confections, local treats sourced from across Japan, and savory rice crackers. If you’re looking to buy sweet gifts in bulk for friends and family, Niki-no-Kashi is the ultimate destination.
Address: 4-1-8 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo 110-0005 (map)
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Outside the Ameyoko Center Building
Exploring the Ameyoko Center Building
The Ameyoko Center Building is a prominent shopping complex situated on the western side of Ameyoko, spanning four floors above ground and one basement level. The basement is particularly noteworthy as it houses a vibrant ethnic food market. Here, you can immerse yourself in a world of international flavors, finding a vast array of Chinese, Thai, Korean, and Vietnamese ingredients, including spices, sauces, pickles, fresh fruits and vegetables, exotic meats, and seafood. It’s a culinary adventure for those seeking authentic Asian ingredients.
Inside the ethnic food market at the Ameyoko Center Building
The 1st floor, facing the bustling street, is primarily occupied by casual eateries, offering quick and affordable meals. However, you can also find a selection of shops selling shoes, bags, and clothing on this level.
A shoe store on the 1st floor
Venture to the 2nd floor to discover a collection of fashion and jewelry boutiques. These shops offer a range of clothing and accessories, catering to various styles and tastes.
Fashion boutiques on the 2nd floor
The 3rd floor presents an eclectic mix of retail experiences, including a camera shop for photography enthusiasts, a trendy pop fashion boutique for unique clothing finds, a vinyl record store for music lovers, and a large sporting goods store for athletic gear and equipment.
Castle Records on the 3rd floor
Festival Sports on the 3rd floor
The 4th floor is dedicated to golf enthusiasts, housing another branch of the Festival Sports store, this one specializing exclusively in golf-related goods, from clubs and apparel to accessories.
Address: 4-7-8 Ueno, Taito, Tokyo 110-0005 (map)
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM, Closed: The 3rd Wednesday of each month except December
The entrance to Uechun shopping street
Uechun: Ameyoko’s Quieter Neighbor
Approximately 150 meters from Ameyoko’s northern entrance, another shopping street branches off, offering a slightly different market experience. Officially named “Ueno Naka-dori,” meaning “Ueno Center Street,” this street is affectionately nicknamed “Uechun.” Uechun is characterized by a high concentration of clothing and shoe stores, along with numerous casual sit-down restaurants. While Uechun and Ameyoko run parallel for a significant portion of their length, Uechun tends to be less crowded and quieter than its bustling neighbor. If you prefer a more relaxed street market atmosphere, Uechun is an excellent alternative to explore.
Marishiten Tokudaiji Temple
Marishiten Tokudaiji Temple: A Moment of Tranquility
Perched on elevated ground overlooking the vibrant Ameyoko street market is Marishiten Tokudaiji Temple, a small Buddhist temple offering a peaceful respite from the market’s energy. The temple entrance is located on a side street on Ameyoko’s western edge, directly opposite the Niki-no-Kashi confectionary store. Marishiten Tokudaiji Temple provides a tranquil escape where you can take a moment to relax and reflect amidst the bustling market atmosphere. To delve deeper into the history and significance of this temple, explore our dedicated article on Marishiten Tokudaiji Temple.
Getting to Ameyoko
The northern entrance of Ameya-Yokocho is conveniently located directly across the street from the Shinobazu Exit of JR Ueno Station, and immediately adjacent to the prominent Yodobashi Camera Multimedia electronics store. This prime location makes Ameyoko easily accessible for visitors arriving by train.
Article and original photos by Michael Lambe. All rights reserved.
