Nogizaka, Sloping road in Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
Nogizaka is a gently sloping road in Minato-ku, Tokyo, running close to the subway station that shares its name. The slope itself is gradual and easy to walk, flanked by trees and a mix of residential and embassy buildings.
The slope was once known as Nadarezaka, a name that referred to its steep and slippery character. It was renamed Nogizaka in 1912 following the death of General Maresuke Nogi, who had lived nearby.
Near the slope stands Nogi Shrine, dedicated to General Maresuke Nogi, and it draws regular visitors who come to pay their respects. Every January, fans of the pop group Nogizaka46 also gather here, as the group's members take part in the Coming of Age ceremony at the shrine.
The slope is right next to Nogizaka Station on the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line, making it easy to reach on foot from the exit. Spring and evening are good times to walk here, as cherry trees along the street bloom in the former and the surrounding buildings light up in the latter.
The pop group Nogizaka46 took its name directly from this street when it was formed in 2011 in this neighborhood. The group was created as a rival group to AKB48 and has since grown into one of Japan's most followed idol groups.
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