Nezu

Nezu is a historic district in Bunkyo featuring narrow alleyways, wooden structures, small shops, and religious buildings arranged in a traditional neighborhood layout. The streets wind through the area with buildings tightly arranged along them, creating the distinct pattern of old Japanese residential spaces.

The area grew around Nezu Shrine, founded in 1705 during the Edo period, and has maintained its original architectural character through the following centuries. This shrine served as the central point around which the residential neighborhood developed and stayed rooted.

The neighborhood hosts art galleries, traditional tea houses, and craft workshops where visitors can observe artisans at work and see how these practices continue in daily life. Local residents and shop owners maintain these spaces as part of their everyday routines rather than as museum pieces.

The Chiyoda Line of Tokyo Metro connects through Nezu Station to central Tokyo and surrounding areas. Walking is the best way to explore the neighborhood since the streets are compact and most attractions are within close distance of each other.

The Nezu Shrine is surrounded by around 3,000 azalea bushes in 100 different varieties that flower during the April spring festival. This spectacular bloom transforms the shrine grounds into a remarkable display that many visitors specifically plan their trips around.