Kagurazaka, Sloping road in Shinjuku, Japan
Kagurazaka is a sloping street in Shinjuku, Tokyo, running through narrow lanes lined with wooden houses, restaurants, and shops. The paved main road climbs upward from the train station and opens into a network of tight side paths with low buildings.
The neighborhood formed in the 17th century outside the outer moat of Edo Castle and developed into an entertainment district. After a fire in the 20th century, French influence shaped the rebuilding through immigrant settlers.
Houses along side lanes show wooden lattice screens that once offered privacy and now shape the traditional streetscape. Many establishments serve French cuisine alongside Japanese meals, defining daily life in the neighborhood today.
The main street closes to cars daily between noon and 1 p.m., extending to 7 p.m. on Sundays and holidays. Side alleys remain open for walking at all times and lead to small eateries and shops.
Akagi Shrine at the upper end blends traditional elements with a glass and wood structure designed by architect Kengo Kuma. The slope itself took its name from the sound of traditional musical instruments once played during festivals.
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