Tokyo Metropolitan Government / Japan
Kanda
This historic corner of northeast Tokyo was once described as a place for “universities, bookshops and intellectuals”. Academic institutions are still there, along with the Holy Resurrection Cathedral, but Kanda is home to electronics district Akihabara, a huge shrine and dozens of Japanese curry restaurants too.
1.
Y & Sons
Tailor made
Alongside Kanda Myoujin is Y & Sons, a bespoke tailor that offers a fresh take on the kimono. A seasonal line-up of kimono is joined by outerwear, shirts and accessories. For inspiration look no further than the staff’s daily ensembles.
2-17-2 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku03-5294-7521
yandsons.com
2.
Yabu Soba
Soba so good
While the restaurant was rebuilt in 2014, its culinary heritage lives on through classic seiro soba, while seasonal highlights include soba with grilled matsutake mushrooms in autumn and oysters in winter.
2-10 Kanda Awajicho, Chiyoda-ku03-3251-0287
yabusoba.net
3.
Minä Perhonen elävä I and II
Well crafted
These two homeware shops capture the world of designer Akira Minagawa. Start at elävä I, before moving on to elävä II, where vintage furniture and pieces from the label’s archive await.
Elävä I, 1-3-9 Higashi Kanda, Chiyoda-ku03-6825-3037
mina-perhonen.jp/elava
4.
Kanda Myoujin
Count your blessings
Prosperity, good luck and marriage are at the heart of prayers at Kanda Myoujin. Constructed in the style of gongen-zukuri, the main Shinto shrine also serves as the focal point of the biannual Kanda festival.
2-16-2 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku03-3254-0753
kandamyoujin.or.jp
5.
Maach Ecute Kanda Manseibashi
Under the arches
The former Manseibashi Station has found new life as a retail destination. Shops and cafés fill the restored building, where weaving under the viaduct arches is half the fun.
1-25-4 Kanda Sudacho, Chiyoda-ku03-3257-8910
ecute.jp/maach
