Top 5 Hidden Spring Gems in East Tokyo: Exclusive Experiences

princefriend2024
May 28
3 min read

-Prince Friend was not paid or contacted by any of the establishments featured here. We choose to include these recommendations because we genuinely stand by their quality.-

1. Kagurazaka Ishikawa – Michelin 3-Star Kaiseki Dining

Photo: Kagurazaka Ishikawa

Tucked away in the charming Kagurazaka district, Kagurazaka Ishikawa offers an intimate kaiseki dining experience that has earned it three Michelin stars. The head chef, Hideki Ishikawa, crafts seasonal multi-course meals that highlight the delicate flavors of Japanese cuisine. The restaurant's serene ambiance and meticulous attention to detail make it a must-visit for high-end gourmet enthusiasts.

Photo: Kagurazaka Ishikawa

Photo: Kagurazaka Ishikawa

ENGLISH WEBSITE: https://omakase.in/en/r/is658812

Menu: Chef's Tasting Course
Price: Approximately ¥49,500 per person (tax included)
Reservations: Book well in advance (THIS IS ESSENTIAL!)
Address: 5-37 Kagurazaka, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Hours: Dinner service is from 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM; closed Sundays and holidays.

2. Sake Market – Unlimited Sake Tasting Experience

Photo: Sake Market Shinjuku

With a branch in Akihabara and Shinjuku, the establishment known as "Sake Market" offers a unique all-you-can-drink sake tasting experience, which features over 100 varieties from across Japan. You are even allowed to bring your own food, which makes for a relaxed and customizable experience.

Photo: Sake Market Shinjuku Instagram

ENGLISH WEBSITE: https://sakemarket.tokyo/

Price: ¥3,000 per person for unlimited tasting, and no time limit
Food: Bring your own; utensils and condiments provided.
Address: Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyoz
Hours: Varies depending on location; you will have to check the official website for details.

3. ARiSE Coffee Roasters – Artisan Coffee in Kiyosumi-Shirakawa

Photo: ARiSE Coffee Roasters X/Twitter

In the heart of Kiyosumi-Shirakawa, ARiSE Coffee Roasters is a haven for coffee aficionados. This shop specializes in single-origin beans, roasted in-house, and offers a selection of pastries from the local bakery Kotoripan. The cozy atmosphere and knowledgeable staff make it a perfect spot for a carefree coffee break.

Photo: ARiSE Coffee Roasters site

WEBSITE (Japanese only): https://arisecoffee.jp/

Drinks: Drip coffee starting at ¥500
Address: 1-13-8 Hirano, Koto-ku, Tokyo
Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM; closed Mondays.

4. Shimokitazawa – Vintage Shopping and Indie Culture

Photo: Adobe Stock Photos

Shimokitazawa is Tokyo's hub for vintage fashion and indie culture. The neighborhood boasts over 100 vintage shops, and offers a treasure trove of unique clothing and accessories! Notable stores include the New York Joe Exchange (a former bathhouse turned into a vintage shop), and Flamingo, which is known for its curated selection of retro attire.

Photo: Prince Friend team

Photo: Adobe Stock Photos

ENGLISH WEBSITE: https://www.japan.travel/en/story/shimokitazawa-shopping-guide/

Highlights:
- Used/Vintage clothing shops: Some, like the New York Joe Exchange, even offer a trade-in system for clothing.
- Bars and Pubs: Features some unique indie bars and pubs, including izakaya.
Access: Starts right next to Shimokitazawa Station.

5. Ryogoku Edo Noren – Edo-Era Dining and Culture Under One Roof

Photo: Ryogoku Edo Noren website

Located within the restored 1929 Ryogoku Station building, Ryogoku Edo Noren offers a nostalgic journey into Tokyo's Edo period. At its heart lies a full-scale sumo ring (which occasionally hosts events and performances), surrounded by a selection of restaurants and shops that serve traditional Japanese cuisine and products. The ambiance captures the essence of old Tokyo, making it a unique spot for both dining and cultural exploration.

One notable establishment is Chanko Kirishima, operated by a former sumo wrestler. This restaurant specializes in chanko nabe, a hearty stew traditionally consumed by sumo wrestlers. The dish features a rich broth filled with vegetables, meats, and seafood, offering a taste that's both authentic and satisfying.

Chanko Kirishima WEBSITE (only in Japanese): https://c-kirishima.com/

Address:Address: 1-3-20 Yokoami, Sumida-ku, Tokyo

Hours: 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM; individual restaurant hours may vary.