Kappabashi: A Culinary Shopping Destination
Located between Ueno and Asakusa, Kappabashi Street is a paradise for restaurant operators and cooking enthusiasts. This unique street specializes in kitchenware but excludes fresh food, offering everything from dishes and pans to stoves and lanterns. Shops even sell plastic food samples used in restaurant displays.
Explore the Shops
With around 160 stores, Kappabashi features high-quality Japanese knives, lacquerware, and professional-grade stoves. Many stores welcome the public, offering excellent deals on tableware and kitchen tools. Unique souvenirs like sushi magnets, food-themed smartphone covers, and ceramic cups are also available. The ultra-realistic food samples are a highlight for visitors.
Sightseeing in Kappabashi
Even without a shopping list, Kappabashi’s elaborate storefronts are worth exploring. Look for giant sculptures of chefs, knives, and teacups adorning the buildings. Children will enjoy spotting statues of kappa, the mythical water imp that inspired the street’s name. The district blends history and culture with culinary practicality, making it a memorable stop in Tokyo.
