The 22,000km Trip (28) Tokyo: Yanaka

For the average Tokyo citizen, Yanaka is just one of the more well-known local neighborhood for its traditional-style stores. Its cemetery is well known for a few historic celebrities buried there. But that's about it. You won't think of really going there unless you lived in the area. For the average tourist, Yanaka is virtually unknown. That is, until now. Apparently, the Yanaka community is trying to "sell" the neighborhood as a hidden gem that preserves the traditional 1960-1980s style of Japan. And it some ways it is. I can see how it can appeal to foreigners.

But on the other hand, I honestly felt like it was "too" made up. It almost felt like they renovated the stores to look retro, but it seems oddly out of place. The shotengai, or the row of stores were attractive but many were overly accommodating to foreigners and losing its local touch. Don't get me wrong, you'll have a marvelous time there and the ambiance is nice, but I'd prefer the smaller shotengais in Arakawa, Musashi-Koyama areas. You only see locals shopping and so naturally it feels more authentic. Nevertheless, I slipped in through a few of the smaller alleys and a few stores that were actually targeted towards locals. The backdrop of the sunset makes it look a little more authentic...right?