Yanagibashi

Tokyo
Yanagibashi
Discover this interesting neighborhood known for its many traditional doll shops that play an important part in local tradition.

Yanagibashi is part of the Asakusabashi area of Tokyo in the Taitō ward. Asakusabashi’s biggest draws for most locals are its huge wholesale stores and its doll shops. Most of the doll shops are concentrated in the Yanagibashi neighborhood.

Visit Yanagibashi to window-shop in the old-fashioned doll stores and to look out across the Kanda River at the yakatabune boats, traditional low barges that travel up and down the water. You can also board one of the boats here yourself to enjoy a cruise along the Kanda River or the Sumida River, which joins it.

In the 17th century, Yanagibashi rose to prominence as one of the top entertainment areas of the city. Walk along the riverfront today and imagine what this stretch of water looked like when it had geisha houses dotted along its length. Over time, other entertainment districts took over from Yanagibashi, and today the nights here are generally quiet.

Notice how many doll shops are located in Yanagibashi. To get a sense of what the dolls are like, visit Kyugetsu, a doll shop that is less strictly targeted at locals than some of the more exclusive options.

In Japanese tradition, at the beginning of March girls are given Hina dolls styled in the old-fashioned manner of the Heian court. Boys receive samurai dolls at the start of May. Other dolls on sale include kimekomi dolls, which are made from wood or clay.

Make time to visit some of the shrines within walking distance of Yanagibashi: Ichogaoka Hachiman Shrine, Sakaki Shrine and Suga Shrine.

Another sight of historic interest in the area is the pretty green Yanagibashi Bridge. Its current version dates from the early 20th century.

To get to Yanagibashi, take the subway to the Asakusabashi station. When you exit, cross Edo-dori Avenue, the main road running close to the station. Alternatively travel to the Ryogoku station instead and cross the Sumida River, which involves a slightly longer walk.


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Yanagibashi Hotel Deals

Hotel Gracery Shinjuku
Hotel Gracery Shinjuku
4 out of 5
1-19-1 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Tokyo-to
The price is CA $163 per night from Jun. 4 to Jun. 5
CA $163
CA $197 total
includes taxes & fees
Jun 4 - Jun 5
Stay at this 4-star hotel in Tokyo. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and in-room massages. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in our ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,463 reviews)
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APA Hotel & Resort Ryogoku Eki Tower
APA Hotel & Resort Ryogoku Eki Tower
3 out of 5
1-11-10 Yokoami, Sumida, Tokyo, Tokyo
The price is CA $69 per night from Jun. 2 to Jun. 3
CA $69
CA $85 total
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Jun 2 - Jun 3
Stay at this 3-star hotel in Tokyo. Enjoy free WiFi, an outdoor pool, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in our ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,976 reviews)
"Great place to stay for short travels!"

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Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro
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4 out of 5
1-6-1 Nishi-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, Tokyo-to
The price is CA $153 per night from Jun. 10 to Jun. 11
CA $153
CA $190 total
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Jun 10 - Jun 11
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Tokyo. Enjoy 6 restaurants, breakfast (surcharge), and room service. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful ...
9/10 Wonderful! (2,089 reviews)
"Perfect location across from train station and nearby Sunshine City and malls. Had wonderful time walking around ikebukuro. Also convenient laundromat and airport limousine stop at hotel."

Reviewed on May 8, 2024

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KOKO HOTEL Ginza 1chome
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2.5 out of 5
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The price is CA $126 per night from Jun. 11 to Jun. 12
CA $126
CA $138 total
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Jun 11 - Jun 12
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Hotel Villa Fontaine Grand Haneda Airport
Hotel Villa Fontaine Grand Haneda Airport
4 out of 5
2-7-1 Hanedakuko, Oota, Tokyo, Tokyo
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is CA $200 per night from May 14 to May 15
CA $200
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Hotel Metropolitan Edmont Tokyo
Hotel Metropolitan Edmont Tokyo
4 out of 5
3-10-8 Iidabashi, Chiyoda Ku, Tokyo, Tokyo-to
The price is CA $131 per night from Jun. 3 to Jun. 4
CA $131
CA $163 total
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Stay at this hotel in Tokyo. Enjoy free WiFi, 5 restaurants, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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