The East Side of Tokyo: From Traditional Roots to Creative Hubs

We live on the East Side of Tokyo

The east side of Tokyo has a more traditional feel, especially compared to the modern, fashionable west side. Historically, this was the shitamachi (下町), or downtown area, where life was bustling during the Edo period over 150 years ago. Places like Asakusa, Ueno, and Ryogoku were especially popular back then, capturing the heart of Edo culture. Many Ukiyo-e prints depict the scenery of these areas, showing a time when the Sumida River’s banks were lined with craftsmen’s workshops and homes.

A Blend of Tradition and Modern Creativity

What we love about this area isn’t just its traditional roots; it’s the way the old and new come together so seamlessly. The legacy of craftsmanship lives on here. From the post-war period to the late Showa period in the 1980s, small factories and wholesale businesses in shitamachi supported Japan's rapid economic growth, making the high-quality products Japan is known for. Many of the craftsmen’s studios still exist—traditional dyers, printmakers, and artisans who make everything from fabrics to umbrellas. But in the 21st century, the east side has also become a creative hub, with contemporary art galleries, design studios, and modern craft shops like pottery stores. It’s a unique place that feels genuine and soulful—perfect for artists and makers, and that’s exactly what makes it so inspiring for us.

Life Between Kiyosumi-Shirakawa and Ryogoku

We live between Kiyosumi-Shirakawa and Ryogoku. Watching people walk and cars cross the bridges along the Sumida River, I feel like I’m seeing a contemporary version of a Ukiyo-e print. Living by the river, I feel the history so vividly.
We spend a lot of our free time in Kiyosumi-Shirakawa. This area, once known as Fukagawa, was home to skilled craftsmen and is also the hometown of the filmmaker Yasujiro Ozu. Today, it’s known for its contemporary art galleries and coffee culture and is home to the first Blue Bottle Coffee shop in Japan, where we go almost every weekend to enjoy the latest brews and get a little work done. There are so many coffee places around here, each with its own style and flavor. Each café has a unique approach to coffee and food, making this area a perfect place to work, dream, and draw inspiration.

Exploring Hidden Gems

There are so many unique spots around here! The restaurants especially stand out—each one has its own personality, with chefs dedicated to creating original and unforgettable dishes. Through this blog, we’re excited to introduce you to these gems and share the tastes, stories, and traditions that make this part of Tokyo so special.

Stay tuned as we bring you along on our journey through Tokyo’s east side, a place that holds the heart of Japan’s past and the spark of its creative future.