J-emine's reflexionando

There was no intention to explore or wander too far today as I had to get some work done this morning. Indeed, a productive morning and I like the fact that I got things out-of-the-way, and saves me from having a frenzy start tomorrow morning.

It’s been a rainy weekend for us here in Tokyo. The  skies are gray, dark and gives off a soothing somber in the air – I like it. With my umbrella in one hand, I set off to explore Kagurazaka – few train stops from my place. This neighborhood, near lidabashi station is touted to be one of the last remaining geisha district in Tokyo. During the Edo period, the main road was located on the outer boundary of Edo Castle, and served as an entertainment district with geisha houses and restaurants. The old-styled cobblestone roads, narrow alleys and wooden architecture are testaments of the bygone years.

The sloping street of Kagurazaka is closed off to traffic on stipulated time period during Sundays and public holidays and makes for an easy stroll around to pick up groceries, knickknacks or a meal in one of the many restaurants along the main street. A particular wagashi restaurant got me intrigued with their delicate window displays; took a mental note to bring my Dad here when he’s in town. He would love it.

Acorss the lidabashi bridge – depends on which area you’re standing, if you’re at Waseda Dori you’ll be able to look down at the start of the sloping street (see picture above); and if you look back up from the bridge, you’ll see the stone footprint of a former fort.

The area is great for commuting students and you’ll see many around as Waseda Univeristy and Tokyo University of Nippon of Science is closely situated. As I walked down from the bridge, I took a stroll behind the university ground and found myself in a amasake shop, that’s topping me list of favorites in Tokyo.

The attendants were extremely friendly and in my barely pass-able Japanese and her English, we managed to exchange a hearty chat on the amasake offered in the shop and the Koji making process. I opt for a cup of hot amasake with soya and found it to be deliciously delightful. My palate maybe off but I do believe there was a tinge of ginger, which left a warm, spicy linger and aftertaste. I will definitely be back, maybe after work this Friday :).

One of the main reasons I wanted to check out Kagurazaka was due to Akagi Shrine, which went through a reconstruction by acclaimed architect, Kengo Kuma. The traditional elements of the shrine was preserved with modern elements of metallic roof and glass walls. A woven combination of tradition and modern/minimal -twist; simple but so beautifully crafted. Perched on a platform, you get a good view of the city in good weather.

The opposite of the shrine is a modern apartment that was built to help fund the shrine and contains a restaurant – Akagi Cafe, Kimono workshop and gallery space.

This by far is my favorite neighborhood and I do foresee myself hopping on the train here after work for my solo dinners, evening strolls, or to pick up a cup of amasake or wagashi (when I get into my sweet tooth mode).

Charismatic and traditional, is what you are, Kagurazaka.