Kappabashi Kitchen Tools Street, Chikugo Travel Guide

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Explore Kappabashi Kitchen Town in Tokyo: a culinary paradise with over 170 shops offering everything from knives to plastic food samples.

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Kappabashi Kitchen Tools Street

Kappabashi Kitchen Tools Street, also known as Kitchen Town, is a unique shopping district in Tokyo between Ueno and Asakusa, offering an extensive array of restaurant supplies, kitchenware, and quirky food-themed souvenirs. With over 170 specialized shops, it's a must-visit destination for professional chefs, cooking enthusiasts, and tourists alike.

A brief summary to Kappabashi Kitchen Tools Street

3 Chome-18-2 Matsugaya, Taito City, 3 Chome Matsugaya, Tokyo, 110-0036, JP
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Kappabashi Kitchen Tools Street.

Visit during weekday mornings for a less crowded experience.
Many shops are closed on Sundays and public holidays, so plan accordingly.
Look for discount boxes outside the shops for amazing deals on kitchenware.
Try a workshop to create your own *sampuru* (plastic food sample) as a unique souvenir.
Check out Kama-asa Shoten for high-quality Japanese knives and after-care services.

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Explore Kappabashi Kitchen Tools Street on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Kappabashi Kitchen Tools Street, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

The closest station to Kappabashi is Tawaramachi Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, which is a short 5-minute walk to the street's southern end. From Asakusa Station (served by the Tobu Skytree, Toei Asakusa, and Tokyo Metro Ginza lines), it's a pleasant 10-minute walk to the northern end of Kappabashi. A single subway fare typically costs ¥180-¥220.
Walking

Kappabashi is conveniently located between Asakusa and Ueno, making it easily accessible on foot. From Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, it's about a 10-15 minute walk. From Ueno Station, it's approximately a 15-20 minute walk east along Asakusa-dori Avenue.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Tokyo. A short taxi ride from Ueno or Asakusa to Kappabashi will typically cost between ¥2,700 and ¥3,300. Be aware that traffic can affect the fare.

Discover more about Kappabashi Kitchen Tools Street

Kappabashi, or Kitchen Town, is a fascinating street in Tokyo dedicated to all things culinary. Located between the Ueno and Asakusa districts, this bustling area boasts over 170 shops offering an incredible variety of restaurant and kitchen supplies. From high-quality Japanese knives and elegant tableware to plastic food replicas and colorful kitchen gadgets, Kappabashi provides a unique glimpse into Japan's culinary culture.The street's history dates back to 1912 when it began as a market for second-hand tools and implements. Over time, it evolved into a hub for the restaurant and catering industry, supplying everything needed to run a successful food business. Today, Kappabashi attracts industry professionals, home cooks, and tourists seeking high-quality kitchenware at competitive prices.One of Kappabashi's most iconic features is the prevalence of kappa imagery. According to local legend, kappas, mischievous water imps, helped a man named Kappaya Kihachi develop the area, which was once a marsh. Although the association is coincidental, the shops have embraced the kappa as their mascot, adding a touch of whimsy to the shopping experience. Visitors can find kappa statues and decorations throughout the street.Kappabashi is also famous for its plastic food samples, known as *sampuru*, which are displayed outside many Japanese restaurants. These incredibly realistic replicas are a popular souvenir for tourists. Some shops even offer workshops where you can make your own food samples.Whether you're a professional chef, a cooking enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique souvenir, Kappabashi is a delightful place to explore. The street's vibrant atmosphere, eye-catching storefronts, and vast selection of kitchenware make it a memorable experience.