Kappabashi Kitchen Tools Street: A Culinary Wonderland

Kappabashi Kitchen Tools Street, nestled between Ueno and Asakusa, is a bustling hub dedicated to all things culinary. Stretching for approximately 800 meters, this unique street boasts over 170 shops offering an astounding variety of restaurant supplies, kitchenware, and quirky food-themed souvenirs. Originally a hub for hardware and construction materials after the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923, Kappabashi gradually evolved into a specialized district for kitchen and restaurant supplies. By the mid-20th century, it had firmly established itself as a premier destination for culinary tools and equipment. Today, Kappabashi attracts both industry professionals and everyday consumers seeking high-quality kitchenware at competitive prices. Here, you can find everything from high-quality Japanese knives and elegant tableware to plastic food replicas and colorful kitchen gadgets. Many shops specialize in a single item, ensuring a vast selection and expertise. Don't miss the opportunity to explore shops selling *sampuru*, the incredibly realistic plastic food samples displayed outside many Japanese restaurants. You can even find workshops where you can make your own food samples ! The street's name, Kappabashi (Kappa Bridge), is said to originate either from the raincoats ('kappa') of local residents drying on a bridge or from a merchant named Kihachi Kappaya who funded a local water management project. The street has adopted the Kappa, a mischievous water imp from Japanese folklore, as its mascot. Keep an eye out for the Golden Kappa statue and other Kappa-themed decorations throughout the street. Whether you're a seasoned chef, a passionate home cook, or simply a curious tourist, Kappabashi offers a unique glimpse into Japan's culinary culture and traditions.