Things to do in Kiyosumi-Shirakawa: An essential day

Kiyosumi-Shirakawa in Koto Ward in eastern Tokyo has transformed from a quiet riverside warehouse near one of the city’s coolest cultural pockets. A mix of wide canals, ancient buildings and remodeled factories creates the perfect backdrop for art galleries, cafes and design-driven shops. Unlike the busy part of the capital, the atmosphere is calm – a place where you can stroll and drink slowly to make the day take shape.

Morning: Start drinking coffee from the blue bottle

If Kiyosumi-Shirakawa is famous for one thing, it is coffee. When the third wave of movement in the capital becomes zero Blue Bottle Coffee Choose it as the location of the first Tokyo branch in 2015. In the renovated warehouse, minimalist spaces and meticulous breweries set the tone for the region’s reputation as a coffee hub.

Not far away Coffee roaster that appears Offers a completely different feeling – small, personal and full of characters, the host often chats with regular guests while each cup. In between, Allpress Espresso Tokyo Roastery & CafeNew Zealand imports transform another warehouse into a light-filled community space. It is known for its smooth flat white and easy-going atmosphere.

Early Morning: Through Kiyosumi Gardens

After the caffeine is repaired, head to Kiyosumi Gardens, one of the best green spaces in Tokyo. This strolling garden, once the property of feudal lords, was later developed by industrialist Iwasaki Yataro Mitsubishiis a peaceful oasis of ponds, stone bridges and carefully pruned pine trees. The central pond is covered with stepping stones, turtles and koi, making the walk slow and meditative. It’s not as crowded as the parks in Ueno or Shinjuku. A quiet atmosphere is part of its charm.

Lunch: Special local flavor

When lunch time comes, Kiyosumi-Shirakawa offers a number of small independent restaurants that reflect the creativity of the area. Fokkasa CaféLocated in a renovated 1960s apartment building, light meals and homemade candies are available in a space full of old-fashioned charm. For more sincere things, please try Easta long-standing local Soba shop that offers classic noodles in a scribble setting. Whatever you choose, the dining here is slower and you can easily linger and go back.

Afternoon: Art and Design

It is best to spend the afternoon in the nearby art space. What’s outstanding is Tokyo Museum of Contemporary Art (MOT), one of the largest contemporary art museums in Japan. Its airy expansive gallery hosts rotating exhibitions, from Japanese modernism to cutting-edge global installations.

For a more intimate experience, stop in some of the smaller galleries nearby, e.g. ondo gallery,,,,, Hagiwara Project,,,,, Anto Gallery and Mujin-To production. Many of these spaces can be found in reused warehouses or disguised behind unceremonious facades, which makes visitors stumble into hidden gems in the city.

Afternoon: Another coffee (or sweet coffee)

So far, you may be ready for another caffeine. Fortunately, the neighbors offer. Swap things for the sister store of the original bakery shop with Arise Coffee Entangle, known for its experimental mix and a more modern look. Or, if you prefer dessert, Monz Cafe is a great place to slice the cake next to the latte. Those caring should also try the iconic pudding of the Forca Dasso Cafe, or stop at a bakery on the street where the aroma of sour bread and butter pastries lure you to a little afternoon snack.

Night: Relax in the water

As the day ends, walk along the riverside trails and wind around Kiyosumi-Shirakawa. The calm water lined with trees and simple bridges provides the other side of Tokyo – feeling uncomfortable, joggers, cyclists and family strolling at night. If you are not ready to go home, there are a handful of comfortable bars and Izakaya in the area. One of the recommendations is Fuchuan Brewery, a relaxing craft beer venue that is perfect for a few glasses of wine before catching the train.

Related Articles