Why it is worth the detour
About 130 second-hand bookshops in one quarter, the largest concentration in the world, grown around the universities since the 1880s.
What else is close by
The nearest places we have written up, with straight-line distance from here.
550 m
Kudan Kaikan Terrace
The preserved façade belongs to the former Military Hall, which became martial-law headquarters during the February 26 Incident. Officers drafted the famous radio appeal urging enlisted rebels to return to their units here, and it was broadcast from the building on February 29, helping end the standoff.
750 m
Nippon Budokan
Built for martial arts, Budokan became a contested symbol of rock’s arrival when the Beatles played five concerts here between June 30 and July 2, 1966. In 1978, Cheap Trick recorded the roaring performances that became Cheap Trick at Budokan, an album whose success helped turn the hall’s name into international shorthand for a career-defining Japanese concert.
750 m
Holy Resurrection Cathedral
Completed in 1891 under Saint Nicholas of Japan, the Orthodox cathedral introduced a striking Byzantine dome to the Meiji capital.
900 m
Imperial Palace East Gardens
Paths, walls and the foundation of the lost keep reveal the former Honmaru and Ninomaru compounds of Edo Castle.
1.0 km
Chidorigafuchi Moat
The northwestern moat of Edo Castle becomes one of Tokyo's most celebrated scenes when cherry branches arch above its boats and stone walls.
1.1 km
Former Chamberlain's Residence Site at Chidorigafuchi
Near the east entrance of Chidorigafuchi National Cemetery stood the official residence where rebels shot Chamberlain Suzuki Kantarō three times. His wife pleaded against a final sword stroke, and Suzuki unexpectedly survived—then became prime minister during Japan’s surrender in 1945.
Walk it with the stories
This address is one stop among many. Our routes and quests link them into a walk that makes sense on the ground.