Shop, Snack, and Stroll Through One of Tokyo’s Buzziest Open-Air Markets
🌟 What is Ameyoko?
Ameya-Yokocho (アメヤ横丁), commonly known as Ameyoko, is a bustling open-air market street located between Ueno and Okachimachi Stations.
Originally a black market after World War II, it evolved into one of Tokyo’s most iconic shopping spots — where locals and tourists come for discount goods, street food, fashion, cosmetics, and international flavors.
Its name comes from “Ame” (short for “Ameya” meaning candy shop) and “Yokocho” (alleyway), or possibly from “America” due to the post-war sale of American goods.
🔍 Why Visit Ameyoko?
🍣 Street Food Heaven – Takoyaki, grilled seafood, wagyu skewers, sushi bowls
👟 Bargain Fashion – Sneakers, jackets, and vintage stores at great prices
🎁 Cosmetics & Accessories – Japanese and Korean beauty brands at discount
🛍️ Lively Atmosphere – Bustling crowds, shopkeepers shouting deals
🌏 International Vibe – Indian spices, Korean kimchi, halal meat, and more
🎌 Cultural Experience – Get a taste of Tokyo’s fast-paced, down-to-earth market scene
🗂️ What to Explore in Ameyoko
| Category | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Street Food Stalls | Grilled crab, takoyaki, yakitori, melonpan, mochi sweets |
| Seafood Markets | Fresh fish, dried goods, salmon roe, tuna cuts |
| Fashion Shops | Sneakers, jeans, second-hand clothes, accessories |
| Discount Stores | Cosmetics, snacks, souvenirs, international groceries |
| Underground Shopping | Hidden gems and retro shops beneath the railway tracks |
🎟️ Admission & Hours
💴 Entry: Free – it’s a public market street
🕒 Typical Hours: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (varies by shop/stall)
🗓️ Open Daily – some stores may close on Wednesdays or irregular holidays
🚨 Visitor Tips
💬 Many shopkeepers speak simple English or use calculators to show prices
💵 Cash is preferred, though some shops accept credit cards or e-payments
🥡 Some stalls offer takeout only – perfect for walking snacks
📷 Street photography is welcome but ask before taking photos of people
🧭 It gets crowded, especially on weekends and holidays – keep bags close
🚉 Access
- Ueno Station (JR, Tokyo Metro) – Shinobazu or Hirokoji Exit
- Okachimachi Station (JR) – North Exit
- Naka-Okachimachi (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line) – Nearby access
📍 Walk straight between Ueno and Okachimachi — the market runs under the train tracks
🍱 Must-Try Street Foods in Ameyoko
- Grilled Seafood Skewers 🦐
🔥 Scallops, crab legs, and shrimp grilled fresh in front of you - Menchi-Katsu (Meat Croquettes) 🥩
Juicy and crispy – a local favorite comfort snack - Tuna Bowl (Maguro-don) 🍚
Fresh sashimi bowls for affordable prices — great lunch stop - Melonpan with Ice Cream 🍈🍦
Crispy sweet bread filled with creamy vanilla ice cream - Takoyaki (Octopus Balls) 🐙
Hot, gooey, and topped with savory sauce and bonito flakes
🔁 Sample Plan: “Afternoon Food & Shopping Stroll”
🕐 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
🛍️ Start at Ueno Station and walk through Ameyoko
🍢 Grab a menchi-katsu or takoyaki to snack on
🎽 Browse discount clothing and cosmetics stores
🍣 Enjoy a maguro-don for a late lunch
🛍️ Buy unique snacks or souvenirs before heading home
📍 Address & Contact
Area
Between Ueno Station and Okachimachi Station, Taito-ku, Tokyo, Japan
Phone
📞 Varies by shop – this is an open market street
Official Info
https://www.ameyoko.net/ (Japanese only)
✨ Ameyoko is more than a market — it’s a Tokyo tradition packed with energy, flavor, and local charm.