8 Things to Do in Kuramae

A serene neighborhood, Kuramae is located in the eastern part of Taito City, just south of Asakusa. Often overshadowed by nearby tourist attractions, Kuramae has its own charm that makes it worth visiting.

Kuramae’s history dates back to the 17th century, when it served as a rice warehouse district. In fact, its name literally translates to “in front of the storehouses.” Following the 1923 Great Kantō Earthquake, many doll and toy makers relocated to the area, gradually transforming it into a manufacturing and business district. In recent decades, affordable rents have also attracted young designers, artisans, and coffee roasters to set up their own businesses here.

What sets Kuramae apart is its collection of shops that spark curiosity. Strolling through the neighborhood feels like wandering a maze. There’s always a surprise at every turn. All you need is a little patience and a comfortable pair of walking shoes.

Here are some activities you can try to get the most out of your visit:

①  Score yourself some authentic leather goods

If you’re looking for quality leather goods, Kuramae is a great place for you. The neighborhood is home to more than 15 leather shops that carry everything from budget-friendly finds to premium pieces. One shop near the station is REN, a brand known for its minimalist designs and lightweight materials. Rather than relying on flashy logos, REN emphasizes functionality and quality.

Another shop to check out is ETiAM, a store that brings together leather goods, antique furniture, and a cafe under one roof. Established in Tokyo in 2020, the brand opened its flagship store in Kuramae in 2021. It operates under SAC’S BAR, a Japanese bag retail group, and prides itself on its Made-in-Japan products and excellent craftsmanship.

 

②  Sip a cup of coffee at Bark Bake and Roast

Just across from Kuramae Shrine, Bark Bake and Roast is a cozy café that has been featured in several magazines for a good reason. First thing you’ll notice is its glass door with two-hand drawn dogs and its sleek wooden façade. The café has eye-catching tables, particularly those near the window that resemble tree logs. Beyond its modern design,  Bark’s main appeal lies in its carefully baked goods and specialty coffee roasted on-site. The cafe is also dog-friendly and has available treats, like puppuccinos, for your furry companions. It’s a great spot to spend a relaxing morning (or afternoon) reading a book or simply admiring the cute pooches.

 

③  Have a hearty lunch at Midorie Organic Kitchen and Deli

Midorie Organic Kitchen & Deli is a small restaurant specializing in organic-focused meals and deli dishes. Their set meal comes with a choice of rice or bread, a main dish, and three side dishes. Each dish has its own flavor profile and texture that will surely leave you satisfied by the end of your dining experience.

They also offer seasonal dishes, adding variety to the menu throughout the year. Keep in mind, though, that seating is limited at this branch, so if you prefer not to wait, ordering a takeaway is a better option.

④  Perk up your day with something sweet at Marble Cafe

Marble is a stylish café in Kuramae known for its photogenic desserts, particularly its pudding and adorable Shiba Inu cookies. Its sophisticated interior—complete with woven chairs, marble-patterned tables, and white curtains—creates an inviting atmosphere that would be lovely for a casual date. The café has attracted attention on social media, so the place can be pretty crowded especially during the weekends. Some of the must-tries include baked cheesecake, matcha latte, and affogato (vanilla ice cream with Baileys Irish Cream).

 

⑤  Embark on a chocolatey journey at Dandelion Chocolate Factory and Cafe

Craving for a decadent dessert? Look no further! Dandelion Chocolate Factory and Cafe is here to satisfy your sweet tooth. This factory and cafe serves delectable creations made with bean-to-bar chocolates, meaning it handles the entire process of transforming cacao beans into chocolate bars on-site rather than simply buying ready-made chocolate. Popular items to try are the Chef’s Tasting Plate (a platter of five dessert samplers), Kuramae Hot Chocolate (a drink that combines chocolate and hojicha), and Brownie Bite Flight (a set of three brownies made with different single-origin chocolates).

 

⑥  Upgrade your tableware with handmade ceramics and vintage finds

Kuramae has a lovely little scene of ceramics, vintage tableware, and independent lifestyle shops that are tucked into quiet side streets. If you’re visiting for the first time, consider stopping by DOUGUYA nobori, where you’ll find affordable ceramics, glassware, and wooden tableware that are perfect for sprucing up your dining table.

 

⑦  Shop for some journal essentials

If you love writing, scrapbooking, or journaling, there are two places I recommend you visit. First is Kakimori, a stationery shop known for its customizable notebooks and ink-making experience. Customers can create their own notebooks by selecting the cover, paper type, ring binding, and fastener. To complement your notebook, there is a wide range of writing supplies you can choose from such as glass pens and fountain pens that you can test on paper before purchasing. On the second floor, visitors can experiment with different colors to create their own custom ink.

The second spot is mt Lab, a shop with an impressive array of washi tapes. Its collection includes everything from solid colors to fun patterns and designs. Although mt Lab washi tapes are readily available at major stationery shops like Loft and Hands, a visit to its Kuramae branch is worth your time. One of the reasons is the custom-width cutting service, which allows customers to purchase a washi tape cut to their preferred width (from 3 mm to 15 cm). The shop also carries exclusive products and limited-edition designs that are not available at regular retailers. Another reason is the sale corner, where visitors can find discounted washi tapes. If you’re new to using washi tapes, the shop displays ideas for using it creatively, such as decorating envelopes and gifts.

⑧  Grab a bagel at Zono for the next day’s breakfast

Though this store looks like a small nook, it is easy to spot—thanks to its cobalt-blue door and a signboard with a funny-looking bunny drawn with a smug side-eye. Surprisingly, despite its size, the shop sells more than 15 flavors of bagels, both sweet and savory. The bagels are soft and chewy, with a slightly dense texture that makes each bite satisfying without being too hard to chew. They also sell drip coffee which you can pair with your bagel.

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