About
When you take a step away from the bustle of Kagurazaka, you find yourself on a stone-paved path where time seems to flow more gently. This alley is called “Kakurenbo Yokocho,” and as its name suggests, its maze-like, winding roads continue on. Lined with traditional restaurants and old houses surrounded by black fences, it still conveys the atmosphere of the geisha district from the Edo period.
The origin of this alley’s name comes from its labyrinthine structure: “Even if you follow someone who is visiting in secret, you’ll lose track of them if they slip into a side path.” In fact, the narrow alleys intersect in complex ways, and with new scenery appearing at every turn, you get the feeling of playing hide-and-seek.
Hidden among the stone pavements are three types of tiles—heart, diamond, and star shapes—and it is said that finding them brings good luck in love, career advancement, and business prosperity. This playful feature offers small joys to visitors.
At night, the lanterns of each establishment gently illuminate the path, creating a fantastical and serene atmosphere. Renowned restaurants offering Japanese, Italian, French, Chinese, and other diverse cuisines are scattered throughout, making it known as a gourmet town. Walking through this alley, you can experience the sensation of wandering into a mysterious space where past and present intersect.