Omoide Yokocho | Japan

Street

Omoide Yokocho, commonly known as “Memory Lane” or “Piss Alley,” is a small lane near Tokyo’s Shinjuku Station. The alley is a tangle of small taverns and restaurants serving traditional Japanese cuisine such as yakitori, ramen, and sushi. Despite its somewhat unpleasant name, Omoide Yokocho has become a popular destination for both locals and tourists searching for a genuine and one-of-a-kind dining experience.

The alleyway has a long history that dates back to the postwar era, when it was utilized as a black market for selling food and other products. Today, the small lanes and dimly lit lanterns provide visitors with a taste of Tokyo in the 1940s and 1950s. The sound of sizzling skewers and clinking drinks fills the air, creating a lively and energetic mood.

While Omoide Yokocho is well known for its food, the alleyway is also a favorite photographic location. The small alleyways and historic architecture provide an excellent backdrop for street photography, while the neon lights and lanterns add a unique mood for nocturnal photography. However, it might be tough to navigate the alleyway during peak dining hours, so it’s best to go during the day to escape the throng.