I’ve lived in Tokyo for about 7 and a half years and I’d never been to Ochanomizu before. My husband had an appointment in the area and I went to meet him. As you can see from the pictures, if you like gingko, it’s the place to be.

We trotted to Yushima Seido, a Confucian temple focused on learning – there are lots of universities in the area.

Then we headed over to Kanda Shrine. It was very busy. Both are definitely worth a visit.

It was quite late by this point, so we headed off for curry at Ethiopia Curry Kitchen which was probably the best curry I’ve had in Tokyo. You also get a free potato with it, so what’s not to like? I had veg and my husband had chicken.

After lunch, we walked over to Todai. I’d been wanting to go for ages, ever since I’d read Sanshiro by Natsume Soseki because it features the pond at Todai. I was really happy to be able to visit it and closed my eyes, imagining Soseki strolling the same path as me. It felt like a bit like being back in Manchester, or perhaps Boston. I loved the vibe and would love to live in that area.

It was busy – lots of families and also school trips/test takers/uni experience days going on etc. Not too many tourists, so if that’s your thing, definitely worth a look.

Emily

(We went on the 10th Dec 23 for reference.)