Nestled in the heart of Tokyo’s Koto Ward, Kiyosumi-Shirakawa is a charming neighborhood known for its historical charm, vibrant coffee scene, and unique cultural attractions. It’s a place where you can escape the bustling city streets and immerse yourself in a tranquil atmosphere, surrounded by traditional architecture, lush greenery, and a sense of community.
Location and Background
Kiyosumi-Shirakawa is located on the east side of Tokyo, across the Sumida River. It has a rich history dating back to the Edo period, when it served as a transportation hub for the region. The area was once known for its paper and wood factories, but it has since evolved into a vibrant residential neighborhood with a unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities.
Cultural Attractions
Kiyosumi-Shirakawa is home to a number of cultural attractions that are worth exploring:
- Kiyosumi Park and Kiyosumi Gardens: This beautiful park features a traditional Japanese garden, a pond, and a walking path. Please note that there’s a small entrance fee to access the Kiyosumi Gardens.
- Kiba Park: This spacious park offers a variety of activities, including tennis courts, a barbecue area, a dog run, and the Toshiryokka Botanical Gardens. It’s also a popular spot for picnics and leisurely strolls.
- Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo: This museum is home to a world-class collection of contemporary arts.
- Fukagawa Edo Museum: Located on Shirakawa Street, this museum offers a glimpse into the history of Kiyosumi-Shirakawa and the surrounding area. It features exhibits on the Edo period, the Meiji era, and the Taisho era. After your visit, be sure to explore the nearby Shirakawa Street, where you’ll find a variety of local restaurants and small traditional souvenir shops.
A Growing Coffee Scene
Kiyosumi-Shirakawa’s coffee scene is a relatively recent phenomenon. The first third-wave coffee shop to open in the area was probably Cream of Crop, near Kiba Park. This small shop helped to create a buzz around the neighborhood, and soon other coffee shops began to open. The arrival of Blue Bottle Coffee in 2015 was a major turning point for Kiyosumi-Shirakawa’s coffee scene. Blue Bottle Coffee is a popular chain from Oakland California with a reputation for serving high-quality drop coffee, and its presence in the neighborhood helped to attract more visitors and businesses.
As of 2023, there are probably more than 50 coffee shops operating in Kiyosumi-Shirakawa and its surrounding areas. This is a significant increase from just a several years ago, and it is a testament to the popularity of the neighborhood’s coffee scene.
Five Notable Coffee Spots in Kiyosumi-Shirakawa
Here are five of our favorite coffee shops in Kiyosumi-Shirakawa:
- Cream of The Crop Coffee: As one of the original pioneers of the neighborhood’s coffee scene, Cream of Crop remains a beloved local institution.
- Blue Bottle Coffee: This popular chain’s Kiyosumi-Shirakawa flagship cafe is a must-visit for coffee enthusiasts.
- Allpress Espresso Tokyo Roastery & Cafe: This New Zealand-based coffee roaster offers expertly brewed coffee and freshly baked goods in a stylish, industrial setting.
- Clann by the River: This riverside cafe offers stunning views of the Sumida River while you sip on your coffee.
- No Mark Cafe: This minimalist cafe has become known for its high-quality coffee and cozy atmosphere. It seems to be undergoing renovation the last time I passed through there.
Recent Addition: First Crop Coffee
If you’re looking for a new coffee spot to try, be sure to check out First Crop Coffee, a recently opened cafe that’s quickly gaining a reputation for its excellent coffee, cozy space and friendly service.
The Wrap
Kiyosumi-Shirakawa is a charming neighborhood with a rich history, a vibrant coffee scene, and a unique cultural atmosphere. If you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, Kiyosumi-Shirakawa is the perfect place to visit.
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If you are near the Kiba-park, you may also wish to check out the cafe in the south side of the park and try their coffee and egg sandwiches. It is one of our favorite breakfast places!
Here is also a great place to have relaxing and slow paced Italian lunch in Kiyosumi-Shirakawa:
