Ameyoko Market Ueno

Ameyoko is the most authentic and lively street market in Tokyo, a hive of life that stretches about 500 metres under the elevated train tracks between Ueno and Okachimachi stations. Born as a black market in the post-war period, today it brings together around 500 stalls and shops where you will find everything: fresh seafood, snacks, clothing and footwear at good prices, cosmetics, dried fruit, spices and souvenirs. The fishmongers shout out offers and the atmosphere is chaotic, noisy and completely infectious. It is one of the few areas in Tokyo where you can still haggle. Access is free and the stalls usually open from 10:00 to 20:00. The busiest time is December, when the market becomes a hive of people looking for ingredients for the New Year celebrations. To get there, leave by the Hirokoji or Shinobazu exit of JR Ueno station, just 3 minutes' walk away. Combine the visit with Ueno Park, the zoo or the nearby museums for a full day in the most popular and traditional district of Tokyo.