Ameya-Yokochō

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Ameya-Yokochō, often called Ameyoko, is an open-air market street in Tokyo’s Taito Ward. It’s located next to Ueno Station and runs along the Yamanote Line behind the Yodobashi Camera building toward the Komuro Building. The market covers about 15,257 square meters (164,227 square feet) and is home to more than 250 shops selling food, clothing, and other goods.

There are two ideas about how it got the name. One says ame-ya, meaning “candy shop,” because many candy stores lined the street after World War II when sugar was scarce. The other says it comes from “America,” since some shops sold surplus American army goods after the war. Today, the area is commonly called Ameyoko.

Ameyoko is a busy, affordable shopping street known for its wide range of vendors and lively atmosphere, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors.