What to Do in Asagaya


2018.05.22

NAVITIME TRAVEL EDITOR

What to Do in Asagaya

Asagaya is a not so hidden suburb only a ten minute ride away from Shinjuku on the Chuo Line. Asagaya hosts an assortment of local cafes and bars as well as a rising art gallery scene. Much less crowded than Shibuya and more off the beaten path than Kichijoji, Asagaya is now the new under the radar neighborhood where visitors can experience life like a Tokyoite.

  • 01

    Drink traditional coffee at Penguin Café

    Drink traditional coffee at Penguin Café

    Drink traditional coffee at Penguin Café

    Despite the name, Penguin Cafe offers no such animals but is known for its free wifi and siphon coffee. Siphon coffee is the old school way of brewing coffee and popular with kissatens, Japanese style coffee shops. With Tokyo’s recent rise in third wave coffee shops, the traditional siphon coffee is slowly becoming a past time. Penguin Cafe revitalizes it by dedicating their cafe to the art of its dramatic brewing process. The coffee tastes as good as it looks, brewed dark and roasted. There are a variety of blends and beans to choose from as well as an assortment of teas for non coffee drinkers.

    Drink traditional coffee at Penguin Café

    Drink traditional coffee at Penguin Café

    Penguin Cafe
    place
    東京都杉並区阿佐谷北3-28-21
    phone
    0353568494
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  • 02

    Have a classy night at Klavier

    Have a classy night at Klavier

    Have a classy night at Klavier

    Open since 1982, Klavier is a staple in Asagaya’s jazz scene and should not be missed by any music aficionado. Klavier is a local jazz bar showcasing the tunes of both local and touring musicians in their classy venue. The bar is traditional, serving a large selection of whiskey and bourbon in its wooden, dimly lit setting. The friendly owner speaks a variety of languages and is eager to recommend both drinks and music. Klavier is open late, until 2AM.

    jazzbarKLAVIER
    place
    東京都杉並区阿佐谷南3-37-13 3F
    phone
    03-3393-0418
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    no image
  • 03

    Check out contemporary art

    Check out contemporary art

    Check out contemporary art

    There is no shortage of art galleries throughout Asagaya. There are plenty of artists residing in the city due to its close proximity to ASABI, or Asagaya College of Art and Design. Both Oppo and the Tav gallery are located on the north side of Asagaya station. Oppo is unique because it only features artwork that has tails. This zoological themed gallery has contemporary art from paintings to sculptures and features artists from all over the world. The Tav gallery changes their exhibition every month and features contemporary art. It is best known for its art fairs that change in theme every few months. These fairs feature a variety of artists following the same theme, whether it be artists from Fukuoka or Tokyo themed galleries.

    Check out contemporary art

    Check out contemporary art

    Located in southern Asagaya, Gallery Hakusen is the place for contemporary art exhibitions. Hakusen features artists both established and new as well as domestic and international. The space is cozy and clean and offers free exhibitions that change every month. Hakusen also has parties for both the opening and closing of shows where art lovers can mingle with the curators and artists.

    Art Gallery OPPO
    place
    Tokyo Suginami-ku Asagayakita 2-15-6
    phone
    0332232080
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  • 04

    Take a respite at Shinmeigu Shrine

    Take a respite at Shinmeigu Shrine

    Take a respite at Shinmeigu Shrine

    The Shinmeigu shrine close to the north exit of Asagaya station and is a must see in the city. The grounds are surprisingly spacious and peaceful, a big contrast to the bustling shopping street nearby. The shrine has been around for 1700 years and is a quiet alternative to the tourist filled shrines of downtown Tokyo.

    Take a respite at Shinmeigu Shrine

    Take a respite at Shinmeigu Shrine

    Shinmeigu is also known for its cherry blossoms. Every year Kan okai is held, where there is a ritualistic dance and casual party with the staff of the temple and locals of Asagaya. It’s a great place to grab some sake and see how the locals celebrate spring. The festivals and dances are held in Nohgakudo, a preserved wooden stage, where spectators can relax on the lawn and indulge in the traditional entertainment.

    Asagaya Shinmei Miya
    rating

    4.0

    92 Reviews
    place
    Tokyo Suginami-ku Asagayakita 1-25-5
    phone
    0333304824
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