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Sunset

Golden Light in Yanaka

A quiet walk through old Tokyo as the sun dips below the western skyline.

Best time: 16:11About 90 min

Timeline

  1. 15:35

    Hantei

    Grab a warm skewer of kushiage in the historic wooden building. Hantei is open 24/7, so you can start early to beat the crowd and enjoy the atmosphere before the main event.

  2. 16:05

    Ueno Zoological Gardens

    Walk south to Ueno Zoological Gardens. The short stroll gives you a chance to clear your head and enjoy the late afternoon air before finding your viewing spot.

  3. 16:30

    Koishikawa Botanical Garden of the University of Tokyo

    Head to the Koishikawa Botanical Garden of the University of Tokyo. Located WSW from the anchor, this is the perfect vantage point. The garden’s open spaces and ponds offer a serene backdrop for the sun setting toward the WSW.

  4. 17:20

    マルヤス酒場

    End the evening at マルヤス酒場. This 24/7 pub is a short walk away and provides a cozy place to unwind after watching the golden light fade.

Local tip

The garden is pleasant but can be a bit shabby. Check the route to ensure you are at the right entrance for the best western view.

Check before you go

  • The Shitamachi Museum Annex is closed for renovations until March 2025.
  • Hantei and マルヤス酒場 are open 24/7, so timing is flexible for food and drink.

Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Tokyo (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).

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