THINGS TO DO IN AKASAKA
Akasaka is more than just our studio’s neighborhood—it’s a mix of old Tokyo shrines and modern pop culture, all walkable from Tameike-Sanno Station. Here’s what our staff recommend before or after your bento class.
Shrines Near Our Studio
Two peaceful spots, both an easy walk from Tameike-Sanno Station.
Hie Shrine
Open 6:00–17:00
One of Tokyo’s most important shrines, famous for its tunnel of red Torii gates. Hie Shrine has served as a guardian shrine for Edo Castle since the Tokugawa era, and its Sanno Matsuri each June ranks among Edo’s three great festivals. Look for the monkey (saru) statues guarding the grounds instead of the usual fox or lion-dog—monkeys are considered the shrine’s messengers. It’s a 3-minute walk from Tameike-Sanno Station (Exit 7), and there’s an escalator up the west approach if you’d rather skip the stairs—an easy stop before or after class.
Toyokawa Inari
Just a short walk from our studio
Known for hundreds of small fox statues lining its grounds. A quiet, atmospheric spot that feels worlds away from the office towers nearby. It’s technically a Zen Buddhist temple branch rather than a shrine—which is why you’ll see torii gates at a temple—and it has long been a favorite of Akasaka’s entertainment and geisha world for good fortune.
Harry Potter Cafe & Wizarding Plaza
A wizarding-themed plaza 10 minutes from our studio—here’s what to expect.
One question comes up from our guests almost every week: “Is the Harry Potter Cafe near here?” Yes—it’s a short walk away in the same Akasaka neighborhood, inside Akasaka Biz Tower. Since we pass the wizarding street all the time, here’s our honest guide: what the cafe is, what to order, and how to actually get a table.
Exterior
Inside
How to Get a Table
1
Mark the 15th of the month
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Reservations typically open at noon (Japan time) on the 15th for the following month. Popular slots—weekends, holidays—go fast.
2
Book via TableCheck in English
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The official TableCheck page has an English interface, so no Japanese is needed.
3
No luck? Aim for weekday openings
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Weekday and first-slot-of-the-day times (around 10:00) are the easiest to catch. Cancellations also pop up a few days before—keep checking.
4
Come early and explore the plaza
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The wizarding street around the tower has free photo spots and a themed shop, so arrive 20–30 minutes before your slot.
What Kind of Neighborhood Is Akasaka?
Three things that make it different from the rest of Tokyo.
A Sophisticated, Grown-Up District
Home to the National Diet Building, foreign embassies, and major corporate HQs—one of Tokyo’s safest and cleanest neighborhoods.
Tradition Meets Modern
Skyscrapers stand right beside the historic Hie Shrine and quiet alleys lined with century-old ryotei restaurants.
An International Food Scene
From Michelin-starred restaurants and neighborhood izakaya to authentic Korean BBQ and healthy washoku—there’s something for every craving.
Practical Tips for Your Akasaka Day
What we tell first-time guests before they head out to explore.
Avoid the Weekday Lunch Rush
12:00–13:00 gets packed with office workers. Aim for before 11:30 or after 13:15 for a smoother visit.
Check Weekend Hours in Advance
Akasaka is quieter on weekends, but since it’s an office district, some restaurants close—worth a quick check before you go.
Start at Hie Shrine’s Torii Tunnel
Visit in the quiet morning hours before the crowds arrive for the best photos of the red torii gates.
A Great Base for Exploring
Roppongi and the Imperial Palace area are both an easy walk or short train ride away—make Akasaka your home base.
EASY ACCESS TO OUR CLASS
Make It a Full
Akasaka Day.
Join our character bento class first, then spend the rest of the day exploring Hie Shrine, the Harry Potter Cafe, and more—all within walking distance.
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