It is one of the oldest market streets in Tokyo that has a fascinating history of being a black market during the war times.
I love wandering around this half- kilometer long street, looking at the various wares and reveling in how I seem more to be in a market in South East Asia rather than clean and advanced Japan!
One of these places that brings me even closer to home is this secret underground market that I found recently.
I initially wanted to keep it a secret but I think it is too good not to share!
In this secret underground market, named the Ameyoko Center Market, you will find products just as you would in an Indonesian, Phillipino, Malaysian or Indian market.
From Chili and curry powder, to fish sold like those in the wet market (not packaged nicely in styrofoam and cling wrap!) to ladies haggling loudly with the sellers… these were all visceral reminders of how a wet market should truly be like!
The best part of this place is that most of the products, including herb and spices, can be gotten at a fraction of the price.
I was thrilled to find a packet of 1kg frozen chili padi for 700 yen.
Sure, the taste and texture is not the same, but hey, it’s the closest I can get to home.
In case you miss home while travelling or are curious about how such a place can exist in Japan, do spare some time to check this market out.
More information on Ameyoko Center Market:
Address: Ueno 4-7-8, Taito-ku,Tokyo,Japan
Hours: 10:00am – 8:00pm everyday, closes on every 3rd Wednesday of the month
Website: http://www.ameyoko-center-bldg.com/
Map:
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