Ameyoko

Market

Prefecture

Tokyo

Type

Market

N/A

1 review

Restaurant Train Access

About This Destination

A bustling open-air market street near Ueno Station with bargain goods, street food, and lively energy.

Ameyoko is an open-air market along the railway tracks between Ueno and Okachimachi stations. Originally a black market selling American goods after World War II, it has evolved into a colorful bazaar of over 400 shops selling everything from fresh seafood and dried goods to clothing and cosmetics. Vendors call out energetically to passersby, creating an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in Tokyo. The surrounding lanes are packed with international food stalls and tiny izakayas popular for affordable daytime drinking.

Location

Prefecture: Tokyo

Address: Tokyo, Japan

Nearest Station: Ueno

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Visitor Information

Credit Cards: Unknown

Food Options: Street food stalls, fresh seafood vendors, and small izakayas

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Ameyoko?

Two stations bookend the 500m market: JR Ueno Station (south end, closer to Ueno Park) and JR Okachimachi Station (north end). Both are on the JR Yamanote Line. From Tokyo Station: 5 min, ¥160. From Akihabara: 2 min, ¥160. The market runs alongside and underneath the elevated train tracks. The narrow 'Ameyoko Plaza' arcade extends west into Ueno's Kokubun streets — explore both for the full experience.

What can I buy at Ameyoko?

Fresh seafood at half retail price (especially deep-discounted late afternoon), dried goods (squid, fish), nuts and candy by the kilo, ¥1,000 luxury chocolates, fresh fruit, military surplus and outdoor gear at Mizuhachi, designer cosmetics at LAOX (often 30%+ off), bargain sneakers, and Korean snacks at the Korean section near Okachimachi. New Year's week (Dec 28–31) sees fish prices halve as families stock up for osechi-ryori — Tokyo's most chaotic shopping atmosphere.

When is the best time to visit Ameyoko?

Mid-afternoon (14:00–16:00) for the most lively atmosphere with vendors actively haggling and discounts kicking in. Late afternoon (16:00–18:00) for major fish discounts. Most stalls 10:00–19:00; izakayas open earlier (some 11:00) for daytime drinking. Avoid the New Year crush (Dec 28–31) unless you want the experience. Mondays and Tuesdays are quieter. The covered arcade keeps you dry on rainy days.

Where should I eat at Ameyoko?

International street food: Mocha (Turkish kebabs ¥600), Galali (Vietnamese pho), and the kebab/curry stalls under the train tracks. For seafood: Misako-zushi (standing sushi ¥80–500/plate, popular with locals). Standing izakayas: Niku-no-Oyama (cheap kushikatsu and beer ¥300, no seats), and Bar Reito (Sweden-themed cocktails, ¥1,000+). Save room for ¥100 takoyaki and ¥200 banana-shaped Mochi from the souvenir lanes. Total food crawl: 90 min, ¥1,500–2,500.