Kappabashi Dougu Street Guide: How to Shop for Japanese Kitchenware in Tokyo

From Japanese Knives to Tableware & Food Samples

From professional Japanese knives and elegant tableware to chopsticks and incredibly realistic food samples—
Kappabashi Dougu Street is one of Tokyo’s most fascinating places to shop for uniquely Japanese souvenirs.

Located between Asakusa and Ueno in Taito Ward, Tokyo, this famous wholesale district is home to more than 170 specialty shops dealing in kitchenware, tableware, uniforms, signage, and restaurant supplies.

Although it began as a wholesale area, anyone can shop here freely, making it a paradise not only for chefs but also for travelers.
In recent years, Kappabashi has become especially popular with international visitors, and it is lively even on weekdays.

Every visit feels different—new items appear constantly, and browsing alone is a joy.
This article is written as a first-time visitor’s guide to Kappabashi. Enjoy exploring!


📍 Where Is Kappabashi Dougu Street?

“Kappabashi” is pronounced kah-ppa-bah-shee.
There is no station called “Kappabashi,” which can be confusing—even for Tokyo residents.

Nearest Stations

  • Tawaramachi Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line) – approx. 3–6 min walk
  • Asakusa Station (Tsukuba Express) – approx. 5–10 min walk
  • Asakusa Station (Toei Asakusa Line) – approx. 10–15 min walk

💡 Tip: Decide which shop you want to visit first, then choose the most convenient station.


🚶 How to Walk Kappabashi Efficiently

1. Research Shops in Advance

The official website allows you to search shops by category in English.
For example, typing “Knife” will show all knife stores in the area.

2. Plan Your Route

Use the official map to check shop locations and plan your walking order.
Allow plenty of time—especially if you plan to shop seriously.

3. Wear Comfortable Shoes

Kappabashi is longer than it looks.
If you explore thoroughly, 10,000+ steps is very common.


⭐ Recommended Shops in Kappabashi


1. 馬嶋屋菓子道具店|Majimaya Confectionary Tool & Gear Shop

Spectacular Cookie Cutter Tower

Founded in 1951, Majimaya has supported Japanese confectionery making for over 70 years.
The highlight is its impressive cookie cutter tower featuring more than 1,400 designs and over 3,000 items.

Address
2-5-4 Nishi-Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo

Opening Hours
Weekdays: 9:30–17:30
Sundays: 10:00–17:00

Closed
Public holidays, year-end & summer holidays

Access
Approx. 6-minute walk from Tawaramachi Station (Ginza Line)

Online shop


2. ニイミ洋食器店|Nimi Western Tableware

The Landmark Giant Chef Statue

One of Kappabashi’s most iconic shops, easily recognized by the giant chef statue on its rooftop.
It offers everything from professional restaurant equipment to home-friendly kitchenware.

Address
1-1-1 Matsugaya, Taito-ku, Tokyo

Opening Hours
10:00–17:45

Closed
Sundays & public holidays

Access
Approx. 3-minute walk from Tawaramachi Station


3. 和の器 田窯|Dengama – Japanese Tableware

Authentic Pottery from All Over Japan

A curated shop featuring Japanese pottery such as Arita ware, Kutani ware, and Shigaraki ware.
Bowls and teacups are especially popular souvenirs due to their size and beauty.

Address
1-4-3 Nishi-Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo

Opening Hours
10:00–18:00

Closed
Open year-round (except New Year holidays)

Access
Approx. 3-minute walk from Tawaramachi Station


4. キッチンワールドTDI|Kitchen World TDI

Imported Kitchen Tools from Around the World

A specialty store offering kitchen tools imported from over 10 countries.
Its wooden tableware made from Philippine acacia and Tunisian olive wood is especially popular.

Address
1-9-12 Matsugaya, Taito-ku, Tokyo

Opening Hours
9:30–18:00

Closed
Year-end & New Year holidays

Access
Approx. 5-minute walk from Tawaramachi Station


5. 浅井商店|Asai Shoten

Legendary Chiffon Cake Pans

Founded in 1895, Asai Shoten is famous for its original chiffon cake molds, designed to produce beautifully risen cakes even at home.

Address
2-6-5 Nishi-Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo

Opening Hours
9:00–17:30

Closed
Sundays & public holidays

Access
Approx. 10-minute walk from Tawaramachi Station

Online Shop


6. 釜浅商店|KAMA-ASA

Professional Cookware Trusted by Chefs

Established in 1908, KAMA-ASA offers cookware refined through real feedback from professionals.
Ideal for travelers seeking long-lasting, authentic Japanese tools.

Address
2-24-1 Matsugaya, Taito-ku, Tokyo

Opening Hours
10:00–17:30

Closed
Open year-round (except year-end & New Year)

Access
Approx. 6-minute walk from Asakusa Station (Tsukuba Express)


7. 元祖食品サンプル屋|Ganso Shokuhin Sample-ya

Create Your Own Food Sample

Known for hyper-realistic food replicas, this shop also offers hands-on workshops—perfect for memorable souvenirs.

Address
3-7-6 Nishi-Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo

Opening Hours
10:00–17:30

Closed
Open year-round (except year-end & New Year)

Access
Approx. 5-minute walk from Asakusa Station (Tsukuba Express)


8. co-bo-no(コボノ)|co-bo-no

Natural-Style Mino Ware Tableware

An original tableware shop offering modern, stylish Mino-yaki pottery suitable for everyday use.

Address
3-7-7 Nishi-Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo

Opening Hours
10:00–19:00

Closed
Open year-round (except year-end & New Year)

Access
Approx. 5-minute walk from Asakusa Station (Tsukuba Express)


9. かっぱ橋・箸 みくら|Mikura Chopsticks

Personalized Chopsticks in Just 15 Minutes

A chopsticks specialty store offering over 500 designs.
Name engraving is available on-site, making it a perfect personalized souvenir.

Address
3-25-11 Nishi-Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo (2F)

Opening Hours
Mon–Sat: 10:00–17:00
Sun: 13:00–17:00

Closed
Irregular holidays

Access
Approx. 5-minute walk from Asakusa Station (Tsukuba Express)


10. 清助刃物|Seisuke Knife

Stylish Japanese Knives with Global Appeal

A knife specialty shop blending traditional Japanese craftsmanship with modern design.
From Damascus blades to turquoise-handled knives, every piece is both beautiful and functional.

Address
2-1-11 Matsugaya, Taito-ku, Tokyo

Opening Hours
11:00–17:00

Closed
January 1 only


✨ Final Tip

If you want authentic, practical, and memorable Japanese souvenirs,
Kappabashi Dougu Street is unmatched.

Take your time, explore freely, and enjoy discovering Japan through its tools.us seating. Popular among digital nomads and young creators, it’s ideal for relaxing, working, or people-watching.

Book quality hotels and ryokans in Japan at Rakuten Travel

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