Aomonoyokocho

From humble beginnings as a bustling vegetable market, Aomonoyokocho has blossomed into a vibrant blend of old and new. Aomonoyokocho Station, nestled in Shinagawa Ward, Tokyo, anchors this unique district. The Aomonoyokocho Shopping Street, stretching from the Old Tokaido Road to Geneva Heiwa Street, showcases over 100 shops. This area pulses with life, loved by locals who affectionately call it “Aoyoko.” Aomonoyokocho’s roots trace back to the Edo period. Imagine farmers bringing their bounty, traveling from distant villages like Magome and Senzoku, by wagon, oxcart, and horse-drawn carriage. This lively vegetable market gave the area its name. “Aomonoyokocho” translates to “green things alley,” reflecting its agricultural past. The Keihin Electric Railway, which began operation in 1902, further cemented Aomonoyokocho’s importance. It became a stop on the line, connecting it to other vital hubs like Yatsuyama (now Kita-Shinagawa) and Kitababa. This railway line made accessing the market even more convenient. It transformed Aomonoyokocho into a key distribution point. This continued until the rise of supermarkets in the post-war era. Interestingly, Aomonoyokocho Station holds a unique distinction. It is the only train station in Japan with “Yokocho” (alley) in its name. Aomonoyokocho’s charm lies in its intriguing blend of history and modernity. While chain stores like KFC and MOS Burger now dot the landscape, remnants of its past linger. The now-closed Hirano-ya supermarket, once a family-run greengrocer established in 1800, testifies to the area’s enduring spirit. Tatami Matsuoka, a tatami factory dating back to 1779, still operates in a Taisho Era building, a testament to the area’s rich heritage. Nearby, Tenmyokoku-ji Temple, founded in 1285, houses the graves of notable figures like Itto Ittosai, a legendary samurai, and O-matsuri Sashichi, a key figure in Kabuki theatre. Aomonoyokocho may not be on every tourist’s radar, but its story resonates with those seeking a glimpse into Tokyo’s vibrant past. A walk through Aomonoyokocho reveals more than just shops and streets. It unveils a tapestry of history, woven with the threads of farmers, merchants, and the steady chug of the Keihin Electric Railway.