Nishi Kasai

Did you know that a quiet corner of Tokyo holds a vibrant piece of India? Nishi Kasai, a mere 15 minutes from Tokyo’s bustling center by subway, is affectionately known as “Little India”. Nishi Kasai isn’t a Chinatown or Koreatown bustling with tourists. It’s a close-knit community, a home away from home for around 10% of Japan’s Indian population. Many came in the late 90s, skilled IT engineers brought in to tackle the infamous Y2K computer problem. They found Nishi Kasai convenient. It offered easy access to the financial hubs of Otemachi and Kayabacho, where many worked, as well as Narita Airport. The area also offered affordable rents and a sense of newness, being developed around 1979. One resident, Jagmohan Chandrani, played a pivotal role in shaping Nishi Kasai into Little India. He’s considered the father of Tokyo’s Indian community, helping countless newcomers find their footing. Chandrani’s influence extends beyond community building. He opened Shanti Tea, a haven for tea lovers with over 300 varieties. He also founded Spice Magic Calcutta, initially a dining hall for vegetarian Indian engineers struggling to find suitable meals. It quickly blossomed into a beloved restaurant for both Indians and Japanese seeking authentic flavors. For those craving a taste of home, Nishi Kasai offers grocery stores like Swagat Indian Bazaar and TMVS Foods. These stores overflow with spices, Indica rice, curry, and other staples rarely found in Japanese supermarkets. Stepping into these shops is like stepping into a mini-India, a sensory explosion of aromas and flavors. Even the Arakawa River, flowing through Nishi Kasai, holds special meaning for the community. Its wide expanse reminds many of the Ganges back home, becoming a place for relaxation and even impromptu cricket matches. Every year, Nishi Kasai comes alive with the vibrant festival of Diwali. Food stalls line the streets, the air fills with the rhythm of Indian music and dance, and the community celebrates this “festival of lights” together. Nishi Kasai is a testament to the power of community. It’s a place where cultures blend, where a piece of India thrives in the heart of Tokyo.