Travel to… Kappabashi, The Cook’s Haven

Japan is one of the world’s best foodie destinations, but ever wonder where restaurants get their hyper-real food displays or beautiful wares? Well, head over to Kappabashi-dori, or ‘Kitchen Town’ in Tokyo, where you’ll find everything related to cooking imaginable.

Wedged between the Ueno and Asakusa neighbourhoods, Kappabashi opened since 1912 and now has over 100 shops. Chefs, restaurant pros, tourists and homemakers alike have come for their range of high-quality cookeries, tableware and decorative items.

A giant chef welcomes you at the street entrance, 11 metres tall with a moustache and white hat. In the building below is Niimi, one of the oldest shops here, even before Kappabashi became popular. An emporium of affordable pots, pans, knives, soba dishes, lunch plates, sake decanters and many more. Other shops are more specialised galleries for a certain type of ware. Even so, you’ll be surprised by the enormous selections.

Knives

Handcrafted Japanese knives called ‘wabocho’ are world-famous for their durability and sharpness, and there are many family businesses here devoted to them. You’ll find any kind of knife for every kitchen purpose, all of the exquisite quality. Kamata is one such shop. Opened in 1923 and specializes in handmade knives called ‘wabocho’, with 800 types on sale, from sushi and vegetable knives to machetes for meat or large fish.

Most of the stores’ staff in Kappabashi can speak English. They’ll ask you which kind of blade and handle you like, tell you which knife works well for what food. Then, they’ll pick out the blades that best suit your purpose and preference to hold and feel before purchase. They’re also willing to give a discount if you pay cash.

Chopsticks

Elegant lacquer chopsticks and chopsticks holders in all kinds of beautiful design and materials can be found in Kappabashi. At Mikura, for instance, there are over 500 types on display, including bamboo, plastic, ebony and rosewood chopsticks; with labels that tell you where the tree came from. You can even engrave your name.

Ceramics

Equally splendid is the ceramic tableware you can find here, a Japanese traditional art called yakimono. Earthenware, stoneware and porcelain items crafted with intricate designs; both handmade and factory-produced. Get some gorgeous tea-sets, bowls, plates, or serving platters for your home!

Plastic Food

Want some yummy-looking food displays? Explore Maizuru, the premier plastic food maker for over 70 years. See anything from ramen and pizza to ice-cream and pastry. Not just for restaurant displays, you can also find fridge magnets, cell phone accessories, and other ‘delicious’ trinkets – awesome souvenirs!