Top 10 Reasons Why Taito-ku is TOO Convenient (con't) 6-10

6) Car sharing schemes that let you rent in 15 minute increments -- They are ubiquitous and cheap. Just another reason never to own a car, furthering the bad driving situation.

7)Too many festivals -- You dont even need to leave the house to take part. The revellers will come circle your house multiple times to make sure you got your fill of "tradition" (drinking all day and showing off your butt cheeks).

8) Eki-mae bicycle cleanup system -- Its only a few blocks from the place the manner squad steals your bike to the compound you have to visit to pay ￥5000 to get it back...at least at Asakusabashi station.

9) 24 hr delivery prostitutes -- Not that they don't have these in other places around Japan, but I'm guessing that the sleazy Yoshiwara area supplies a lot of east Tokyo.

10) ￥50/￥100/￥150 beer places at Asakusabashi, cheap standing izakayas in Ueno, yatai street in Asakusa -- Theres no room for willpower when beer is this cheap, plentiful and fun.

(Part 1)

Asakusa yatai street

Asakusa is a popular place for visitors to Tokyo. Many, however do not venture to its colorful, not-so-svelte backside.

Especially recommended on a warm day, the Koen-Dori yatai street is the place to imbibe the shitamachi culture as well as beer and Japanese junk food (note: if you're American, this is referred to as "health food"). This is a great place to spend a sunny Sunday afternoon. Bring your loquacious friends and lose yourself in the chatter and people-watching.

Make sure to bring your camera, as you are likely to see some atypical Tokyofolk (think Yoshiwara spillover, rickshaw pullers, Germans).

Sunday is a big day for horse racing fans in this part of Asakusa and you will notice that each stall has a television or two to satisfy the smokey 50 or 60 something Japanese gambler contingent. If you get lucky, you may happen to be seated next to a generous winner that needs a pal to celebrate with.

Beers are generally 500-600 for a medium mug and 700-800 for a supersize. Some places also have denki bran shots for 300. Pound!





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