Student District – It’s also in Ochanomizu! 8 Must-Visit Tourist Spots

When you hear "Ochanomizu," what comes to mind? Perhaps the "sports equipment district," "musical instrument district," or "used bookstore district"? Of course, these are all famous, but there are even more sightseeing spots worth visiting! We've compiled a list of major attractions, so use this as a guide for your trip!

1. Nikolai Cathedral (Tokyo Resurrection Cathedral Church)

As you walk down Hongo Street from Ochanomizu Station, you’ll notice a striking green-domed church. This is Nikolai Cathedral, a church belonging to the Orthodox Christian denomination. Completed in 1891, it is a historic and impressive building. Named after missionary Nikolai, its official name is Tokyo Resurrection Cathedral Church. Though it suffered great damage during the Great Kanto Earthquake, it was rebuilt in 1929.

The interior is open for visitors, making it a great tourist spot. The unique Orthodox architecture, with its simple yet powerful beauty, is a rare sight in Japan. If you want to experience a peaceful and refreshing moment while sightseeing in Ochanomizu, this place is a must-visit.

2. Waterras

Located near Ochanomizu Station, Waterras is a multi-purpose facility built around the concept of three types of “WA” – harmony (和), connection (輪), and environment (環). It consists of two main buildings, Waterras Tower and Waterras Annex, which house various commercial facilities, offices, residences, galleries, and halls. This modern complex has become a new landmark in the area and is popular among tourists. Many events are held in the plaza on weekends.

It is easily accessible from other sightseeing spots in Ochanomizu, and there are relaxing spaces where visitors can take a break. It’s a perfect spot to rest during your exploration of the area.

3. Hilltop Hotel

One of Japan’s most iconic hotels in Ochanomizu, Hilltop Hotel, attracts visitors with its classic charm. The main building, completed in 1936, features an elegant Art Deco design with beautifully curved structures. The interior has been preserved in its original style, making visitors feel as if they’ve stepped into an old movie or traveled back in time.

The hotel is located near Kanda, which was once home to many publishing houses. It is famous for being the preferred lodging of legendary writers such as Yasunari Kawabata. For literary enthusiasts, this is a must-visit spot. Staying at this hotel will make you feel like a literary master yourself. When visiting Ochanomizu, why not immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the great writers who once stayed here?

4. Hijiri Bridge

Visible from the platform of Ochanomizu Station, Hijiri Bridge spans over the Kanda River and serves as a well-known landmark. The bridge was named because it is located between two sacred sites: Yushima Seidō and Nikolai Cathedral. Built as part of reconstruction efforts after the Great Kanto Earthquake, its elegant arch design has made it a symbol of Ochanomizu, beloved by both locals and tourists.

Before exploring the sightseeing spots of Ochanomizu, take a moment to admire the river and this historically significant bridge, which has stood the test of time.

5. Meiji University Museum

The Meiji University Museum is one of Ochanomizu’s top museums, offering a fascinating collection of exhibits just a short walk from Ochanomizu Station.

The Commerce Section showcases traditional handcrafted goods from around the world, explaining the process from raw materials to finished products. The Archaeology Section features artifacts from the Paleolithic and Kofun periods, including stone tools, haniwa (clay figurines), and dogū (prehistoric clay figures). The most popular with tourists is the Criminal Justice Section, which displays torture devices and execution tools from Japan’s Edo period and around the world, including Europe. This section offers a chilling yet educational look at the history of human rights oppression.

For a mix of history, culture, and a bit of thrill, visiting the Meiji University Museum is a must during your trip to Ochanomizu.

6. Jazz House Naru

Every night, Jazz House Naru comes alive with passionate performances by both young and veteran jazz musicians. As one of Ochanomizu’s most famous jazz bars, it’s conveniently located right near JR Ochanomizu Station. It also has a great reputation for delicious food, making it an inviting spot for tourists. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, so anyone can drop in to enjoy live music.

If you already have evening plans, don’t worry—weekday lunch specials are also available! The Monday-only curry lunch is particularly famous for being both affordable and incredibly tasty. Whether day or night, Jazz House Naru is a great stop during your Ochanomizu trip.

7. Yushima Seidō

One of the most famous historical sites in the Ochanomizu area, Yushima Seidō, was originally built by Tokugawa Tsunayoshi, the fifth shogun of the Tokugawa dynasty, to spread Confucian teachings and establish what was essentially a school. The main building, Taiseiden, was destroyed during the Great Kanto Earthquake but was rebuilt in 1935. Today, due to its strong connection to education, pencils for academic success prayers are very popular among visitors, making them a great souvenir.

With lush greenery and a peaceful atmosphere, it is also a great place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. If you visit Ochanomizu, Yushima Seidō is a must-see spot.

8. Origami Kaikan

Origami is undoubtedly one of Japan’s most iconic cultural traditions. At Origami Kaikan in Ochanomizu, you can explore the past, present, and future of origami through exhibitions, a shop, a workshop, and a classroom.

The exhibition floor showcases a variety of works, ranging from traditional nostalgic pieces to modern and innovative origami creations. At the shop, you can buy finished origami pieces and beautifully crafted washi (Japanese paper). The workshop area allows visitors to observe skilled artisans at work, and the classroom offers lessons on various origami techniques. Located close to Ochanomizu Station, it’s a perfect sightseeing spot where you can truly experience the beauty of Japanese culture.

◎ Summary

The name "Ochanomizu" comes from the pure water once used for tea ceremonies that was found in the area. Today, Ochanomizu continues to shine as a fusion of rich traditions and modern culture. Enjoy your Ochanomizu sightseeing adventure!

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Student District – It’s also in Ochanomizu! 8 Must-Visit Tourist Spots