If you’re a fan of Japanese food and culture, you’ll definitely want to check out Little Tokyo in Chino Roces, Makati. Sitting just a few blocks away from the bustling central business district, this hidden gem is a haven for those who love Japanese cuisine, products, and ambiance. Little Tokyo is a small enclave of restaurants, shops, and bars that evoke the charm and atmosphere of Tokyo’s alleyways. It’s not as big or as touristy as the famous Shibuya or Shinjuku districts. But it’s still a great place to experience a slice of Japanese life. One of the first things you’ll notice when you enter Little Tokyo is the colorful lanterns and signages that adorn the streets. These lanterns are hanging from the eaves of buildings or strung up across the alleys, creating a warm and inviting glow that adds to the ambiance of the enclave.
Many of the restaurants in Little Tokyo have outdoor seating areas that spill out onto the streets or alleys. These areas are often surrounded by wooden partitions or screens that provide some privacy while still allowing patrons to soak up the ambiance of the enclave. Some of them have small gardens or courtyards that feature traditional Japanese landscaping. Like bonsai trees, rock gardens, and koi ponds. One of the main draws of Little Tokyo is the food. You can find a wide variety of Japanese cuisine here, from sushi and ramen to yakitori and okonomiyaki. Some of the most popular restaurants include Hana, Seryna, and Kagura. Hana is a great place to go for sushi and sashimi. They have a wide selection of fresh seafood and a cozy, intimate ambiance. Seryna is known for its teppanyaki and sukiyaki, while Kagura specializes in yakitori and other grilled dishes.
Stores and Ambiance
Aside from the restaurants, Little Tokyo also has a few shops where you can find Japanese groceries and products. There’s a branch of the popular convenience store chain FamilyMart, where you can stock up on snacks, drinks, and other essentials. There’s also a store called Yamazaki that sells Japanese home goods, like plates, bowls, and teapots. If you’re a fan of anime and manga, you’ll definitely want to check out Comic Alley, which sells a wide variety of merchandise featuring popular characters from Japanese pop culture. These areas are often surrounded by wooden partitions or screens that provide some privacy while still allowing patrons to soak up the ambiance of the enclave. Most of the restaurants are made of wood. With intricate facades that feature traditional Japanese motifs like cherry blossoms, cranes, and samurai.
Little Tokyo is more than just a place to eat and shop. Throughout the year, the enclave hosts various cultural events and activities that showcase different aspects of Japanese culture. One of the most popular events is the annual Bon Odori Festival, which takes place in August. This festival celebrates the Japanese tradition of honoring one’s ancestors and features taiko drumming, dancing, and lots of delicious food. There are also occasional film screenings, art exhibits, and workshops that offer a deeper look into Japanese art and culture. Little Tokyo may be small, but it packs a lot of charm and culture into its narrow streets. Whether you’re a fan of Japanese food, culture, or just want to experience a different side of Makati, this enclave is definitely worth a visit.
If you want to have more taste of Japan in the Philippines, you should check-out Mitsukoshi Mall, BGC – First PH Japanese Store
How to get there?
Via MRT
- Take the MRT and get off at the Ayala Station. This is the closest station to Little Tokyo.
- From the station, walk towards the Makati Medical Center and take a right turn at the corner of Dela Rosa and Rufino streets.
- Walk straight ahead until you reach Chino Roces Avenue (formerly Pasong Tamo), then take a left turn.
- Continue walking until you see the entrance to Little Tokyo on your left. It’s located between the Makati Cinema Square and the Amorsolo Mansion condominium.
