Written by Patrick Balfe
Get some exercise and discover some hidden gems of the Yanaka Ginza area with this gamified walk from Nippori Station to the University of Tokyo.
What to expect
This walk will take you from JR Nippori Station, through retro Yanaka Ginza for some street food, to the University of Tokyo. Your mission? Complete your bingo card before the end of the walk. Keep your eyes peeled, spot hidden letters or signs, and practice your Japanese reading skills along the way.
WeLearn organizers have prepared the bingo materials, so all you need to do is bring yourself, some comfy walking shoes, and your appetite.
Example bingo missions
- Lv.1: Find the Japanese letter “ら” hidden somewhere
- Lv.2: Find a 3-letter Katakana word (It’s harder than it looks!)
- Lv.3: Find a sign related to books
Must-try street food in Yanaka Ginza
- Niku no Sato
- Yanaka Senbei
- Yanaka Shippoya
Great Spots for post-tour food and drinks
- Hanaya (inside Yanaka Ginza)
- Shokudo Morikawa
- Menya Nemuru
Where to meet
The group will meet at 12 p.m. outside the West Exit of JR Nippori Station. Organizers will be holding a sign that says “WeLearn”.
Entry
Participation in the event is ¥1,000, paid in person by cash or PayPay. If you’re not a WeLearn subscriber or free trial member, be sure to register your attendance here so organizers know you’re coming.
Members enjoy free or discounted access to all events and lessons, no café charge, a 7-day free trial, and the option to cancel at any time. You can sign up via the official website.
Members or free-trial subscribers can join this event for free.
The event will take place rain or shine (for the walk only) but may be canceled in the event of severe weather, such as storms or typhoons.
** Please note that photos taken during events at 80’s Cafe or WeLearn Community may be used for promotional purposes, including on their website and social media platforms.
Organizers may cancel events, alter schedules, or change admission requirements without notice. Always check official sites before heading to an event.
