Japan is a country with a rich and fascinating culture, and it’s no wonder that many people are drawn to Japanese neighborhoods and districts around the world. Some of this oriental charm can be found also in Europe, with several Japanese districts scattered throughout the continent.
These districts offer visitors a chance to experience a taste of Japan without leaving Europe. In this article, we will highlight some of the main Japanese districts in Europe, where they are, how large they are, and how good they are for a weekend getaway.
Düsseldorf, Germany – Little Tokyo
Located in the heart of Düsseldorf, Little Tokyo is the largest Japanese district in Europe. It spans across several blocks and is home to a variety of Japanese shops, restaurants, and businesses. Visitors can enjoy traditional Japanese cuisine, visit the Japanese culture center, and experience the annual Japan Day festival. Little Tokyo is a great destination for a weekend getaway as there is plenty to see and do in the area.
For more about this large Japanese district in the heart of Europe and the best recommendations on where to go and where to eat, you can see this article from Europe on Budget – Traveling to Japan Without Leaving Europe: Exploring Dusseldorf’s “Little Tokyo”
London, UK – Japan Town
London’s Japanese communities are found mostly in the Northern parts of London, but it is in Soho that a small Japan Town can be also found. Located just between Soho and Leicester Square, Japan Town is a popular destination for those seeking Japanese cuisine and culture.
This district is smaller than Little Tokyo, but it still offers visitors a variety of Japanese shops and restaurants. Visitors can enjoy traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, visit the japancentre.com food hall, and browse Japanese bookstores. Japan Town is a great destination to visit during a weekend getaway in London, making it easy to access other attractions in the city.
Paris, France – Rue Sainte-Anne
Rue Sainte-Anne is Paris’s answer to Little Tokyo and Japan Town. It’s a lively and bustling street filled with Japanese shops, restaurants, and businesses. Visitors can enjoy traditional Japanese cuisine, shop for Japanese souvenirs, and visit the Shiseido spa. Rue Sainte-Anne is a great destination for a weekend getaway as it’s located in the heart of Paris and is easily accessible by public transportation.
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These Japanese districts are among the most significant in Europe, and each one possesses its own distinct charm with a unique blend of Japanese culture and the local culture of the host country. These districts offer visitors a chance to experience Japanese cuisine and culture while also immersing themselves in the local culture of the area. A visit to one of these districts is an experience that should not be missed when passing through their respective cities.
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