2k540 Aki-Oka Artisan

Beneath the elevated rail line that runs between JR Akihabara and Okachimachi stations, you'll find a special area where you must visit.  After walking through Ueno and browsing through jewelry in Okachimachi, head for Akihabara and you'll find the entrance to the 2k540 Aki-Oka Artisan mall under the tracks. 

 Please note that the mall is closed on Wednesdays!  We found that out the hard way!

2k540 Aki-Oka Artisan is located in the 2k540 area, which is two kilometers and 540 meters from Tokyo Station.  In addition, “Aki-Oka” refers to the location between Akihabara and Okachimachi.

Inside, you'll find various shops that feature the work of skilled craftsmen and women.  Their work is displayed in galleries, studios, cafes and shops. What makes this area even more unique is that most of the artists are in the store as you explore each one! 

In this shop, "Nijiyura," the artist gives demonstrations and also teaches classes on using the dye technique known as "chu-sen."  Items for sale in the stores are used as towels, Japanese wrapping, place mats, scarves and wall hangings.

Samples of hand dyed fabrics at Nijiyura.

There were so many beautiful samples to choose from.

Kiriya Tanaka sells furniture and other interior items.

Japanese children can find school backpacks at this store.

A wide selection of various backpacks line the walls.

There are also pop-up shops near the end of the mall.

Amazing light features

Visitors are also allowed to sign up for classes and demonstrations in some of the shops.  Unique cafes also allow shoppers to relax.

We were able to purchase fabrics, shoes and hair pins at the 2k540 Aki-Oka Artisan mall.

We will definitely return to this area during our next trip to Tokyo!