From Nippori to Tabata: A Rougher, Real Side of Tokyo to Explore

The stations on the Yamanote line stations loop. (© Pixta)

In new-looking Nippori, high-rises loom behind the Nippori-Toneri Liner station. (© Gianni Simone)

Dagashi goods. (© Pixta)

Between Nippori and Nishi-Nippori one may be forgiven for being reminded of Cold War-era Berlin. (© Gianni Simone)

When you see one of these places you can be sure you will find a pachinko parlor around the corner. (© Gianni Simone)

The gritty cityscape is sometimes interrupted by odd whimsical corners, like a glass case of figurines in front of a house. (© Gianni Simone)