Takadanobaba

Takadanobaba is a 5 min. ride on the Yamanote Line from Shinjuku Station. People often call it by its abbreviated name, which is Baba.
When one mentions Takadanobaba people usually think about Waseda University, which is one of the best universities in Japan.

Although it has an energetic atmosphere, there is also a calm feeling, and the stores and houses are very vibrant. In order to enter into Japanese University you must first pass an examination. Many high school students come from all over Japan to take the entrance examination for Waseda University.

On the walk from Takadanobaba Station to Waseda University the streets are lined with many shops, it is definitely worth taking a look.

Among the contestants there is a famous ramen shop where you can also play Mahjong. There are different ramen flavour restaurants here and there; many people try the ramen at various places. At any rate depending on the shop the soup’s flavour will be different. This area is one of the leading places to play Mahjong. Many people including students and businessmen gather in Takadanobaba to play Mahjong. Many people grow from acquaintances to companions, and make many friends.

There are many temples and shrines in this area. Suwa Shrine is said to have spring water flowing from it. Other shrines and temples are Mizuinari Shrine, Anahachiman Shrine, Raiko Temple, and Seigan Temple.

This is also the birthplace of Natsume Souseki, a famous author.

Recently, Anime creator Tedzuka Osamu’s masterpiece Astro Boy’s main character was created in Takadanobaba. Moreover, in August 2007, the bell at Takadanobaba Station that rings when a vehicle departs has become the theme melody for Astro Boy.

Access
JR Yamanote
Tokyo Metro Tozai Line
Seibu-Shinjuku Line