Paris’ Japanese district, often referred to as ‘Little Tokyo,’ is a small triangle around Rue Sainte-Anne, bordered by Avenue de l’Opéra and Rue de Richelieu. It may be a relatively recent addition, with roots tracing back to the 1960s, but it has blossomed into a true reflection of Japanese culture. If you’re looking to explore this hidden gem, here are all my tips.
How to Get to the Japanese District?
The district lies just in front of the Pyramides metro station, on lines 7 and 14, but it can also easily be reached from the Palais Royal Musée du Louvre station on lines 1 and 7 and the Quatre-Septembre station on line 3.
Bus lines 21, 27, 29, 39, 68 and 95 also make some stops near the district.
Rue Sainte-Anne
This street forms the heart of the district, cutting through with Japanese restaurants offering distinct specialties and plenty of souvenir shops.
The vibrant, surreal atmosphere will transport you to Japan in just a few steps.
Exploring this street is a dive into a different culture altogether.
Passage Choiseul
Built between 1825 and 1927, it is now the longest of all covered passages in Paris.
You’ll be able to access it from the entrance located in the rue des Petits Champs and walk for 190 meters in a pathway lined with high arcades under a glass roof, among shop and restaurant windows from the entire world, though still mostly Asian.
The passage is open to the public Monday through Saturday, from 8am to 8pm.
Related: 7 of my favorite covered passages in Paris, captured in photos
Grocery shopping at Kioko
Want to bring some of the classics of Japanese cuisine back home with you?
Go to Kioko, and you will find everything you’ll ever need: soba and udon noodles, rice, kidney beans, sake, matcha and gyokuro teas, mochi, and all the basics of Japanese gastronomy.
Even though a larger budget may be needed, the wide choice of ingredients and typical bento meals make it a must-visit for any visitor who wants to discover products of Japan.
Address: 46 rue des Petits-Champs, 75002 Paris
Souvenir shopping at Cool Japan
If you’re looking to bring back a souvenir from your visit to Little Tokyo, Cool Japan is definitely the shop you’re looking for.
The items, which are directly imported from Japan, are as varied and diverse as can be. From traditional clothing for men and women to typical decorative objects like darumas, manekinekos and kokeshi dolls, to dishes covered in gold leaf, you’ll have Japan at the literal tip of your fingers.
Address: 45 rue Sainte-Anne, 75001 Paris
Visiting Junku the Japanese bookshop
Nothing better to dive into Japanese culture than a detour by a bookshop, right?
Located slightly outside of the rest of the district, the Junku bookshop offers a wide range of magazines, books and mangas, both in French and in Japanese.
Whether you’re looking for a new novel to read or just admiring the well-kept shelves, you will always find a warm and welcoming atmosphere there.
Address: 18 rue des Pyramides, 75001 Paris
Aki Boulangerie: for the pastries
You’ll be able to find all kinds of Japanese specialties like kabuki, dorayaki, mochi, matcha and yuzu-flavored pastries in this half-French, half-Japanese fusion bakery.
As it is very well-known in the district, it’s sometimes crowded because of its success- for good reason, though!
Also interesting to see are the Mochi Mochi sister shop a few buildings away, which obviously specializes in mochi, and the Aki Café, located a little higher in the rue Sainte-Anne, in which you can find the same pastries, as well as nice and warm Japanese dishes to go.
Address: 16 rue Sainte-Anne, 75001 Paris
Website: https://akiparis.fr/ (in French only)
The Alley Opéra: for the tea
No matter what your favorite type of tea is, you’ll find everything you want in this tea house, which largely flaunts its use of organic ingredients.
In the wide choice of cold and warm teas, you’ll particularly appreciate the use of brown sugar, which delicately spices up the soft, tasty flavors of each drink.
The Alley also offers a range of bubble teas, a Taiwanese drink with tapioca bubbles, to every customer’s delight.
Definitely a must for a delicious and relaxing break.
Address: 55 rue des Petits-Champs, 75001 Paris
Website: http://www.thealley.fr/ (in French only)
Stop by Coco
Coco is a popular spot for Bubble Tea lovers, and this one in the Japanese Quarter is no exception.
This lounge offers a wide selection of teas with tapioca pearls or other toppings such as fruit jelly.
Each drink can be customized to suit your tastes, whether you prefer a classic milk tea or a fruitier option.
The relaxed atmosphere of the place makes it an ideal stop-off for a refreshing drink between two cultural discoveries.
Address: 53 Rue des Petits Champs, 75001 Paris
Discover HappyLemon
HappyLemon stands out for its creative Bubble Teas, which have won over many fans.
Located just a few minutes walk from rue Sainte-Anne, the shop offers unique options, such as their famous Bubble Tea with salted cheese or lemon flavors.
This surprising mix of flavors creates a bold and innovative experience, ideal for those looking for something different.
This is a popular address for fans of original drinks.
Address: 15 Rue de la Grande Truanderie, 75001 Paris
Takara: for lunch
It opened for the first time in 1958 and is therefore the oldest Japanese restaurant both in Paris and in Europe.
“Takara” means “treasure” in Japanese, the name wholly makes sense when you discover the range of traditional dishes on the menu.
From classics like sushi and sashimi to lesser-known but still tasty dishes, you’ll doubtlessly find something for all tastes.
Address: 14 rue Molière, 75001 Paris
Website: https://www.takara-paris.com/ (in French only)
Happa Tei: for the takoyaki and okonomiyaki
You’ll have more than enough on your plate: Happa Tei specializes in takoyaki (stuffed pancake dough balls) and okonomiyaki (a sort of savory pancake).
Despite prices sometimes being a bit high, you definitely won’t be disappointed by the know-how and the incredible taste of these specialties just like in Japan.
Don’t miss out on it if you want to live through an actually extraordinary culinary experience.
Address: 64 rue Sainte-Anne, 75001 Paris
Website: https://kintarogroup.com/happatei/ (in French only)
Restaurant Go Oun
Restaurant Go Oun is a popular destination for lovers of fine Japanese cuisine.
Offering an elegant and minimalist setting, Go Oun offers a menu featuring typically Japanese dishes, such as sushi, sashimi and tempura, prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Address: 14 Rue Thérèse, 75001 Paris
Restaurant Sapporo
Sapporo is an institution in the Japanese quarter, well known for its tasty ramen and hearty dishes.
This restaurant is particularly popular with fans of Japanese noodle soups, whether miso, soy or curry.
With a relaxed atmosphere and reasonable prices, Sapporo is perfect for a quick meal without sacrificing quality.
Address: 37 Rue Sainte-Anne, 75001 Paris
Kodawari Ramen (Tsukiji): for the ramen
Ramen restaurants are common in Paris, and many are competing for the first place, but Kodawari Ramen gets unanimous reviews.
Come choose between traditional ramen and seafood ramen from the house, which will largely fill both your stomach and your desire for something foreign, all in a restaurant decorated like the old fish market in Tokyo.
Please note that the restaurant is often crowded due to its success, and you may need to wait for a while before getting a table.
However, the warm dishes and typical taste are largely worth it.
Address: 12 rue de Richelieu, 75001 Paris
Website: https://www.kodawari-ramen.com/ (in French only)
K-Mart Opéra
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
K-Mart Opéra is the Asian supermarket par excellence in the Japanese Quarter.
It is the ideal place for those wishing to buy fresh or dried Japanese ingredients to prepare their own dishes at home.
Typical products include seaweed, soy sauces, imported snacks and other essential Asian condiments.
K-Mart is also renowned for its selection of Korean products, making this shop a must-visit destination for fans of Asian cuisine.
Address: 4-8 Rue Sainte-Anne, 75001 Paris
Website: K-Mart Opéra (website in French)
Enjoy a break at Manga Café Konbini
Manga Café Konbini is a unique space that combines a love of manga with the chance to enjoy typical Japanese snacks.
It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy a gourmet break while discovering or rediscovering your favorite manga.
As well as its extensive manga collection, the café offers a variety of Japanese treats, drinks and self-service products, recreating the typical atmosphere of a konbini (Japanese convenience store).
Address: 61 Rue des Petits Champs, 75001 Paris
Fioko.shop, a Japanese figurine shop
Fioko is a must for figurine collectors and fans of Japanese pop culture.
The shop offers a wide range of figurines from Japanese manga, anime and video games, from classic models to limited editions.
With two locations in the Japanese Quarter, Fioko allows fans to unearth rare pieces or expand their collection.
Addresses:
- 20 Passage Choiseul, 75002 Paris
- 28 Rue des Petits Champs, 75002 Paris
Buren Columns
Right next to the rue de Richelieu, in the courtyard of the Palais Royal, stands an artistic installation named Les Deux Plateaux, more commonly known as the Buren columns, which was realized in 1986 by Daniel Buren.
It was originally ordered by Culture Minister Jack Lang, who wanted to prevent people from parking their cars in the courtyard.
The columns, or rather, the little black and white cylinders, have since become a choice meeting place for the inhabitants, and the perfect spot for a small break after a long walk.
With a passion for travel and having visited over 50 countries, Dorian is eager to share his favorite spots and expert tips to help you explore Paris and France like a local.
