We visited the "Candy Store Alley" near the Ueno station on November 20, 2008. It's a traditional market street where all sorts of food and goods are sold. We entered from its north entrance, from Ueno station, and was greeted by the large Garfield-like status (what is it?!)
I really like its feel - it's similar to those markets I grew up with in Taiwan. We didn't get a good chance to fully explore the area so I'll probably return to check it out fully next time.The market runs along an alley alongside the train track, and you could see those massive exhaust vents coming out from the top floor of each shop - looks like one of those neo-Japan anime scenes.
We didn't end up buying anything there, although we did stop by a sushi place for a quick bite. It was cheap, fast - and ok. I guess you get what you pay for even in Japan's markets.
If you are interested in visiting, check out more photos on Danny Choo's Blog, and also the Official Ameyoko site (in English).
