Omoide Yokocho Day
OtherWhat Is Omoide Yokocho Day?
November 24th is "Omoide Yokocho Day" in Japan. It was established by the Shinjuku Nishiguchi Shopping Street Promotion Association, based in Nishi-Shinjuku, Tokyo, and certified by the Japan Anniversary Association in 2019. The date recalls the fire that broke out in Omoide Yokocho ("Memory Lane"), west of Shinjuku Station, on November 24, 1999.
Remembering the Lessons of a Fire and Raising Fire-Safety Awareness
The day aims to keep the lessons of the 1999 fire alive and raise awareness of fire prevention. It also expresses gratitude to the regular customers who have supported the alley and the hope that more people will discover its charm.
- Established by: the Shinjuku Nishiguchi Shopping Street Promotion Association; certified in 2019
- Date origin: a fire broke out in Omoide Yokocho on November 24, 1999
- Purpose: to remember the lessons of the fire and raise fire-safety awareness
- Another wish: to thank regular customers and share the alley's charm with more people
- Nickname: also known as "Yakitori Yokocho" (Yakitori Alley)
An Alley with Showa-Era Charm, Born from a Postwar Black Market
Omoide Yokocho has its roots in a black market that sprang up around 1946, when the scars of the air raids were still fresh. It once stretched as far as the area of the Odakyu Department Store at Shinjuku Station's west exit, with about 300 shops. The many yakitori and motsu-yaki (grilled offal) shops of that era live on today, and because the original stalls were separated by a single wooden board, many shops still share walls with their neighbors. Today it is one of Shinjuku's famous spots, alongside Kabukicho and Golden Gai.
Tips for Marking This Day
- Check the fire extinguishers and evacuation routes at work and at home
- Think about fire safety in areas crowded with restaurants
- Learn about the history of alleys and streets that keep a Showa-era atmosphere
- On your way home, drop by an alley shop you have been curious about
Everyday Preparedness Protects the Bustle
The charm of an alley where small shops stand shoulder to shoulder can only be protected with good fire preparedness. November 24th is a day to reflect on the history of Omoide Yokocho and review the fire safety around you.