In honor of Japan's beautiful alleys and sidestreets

Today, and April 5th annually, is Side Street / Alley Day 横町の日・横丁の日 in Japan. It celebrates the charm, history and community spirit found in Japan's narrow side streets and alleys. Those cosy lanes lined with tiny eateries, bars, and long-loved shops. 

The date of the anniversary was chosen because April 5th, 4/5, can be read as yokocho: 4 (yo) + 5 (ko). While the origin of "Yokomachi day" is unclear, "Yokocho day" was established by a company that develops food focused yokocho complexes. They create modern type "yokocho" with multiple small restaurants under one roof. 

Yokocho have long been cultural touchstones that are hubs of flavor, nostalgia, and human warmth.  Here in Kawagoe, we have both old "yokocho" as well as the modern type. I am a huge fan of "yokocho" and their individual charm. How about you?