荒木町は、江戸時代に松平摂津守の屋敷があった場所で、美しい庭園や「策の池」で知られていました。明治時代にはこの地が開放され、人々が池の周りで花見や涼を楽しむ名所となり、やがて花街へと発展。昭和初期には多くの料亭や待合が並ぶ華やかな街となりました。
300名弱の芸者が所属し、摂津守（せっつのかみ）のお屋敷あとということで、津の守（つのかみ）芸者と呼ばれていました。
時代の移り変わりとともに花街は姿を消しましたが、現在もその名残を感じることができます。石畳の小道、昭和の風情を残す建物、そして今もなお懐かしい日本の街並み。荒木町は、過去と現在が交差する、東京でも特別な場所なのです。
Arakicho is a historic district in Tokyo that once housed the grand residence of Lord Matsudaira Settsu-no-kami during the Edo period. Known for its beautiful gardens and the picturesque “Saku-no-Ike” pond, the area was a place of serenity and elegance. In the Meiji era, the former samurai estate was opened to the public, transforming into a popular destination where people gathered to enjoy cherry blossoms and cool breezes by the water.
As time passed, Arakicho evolved into a bustling geisha district. By the early Showa period, it flourished with numerous traditional restaurants and teahouses. Nearly 300 geisha were active in the area, often referred to as “Tsunokami Geisha,” named after the former lord’s title.
Though the geisha district has gradually faded with the times, remnants of its charm remain. Cobblestone alleyways, nostalgic buildings from the Showa era, and the timeless atmosphere of old Japan still linger in every corner. Arakicho is one of Tokyo’s hidden gems — a place where history and modern life beautifully converge.
