One Box Book Fair: A Retro Tokyo Book Adventure at GRAPHY NEZU

Grab a Book, Sip a Coffee, and Soak in the Vibes at HOTEL GRAPHY NEZU

Once you’ve picked up a good read, why not cozy up at our hotel café with a cup of coffee and dive into your new favorite story?

■ HOTEL GRAPHY NEZU: A Hostel Hotel That Feels Like Home

Tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood just a 3-minute walk from Nezu Station (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line) and about 15 minutes from JR Ueno Station, HOTEL GRAPHY NEZU is more than just a place to stay—it’s a hub for connection. With the concept “Meet Local. Feel Global.” at its core, it’s a space where travelers from around the world and locals come together, share stories, and get a taste of everyday life in Tokyo. Think hostel-style comfort with a stylish twist, a laid-back vibe, and a community feel that keeps guests—both from Japan and overseas—coming back.

As a hotel that’s deeply rooted in the neighborhood, we’re excited to be part of the “Shinobazu Book Street One Box Book Fair” again this year—just like last time, we’re joining in as one of the event’s welcoming “landlords.” It’s a perfect chance for fellow book lovers to connect.

■ Books, Conversations, and Community—The “One Box Book Fair” Returns

The beloved “Shinobazu Book Street One Box Book Fair” is back for its 25th edition! First launched in 2005, it’s now a fan-favorite event that draws bookworms from across Japan.

Here’s how it works: various local spots (like us!) open up their spaces as “landlords,” while passionate booksellers and book lovers become “shopkeepers.” Each shopkeeper brings along a box full of second-hand books to display and sell, all while chatting and sharing their love of reading with visitors. It’s part flea market, part community hangout, and all about the joy of books.

The fair takes place in the charming Yanesen area—a nickname for the retro neighborhoods of Yanaka, Nezu, and Sendagi. Known for its old-school Tokyo atmosphere, narrow alleys, cozy cafés, and indie shops, it’s the kind of place where you feel instantly at home.

This time around, seven unique locations across Yanesen—including us here at HOTEL GRAPHY NEZU—are joining the fun as official “landlords.” We can’t wait to welcome book lovers for a laid-back day of stories, smiles, and spontaneous conversations.

On event day, the hotel’s terrace and lounge—normally reserved for overnight guests or café visitors—will open up as a vibrant venue for this special one-day-only book fair. Each pop-up “shop” will be filled with handpicked books and styled to reflect the unique personality of its shopkeeper. You’ll be able to browse everything from picture books and paperbacks to photo collections and handmade ZINEs, all curated with care.

What makes it extra special? You can chat directly with the shopkeepers about why they chose certain titles, the stories behind them, and maybe even get a personal recommendation. It’s a chance to stumble upon something new and unexpected—just like one of those memorable travel encounters.

Meet the Shopkeepers & Their Books:

・Amarimono: Art, music, film, architecture, cultural history, and critique magazines

・M&M Bookstore: Whimsical picture books for grown-ups, international lit, photo books, exhibition catalogs

・Donbee Books: A casual, spontaneous selection—like grabbing a handful straight from a bookshelf

・Toddling Book Store: A playful curation that feels like a toy box turned upside down

・POCKET: Easy-to-carry, pocket-sized reads from a wide range of genres

・Amarcord Yoshida: Film, photography, vintage magazines, and photo collections

・whimbook: Beautiful, eye-catching books and handmade ZINEs

・Honya Toshokan Hanbunko: Thoughtful books about libraries, taking breaks, and life’s quieter moments

<Event Details>
・Date and Time: Monday, May 5, 2025 (Holiday), 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
・Place: HOTEL GRAPHY NEZU Terrace / Lounge / Tatami Space
　In case of rain: HOTEL GRAPHY NEZU Lounge / Tatami Space
・Admission: Free

■ Grab a Book, Sip Some Coffee, and Relax at the Hotel Café!

After scoring some great finds at the Shinobazu Book Street One Box Book Fair, why not take a break at our cozy hotel café?

We serve hand-drip coffee brewed with premium beans from SOL’S COFFEE, a beloved Tokyo roaster based in Kuramae. Their philosophy—“gentle on the body, even if enjoyed daily”—makes every cup feel like a little act of self-care.

Not a coffee fan? No problem! We’ve got café lattes, matcha lattes, and other comforting drinks that pair perfectly with a good book.

And for those with dietary preferences, we’ve got you covered too! Our menu includes tasty vegan-friendly treats like burgers and cookies made without animal products—but packed with flavor.

So after your book haul, settle in with your favorite read and sip your way into a relaxed afternoon right here at HOTEL GRAPHY NEZU.

<GRAPHY NEZU CAFE & LOUNGE>
・Location: HOTEL GRAPHY NEZU, 1st Floor
・Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 10:00 PM (Last Order 9:30 PM)
・Menu: Coffee from ¥500
　　　　Sweets from ¥200
　　　　Burgers from ¥800

■About HOTEL GRAPHY NEZU

HOTEL GRAPHY NEZU is located in the heart of Tokyo’s historical downtown area, Yanesen. Since its opening in February 2013, the hotel has hosted various events and workshops. It’s been loved as a “lifestyle hotel” where travelers from around the world and local residents can come together and interact. Originally opened alongside a social apartment (a shared living space), the hotel offers shared lounges, dining spaces, and kitchens for guests to use freely. This lets guests experience a casual, comfortable stay—just like everyday life but a little different. The café & bar connects guests and locals casually, and the tatami-floored studio is used for everything from yoga to exhibitions, appealing to people of all ages.

<Facility Details>

Facility Name: HOTEL GRAPHY NEZU
Address: 4-5-10 Ikenohata, Taito-ku, Tokyo 110-0008
Access: 3-minute walk from Nezu Station on the Chiyoda Line
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