路地裏(ろじうら)

A compound of 路地(ろじ) (alley) + 裏(うら) (back, behind). Refers to narrow passages behind or between buildings in older urban areas.

Cultural note

Back alleys in Japanese cities often have a nostalgic atmosphere. Many hide small 居酒屋(いざかや) (pubs), 食堂(しょくどう) (eateries), and 個人(こじん)商店(しょうてん) (family shops) that are hard to find from main streets. "Hidden gem" restaurants in 路地裏(ろじうら) are a popular topic in food media.

Related words

• 路地(ろじ): alley, lane (without "back")
• 裏通(うらどお)り: back street (wider than a 路地(ろじ))
• 横丁(よこちょう): side street (often a shopping lane)