The Ultimate Guide to Liberdade (São Paulo)

The Japanese immigration to Brazil began in 1908 and there are now approximately 1.6 million Japanese-Brazilians that call São Paulo their home. It’s understandable that there is a whole neighborhood dedicated to celebrating Japanese culture and cuisine. Welcome to Liberdade! Keep reading to plan your ultimate itinerary. 

Lunch at Lamen Kazu

I’ll have a hot bowl of ramen anywhere that reminds me of Japan. Lamen Kazu is a laid-back spot specializing in ramen and sake. I opted for Asahi (Japanese beer), chicken kara-age (fried chicken), and ramen with Miso base. English menu was available upon request.

Walk along Viaduto Cidade de Osaka

As you walk along R. Galvão Bueno you will soon find yourself standing on a pedestrian overpass looking down a major express way. After you’ve taken a picture of a small slice of this mega city, take a leisurely stroll while you check-out the various vendor stalls and talented musicians. 

Explore and browse shops

I think it’s important to note that Liberdade is not meant to be a copy of Japan. Instead, it’s a distinct neighborhood that serves and works for the generations of Japanese-Brazilians that more likely than not identify as Brazilians. The main artery of this neighborhood is R. Galvão Bueno. I could have easily spent hours going in and out of various shops (I was very tempted to buy a samurai sword!). When you’ve worked up an appetite, R. Thomaz Gonzaga is a good side street with excellent restaurants. Both Lamen Kazu and Coffee Selfie are located on this street. 

Japan House São Paulo

Japan House is located south-west from Liberdade on Avenida Paulista. I recommend including Japan House in your agenda as it’s an excellent way to continue your exploration of Japanese culture and cuisine. The indoor garden exhibition was one of a kind – a fusion of traditional Japanese garden with lush tropical vegetation of Brazil.  The house also includes a cafe serving excellent espresso and fluffy green tea cake.