VIDEO: Fun day trip to Tokyo’s hip Shimokitazawa - Alo Japan

Shimokitazawa (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi/Stripes Japan)

Shoppers and foodies alike can spend countless hours in Shimokitazawa, Tokyo’s hipster hotspot. The neighborhood, also known as “Shimokita,” is home to hundreds of vintage clothing, book and music shops, as well as dozens of restaurants and cafés to keep your energy up as you shop. Shimokita is a popular bohemian district that draws thousands of visitors of all ages with many dining, shopping options and music venues.

New York Joe Exchange, housed in a building that was once a sento bathhouse, offers a unique vintage shopping experience with a touch of the neighborhood’s history. Other vintage shops worth a browse are Antique Life Jin and Tokyo Retro a.m. At the turn of every corner, you’ll find cafés like Bear Espresso Café or Bookends Coffee Service.

The area is also known for curry houses like Planet Curry and Naan Station. And, since the neighborhood is only a 10-minute train ride from major stations Shibuya and Shinjuku, getting there is quick and easy.

Planet curry (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi/Stripes Japan)

Planet Curry (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi/Stripes Japan)

Sarutahiko Coffee (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi/Stripes Japan)

Keep in mind that many of the cafés and restaurants here are quite small, so you may have to wait to get a seat. If you’re part of a larger group, check out the larger izakayas and restaurants in the area instead like Shimokita Rokkaku or Shirubee.

Besides being a center for shopping and dining, Shimokita draws a crowd in the evenings thanks to its thriving live theater and live music houses.

The prestigious Honda Gekijo Theater, also inside an old sento bath since 1982, hosts many festivals with famous theatrical troupes throughout the year. For great tunes, check out Half Moon Hall Shimokitazawa, LIVEHOLIC and any of the many live houses in the district.

Honda Gekijo Theater (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi/Stripes Japan)

For a more traditional escape, every August the area celebrates Awa Odori Festival.

The mix of old, new and vintage you’ll find in Shimokitazawa is what keeps visitors coming back for more. There is always something new to discover here, so you won’t want to miss out on the lively, laid-back scene.

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Shimokitazawa Station (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi/Stripes Japan)

(Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi/Stripes Japan)

(Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi)

(Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi/Stripes Japan)