In our Perfect Days column, we ask notable Tokyoites to share how they’d spend an ideal day in their home city.
Born in Fukushima and raised in Northern Virginia, Keegan Hasegawa moved to Japan four years ago for two reasons: to explore his Japanese roots and pursue a career in software engineering. He ended up doing only the former. A lifelong lover of all things creative, he now spends his time highlighting Japanese artisans and fashion culture on social media, hoping to shine a spotlight on unique stories and people.
My perfect day in Tokyo is …
On a perfect day, I’d start with a quick workout and run by the Tama River, taking in the quiet and greenery before the rest of Tokyo wakes up. Afterward, I’d pick up some friends and grab a bagel and coffee from Bagel & Bagel in Futakotamagawa.
Tokyo has its share of stunning specialty vintage shops, but affordable thrift stores can be harder to find. Just outside the city, however, lies Bookoff Super Bazaar in Tarumachi — a warehouse-style treasure trove with everything from ¥1,200 indigo-dyed bootcut jeans to camping gear. Of all the thrift shops I’ve been to, it’s by far the best.
I’d refuel after treasure hunting at Moga Cafe in Shibuya, which has some of the best taco rice in the city. Because it’s tucked away in a back alley, I’ve never seen this place crowded. It’s a great place to unwind and get some work done. As an avid music lover, I’d also want to stop by Big Love Records. The walls are covered in vinyl signed by artists, giving the space a cozy, insider feel. There’s also a bar inside, making it a classy way to start the night.
Next up would be Bar Juice in Shimokitazawa, a cozy spot decked out with vintage Star Wars action figures, a playable N64 and a bartender ready to show off his favorite MTV VHS tapes. Honestly, I can’t think of a more perfect place to hang out.
I’d end the night rallying the troops at the big karaoke room in Karaoke Rainbow in Shibuya — it has a drum set, guitars and a giant neon sign. This is the place where my friends and I have made some of our favorite memories.
Tokyo’s best-kept secret is …
Its people. While stereotyped as a lonely city, the mom-and-pop shops just outside popular areas are full of the most outgoing characters and great conversations. My advice: Always choose the shop that looks like it narrowly passed a health inspection.
A place I’ve always wanted to try is …
The tiny island of Kozushima. I’ve been in the winter, but it’s supposedly Okinawa-esque in the summer. Somehow it falls within Tokyo’s borders, and has managed to exist with only one traffic light. It has amazing nature, beaches and genuinely kind people — when I was there, I noticed that someone didn’t lock their car. I asked why. They replied, “This place is so small, if someone steals it, where are they gonna take it? Plus, I’d probably know them anyway.”
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Follow Keegan on Instagram here.
Updated On November 27, 2025
AloJapan.com