Shimokitazawa Day Guide

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A trendy, hip neighborhood, Shimokitazawa is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, but still feel those city vibes you love so much. With vogue naming it one of the coolest neighborhoods, you know you will find great fashion, trendy streets, and good food. This Shimokitazawa day guide will talk all things coffee, food and shopping.The small neighborhood is quiet, yet electric, known for live music venues, shows, hair salons, quaint cafes and thrift shops. This area makes for a perfect afternoon when visiting (or living) in Tokyo.

To Shop

Shimokita Garage is a shopper’s dream, filled with many little stores ranging in product and price. If hopping around from store to store stresses you out, the compartments of the Garage are perfect for you.

To those looking for more affordable prices when it comes to clothes, stop at Micmo. Fall jackets, trendy sweaters and other finds await you. The lovers of vintage clothing can head to Flamingo, especially if you are ready to use your wallet. With a US based buyer you will love their collection of American vintage clothes as well as jewelry (I LOVE their earrings) and accessories. You can find this spot in two other Tokyo locations.

Second hand not your thing? Head to Slick Mist, for some beautiful Japanese boutique clothes. If you’re like me, you will head straight to the sale rack – which is pretty stellar. The boxy tops, and beautiful shoes that you will come to love in Japan will be right at your fingertips.

If you are looking to sell, trade or donate your clothes make your way to New York Joe Exchange. Trading clothes is the ultimate recycling, and donating is the perfect way to get rid of unwanted items. The New York Joe Exchange will give you cash or store credit (store credit is of course a lot more) and the rest will be donated. Word to the wise, they won’t give you money for “fast fashion”. Therefore brands such as uniqlo, forever 21 h&m etc. can not be traded or sold. They can still be donated, so make sure to still ethically dispose of your clothes.

Buying gifts for family and friends can be done at the Antique life for their unique postcards that you won’t find in the airport, as well as mugs, stickers, and dishware.

 

Cafes

When you venture into Shimokitzawa, you must get a cup of coffee (or cafe beverage of your choice). The neighborhood knows how to do small cafes well and honestly they have not disappointed as I am still on my journey to try them all!

From sitting on the streets, to outside patios and cozy coffee corners, there is something for everyone. So here is my favorite list of coffee places (thus far) to keep you fueled as you explore Shimo!

 

Ballon De Espresso

Easy to miss, this shop is more than what meets the eye. Order their well known lattes, and take a seat outside to read, journal or to people watch. This place could be your go to daily cup of coffee – or at least mine. This place may possibly serve up my favorite latte. Light, yet rich in flavor, I wish I could stop by every morning!

 

Bear Pond Espresso

Open for 8 years, the owner, is very passionate about his craft, and it really shows. Most known for “angel stain” (famous espresso, only available till 1pm and limited cups are served) the owner calls it “a gift from Heaven”. Bear Pond stays true to their coffee making ways and is the perfect wake up call for the morning.

 

On the Way Coffee & Cupcakes

A small shop with a passion for serving the neighborhood of Shimo, on the way serves both cupcakes and coffee (hence the name)! Shingo Fukuda, the owner, will love to chat and hear your story. Get there early for the mini cupcakes as they sell out fast! With the only seating being on the street, the name “on the way” means exactly that! Whether you are off to work, or a friends house, it is the perfect place to grab your iced honey soy latte.

 

Urban Local Living

If you love talking to strangers and hearing their story, head on over to Urban Local Living. With home depot products hanging on the wall and surfing videos playing, you will instantly see his love for DIY projects, Hawaii, California and of course, coffee.

 

Bookends Coffee Service

Small, coffee filled nooks seem to be the theme in Shimo which is more of a reason to sit outside on the quiet urban streets and who would complain! Books, records and Beatles memorabilia hang on the walls as they serve a mean maple cinnamon latte. Rain or shine, Bookend Coffee Service is always a good place to be.

To eat

Bio Ojiyan Cafe

Save stopping at this cafe for a rainy or cold day and enjoy some Japanese risotta. Pick your toppings, along with Mentaiko (spicy cod roe), nori and fried bread. The menu also consists of pasta, salads, desserts and a great collection of beverages. Recommended by a thrift store employee, it won’t disapoint.

 

Frankie’s Melbourne Espresso

Frankie’s can serve a mean cup of coffee, delicious cold press juices AND incredibly appetizing breakfast/lunch sandwiches. This tiny coffee shop is perfect for on the go or ‘take away’ as well as coffee dates or simply some time for yourself. Having recently visited Australia, they know their coffee and Frankie shows that. Next visit I will try a ‘Picollo’ – better for those who want a latte without as much milk. Either way, I will be a returning customer to this quaint, mean espresso serving shop.

Vegetarian Options

What is a trendy neighborhood without some vegan food thrown in the mix? The thai restaurant Titchai, all though I have not been has amazing reviews regarding the authenticity, and choices of vegetarian/vegan. Chabuton Tonkotsu Ramen can serve you vegetable ramen and two kinds of veggie gyoza.

 

Explore

This list will surely grow as there is so much to see in this amazing neighborhood. With always something new to eat, new cafe to try, or new thrift shop discovery, you will never get bored. Walking along these quaint streets during the day can bring you to places like the Shimokita cage, an outside arena pop up space that hosts DJs, day markets for shopping and food. Check out their schedule of events for what is happening when. It is only up till 2019 so make sure to check it out! This walk/bike friendly neighborhood lends itself to those who just want to stroll and explore all that it offers.

 

Have you been to Shimokitazawa? Anything you recommend? Would love to hear the places you love!

If you are visiting this neighborhood soon, pin it below!