The popular shopping areas of Shinjuku, Shibuya, Roppongi and Ginza are meant for tourists. I have always wondered where the locals go to for shopping. After searching & reading from the internet, I found a couple of new places. They are a few train stops away and we visited it in this trip.
Shimokitazawa
Shimokitazawa is west of Shinjuku and is a popular neighbourhood for Tokyolites.
The locals flock here especially on weekends for the street shops and restaurants.
The streets are narrow with shops line on either side.
The area has a relaxing feel, which makes shopping an enjoyment.
When the weather is good, head for the streets in Shimo.
There are plenty of eateries to whet any appetite.
Gaming parlor for a different kind of appetite.
Toys for your pets.
Studio portrait for your favourite doggy.
What a party!
Need a party hat?
Records chewing monster on the loose.
I was able to win one off the claw machine.
Mother of all cone ice cream.
Check out the antique furniture, you might find a gem.
Robotic waitress at your service.
Linen and home use items.
Merry Chritmas, Mr Buffalo.
Kichijoji
Kichijoji is another popular area for street shopping, and was voted the-most-like-to-live town in Tokyo.
It is THE place for the young, looking for fashion items of cool & rare find.
There are many major department stores here too.
Lifestyle store LoFt is one of them.
The neighbourhood has many fancy cafes and cosy restaurants.
Yes, this street is called Penny Lane.
Does this mean pets are welcome here?
As in most Japanese town, there is a game street.
The streets are always crowded on weekends, so it is better to visit on a weekday.
Some shops are inside the building.
My sister's favourite.
These are bolster, btw.
One of wife's favourites.
Toy cars are for boys. Wonder if they have a 3 series in there?
I really enjoyed the day trips to Shimokitazawa and Kichijoji. The laid back atmosphere of these neighbourhoods is a great getaway from the bustling and busy towns of central Tokyo. Here, you can find hundreds of stores, from upscale to casual ones, and fancy restaurants that offer arrays of local & international cuisines. Street shopping is no longer boring to me now while in Tokyo.
And another travel trip awaiting....
