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Showing posts with label Tokyo. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Tokyo. Show all posts

Tokyo’s Top 5 Shopping Districts

 From stylish to casual and everything in between.

Japan’s capital is deservedly known as one of the world’s shopping meccas. Offering numerous vibrant and trendsetting districts, you can find everything from high-end to offbeat. From subculture favorites to traditional crafts and vintage wares, you’re sure to find it! Beyond department stores, the city has countless shopping streets. These streets range from posh boulevards packed with flagship stores to back alleyways focused on a particular niche such as sport or vintage clothing. Read on for the low-down on the five most popular Tokyo shopping neighborhoods.

Ginza

Ginza© Photo by Kim Ahlström

Ginza is the ritziest and biggest upscale shopping district in Tokyo. It’s home to posh boutiques and glamorous department stores, such as the classic Mitsukoshi and avant-garde Dover Street Market Ginza. On a global scale, it’s comparable with Oxford Street in London or Fifth Avenue in New York. In addition to the various flagship stores of international designers such MCM, Michael Kors, Christian Dior and Louis Vuitton, there has also been a rise in affordable fashion chains. Uniqlo, Zara and Abercrombie & Fitch arrived in Ginza over the past years. However, tucked in between some of the impressive facades are traditional craft shops like the fine crafts at Takumi.

The varied shopping options in this Tokyo neighborhood reflect the scope of the city’s consumer culture. Ginza is a blend of high-fashion luxury and more down-to-earth dedication to traditional crafts and the heritage of the country. Therefore, it’s a fascinating area where the latest trends and the oldest traditions meet.

Shinjuku

Shinjuku© Photo by Yoppy

Shinjuku is probably Tokyo’s most crowded neighborhood. It has the busiest train station in the world (serving more than three million people a day). Shopping here can also be a little overwhelming. Shinjuku station itself is one of the largest shopping complexes in Japan. It offers two underground malls and several large department stores. One such is the famous Lumine, which spans three different buildings that are all connected to the station. Mosaic Street is a narrow pedestrian shopping street. It runs across the top of the station linking Mylord with the Keio department store.

Shinjuku is also home to the world-renowned department store Isetan, which was established in 1886. Located near the East exit of the station, Isetan has multiple large floors. It is dedicated to the latest women’s fashion trends, as well as a separate building for fashion-forward men’s clothing. The location is also known for its huge basement food wonderland, called depachika in Japanese (literally department store underground). Just across from Isetan you will also find Bicqlo, a unique and interesting collaboration between Uniqlo and Bic Camera. Shinjuku can be a handy one-stop shopping destination with a huge variety of choices.

Shibuya

Shibuya for Tokyo Shopping© Photo by Yoshikazu Takada

Shibuya is Tokyo’s liveliest shopping neighborhood and the fountain of teen trendiness in Japan. Many of the department stores in this area target young female shoppers in their early 20s. One of these is the world-famous Shibuya 109 (“ichi maru kyu“), a Japanese fashion institution that has been around since 1979. Other department stores and shopping complexes include ShinQs, Tokyu, Shibuya Mark City, Seibu, Loft, Parco and several Marui (OIOI) locations. One renowned and contemporary building is Shibuya Hikarie. It is directly connected to the station and includes a 10-floor shopping complex catering mainly to Japanese career women. Above the shopping levels, there are restaurants with nice views over the area. There are also large event spaces where various exhibitions and the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week are held as well as an elaborate four-floor theater space that hosts Western-style musicals.

Next to the department stores, Shibuya is well known for its three exciting shopping streets: Koen Dori, Spain Zaka and Center Gai. If you’re over 30 you might feel a bit too adult in some of the stores. Some trends probably won’t exactly match your wardrobe but just cruise through and amuse yourself with the madness.

Harajuku

Harajuku© Photo by Alex de Carvalho

Harajuku has a long history and is the center of Tokyo’s most extreme youth culture. It’s home to the famed Harajuku girls (and boys). East of Harajuku station lies Takeshita Dori, known throughout Japan and across the globe as a popular hangout for 13- to 15-year-olds. The street—especially crowded during weekends—is crammed with shops. These shops sell outrageous, inexpensive clothing, fancy accessories and souvenirs, as well as crepe stands and fast food outlets. After the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, fashion designers began to set up their offices and studios in this area and neighboring Omotesando. Since then, more and more clothing stores for adults, hip coffee shops, and trendy restaurants have been built there. It is also a hotspot for vintage shopping. In Ura-Hara, the maze of backstreets behind Omotesando, you will find eccentric little shops and heaps of secondhand stores.

There are also the two trendsetting shopping complexes of LaForet Harajuku and Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harajuku. These consist of several floors of fashion boutiques and shops, which are also mainly targeted to young, female shoppers. The LaForet Museum on the top floor hosts various events and exhibitions. On the sixth floor of Tokyu Plaza you can have a cup of Starbucks coffee in a pleasant green space while enjoying a nice view over the district. Both the Japanese and international fashion industries keep a close eye on Harajuku. Many Tokyo fashion subcultures in the past have had their origin in this highly creative area.

Omotesando

Omotesando for Tokyo Shopping© Photo by Noli Fernan

Neighboring on Harajuku, Omotesando is the second-largest upscale Tokyo shopping neighborhood after Ginza. The beautiful Omotesando avenue has a distinctly European feel. It is sometimes referred to as Tokyo’s Champs-Élysée. It’s lined with Zelkova trees leading to the famous Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park. High-class domestic and international brands such as Hugo Boss, Alexander McQueen, Issey Miyake, Comme des Garçons, Maison Martin Margiela and many more are located along this impressive boulevard. However, if you are more interested in lesser-known international designers, one of the several stores by H.P. France might be a good place to start. One such store Wut is located in a narrow side street off Omotesando. It sells cutting-edge fashions by young German designers, among others.

By contrast, Omotesando Hills, a contemporary shopping mall and residential space with over 100 shops, is also worth a visit. Even if you’re not into shopping, this epicenter of high fashion is also home to some of the most amazing examples of modern architecture anywhere in the world.

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Discover the Best Rivers, Falls and Swimming Holes Around Tokyo

 Come summer, scorching temperatures cover most of Japan. Sure, there are plenty of ways to survive the season, like these tips to avoid heat stroke and summer foods to cool yourself off. But plunging in refreshing, natural cool water is hard to beat. You just need to know where to look to find clear-flowing rivers, falls and swimming holes around Tokyo.

While some lack the convenience of shops, restaurants and boardwalks, many of these locations offer the chance to take a dip, splash around or reconnect with nature, all within a couple of hours from central Tokyo.

Warning: Natural swimming spots have inherent risks, including rising water levels, underwater rocks and wildlife. Always exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. Make sure to check local guidelines and weather conditions before heading out.

1. Hatonosu Canyon



Photo: 
A popular Tokyo escape.

Nestled in Okutama, Tokyo, Hatonosu Canyon (or Hatonosu Ravine) is a captivating natural destination celebrated for its clear waters and serene swimming spots. Visitors can enjoy refreshing swims in the calm pools formed by the Tama River, which meanders through the canyon.

The cool, clean water is perfect for a summer dip, and the natural rock formations create secluded spots ideal for a peaceful swim. In addition to swimming, the area offers opportunities for river trekking and exploring the surrounding wilderness. The scenic beauty and tranquil environment make Hatonosu Canyon a favorite spot for water enthusiasts seeking a natural retreat.

Tanazawa, Okutama, Nishitama District, Tokyo - Map
Nearest Station: Hatonosu (JR Ome Line)

2. Akigawa Valley



Photo: 
Akigawa Valley in early summer.

Located in the Akiruno area, Akigawa Valley is a popular destination for nature lovers. The Akigawa River runs through the valley, offering clear, clean water ideal for swimming and wading. The valley is also known for its beautiful scenery, including lush forests and picturesque rock formations.

1420 Tokura, Akiruno, Tokyo - Map
Nearest Station: Musashi-Itsukaichi (JR Itsukaichi Line)

3. Mitake Gorge



Photo: 
And you’re still in Tokyo.

Along the Tama River in Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park is Mitake Gorge. The gorge is renowned for its clear river waters, stunning foliage and opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, river trekking and fishing. The area also has several traditional inns and hot springs, making it a great place for a relaxing getaway.

Mitake, Ome, Tokyo - Map
Nearest Station: Mitake (JR Ome Line)

4. Yozawa River



Photo: 
Just north of Akigawa Valley.

The Yozawa River, also located in Okutama, offers a beautiful setting with clear waters that are perfect for swimming and relaxing. The surrounding area is rich in greenery and provides a tranquil escape from the city. Hiking trails along the river allow visitors to explore the lush forest and enjoy the peaceful environment.

Yozawa River, Tokyo. - Map
Nearest Station: Hachioji Station, then bus to Yozawa River

5. Kanoto Rock



Photo: 
Try “forest bathing” like the locals.

In the idyllic Hinohara Village in the Nishitama district of Tokyo, Kanoto Rock is a natural monument with a steep cliff face along a 60-meter-long gorge. This scenic spot is renowned for its breathtaking views and hiking opportunities. The gorge features several waterfalls, accessible via a narrow trail equipped with fixed chains and ladders, making it an adventurous yet manageable hike. Visitors often indulge in forest bathing (shinrin yoku), hiking, fishing and camping.

Hinohara, Nishitama District, Tokyo, Tokyo - Map
Nearest Station: Musashi-Itsukaichi (JR Itsukaichi Line), then bus to Kanotoiwa

6. Nippara Limestone Caves and River



Photo: 
Dip your toes or enjoy the caves.

Also located in Okutama, Nippara Limestone Caves offer a fascinating exploration experience with stunning rock formations and cool, refreshing air. Nearby, the Nippara River provides clear, shallow waters perfect for wading and relaxing. The surrounding area has greenery and hiking trails, making it a great spot for a nature-filled day trip.

1052 Nippara, Okutama, Nishitama District, Tokyo - Map
Nearest Station: Okutama (JR Ome Line), then bus to Nippara Caves

7. Oyahana Bridge



Photo: 
The view around Oyahana Bridge.

Completed in 1914, this railway bridge overlooks the Arakawa River. You’ll find a great spot along the river to enjoy the water in the shadow of its brick and concrete foundations. There’s plenty to do in the area, from wading to hopping in a sightseeing boat further up the river. Also, if you plan on spending the day, bring the barbeque to grill up a quick bite. Shutterbugs should watch for trains crossing the bridge for a picturesque backdrop to the river fun.

2575 Minano, Chichibu District, Saitama - Map
Nearest station: Oyahana (Chichibu Main Line)

8. Nomizo Waterfall and Kameiwa Cave



Photo: 
A perfect photo spot.

In Shimizu Keiryu Park on Chiba’s Boso Peninsula, Nomizo Waterfall and Kameiwa Cave have become more popular in recent years for their picturesque features. Along with the heart shape of the morning sunlight and the fireflies dancing on summer evenings, this site is also a great swimming hole. With a combination of shallow waters for wading and a rock face with a gentle incline for climbing, this spot offers some variety for your water play.

1954 Sasa, Kimitsu, Chiba - Map
Nearest station: Soga

9. Doshi River



Photo: 
One of the most beautiful rivers in Kanto.

The Doshi River flows along the border between Yamanashi and Kanagawa prefectures and is easily accessible from the Tokyo metropolitan area, making it perfect for a day trip. This river offers various spots to dive into deeper waters or leisurely play in shallow areas, making it a popular destination for children and adults.

Via Kurashi-no.jp, here are some recommended spots for enjoying the Doshi River:

  • Okudoushi Auto Campsite
  • Doshi Roadside Station
  • New Tashiro Auto Campsite
  • Odo Campsite
  • Ryogokubashi Campsite Yukawaya
  • Konomasawa Campsite
  • Aone Campsite

10. Iruma River



Photo: 
The Wariiwa Bridge over the Iruma River.

Hanno City, Saitama Prefecture, is rich in nature and home to the Iruma River. The river is wide, and you can have fun diving into the water from three to five meters. However, some spots are shallow—especially during the dry seasons—and are great for families. The riverbank is perfect for having a barbecue while enjoying the scenic beauty and fun activities in the river.

Iruma River, Saitama - Map
Nearest Station: Hanno
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Tokyo Events for July 2024

 

July in Tokyo marks the end of rainy season with only hotter days ahead. Stock up on sunscreen and enjoy the best of this season. Here are some handpicked Tokyo events you can check out despite the heat and humidity. Have a great month ahead!

Make the most out of this summer season by putting yourself out there. Let’s step out of our comfort zones by meeting new people and trying new things. Here are all our recommended Tokyo events for July 2024!

July 15-21, 2024

July 22-28, 2024

July 1-7, 2024

July 8-14, 2024

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