TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Shimokitazawa is a unique town in Tokyo's Setagaya Ward, a cultural hub packed with vintage clothing stores, small theaters, live music venues, and cafes. After a history as a residential area after the war, student culture and subculture took root in the 1970s and 1980s, and since the 1990s has established itself as a mecca for vintage fashion, indie music, and theater. With its many small alleys, winding shopping streets, and independently owned shops, Shimokitazawa is a major draw, as you'll discover something new just by strolling around.
Highlights
- Secondhand clothing store/select shopShimokitazawa is a mecca for second-hand clothing. There are many small shops selling unique items, so you can have fun hunting for bargains.
- Cafes & Restaurants: There is a wide variety of places to eat, from specialty coffee shops to unique curry restaurants and hidden bars. Eating out and visiting cafes is a popular pastime.
- Small Theatre/Theatre: A collection of small but energetic theaters, where original plays and experimental performances are frequently held (e.g. Honda Theater).
- Live Houses and Music Scene:Indie and underground live music is held regularly, and the city is lively at night.
- Stroll through the shopping streets and alleys: Just strolling around the old shopping streets and winding alleys is enjoyable, with many independent shops lining the streets.
- event: Community-based events such as the Curry Festival are held several times a year (dates vary depending on the year).
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: Shimokitazawa Station (Odakyu Line/Keio Inokashira Line)
- Approximate distance from major stations
- From Shinjuku Station: Approximately 7-10 minutes on the Odakyu Line (may not require transfers)
- From Shibuya Station: Approximately 6-8 minutes on the Keio Inokashira Line (direct)
- Cars and Motorcycles：Public transportation is recommended as the alleys are narrow and parking is limited. There is a bicycle parking lot near the station, but please note that it tends to fill up quickly.
- From the airport:The most common way to access the airport is by train from Haneda or Narita via major stations in Tokyo.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Quickly get a feel for the atmosphere: 1-2 hours (a short stroll around the station)
- Standard Course (Shopping + Cafe): 3-4 hours (Visiting several second-hand clothing stores and cafes)
- Enjoy the experience to the fullest: 5-8 hours (combining lunch, cafes, live music, and theater)
Nearby spots
- Daizawa/Setagaya-Daita Area: Dotted with unique restaurants and galleries
- Shibuya: One stop on the Keio Inokashira Line, easy access to shopping and the nightlife
- Parks and greenways around Shimokitazawa (walking spots)
- Sangenjaya and Kichijoji areas (easy access by train, popular tourist destinations)
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- congestion：Shopping streets and alleys get very crowded on weekends and holidays. If you want to take your time exploring, we recommend going on weekday mornings.
- Alley and walking etiquette：The roads are narrow, so please be careful of pedestrians and cyclists. Using your smartphone while walking or carrying large luggage can be a nuisance to those around you.
- Eating, drinking and smoking: Many restaurants have limited seating, so you may have to queue or wait. Smoking while walking outdoors is considered bad manners, so please smoke in designated areas.
- Cash and Payment: Smaller stores may only accept cash or may not accept electronic payments, so it's a good idea to have a small amount of cash on hand.
- Precautions during events: There may be congestion and traffic restrictions especially during festivals and events. Please check the official information in advance.
- weather: There are many narrow outdoor spaces, and umbrellas make the crowds worse when it rains. It is recommended to bring rain gear and wear non-slip shoes.
- traffic: Be careful of rush hour and late-night train times. After a live show or performance, it's a good idea to check the time of the last train home.
Recommended itinerary (short time to full day plan)
- Short time (1-2 hours)：Walk around the main street around the station → Check out a few second-hand clothing stores → Have a drink at a cafe
- Half day (3-4 hours)：Visit second-hand clothing stores → Lunch (curry or set meal) → Visit small general stores and record stores
- 1 day (5-8 hours)：A leisurely stroll in the morning → Lunch → Watch a show at a gallery or theater in the afternoon → Enjoy music at a live music venue in the evening
Shimokitazawa is a town where you can enjoy the fun of "discovering on foot." Find your own favorite shops and alleys while being mindful of crowds and manners.
