Tim Blackwell discovers Shimokitazawa, a hidden Bohemian escape in Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo is famously intense; a 24/7 metropolis that grabs you like a friendly Godzilla and whisks you along for the ride.
But if you want to dial back the pace, Tim Blackwell recommends a neighbourhood that offers a distinctively laid-back, bohemian atmosphere.
Location: Shimokitazawa, Tokyo, Japan
The Mosque Coffee www.instagram.com/mosquecoffee Open daily
Flamingo Shimokitazawa 2nd www.flamingo-online.jp Open daily
Nasu Oyaji www.instagram.com/nasuoyajicurry Open daily, 11am - 9:30pm
No Room for Squares www.nrfsbar.com Open daily
Made with support of the Tokyo Convention & Visitors BureauTokyo Official Guide: www.gotokyo.org
Correct at 04.07.26
Highlights:
Shimokitazawa, located in the west of Japan’s busy capital, serves as a refreshing departure from the city’s frantic, neon pulse. Like most chilled Bohemian neighbourhoods around the world good coffee is key, and Shimokita, as it’s known locally, is no exception.
Tim was taken to Mosque Coffee, an unexpected Turkish treasure where the brew is extracted traditionally in a bed of hot sand.
Once fully caffeinated, Tim dove head first into Shimokita’s main drawcard, its thriving thrift and vintage scene. Shopping here is less about fast fashion and more about uncovering history. Tim reckons, if you want to predict what your kids will be wearing in two years, check the racks at stores like 2nd Flamingo.
The joy lies in wandering through the myriad of independent shops where you arebound to find a one-of-a-kind piece you simply have to take home.
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From robot waiters to themed hotel rooms: Tim Blackwell discovers a different side of Tokyo
Tim had worked up an appetite and luckily for him, Shimokita is the go-to area for a great Japanese curry. Hidden down a laneway, Nasu Oyaji, is one of the oldest and best curry houses in the area.
The legendary spot had a line out the door but was well worth the wait, even though it was very hot outside, the curry turned out to be the ideal meal.
As the sun went down the adventure continued as Tim searched for somewhere to enjoy a refreshing drink. Tokyo’s speakeasy culture is thriving in Shimokita, but finding the right spot was half the fun.
No Room For Squares is a tiny bar accessed through a vintage Coca-cola vending machine! There was no menu; the bartender simply tailors a bespoke cocktail to match your mood. The itimate, casual barhas over 1,500 jazz records and regular live performances.
Shimokitazawa is the perfect antidote to the typical Tokyo experience. It is a quiet pocket where the pace slows down just enough to let you breathe, and proves that Tokyo is much more than just robots cafés and frenetic pedestrian crossings. Put it at the top of your hit list for your next trip to Japan.
