Shimokitazawa- commonly called “Shimokita,” is on the western side of Tokyo is extremely popular amongst the youth. If sipping coffee and walking down hipster tiny lanes of secondhand vintage shops are your thing, you are definitely in for a treat. What’s more, as Shimokitazawa is in close proximity with schools, so many of the hair salons are a lot cheaper than central Tokyo. If you have the time, why not indulge in a Japanese hair spa as well?
Here are 3 top must-do things at Shimokitazawa
1. Coffee Coffee Coffee
Bear Pond Espresso is probably the most famous coffee shop in Shimokitazawa. It’s unpretentious décor with tiny simple wooden beaches that can probably sit up to 6 pax in the entire shop. If you are a coffee lover, you should definitely check this place out.
However be warned, no photography is allowed in the shop and everyone has to order at least a drink to be able to sit in there.
Closed On Tuesday
Tel: +81 3-5454-2486
Address: 2-36-12 Kitazawa Setagaya-ku Tokyo Japan 155-0031
Bookends Coffee Service is a popular with the locals with its easy breezy vibe and affordable coffee on the go. If you are not in a hurry, feel free to just people watch or listen to classical old records and get ready to be transported back in time.
Open Daily: 11:00-2100
Tel: 03-3411-8885 (+81-3-3411-8885)
2-11-17 Kitazawa, Setagaya, Tokyo
2. Have a Hair Makeover
Personally, I have been twice to Ash Salon as I find the hair stylists extremely friendly and they understood basic English. And what even better? The prices are really affordable. A Japanese hair spa starts at about $50 (in Singapore, it would probably cost you $150 or more) and a cut and dye job starts from about $80 for both.
They apparently have a few outlets in Singapore but hey, why go to the Singapore branch when you can get a Japanese to style your hair at a fraction of the cost!
If hippy and being different is your thing, then go to Dude Salon. They pride themselves as being ‘The most bohemian hair salon in Tokyo” and the stylists speak fluent English.
So why not check it out if you are there? You may be in for a big surprise.
3. Buy One of a Kind Vintage Clothes
For the 40’s and 80’s old souls- Shimokitazawa is a vintage heaven just for you.
Flamingo
Known for: Cheap affordable vintage American-style clothing
Opens Daily: 12:00 – 21:00
Tel:+81 3 3467 7757
Address: 2-25-12 Kitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo
Tokyo
Known for: Higher end vintage American & European inspired clothing
Opens Daily: 12:00 – 21:00
Tel : 03-5453-4690
Address: 2F 2-37-2,Kitazawa,Setagaya,Tokyo 155003
