Vol.30 TOKYO NEIGHBORHOODS AT THE TIPPING POINT

Welcome to TOKYO BEAT - a special series by your trusty Tokyo Tourism Representative (New York Office) that aims to provide you with story ideas and inspiration. Travelers are well aware that there is no shortage of internationally recognizable neighborhoods in Tokyo, but many will be surprised to discover just as many locally popular but under-the-radar neighborhoods that have each developed its own unique character, are a delight to explore, and give insight into local life. In this issue, we are pleased to introduce Kichijoji, Jiyugaoka, Jimbocho, and Daikanyama as neighborhoods on the brink of widespread discovery.

Hip and Fun: Kichijoji Considered to be one of the most sought-after residential neighborhoods today, Kichijoji is located just a convenient train ride from Shibuya and Shinjuku and is flanked by Inokashira Park – a lovely expanse known for its cherry blossoms, pedal boats, and lush scenery. Sun Road and Daiyagai, classic covered shopping districts operating since the mid 20th century, are now filled with charming cafes, standing bars, shops and gourmet restaurants. But the izakaya, like Iseya by the park, or those found in the alleys of Harmonica Yokocho, purportedly offer some of the best pub food – ranging from yakitori to sashimi, gyoza and more – in Tokyo. Make sure to check out the drink selection at Ahiru Beer Hall and the yakitori at Tecchan, which is designed by internationally known architect Kengo Kuma.

A Hint of Europe: Jiyugaoka Also a short train ride away from Shibuya is Jiyugaoka – Tokyo’s ‘Little Europe’. Cobblestone roads meander along to reveal generations-old shops that sell traditional goods from kimono to ceramics, numerous small izakaya and family-run restaurants, bakeries and cafes, as well as La Vita, an outdoor shopping area modeled after Venice, Italy that features a canal and gondola. Sweets Forest is popular for its endless selection of European pastries; the selection of pastas and dishes at Shutters are a delicious way to enjoy the picturesque views of the neighborhood’s Marie Claire Promenade. Finally, Tea House Kosoan is the perfect Japanese setting to complement this little oasis.

Home for Bookworms: Jimbocho Named after a famous samurai, Nagaharu Jimbo, Jimbocho (Jimbo Town) is nowadays known as a literary haven. Close to 200 bookstores await discovery here, and it is also home to numerous publishers like the legendary Iwanami Shoten, which also runs the premier foreign language film theater Iwanami Hall. Passionate readers will be delighted to explore this neighborhood, discovering new and rare books at established bookstores like Sanseido, secondhand sellers like @Wonder, and the English language heavy Kitazawa Book Store. With many universities nearby, one can get into the studying mood at cafes like Glitch Coffee and the popular Paper Back Café in Books Tokyodo.

See and Be Seen: Daikanyama Located between the popular destinations of Shibuya and Ebisu, Daikanyama is a chic commercial district filled with shops, cafes, and galleries that is popular with the fashionable, the well-heeled, and the famous. Alongside global brands like Onitsuka Tiger are lesser known but equally respected boutiques like Okura, which specializes in clothing and accessories that use traditional Japanese Indigo dying techniques. The abundance of restaurants and cafes also make Daikanyama a favorite – the sandwiches at King George, the craft beers at Spring Valley Brewery, and the Apple Pie at Matsunosuke baking studio are just the tip of the iceberg for foodies.For more information on more Tokyo neighborhoods waiting to be discovered, contact press@tokyo-nyc.com or call 917-200-4887.

For general information on traveling in Tokyo, head to TokyoTokyo.jp and Gotokyo.org/en/

To visit the archives, visit: www.japansolutionusa.com/tokyobeat