Shimokitazawa

Overview

Shimokitazawa is Tokyo's beloved bohemian neighborhood, a labyrinth of narrow lanes packed with vintage clothing shops, independent theaters, live music venues, and cozy curry houses.

Highlights

• Vintage Shopping: Dozens of tightly packed secondhand clothing stores offering everything from 1950s Americana to 1990s Japanese streetwear at remarkable prices.
• Live Music: A thriving underground music scene with intimate venues like Shelter, Club Que, and Three hosting local indie bands nightly.
• Reload & Bonus Track: New low-rise commercial complexes built along the former Odakyu railway tracks, housing artisan coffee shops, bakeries, and design studios.

History

Shimokitazawa evolved from a post-war market town into a counter-culture hub in the 1980s as cheap rents attracted students, musicians, and theater groups from nearby universities. A controversial 2019 railway undergrounding project added modern spaces while preserving the village atmosphere.

Visitor Tips

• Afternoon Start: Most vintage shops don't open until noon or 1 PM. Start with coffee at Bear Pond Espresso.
• Theatre: Shimokitazawa has the highest concentration of small independent theaters in Tokyo — check Honda Gekijo's schedule.
• Duration: 2–3 hours.