Perhaps this neighborhood is not as popular as Harajuku (mainly for the foreigners), but it's definitely as trendy and much more authentic. You won't find only a lot of good stores, but also good live-houses, cafes and restaurants.
There is even some kind of rivalry between the young Japanese who like Harajuku and those who prefer Shimokitazawa.
Things to do
This neighbourhood has a long tradition as an artistic place. Many musicians and artist choose the streets of Kichijouji to live and perform at its live houses. Nowadays It's also a famous shopping area filled with cool small boutiques.
Its lake park Inokashira, the first one funded by the Emperor opened to the public, is one of the most beautiful in the city; specially during spring and fall.
Animation fans shouldn't miss the Gibli Museum located just one stop from Kichijoji at Mitaka.
When you leave the station, a sign welcomes you to the electric town. During the 50's the black market around the first school of electrical manufacturing turned this part of the city into the biggest market for electronic stuff. But it's even better known as the World center of manga, anime and video game culture; the leit motiv for many people to pilgrim to Tokyo. Really spectacular even if you are not into the "otaku" thing.
Ameyoko is a busy market street along the Yamanote line tracks between Okachimachi and Ueno Station, the site of a black market after World War Two.
Opening hours and closing days depend on individual stores, but stores typically open around 10:00 and close around 19:00. Many stores remain closed on selected Wednesdays.
It's a great place to have lunch and visit after visiting Ueno Park
Ueno Park is a large public park opened to the public in 1873.
Ueno Park is famous for its many museums, but it also gives you a fresh view of Tokyo. An unexpected place in Tokyo.
