The Best Hidden Neighborhoods in Tokyo

Located a few stops west of Shibuya and Shinjuku, Shimokitazawa is a laidback and somewhat bohemian district, popular with younger Tokyoites. 

Fewer chain stores, glitz, and neon; Shimokita is packed with vintage clothing shops, cafes, and low-key music venues. The shopping streets are great for strolling, people-watching, and dining both night and day. 

Just one stop around the JR Yamanote Line from Shibuya Station, Harajuku is Tokyo’s most infamous youth district. As the epicenter of teenage Tokyo, it is not a subtle area: fashion stores, record shops, fast food, gaming – all color, all noise, all fun. 

A good tip is to visit on a Sunday and combine with a walk into Yoyogi Park, which sees weekend congregations of Tokyo’s more obscure sub-cultures: rockabillies, cosplayers, dance crews, and street artists.

Stylish but laidback, this quiet and artsy district houses numerous galleries, boutiques, and uber-cool cafes and restaurants. The district is cut through by the Meguro river, a narrow canal that is flanked by cherry trees, making this area a prime spot for hanami – cherry blossom viewing – every March and April. 

Nakameguro pairs well with neighboring Daikanyama, one stop further down the Tokyu Toyoko Line. This area is home to high-end boutiques, trendy coffee shops, and possibly the world’s best bookstore, Tsutaya located in Daikanyama T Site.