Shimokitazawa
Today I'd like to talk a little bit about one of my favorite, if not most favorite of stations in Tokyo. Shimokitazawa. That's "Shimo-Kita-Zawa" - don't feel bad, it took a little while for me to learn how to properly pronounce it as well.
You won't that many chain shops, Gya-Ru or high end stores here.
"Shimo-Kita" as it is affectionately known by the locals definitely the most "Vancouver-Esque" feel of any station in Tokyo. Its really Bohemian and that's probably why I like it. It's been my impression that the good people of Shimo-kita...live-to-work rather than work-to-live. Burnt out salary-men are far and few between.
What you will find are dozens retro-70's botiques - with funk, disco or soul blasting from within and shelving authentic imports from LA. The staff are friendly and totaly relaxed. Take your time sifting through the racks and you'll be surprised at what you can find.
Homegrown coffee shops and charming lounges display local artists works
as well they often have decent collections of "post-modern" alternative literature for those of you tired of reading manga (we all love manga). The record stores blast music a bit too loud for most stations and thats why I love this place....no one seems to care. It's definitely a bit of "live and let live". There are even a couple of head shops a belly-dancing supplies store, as well as some good authentic french and indian restaurants and the smallest bar tucked way back in behind/under the train station. Your gonna have find for yourself as it has no entrance of its own; pass through a one dollar shop to get at it.
Mostly though Shimo-Kita is known for its live music acts acts and drama.
There are posters and "community galleries" all over the place.
Shimo-Kita is located along the "inokashira-Line" - one of the more desirable and therefore more expensive train lines in Tokyo. If I could afford it,
I wouldn't think twice at moving there.
You can get there by train either from Kichi-Joji or Shibuya.
If your from California, BC or anywhere along the west coast -
you'll definitely thank me for it. You're bound to run into like minded people here; and hopefully make some freinds. The second best thing to taking a trip back home.
Peace.
Matt
