Shimokitazawa is widely recognized as the "holy land of curry" in Tokyo, particularly famous for its diverse, rich, and specialized soup curry scene. The area boasts dozens of restaurants offering unique, spiced, and veggie-heavy curry, with popular spots including Rojiura Curry Samurai and Magic Spice. It is also known for vintage cafes, artisanal coffee, and a high concentration of vegetarian/vegan options.
Shimokita is well known for it's vintage (and zakka) shops, music venues, cozy cafes, restaurants and mini design stores. But what's not apparent at first glance is the friendliness of the locals and the human scale on which everything is built.
What is the number one most popular food in Japan? Sushi! Without a doubt, sushi is the most popular food in Japan. Sushi is probably also the most famous Japanese food.
Enter Shimokitazawa: Tokyo's fresh and exciting new scene. This vibrant neighborhood is bursting with unique shops, trendy cafes, and a laid-back atmosphere that's all its own. From vintage finds to cutting-edge fashion, Shimokitazawa has it all. Forget the tourist traps and dive into where the locals really hang out.
Exploring Tokyo's Curry Land | We Tried 3 Curry Restaurants in Shimokitazawa
What is the nerdiest place in Japan?
Akihabara is considered by many to be the center of Japanese otaku culture, and is a major shopping district for video games, anime, manga, electronics and computer-related goods.
It is located in the southwestern corner of the Kitazawa district, hence the name "Shimo-kitazawa" ( lit. lower Kitazawa). Also known as "Shimokita", the neighbourhood is well known for the density of small independent fashion retailers, cafes, theaters, bars and live music venues.
The "Rule of 5" in Japanese food, known as Gomi Goshiki Goho (五味五色五法), is a traditional principle of washoku emphasizing balance through five flavors, five colors, and five cooking methods to create harmonious, nutritious, and aesthetically pleasing meals. It also extends to five senses (gokan) and even five attitudes for a holistic dining experience.
Ramen is one of the most popular dishes in Japan and can be found everywhere from street stalls to Michelin-starred restaurants. It's a delicious noodle soup dish that was introduced to Japan from China and is a must-try on any Japan trip.
Some people move to Japan and slim down instantly with smaller portion sizes at restaurants, more veggies in their meals, and a greatly improved step count via the power of taking public transit.
With easy access from Shinjuku and Shibuya, Shimo-kitazawa is an area with large shotengai (shopping streets) lined with used clothing stores, knickknack shops, record stores, and theaters, too numerous to visit in one day. There are also many distinctive izakaya (Japanese pubs) and restaurants.
If there's one thing Shimokita is most famous for, it has to be its vintage antiques and retro thrift shopping boutiques. Whether it's used records or books, high-end vintage or cheap second-hand clothing, if you're chasing a chance at a deal you can find it here.
They are very picky about what is in your carry-on luggage be sure that you follow these rules: Liquids, gels and aerosols packed in carry-on must follow the 3-1-1 liquids rule:3.4 ounces or less per container 1 quart size, clear, plastic, zip top bag (all liquids must fit in bag) 1 bag per passenger ( I put most ...
Not finishing one's meal is not considered impolite in Japan, but rather is taken as a signal to the host that one wishes to be served another helping. Conversely, finishing one's meal completely, especially the rice, indicates that one is satisfied and therefore does not wish to be served any more.
You must stop the car at the stop line before the intersection, not before the traffic signal. At the red light, you can not go straight or turn left. Even at the red light, you may proceed to the direction of the green arrow light.
Additionally, emojis like "💦 (Sweat, Nervous Sweat)" and "‼️ (Double Exclamation Mark)" also ranked highly, reflecting the unique Japanese communication culture that places importance on "empathy" and "consideration".
Japanese Symbol for Beginner Emoji Meaning. A yellow and green shield symbol, called a Shoshinsha Mark. Must be displayed by drivers in Japan for one year after they receive their driving licence. Similar to L-Plates used to identify learner drivers in other countries.
