September in Tokyo – Shimokitazawa and Monzen-Nakacho recommendations?

3 comments

1. If you’re going to Shimokitazawa for music-related activities (record/CD shopping or live shows), it’s a good place. If you’re going for shopping it’s a good place if you don’t mind high prices; if you’re going to buy cheap things, it’s a bad place. It’s a nice enough place for strolling around if you’re in your late teens or early 20s (judging by the people I usually see around the place).

   When I used to shop for physical music media, I enjoyed the Disk Union that was still open the last time I went and enjoyed Disk Ranch, although I don’t think I ever actually bought anything at Disk Ranch.

   I *have* eaten at good restaurants there, but the places open and close so quickly that I doubt any of them are still around, even if I could remember the names. If you like cutesy cafes, it’s a good enough place.

2. Shirubee is a great restaurant in Shimokitazawa. Try to sit at the sunken bar in front of a chef if you can. Some favorite dishes: nikujaga (every time), shrimp tempura w/ chili mayo, negitoro + avocado dip w/ garlic toast.

   A lot of great record stores, too. 

3. Shimokitazawa is like every craft-beer-fancy-coffee-organic-baker-vintage-clothing hipster enclave in the whole world.

   I’d skip it unless that’s very much your jam.