Featured in Vogue’s 2014 list of coolest neighborhoods, Shimokitazawa is a renowned hip shopping district in Tokyo. The neighborhood provides a cool and laid-back atmosphere which sets it apart from other high-paced places in Tokyo. However, thrifting in Shimokitazawa for the first time can be overwhelming because there are hundreds of vintage and second-hand shops. To make it easier, GoConnect has curated an itinerary to guide you through a day’s visit to “Shimokita,” as it’s commonly referred to by the locals.
How to Get to Shimokitazawa
Shimokitazawa is relatively close to major stations such as Shinjuku and Shibuya. Shimokitazawa Station is a 10-minute train ride through the Odakyu Line from Shinjuku Station and a three-minute ride through the Keio Inokashira Line from Shibuya Station.
Must-Visit Cafes for Breakfast in Shimokitazawa
Tolo Coffee and Bakery
This is a Ghibli-themed cafe known for its Totoro-shaped cream puffs. The establishment is divided into a cream puff bakery and shop on the first floor and a cozy cafe on the second floor. The cafe has a selection of pastries and other food plus drinks, but the must-haves are the cream puffs, which come in a range of flavors.
Address: 5-3-1 Daita, Setagaya-ku
The Usual
This is mainly for coffee, bagels and sandwiches. We also recommend the Txpresso chai latte, which features cute latte art, worth photographing to post on socials or just for memories. The cafe is five minutes from the station, on the north side of Shimokitazawa.
Address: 1F, 2-27-12 Kitazawa, Setagaya-ku
Coffee Has Kicked In! Let's Do Some Shopping in Shimokitazawa
Chicago
Located on the south side of Shimokitazawa, Chicago is another gem worth looking at. The store is primarily known for streetwear, so there will be a wide variety of oversized graphic tees, among other items. However, it is not limited to street style, and other clothing styles are available, including kimonos. They sell local, American, and European brands at different price points but mainly within the ¥2,000–7,000 price range.
Address: 5-32-5 Daizawa, Setagaya-ku
Stick Out
Stick Out is very popular among thrifters. All items in the store are priced at ¥700, making it a must-stop for people visiting Shimokitazawa. It’s worth mentioning that the store sells second-hand and new clothing, unlike most stores in Shimokitazawa, which primarily sell second-hand items. This is a chance to revamp your closet without breaking the bank.
Address: 2−14-16 Kitazawa, Setagaya-ku
Dylan
Dylan has two locations in Shimokitazawa. The main store is a three-minute walk from the northern side of the station. The newly opened location is on the south main street via the south exit. Dylan has a good collection of jewelry, sunglasses, and hats for shoppers particularly interested in unique vintage accessories. The price points are definitely on the higher side in comparison to other thrift stores.
Dylan Main Store Address: 2-25-13 1F-B Kitazawa, Setagaya-ku
Dylan South Side Address: 2-19-12 1F Kitazawa, Setagaya-ku
New York Joe Exchange
A visit to Shimokitazawa is not complete without setting foot in the New York Joe Exchange. Before being renovated to a used clothing store, it was a public bath. The original tiles were maintained, preserving the history and giving it a unique look and feel. Apart from selling, the store also offers buying and trading services, making it an excellent option to recycle unwanted clothes. All products are priced below ¥10,000, and the average price is ¥2,000. What's more? On the first Sunday of the month, they have a 50% off sale on all items.
Address: 3-26-4 Kitazawa, Setagaya-ku
Trefac Style
Treasure Factory has many locations across Tokyo featuring a variety of brands, both local and international. The store layout makes for an easy shopping experience because all items are well classified, from high-end to low-end brands. Therefore, there is no need to sift through all the clothes. Trefac is a good choice for anyone looking to buy high-end designer clothing and accessories at discounted prices. The prices vary depending on the item's brand—a Ralph Lauren sweater could cost ¥4,000, and a second-hand Chanel bag could go for ¥150,000.
Address: 2-3-9 1F Kitazawa, Setagaya-ku
Restaurants to Have Lunch in Shimokitazawa
Panes House
Panes House is located on the south side of Shimokitazawa and is within a two-minute walk from Chicago and Stick Out, making it a perfect place to wind down after shopping. The restaurant exclusively serves sandwiches made from homemade roast beef, chicken, and fresh egg French toast. You can enjoy your sandwich in the spacious seating area inside or on the terrace, which provides a good view of the Shimokitazawa streets and back alleys.
Address: 2-2-10 Kitazawa, Setagaya-ku
Village Vanguard Diner
This diner fits right in with the artsy mood of Shimokitazawa, featuring unique interiors inspired by a jazz bar in New Orleans. The menu has a wide selection of burgers. A single burger costs about ¥1,800 yen, and a double burger is about ¥2,200. For an extra ¥300, you can get French fries and a drink set.
Address: 6-3-1 Daita, Setagaya-ku
Explore Art in Shimokitazawa
Gallery Hana
This gallery supports up-and-coming artists by showcasing their pieces. It provides a great platform to discover new talented artists who have yet to amass large followings. Gallery Hana features both art and photography exhibitions for short periods, usually a week long. On some occasions, there are live performances by artists. Be sure to check out their website for upcoming exhibitions.
Address: 3-26-2 Kitazawa, Setagaya-ku
Shimokitazawa Arts
Opened earlier this year, this gallery exhibits and sells artwork by young contemporary artists. Located along Chazawa-Dori, four minutes from Shimokitazawa Station, the gallery is easy to spot because its floor-to-ceiling glass walls give the space a light and airy vibe. We highly recommend this for any fans of contemporary art. Please refer to their website for more information on upcoming exhibitions.
Address: 1-40-9-1 Kitazawa, Setagaya-ku
Time for Dinner: Places to Eat in the Evening
Pizzeria 8
Pizzeria 8 is an Italian restaurant on the first floor of Mikan Shimokita, a new mall that opened earlier this year. The mall is next to Shimokitazawa Station, making it the best place to have dinner before returning home. Pizzeria 8 is known for its freshly baked pizza and delicious homemade pasta. If you sit at the counter, you'll get to see the chef prepare your pizza.
Address: 2-11-15 Kitazawa, Setagaya-ku
999 (Khao Khao Khao)
Also located in Mikan Shimokita mall is 999, a Thai street food restaurant. The interiors and vibrant colors of the restaurant simulate the experience of being in a Bangkok food stall. It promises a “trip to Thailand without a passport” by serving dishes such as green curry, gapao rice, and other Thai street food selections.
Address: 2-11-15 Kitazawa, Setagaya-ku
Rojiura Curry SAMURAI
Shimokitazawa is known as one of the top places for curry in Japan. Located a little further from the station and hidden from the street, Rojiura Curry SAMURAI is an attractive spot to have an early dinner. You can enjoy a customized soup, spicy dishes, and meticulously selected produce. Feasting on the curry with colorful vegetables would be one of the best Instagram-worthy moments in Shimokitazawa.
Address: 3-31-14 Kitazawa, Setagaya-ku
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