There is a tiny spot in Tokyo that serves as haven for artists and for curious tourists. It is filled with artsy shops, boutiques, books stores and other creative embellishments. Daikayama is like the Brooklyn of Tokyo- full of sights, sounds and taste of fusing Japanese and Western culture.
Daikanyama is composed of many streets; others are too narrow but still worthy to explore. To start the tour, after arriving at Daikanyama Station, take the west exit then turn right. It will lead you to a three-lined walk path to Tokoyo line tracks. Stop at Log Road. This is like a shopping mall yet also resembles an open air shopping district.
Here you can find tiny shops and cafés. The shops offer trendsetting junks which the locals patronize. It is also a good place to sit down and sip some beer at the Spring Valley brew house.
Another place close to Log Road is the Daikanyama T-site. Before it was reconceptualised to include bookstores, café and convenience store in one roof, it was once a CD/DVD rental shop. It was once called Tsutaya, where the letter "T" from T-site came from.
One fascinating sight in Daikanyama is that most of the residents are using bicycle. Because some roods are too slim for cars, bicycles are the most convenient means of transportation. It is very fascinating to see expats riding Japanese bikes. Most of the bicycles are creatively decorated. Hence, there is also art in the wheels.
The place is a collection of cafés with refined décor and savoury menus. Don't forget to stop at Annan Cook. It is located near the Cat Street in Harajuku. This café serves food prepared from mostly organic ingredients.
If you want to experience a Paris-Tokyo mash up, Le Cordon Bleu is the best place to be. While most of its students are busy learning culinary arts, it also has a small café where guests can enjoy pastries outside the terrace.
If you are more of a thrill-seeker tourist, check out this report from Travelers Today. It will give you an idea on what else to do while in Tokyo.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
