Just a few stations away from 渋谷 (Shibuya) on the 京王 (Keio) line is 下北沢駅 (Shimokitawa station). Amongst Tokyoites, this neighbourhood has a reputation for art, music, and fashion that is slightly “off” from mainstream, dare I say, “hipster”. This is largely thanks to the large number of used-clothing stores and independent small retailers that sell their wares in its maze of small streets, not unlike Harajuku.

The north side of the station has smaller streets, and there seem to be more local shops that are unique to Shimokitawa. There are a lot of used-clothing and used-goods stores. Some have really interesting decor as well (keep an eye out for a painting of the Yamanote train with eyes and a mouth!)

The south side of the station is the more spacious side, and as such, you’ll notice that there are more big-name retailers and shops that you are used to seeing in other areas of Japan. There are still a lot of used-goods shops, as well as a number of great small restaurants and cafes.

Photospheres

1. At a 4-way intersection with lots of cute shops 
2. In front of an arcade/pachinko parlour 
3. In front of a 7-Eleven and a Game/DVD rental/used-goods store 
4. In front of a used-clothes store with cool artwork on the wall 
5. In front of a (rare) “poutine” shop