Explore under-the-radar neighborhoods in Tokyo

One of the best things about living in Tokyo is the fact that no matter how long you’re here, you’ll always find something new and exciting to explore. The city is a labyrinth of hidden gems and underrated hangouts. When the bustling streets of Shinjuku and Shibuya get to be a little too much, it’s worth exploring these diverse and unique under-the-radar neighborhoods.

Things change swiftly in Tokyo. You might visit a down-and-out part of town, only to return a year later to discover that it’s become a super-chic hangout dotted with craft coffee shops and trendy fashion boutiques. Here is a guide to Tokyo’s most underrated neighborhoods that may not be at the top of your bucket list, but definitely should be.

Jiyugaoka

Like some kind of mysterious local secret, the suburb of Jiyugaoka is popular with many Tokyoites but is often overlooked in the guidebooks. The area oozes European appeal, in part due to the many cute cafés, cake shops and quaint boutiques, but mainly because of La Vita, the neighborhood’s little Venice, located a few minutes from the station. The area comes complete with a small canal, gondola and venetian bridge. Just a 10-minute train ride from Shibuya, it’s easy to get to and a great place to spend the afternoon.

Kiyosumi Shirakawa

Tokyo is going through a bit of a coffee revolution at the moment, and there’s no place where this is clearer than in Kiyosumi Shirakawa, the city’s most caffeinated area. Once a working-class neighbourhood, the area is now a trendy go-to for weekenders looking to spend the day sampling some of the city’s best brews. Big coffee players like the US-born Blue Bottle Coffee and New Zealand’s Allpress Espresso both have large flagship-style stores here.

Yanaka

If you’re after a little old-world charm, make your way to Yanaka, arguably Tokyo’s most traditional area. The streets are filled with family restaurants, food vendors, local artisans and a unique shitamachi (old world) atmosphere; the area’s main shopping street, Yanaka Ginza, looks as if it’s been frozen in time. The neighborhood is also nicknamed Tokyo’s Cat Town after its population of friendly stray cats. A huge contrast to the clean futuristic streets of Shibuya and Shinjuku, this ramshackle neighborhood is a great escape from the manic energy of the center of the city. Yanaka Ginza is just under a 10-minute walk from Ueno Park.

Read more: Ebisu area, the recommended spots for laid-back travelers

Source The Culture Trip