TOKYO: A COMPLETE GUIDE PART 2

Welcome to the capital of Japan — Tokyo, where there is so much to do. The city is so pretty and there are so many things you can do. Whether it is scenic sightseeing, Tokyo Disneysea or just strolling around Omotensando, I guarantee that you really never run out of things to do.

As I've previously shared where to dine and fuel up on my Tokyo: A Complete Guide Part 1, I bring you the Part 2 of my Tokyo city guide. In this post, you'll learn about the different shops, museums and general places to check out. It's useful to always refer to this post because most of these stores or landmarks have been around for ages. As Tokyo is always changing, I hope you can share some of your favourite places to visit as well. This will come in need when I update the CATHHALIM.COM: Tokyo map.

For the purpose of convenience, the 5 main shopping districts of Tokyo that are my favourite to-gos. It usually takes half a day or a full day to finish browsing the stores around the area. The best part of Japan is that all of these districts are distinct, with their own stores that you must visit. Most of these stores are so well-designed that you'll have a major interior lust.

Omotesando Hills
Shopping
A shopping district with considerably the world's best brands, you have to check out Omotesando Hills. Here, you will find European labels such as Isabel Marant, N'21 Official, Acne Studios and multi-label stores like Opening Ceremony. There are so many stores around Omotesando area, with each stores being unique and well designed, which is truly a feast for people who love interiors. A variety of luxury stores are available in Omotesando Hills as well. The vibe that it gives is slightly different of that in Ginza.

Ginza
Shopping
The district is home to all-things luxurious. If you're looking for the big labels, Ginza is the place to go. Although luxury goods are slightly expensive than compared to Europe, these luxury brands often have exclusive releases for Japan. Go for these drops instead of the norm, I remember Dior having an exclusive Sakura collection for their new Ginza Six flagship store, complete with a House of Dior café experience.

Daikanyama
Shopping
The ultimate hipster district of Japan where you find bookstores, artisan coffee shops and the lesser-known brands. I always find time to go to Daikanyama because I love the whole vibes of the area. Unlike Shibuya or other shopping districts, this area is far more laid back. Check out A.P.C Surplus (the A.P.C outlet store), Daikanyama T-Site and Le Labo.

Aoyama
Shopping
Perhaps my favourite shopping district in the whole of Japan. Aoyama is characterized as one of the wealthiest neighbourhoods in Tokyo, therefore its of no surprise that this is where you find the most unique stores in Tokyo. Home to Comme des Garcons, Issey Miyake, the POOL Aoyama, 10 Corso Como, the selection of stores is endless. Unlike any other places in the world, these shop buildings are the most wonderful collaboration between artists — like the 10 Corso Como, a collaboration between designer Rei Kawakubo of Comme des Garcons and owner Carla Sozzani.

Harajuku
Shopping
Harajuku is always packed, with tourists. There are so many adorable things to do in Harajuku, from taking Purikura (the photo machines of Japan), watching Japanese cosplayers and shop. Harajuku is a popular hangout for the Japanese teenagers, and here is where you see the anime culture of Japan. I highly recommend it if it's your first time in Japan.

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Daikanyama T-site
Bookstore
A heaven for all book lovers, the Daikanyama T-site stocks almost every publication you can think of. This is my ultimate destination to stock up my magazines and coffee table books. The prices are reasonable considering the lack of publications in Jakarta.

Meiji Shrine
Landmark
Meiji Jingu is the most important and popular Shinto shrine in Tokyo, hosting many festivals and ceremonies. Located in Shibuya, it is a must visit if it is your first time in Tokyo. Try to come earlier to avoid the tourists crowd.

Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum
Landmark
My favourite things to do whenever I'm travelling is to visit their local art museums. Tokyo houses one of the most well-curated art pieces. The architecture of the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum is one that you should not miss. Housed in the heart of Tokyo, find a collection of artworks that is unique.

Tokyo National Museum of Contemporary Art
Landmark
Unlike the Metropolitan Art Museum, National Museum of Contemporary Art houses a far more modern type of artworks. I am a big fan of contemporary arts, as it is far more relatable than compared to modern art. This is also far more child friendly than compared to the Metropolitan Art Museum.

Dover Street Market Ginza
Shopping
The DSMG is one of the most prominent Dover Street Market stores around the world. Take yourself through a collection of designers unique to its city. I go to DSMG to find the most wonderful installations curated by the labels. The must buys of the store are the collaboration pieces exclusive to the Ginza store.

Margaret Howell
Shopping
I've always been the biggest fan of Margaret Howell, one of Britain's top designers. It's fairly hard to find her stores globally now so this place is a must whenever I'm in the city.

Center for Cosmic Wonder
Shopping
Cosmic Wonder is one of Japan's top designers with a cult following, particularly in Europe. Their space in Tokyo is a multi-functional art space showcasing their designer's vision. I dig a clothing label with a lot of thoughts put into it.

Asakusa Temple
Landmark
Another popular tourist spot other than the Meiji Shrine is the Asakusa — perhaps one of the most colourful temples in Tokyo. Spot also the old ways of getting around Tokyo — the Ebisuya (also known as rickshaws). If it's your first time in Tokyo, I strongly suggest you do an Ebisuya tour around Asakusa.

Tokyo Tower
Landmark
The Eiffel Tower of Tokyo. Full stop.


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You can view the guide easily by exporting the CATHHALIM.COM: Tokyo map into your Google Maps application. Mobile and web friendly. Enjoy!