Thursday, October 18, 2012

Tokyo Travel: Harujuku

As compared to Shinjuku, hubby and I much preferred Harujuku. It was a pity though that even though we went to Harujuku twice, it was both at night and we didn't manage to see what the place was like during the day.

Harujuku is a well-known shopping district in Tokyo, and if you happen to be in Tokyo over a weekend, pop by Harujuku on a Sunday, and you will catch lots and lots of cosplayers on the streets. It's a pity we didn't get to meet any as it was a weekday, but I reckon it should be a feast for the eyes. The Japanese are comic fanatics and experts at cosplay.

Very similar to Shinjuku, Harajuku is also packed with restaurants, cafes and all kinds of shopping. But what gave it an edge over Shinjuku is the Takeshita Dori, which is a street very similar to the Haji Lane we have in Singapore. The streets are lined with small boutiques on both sides. There were lots of see and buy - All you need is time and money! =P

I love the exterior facade of the shops in Tokyo - For an architecture lover like me, it was all very exciting.

Even though I didn't manage to buy anything, the shopping experience at Harujuku was very enjoyable. There were so many things to see and photograph. :) Plus, the weather was so cooling and nice.

Passed by this interesting looking cafe! =D

The shops were not just located on one level - Take the stairs and explore other shops on Level 2 and 3 - Mostly little boutiques selling all kinds of nice tees, shoes and bags.

My legs were nearly breaking after walking the streets of Harujuku for hours. It was a public holiday that day, so even though it was quite late (for Japan standard), there were still lots of people hanging around. So we decided it was time for dinner. My legs must be so thankful.

Popped into a random little restaurant along the streets. Seriously, any restaurant serves good food. What kind of Japanese food have we been enduring in Singapore??

My set came with a mini udon and pork cutlet don. Both were good, especially the udon. I've never tasted such springly udon! My kids would love it.

Hubby had curry rice which looked plain, but always a safe option. Couldn't go very wrong.

On our way back to take the train home, we came across a street vendor selling mini egg cakes, and decided to buy some from him. :) On a cold night, they tasted extremely yummy in my tummy. :)

That's Harujuku for you! :)

Read the rest of my Tokyo entries