Hello teakdoorers - those who know me know that I lived in Japan before moving to Thailand in 2004 - 2008.
I've been back in Tokyo over 5 years now and back in my old neighbourhood Shimokitazawa.
Things have really changed here and there are tourists here! Believe me, there were never tourists here years ago and it stills seems strange. I guess Japan was always seen as too expensive before - not now! - it is CHEAPER than Thailand in many ways.
Also with airbnb offering an alternative to tiny hotel rooms tourists have more options as far as staying somewhere you can relax a bit more
My home has been Shimokitazawa for the bulk of my time spent in Japan. It has a chilled village type atmosphere and has loads of live music, arts, record stores, antique stores, etc.
This website has been put together on the neighborhood - please check it out and let me know if you are coming to town!
Shimokitazawa Now - Shimokitazawa Now
Also - this thread features yours truly and the silver ( which I bought from Thailand ) jewellery stand I had in the 90's !
Blogs & Vlogs - Shimokitazawa Now