Shimokitazawa

Its absolutely boiling hot in Tokyo right now and Summer has only just started! The rainy season finished last week and it looks like its going to be another hot n muggy Summer. Last year wasn't too bad as I got to head South to Sydney for SMASH so I got to escape for a bit.
This year however, a lot of things are changing in my life (which is basically my company) - I've started to reach out to my industry connections to apply for various character licenses for Smart Doll. The first company to give approval was Bandai Visual for Miho Nishizumi. There is a load more in motion but can't quite mention the characters yet but all this new stuff is keeping me anchored in Japan for now.

Anyway, not even the air conditioner helps keep one cool but maybe some photos will - these photos taken at Shimokitazawa [下北沢[しもきたざわ]] in Tokyo back in February.

Also known as Shimokita, this area is popular with particularly young folks who come to shop for apparel, zakka and dine at the many restaurants or cafes.
There are many second-hand retailers too where you can find a good bargain.

Shimokitazawa is located a few stops by train from Shibuya and Shinjuku - get off at Shimokitazawa station on the Inokashira [井の頭線] or Odakyu line [小田急線].
View location with Google Maps