I wanted to do individual posts about these but time is running out. I’ll be off to Japan in just a few days!! Eek!
Since I wrote my Tokyo Shopping Guide after I returned from my last trip in 2007, I haven’t actually used it myself! I’m looking forward to seeing how things have changed and what to update and add to the next version. That the guide is still relevant 3 years later is due to my awesome readers who have sent me updates and feedback.
But my guide is by no means the only one! Here are 3 I’ve purchased and will be using on this trip.
Hello Sandwich Tokyo Guide (PDF and print zine)
Definitely the cutest guide by creative Australian Ebony who now lives in a too-cute apartment in Tokyo. It’s got a lovely hand-drawn and collage style design, and the info is spot-on too. It’s aimed at the first time visitor to Tokyo so there are guides to well-known areas like Shibuya and Harajuku as well as the quieter and quirkier areas like Shimokitazawa and Gakugeidaigaku. You get Ebony’s pick of the best shops and eateries, along with photos and great maps. Plus there’s tips galore on food, art, temples, transport and hotels, and even some useful Japanese phrases! Hopefully I’ll get to meet Ebony in Tokyo – if you’re a Japanophile you really should be reading the Hello Sandwich blog!
Available from hellosandwich.bigcartel.com
Little Tokyo Shops (PDF)
If you’ve visited Tokyo before, like me, and want to get off the beaten path then Little Tokyo Shops is for you. With the focus on crafts, stationery, accessories and gifts, it’s a wonderful resource of independent shops where you’ll find beautiful things to look at and buy while supporting some lovely shop owners. The first section has photos of the shops and their products along with some travel tips, but the second section is the real gem with wonderfully simple graphical maps guiding you on a wander round each area. It’s practically a few day’s itinerary already organised for you!
Available from www.etsy.com/shop/signsaysopen
My Tokyo – a Fashion and Design Shopping Guide (print and PDF)
And finally, something a little more high-end, right down to the glossy cover. If you want to visit the most stylish shops Tokyo has to offer then this in-depth guide is the one for you! Covering fashion, interiors, vintage, music, books, crafts and galleries, there really is something for everyone and each area section is packed with info and photos plus a big map. Just keep a hold of your credit card!
Available from www.etsy.com/shop/catkinandteasel
Have you read any other good guides? Do tell!
