Experiencing Harajuku and Shibuya

Yesterday, we toured two more parts of town, Harajuku and Shibuya. Harajuku, located about a 10 minute train ride west of the station closest to our hotel, is considered the top, fashionably faddish, trendiest area in Tokyo. The weekends are typically the time when the teenagers converge on this area for shopping, as well as various street performances. Fashion is high priority in this area. The shops sell a variety of goods ranging from hip-hop culture to the British punk rock look.

I found it interesting that this area was a place where young people could make their voices heard and demonstrate their talents without feeling ostracized. And I must say that as we walked, we passed a few singers and musicians that were in fact extremely talented, and possibly waiting for that next big break. I think this is an avenue, or opportunity, for many of the young people that we saw to be noticed by potential record executives who may be passing by on vacation as well.

This area is also reminiscent of scenes of Woodstock! Tokyo's hippyville would be a better description! From the clothing, to the long hair, to people sitting (not on grass, but on gravel!), in a trance, mesmerized by the music that is blaring from a band shell, to even the open alcohol, cigarette smoke, incense smoke and plethora of peace signs sewn into fabrics and on hats, the hippy movement is definitely in Tokyo.

There were also some cool murals that I took some photos of. Again this is just another symbol of freedom and expression through the arts.

I believe that the youth throughout America need similar avenues of expression, whether through music, the arts, dance, or whatever the talent may be. But there will be gratification that comes through the expression of that talent or gift. Not only that, but it will keep kids out of trouble as well.

Walking through Harajuku, we then stumbled upon Shibuya, which I must say, is like Michigan Avenue, but even more active! Waves of young people on the streets moved in and out of name brand stores that you would see in any upscale area of the U.S. It's a newer area in Tokyo, with a much cleaner and safer reputation than that of Shinjuku. It's also famous for NHK studios, and the 1964 Olympic Gymnasium.

One thing's for certain, Japanese culture is definitely wrapped up with high fashion, trend setting, and "bucking" against anything considered conservative. And it's even been said in one of the tour guide books that we've been using that Tokyo use to mimic the trends of the world, but now Tokyo is setting the trends for the world. I can definitely see that being the case, especially with the younger generation. Shopping is more than a hobby in Tokyo; it seems as if it's a way of life. I, myself, find it hard to comprehend because I'm not a shopper. I hate malls, and typically only frequent them on an as need basis. If I need a pair of pants, then I'll go. If I need a new shirt, then I'll go. But I'll only go if it's a dire situation. Even as a youngster, the mall was not my idea of fun. But nonetheless, shopping is sport in Tokyo, especially Shibuya!

Walking to another subway station, we were able to take a few photos of some of the shops at night. In this area, inventive architecture, as well as ingenious usage of lighting is on display. One thing that did come to mind is the lack of signage in this area, as compared to Shinjuku. The buildings definitely seemed to work together well (except one in particular which looked like Darth Vader's habitat). So it was definitely another good day in Tokyo. We were able to "kill two birds with one stone," having the ability to see two distinct areas in the same day.