A little quick guide to Jinbochō
I met some Brazillian tourists the other day and they asked me for some insight in Tokyo’s hidden gems. I consider Jimbocho (or Jinbochō as it’s often written) a nice fine area to get lost, especially if you like books. I thought it might be worth sharing it here:
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I recommend going in weekdays, in the weekend some things might be closed. This list will easily fill an afternoon, starting with lunch. Sorry if I miss some names since I am more of an occasional traveller and tend to not care about names but more about the location etc.
Old Soba Place
https://goo.gl/maps/9RE7XW3wczy
Go here for a traditional soba, they haven’t change a thing in the last 100 years.
Glitch
https://goo.gl/maps/BH5G5p9ZbYD2
After the soba, have a coffee here. Great espresso and there’s an artist residency near so often artists are there working.
Takeo paper shop
https://goo.gl/maps/iiuFP9xPKEJ2
Next to Glitch, a beautiful paper shop of the best paper brand in Japan, Takeo. Don’t forget to visit the 2F where they have exhibitions and little shop.
Bumpodo
https://goo.gl/maps/35CDZHYWYi42
Art and Stationery shop. Nicely filled with sexy art supplies.
Nanyodo
https://goo.gl/maps/Yyvoi6hhr542
Architecture books. Staff speaks some English
Komiyama
https://goo.gl/maps/9dX54xLPHem
Great bookstore with photography, art, illustration and design books, they also have magazines, pop memorabilia, action figures and sell art prints (have some Warhols). Staff speaks English
Magnif
https://goo.gl/maps/pgYUYpXwmhR2
Mainly (old) fashion magazines. You can find from old The Face issues from the 80’s to 50’s and 60’s JP fashion mags. Nice staff, speaks English.
I hope this helps! Have a great time in Tokyo.
My good friend and Tokyo neighbor Chris Palmieri added these in a comment. I will copy&paste them below. Please feel free to add yours;
Ethiopia
https://goo.gl/maps/hBfG8FdXP5x
Soupy, spicy curry with lots of vegetables
Brazil
https://goo.gl/maps/k8YbjW4j1Pr
Dark pour over coffee, cheesecake and a quiet place to read.
