Japan

Tokyo

 subway is the epitome of Japanese efficiency, and to ride it says a lot about Tokyo culture. While it may be packed, it never fails to be super clean, quiet, and punctual. 

This slick Japanese polish and attention to detail is apparent in Tokyo infrastructure, but also in its creative output. Take f5ve, a fresh J-pop band that flawlessly combine intense choreography and bold aesthetic into their catchy hyperpop anthems, like single 'Underground' that nods to one of Tokyo's most resilient modes of transport: you guessed it, the subway. 

The members of f5ve have each called Tokyo home for up to 15 years—more than half their lives spent keeping pace with a city that never slows down. Kaede and Miyuu are from Kanagawa, south of Tokyo, while Rui is from Aichi, Sayaka is from Miyazaki and Ruri is from Osaka. In their adopted home, they enjoy sips of Hibashu in slick Shibaryu eateries, and dive into the maze of bespoke vintage in Harajuku. Despite their major label credits, they maintain a connection to Tokyo's subculture, from their early gigs to their constant inspiration. 

 are connected through fashion and music," says Kaede. "Whether it’s doing club events with artists like Kyun Desu, or simply expressing ourselves through the fashion we love in our own way—there’s a real sense of synergy between us and that scene."

Here, they take us on a ride of the Tokyo subway—showing their favourite spots at each station. 

First stop: Shibuya. 
At Shibuya, you'll find our favourite restaurant, “Oh! Kamabar” ❤ You can enjoy traditional Japanese “kamameshi” (rice cooked in an iron pot), and honestly, everything on the menu is delicious! They even serve “habushu”—a traditional Okinawan liquor with a snake inside! Whenever we get together for dinner and a toast, this is always our go-to spot ☺

Second stop: Nakameguro.

Here you'll find one of our top Tokyo recommendations, Iroha Sushi!! Our office is located in Nakameguro, so we often go there after work or whenever we can’t decide where to eat, it’s one of our go to spots. The sushi chef will serve when you sit at the bar in front of you! We usually sit at the zashiki (Japanese tatami seat) you will see a lot of autographed boards all around the wall!! Hope you can find ours too. The sushi is delicious, of course, but our favourite dish is the yam sticks (nagaimo sticks). We highly recommend trying it when you go♡

Third Stop: Asakusa.


You will not miss the famous Kaminarimon at the Sensoji Temple. There is a lot of monja-yaki restaurants around the temple, which is a teppan yaki soul food from Tokyo! Walking around the temple will take you on a journey to the nostalgic side of Tokyo.
 

Fourth Stop: Harajuku.


We grew up taking purikura (photo booth snaps) in Takeshita street, you will see many subculture scenes here! Shopping here is the best, there are many cute shops such as the vintage shop 'bed Harajuku'. You may want to stop by!

Fifth stop: Shinjuku.

We recommend “Hanazono Shrine” near the station❀·

It’s known for bringing good luck for your career in the entertainment industry so many artists visit during the New Year!!! We went there with our manager in the beginning of the year to pray for a great year…ஐ♡

There is also a big festival held by the shrine in November, it is famous for its “kumade” which is a good luck charm for good business, so a lot of people that runs their own company, restaurants, artists, go there to buy the charm and wish for good luck!

Hanazono Shrine

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