Refined and elegant Omotesando stands in direct contrast to Harajuku, the gathering place for bubble gum princesses and young fashionistas. With the abundance of upscale boutiques and luxury shopping centers like Omotesando Hills, you could be forgiven for thinking that shopping here is out of reach unless you have a very fat wallet.
However, off the main street of Omotesando you can find hidden boutiques and cafes which are great for people looking for something unique on a budget. So if you’re interested in some Omotesando retail therapy, here are 5 shops we recommend visiting.
Down the Christmas light-wrapped neon pink staircase, you’ll find Avantgarde Harajuku, a specialty shop filled with stockings, tights, leggings and all things legwear. Not only can you get one-of-a-kind tights at this shop, Avantgarde Harajuku also has a wide selection of unique accessories!
2. 6% Dokidoki
The internationally known fashion shop 6% Dokidoki is located in a neon pink and yellow building that you couldn’t miss if you tried. Inside are clothing and accessories that look like they were designed by model and singer Kyary Pamyu Pamyu herself. There isn’t a stitch of bland clothing to be found in this store. Instead, you’ll be immersed in neon colors, glitter, rhinestones, and tulle. Go and see why 6% Dokidoki has become world famous!
3. Kiddy Land
There is no way to describe Kiddy Land other than to say it’s totally and absolutely fun! With five levels of wall to wall character goods, toys, puzzles, and games, there is no way you won’t leave here without a big smile on your face. Whether you are a Hello Kitty fan, are nuts about Studio Ghibli, or even into building model Gundams, there is something for everyone at Kiddy Land!
4. G2?
For quirky fashion and vintage goods, G2? is where you should head first! The outside of this whimsical clothing store is covered with question marks and hanging clothing that ranges from lolita fashions to 1950s housewife. If Kyary Pamyu Pamyu is a fan of G2?, how could you not visit?
After all that shopping, why not take a little breather? A little ways away from the hustle and bustle of central Omotesando is the bird cafe Kotori Cafe. What is a bird cafe, you ask? Well, at Kotori Cafe you can sip tea and coffee from bird themed cups while surrounded by parrots. After you finish up your bird-shaped sugar cookies, you’re more than welcome to hold one!