Thrift shopping in Shimo Kitazawa

こんにちは、

Recently I rediscovered some photos from when I visited Shimo Kitazawa. Shimo Kitazawa is a small area in western Tokyo, where you can find lots of shopping streets with everything to offer from great restaurants to thrift stores. When I visited in the beginning of March, I was really lucky with the weather. I went there by bike and have been walking around the area for quiet some time. I really enjoyed the atmosphere. There were many young japanese people meeting with their friends and enjoying some cold drinks on the side of the streets. Also, you can get some great deals on second hand clothing, accessories, etc. so if you enjoy shopping, but don't like spending too much money, this is a great way to go. Have you ever been to Shimo Kitazawa? How did you like it?

Some cool graffiti on one of the streets

Cycling through Tokyo

こんにちは、

At the beginning of this month the sharehouse I'm staying at offered bike rental. As I have been enjoying riding the bike back in Germany, I though it would be a great way to explore Tokyo by bike as well. Since then I've discovered many new neighbourhoods that I would not have been able to see by just walking there, because they are too far away from my place. My favorite place to ride the bike at is alongside the Arakaka river in eastern Tokyo. My favorite parts are the little breaks inbetween my rides that I spent sitting by the river while enjoying some ice cream. Even though I've seen and done some great things here in Tokyo already, riding the bike in such a beatiful and diverse city is one of my favorite experiences so far. I would definetely recommend that to anyone staying here who's looking for spending some relaxing, but meanwhile exciting time outside.

Sunset from a bridge over the Arakawa

A short trip to Okinawa

こんにちは、

Some time ago I have been to Okinawa for around one week. The weather was amazing, even though it’s not summer yet. I spent a lot of time outside and have been enjoying the nature and rural Japan as much as possible. I can totally recommend walking and cycling the island. It’s a great way to see more of the environment and to be able to just stop if you see something interesting. Also, the food in Okinawa was incredible. My favorites were taco rice and the shortbread-like cookies called ちんすこう (chinsukou). Besides the shisa statues that you find everywhere and in any imaginable size, those cookies would make a great souvenir for friends and family as well. All in all I had a great time and I would love to come back some day.

A shisa statue at the entrance of a house

My life during #Stayathome

こんにちは、

It has been months now since the Coronavirus outbreak and since then life has changed drastically. I am trying to stay home as much as possible. I spend most of my time learning Japanese, watching series, playing games and cooking. Also, I am working from home now which is a great experience.

Especially during days with nice weather outside, it’s hard not to go outside. Sometimes I take a walk around my neighbourhood.

How does you life look like right now?

I hope you are all staying home as much as possible and that the situation calms down soon, so that we can go back to life like it was before.

One day in Odaiba

こんにちは、

Just a few weeks after I arrived to Japan, I took a walk to Odaiba.

Odaiba is located near the sea in Tokyo bay, that's why you have a great view of the Tokyo skyline from there. In Odaiba you can find lots of big malls with many interesting stores. I spent a lot of money on great food and goods from my favorite TV shows. After that I went outside to see the giant Gundam. Also, there is a small beach there. It has to be great to sit at this „beach“ and enjoy a cold drink on a hot summer day. I definetely have to come back some day and enjoy the view of the skyline at nighttime next time.

The sunset on my way back home from Odaiba

Day trip to Kawagoe

こんにちは、

Last weekend I went to Kawagoe with my friends.

We visited some temples and the old town.

We saw lots of cherry blossom trees and people wearing the kimono.

It was a very funny day.

I ate dango and sweet potato chips. They were very tasty.

Dango are one of my most favourite japanese sweets.

What is your favourite sweet?