Citylight Book at Yoyogi-uehara is the type of independent bookstore where I would wish to hang every week. It opens in the afternoon and runs through late night as a bookstore, as well as a meet-up place, a bar for book lovers. Founded by Kaminaga-san, a veteran who had worked with publishing industry for many years before creating his own version of bookstore, this is a cool place to browse for new titles of books and magazines of a wide range of genres/topics. The second floor works as a nice study room too. CABO, the mix place where the bookstore is located also offers other original selection of snack bar and fine dining. You can easily drift in and out, encountering interesting souls in the hood. I had a book launch and talk event here in May, 2024. It's been such a wonderful experience, good crowd and good vibes only! 

The steep steps to Drip looks just like the entrance to many traditional Kissaten (Japanese coffee house/cafe) which are located on the second or third floor of the building. Well the inside is a creative blend and brew of modern interiors, new classic menu and contemporary vibes. I had my first Tokyo style cream soda and pudding. They were so good! The shelf of the owner is a big love too. I can easily spend a long day here with good reads and good drinks. 

This was a tour visit to Umezu's house in Kichijoji. He is the one of most famous cartoonist. The walls are painted in red and white horizontal-striped, Makoto-chan (character of his comics) is on the roof. It became a sightseeing spot in Kichijoji from the day it was built. The dress code of this day follow in his trademark. This house is full of a sense of fun and love for his character.

Visiting POSTALCO brought me to this area of the city for the first time. With a fascination of their beautifully crafted stationery papers, I went to see their other original accessories, apparel collection and selected books too. It's a peaceful corner to quiet mind and re-imagine our contemporary style of writing / reading / creating. 

Daikanyama is a fashionable town which attracts young people. There are many stylish cafes. Coconara, a cafe & dining, is the place where they can enjoy art while they are eating and drinking. In the shop, there are tables which various artists have decorated. Artworks of the featured artist are displayed on the walls. You can see my work in this photograph.