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! 

located in one of my favorite neighborhoods in tokyo close to Yoyogi park, nephew is a hidden gem in the residential area ( you can find yourself lost in navigating by GPS on your first visit:-). with a compact space, it feels like walking into the back kitchen of your friend's restaurant for a chat and a bite of what he's cooking. nephew is a happy place to go for a morning refreshment, a cafe date in the afternoon and a cozy night with food and wines. love the vibes and the high energy of the team!

this art gallery cafe is my second home in tokyo, best breakfast and lovely exhibitions including the neighbourhood. just lovely!

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. 

TSUTAYA is a brand for rental movies and music. In 2011, the new TSUTAYA lanched in Daikanyama, Tokyo. They have a vast selection of art and design books. People enjoy to find books here and drinking coffee.