Harajuku Style Fashion in Japan

Harajuku Style Fashion in Japan

Harajuku style exists since early 1980s and became known outside Japan within 2000s. Harajuku style is named after Harajuku Station in Tokyo. The first Harajuku style was made combining traditional Japanese attire and Western clothing which the young generation locals occupy the streets wearing its style. As these youngsters wearing Harajuku style, they wanted to convey the message of wanting to dress anything with any style as they wanted. Harajuku fashion style is a movement against the strict rules of dressing up and the pressure to fit to normal pace. Now, Harajuku still remains as one of the fashion styles regardless of new trends in Japan.

Anybody can wear the style. Harajuku is a mix of well-known style such as Gothic, Sweet, Cosplay, Gyaru, Lolita and mixing traditional clothing with western. Traditional Japanese clothes such as kimonos and traditional sandals have been remake with Harajuku style since the beginning. Kimonos being paired with high-flat style of shoes while wearing a cute ribbon as a hair accessories being paired with custom hair color or wig. Custom made and self-made items are also good, retro and Vintage clothes can be included in Harajuku style as well. In Harajuku, more is more. So the more layers or more style, more fun to wear with as long as you are creative and wear what you wanted. Let your imaginations comes into reality. For accessories, you may pair it with colorful backpacks, or the 80s or 90s type of bags. Go with the pastel or neon bright of hair colors or wigs. Eye contacts are also a part of Harajuku style. You can choose from red, green colors with unique eye contact designs. For the make-up, you can have it depending on your chosen Harajuku theme. The subsets of Harajuku for example are Gyaru style. Gyaru is a fun, girly style with colored hair and fake cute nails. The look was made to be Gyaru girls to be known as a rebel against the perfect look, expressionless and doll-like look of the Geisha. Next is called Visual Kei in which is being styled as a punk, rock, metal which is inspired by the rock musicians of the western. Lolita style is based in Victorian era wearing a long skirt, corset and wig. A typical Lolita style can be seen wearing a tutu skirt and ballerina gowns. There are many subsets of Lolita style which makes somehow a little bit controversial nowadays when some celebrities opt to wear it. Fairy Kei style is a style which is more like into ethereal and pastel. It draws inspiration from My Little Pony, Strawberry Shortcake etc. Decora Kei comes from the root word ‘decoration', Decora Kei composed of bright neon colors and extreme accessories from hair, stickers, bandaids and fake tattoos and layers of cute purses and stuffed animals. Cosplay can also be considered as Harajuku style by dressing up as how your favorite anime characters such as Luffy, Naruto, etc.

Popular artists such as J-pop princess Kyary Pamyu Pamyu and Gwen Stefani who loves Harajuku style which makes the style being well-known in the rest of the world. Kyary Pamyu Pamyu wears Harajuku style in her music videos in which makes her imagination comes into life.

Harajuku style is popular and must go style especially when you're travelling around Japan. The aim of Harajuku style is to express what you feel by making you wear what you love, mix and match the colors, layering, makeup depending on your theme, your vision, the purpose and the passion of what kind of style you are portraying to. Strengthen your brand. Once you know what kind of style you wanted, you may create, wear and post it in the social media. Some people might find it weird but never let them stop you from wearing it. Fashion style and trends come and go but Harajuku still remains which make Japan become unique, breaking the fashion norms and defining style, brands and expression depending on someone's perspective when it comes to fashion. Unleash your inner craziness and unique thinking and let yourself express your love in fashion. Carry a smile while wearing your Harajuku way! Harajuku is all about self-expression, no matter what they say.

Your Guide to Tokyo Drinking Sessions

Your Guide to Tokyo Drinking Sessions

The night lights in Tokyo are very inviting. A lot of bright lights as well as bulletins is actually asking for your courtesy, would you mind lending some of your time? With this comes the rumors that may be true somehow, it may be one of the costliest cities on earth. How can they pay their electricity? Well, that is just a little secret that no one cares about except you. Tokyo is not a lavish as you think it seems. Japan is somehow costly if you will compare it to some of the countries in Asia. However, if you will compare it to some other cities in the world that are also known for their night activities such as NYC, Amsterdam, London and Hong Kong, Tokyo is not a money monster. If you have plans of going around the clubs or you want to try some of the special cocktails, you need to have a lot of money, but if you will just follow some tips from this article, you can save a lot and still enjoy your stay in Tokyo.

When you plan for a night of fun and activity, it is essential to find out what you want. In this case, the high cost of the drinks or food will be your enemy. Normally speaking, the cost of the beer in Tokyo is around 600 yen, the typical mixed drink is normally 800 yen. These prices are not that bad at all, however, if you know yourself, you will not just have 1 drink through the night. What does that mean? You will leave the place broke if you want to have more drinks? Well, why don't you just drink along the streets? This is lawful in Japan to drink anywhere you want. That means, you can just go to a store and buy the chu-hi. It is a can of mixed citrus carbonated water and a shochu mix. You will mix them to produce a chu-hi. It is like a taste of soda.

After you have taken some chu-his, you can now hit the bars. But that is dependent on the community, some of the bars charge for the seating itself only, that normally amounts to 500 yen. You can just have sat there and watch around, because you will not order for a drink anymore. You must ask if there is an available seat first, before you order a drink, this way, when you get the bill, you will not be surprised with the amount of the bill. One way to stay drunk without breaking the bank is to imbibe at an affordable rate. Izakayas are drinking places where you can get a variety of small dishes. You may be well aware of it, it is essential to be full if you plan to drink, because bad things may occur along the way.

When you are in Japan, it is essential for you to be familiar with the world Nomihodai. It is the Japanese word for a drink all you can. This is more typical than you think of and there are some places such as Roppingi that are loaded with Nomihodai places where you can drink while you can at 1,000 yen. Upon learning these important things, you are now ready to visit some of the places in Tokyo where you can drink for all you want. You can come to Beatcafe where you can have affordable drinks. You can also come to Miyoshino where they serve affordable drinks as well. You can also sit all night there without being annoyed even if you cannot understand the Japanese words. Bones Bar is another one. They also serve affordable drinks here.

Reliving the natural habitat and scenery

Reliving the natural habitat and scenery

Old Japan used to be symbolized with ponds filled with carp, valleys filled with mist and onsens hidden in the vast thick forest. It is now being overshadowed by the modern image for Japan, a bustling city filled with neon lights and never ending building of skyscrapers. It is also being filled with high tech supermarkets and super fast bullet trains. Many fancy modern inventions have since replaced the old Japanese image, which includes vending machines for raw lobsters, patrolling vans blasting out at top volume propaganda messages and nappies especially for dogs. It completely erased the old Japan from memories of the citizens. To visit and truly experience Japan, one must factor in travelling time to big busy metropolis such as Tokyo and Osaka. Amidst all the modern hype, one must need to escape the modern world once a while to rejuvenate the soul and brain by going back to natural habitats and rediscover the original beauty of Japan. There are plenty of nature spots perfect for travel groups in 5 or less members.

First on the list is Kamikochi. It forms part of Chubu Sangaku Japanese National Park (or known to outsiders as Japan Alps Park). It is located in Nagao prefecture. It is actually a highland approximately 1500 meters right above ocean levels. Many go there for its scenic view and many replicate the view in the form of watercolor paintings. You can rediscover you sense of purpose in life and find deeper meaning to you journey in life, away from the mundane working culture. Rivers clear as crystal displays peace behind rolling hills. Boats docked beside piers come in different shapes and sizes giving you the perfect photo worthy pictures. The best period for visiting would be around autumn as that is when amber hues surround the forests.

The next destination spot is Akame shujuhachi taki. It is known's as the 48 Akame Waterfalls to outsiders and located right around Mie prefecture. The name represents all the waterfalls collectively, no matter the size. Breathtaking views await the travelers as rocks covered in moss can be seen against a backdrop of gushing river and dramatic gorges. A few good hours is required for one to roam you way on the 4km walking trail along the river. The riverside trail is the perfect spot for escaping the summer heat in the cities. It is also the perfect spot for catching the cooling breeze. One can feel free to dip inside the refreshing river water at the lower side of the waterfalls. Beware of trout tickling you toes as it may get ticklish. Generally it is a fun experience to dip yourself in the cooling water. One would be able to reach the waterfalls by taking the train line from Namba train station location in Osaka all the way to Akameguchi. From Akameguchi the place can be reached within a 10 minutes' walk.

Iya Valley is another great nature spot located on Shikoku Island. However many dispelled the official title as nature's paradise due to the ongoing construction and noisy hammering. Despite all the accusations of not being a good nature spot, it is actually a great place to relieve from the city stress and concentrated crowds. Driving would be the best mode of transport around the area.

You can plan your own travelling pace by making occasional stops at hot spring outdoor baths along your travels. If you fancy an exciting ride, there are vine bridges awaiting travelers which can be pretty mind-blowing. It is a good spot for traveler looking for adrenaline rush and the adventure of crossing the gushing river will make the trip an extremely memorable one.

9 Top shopping destinations

9 Top shopping destinations

Tokyo is the shopping haven among all major cities with high end fashion, traditional crafts, made in Japan only souvenirs and gadgets that many lust for. There are many Tokyo neighborhood that can satisfy all your shopping cravings be it department store window shopping or used goods.

The first famous shopping destination is Ginza. It is the home for posh boutiques for example Dover Street and Mitsukoshi. Itoya is a place not to missed with nine stories full of supplies. One can find endless barrage of toys at the infamous Hakuhinkan. There is a mixture of posh shopping area and more common shops retailing common crafts which reflect the city's varied consumer culture.

The second place Is Asakusa. It is the dwelling place for artisans and merchants. Its streets are littered with tight lanes and alleyways. There are wide range of good for sale ranging from vintage curios to beautiful shopfront curtains. Souvenir hunters can try the gift shops at Nakamise-dori. There are long rows of little stalls supplying quality unique Japanese made souvenirs.

The third place would be Kagurazaka. It is located a few stations from Shinjuku, and buildings are fairly proportionate to human levels. Walking past the slope at Kagurazaka coming at Iidabashi station, one can find stores selling geta or wooden sandals and purses crafted from kimono fabric. There are also dyed textiles from hand and other accessories. Deep inside there are also stores selling puppets and sweets, sandwiched between pharmacies and pachinko parlours.

The fourth shopping haven is Roppongi. It is known for bars and pick up spot, as well as housing the city's interesting showrooms. Some of the more famous dining and entertainment areas are Roppongi Hills and Tokyo Midtown. Interior design lovers can patronize the Axis Design shops and galleries. One can also pay Japan Sword a visit for a peek at samurai weapons.

The fifth spot would be Daikanyama and Naka-Meguro. It is located near Ebisu and has a host of café and fashion boutiques. Naka Meguro on the other hand, just minutes of walk away has more secondhand goods and lounge bars. One should visit Vase for its cultural pieces.

The sixth famous spot for shopping is Shibuya. It is a hot spot among teenagers who are into the teenage trend. One might feel overage being 30 and above, but is nonetheless a good experience. Music shops are everywhere and outrageous apparel can be found at every corner. Hip kids can be spotted at every corner posing and flashing their latest apparel. For those looking for teenage wear, feel free to visit Shibuya 109 or Fake Tokyo. For those looking for gadgets, be sure to pay Tokyu Hand a visit.

The seventh hot spot is Shimo-Kitazawa, located just southwest from Shibuya. It is popular hangout for artsy people and restaurants. Several famous stores converge here including Shimokita, Haight and Ashbury and Otonomad. For all your shopping needs with diverse treasure, be sure to take a look around Shimokita Garage Store Department, a covered market with unique stalls.

The eighth popular shopping destination is Harajuku and Aoyama. It is the home for the ever popular Harajuku girls as well as boys. There are myriad of eccentric shops selling secondhand goods. You can find good deals for souvenirs at Tokyo's Tokyo, clothes and accessories at Sou-sou and high fashion at the final parts around Omote-sando.

The ninth shopping destination would be Shinjuku. It can be energy consuming for most people shopping around Shinjuku. Lights and noise accompany your every step once you alight from the trains and step outside of the station as malls and stores cover every inch of the streets. The scene is similar to a busy casino full of patrons. There are awesome shops located right at the heart of Shinjuku and perfect for all you shopping needs. There is Isetan, the revered store in Tokyo. There is RanQueen, store suitable for all ages. There is Disk Union, a place for music lovers to shop till they drop where it is filled with music CDs. Huge variety of electronics can be found here too. Be sure to visit Kita Kore for its fashion store collections. Last but not least would be Akihabara, also known to many as the electronics hub for Tokyo. The district is increasingly popular among geeks (otaku) who loves anime and manga, as well as J-Pop. Mandarake Complex is a large complex housing all the stores specially for the geeks. Book lovers would love to visit Jimbocho which houses a little less than 170 plus bookstores. One can also find souvenir bazaars along Akihabara.