Shimbashi

Today I want to bring you in the hypermodern city center of Tokyo. We are going to explore Shimbashi area which is home to many offices , tall modern towers , futuristic architecture and of course many Izakaya’s (bars) !  Often described as “Salary’s man” capital , Shimbashi is an interesting district to explore with a different population , mostly middle-aged men.

Before getting in the heart of Tokyo I want to show you the Shiba park , a nice park with a stunning view of Tokyo tower.

Red Lady in Tokyo city center.

Tokyo , city of constrasts.

Entrance of the Shiba park.

Having a short nap here. There is still some nice sunlight in this early december. It’s quite cold but with the sun it feels just right.

In my opinion this must be one of the nicest spot to enjoy Tokyo Tower. This red tower was the first highest structure which was build to resist earthquake. This is a symbol of the Japanese thriving economy in the after war age and also a symbol of the creativity of Japanese culture. In fact Japan undergoes many natural disasters such has tsunami , earthquake , typhoon , volcanic eruption …. All theses natural conditions actually shaped the Japanese society to what it is today. They had to be creative , motivated and efficient if they wanted to find good outcomes.  And today you can feel thoses years of researchs and hardwork just by spending a day in Tokyo. Interesting for sure.

Let’s have a walk around the area to see how it’s like. I’m meeting a friend later to try out a Ramen shop.

Nature Vs Architecture

Futuristic architecture.

Some random backstreets.
Exploring theses is always so much fun. You can see the contrast between the old and new constructions. Tokyo is a city that is constantly changing , which in a way is essential. Tokyo people learned to adapt their city in a very practical way. In fact Tokyo city is very well organised , clean and operate well on many levels. The only downside is that the old constructions are getting less and less. History / culture remains strong but the contructions from the past are getting rare.

Urban Mosaic

Vegan Ramen at Afuri ramen shop. Simply yummy !
Being Vegetarian / Vegan in Tokyo is getting easier each year. For the most part Japanese cuisine is based on sea products but also has interesting and tasty veggie options.

After some nice food we went to one the oldest Japanese landscape garden in Tokyo. Welcome to Hama Rikyu

Another constrast , Nature Vs skyscrappers.

The park is beautiful and very well kept. This oasis of green in the middle of the Forest Building is interesting. The weather wasn’t great when we went and we were late so we had to rush the visit a bit. They is also a teahouse in the park to enjoy a rest with tradititional beverages.

Let’s go to the futuristic area around Shiodome and Shimbashi. I am truly fascinated about the layers in Tokyo city. A vertical layout. It seems like cars , trains , pedestrians , trains , offices and restaurants are all separated but remains in the same place. You basically have access to everything in one spot. The art of optimizing space while preserving a livable city . I’m always amazed to observe such creations. Somehow it is possible to make modern and efficient cities while being enjoyable for pedestrians.

Winter light show in Shiodome , view form the higher platforms.

Ghibli clock in Shimbashi.

Shimbashi have many offices which means that somehow some entertainement in the area are needed. In fact Japanese people , like “Salary man” , work crazy hours and need good break in the evening to unwind. Shimbashi have them covered as the area count endless bars , restaurants and … girls bars !

Famous “hosttess street bar” in Shimbashi. Expect to find high end bars here.

Restaurants along the railway.

French bar with nice food , we had the “Gateau chocolat” which was amazing.

Another bar but here it’s more for party ! Here you’ll pay 900 yen (7 euro) for 3 drinks which is very cheap. It was interesting all the people leaving their office to have a break and unwind. Seems like alcohol is a vital component of the Japanese Society.

This was a day in Shimbashi , an area where work and bars cohabitate. I liked the vibe in this area of Tokyo. It felt more “grown up” yet fun and the bar and food place looked nice.

See you for the next one friends.
Ja mata !