Trending In Tokyo: TikTok Made Me Go

Over the last few years, TikTok has become one of the most powerful research tools, influencing and inspiring people to visit different places and try new things. Through aesthetic shots and enthusiastic creators, many places in Tokyo have become viral overnight. However, are they really all worth visiting?

Finding things to do and see in a city so big and vibrant can be intimidating for some people. Even if you have lived here for a long time, a new cafe or attraction is always popping up out of the blue. Although many people still rely on Google and trusted friends to find out what’s trending in Tokyo, TikTok is increasingly becoming one of the most popular places to search for new places and more general inspiration.

© Photo by iStock: recep-bg

With so many people filming and sharing their experiences at a coffee shop or exhibition—wherever it may be—it is not surprising that these places have made it to the FYP (for you page) and gained attention on the app. Those who casually scroll through and use search terms like “places in Tokyo”, may have already noticed that the same few places repeatedly appear.

In theory, it is easy to assume that because a hundred and one videos are talking about the same place, it is worth visiting—however, the reality is different. That’s why in this article, we are breaking down some of the most TikTok-worthy places in Tokyo and whether they are worth the hype.

Oi Racecourse Flea Market

© Photo by Jane Pipkin

A relatively new contender, the Oi Racecourse Flea Market started to make its way onto more and more people’s FYP nearer the end of last year. This flea market, located in the parking lot of Oi Racecourse in Shinagawa, is the biggest in all of Tokyo. Usually held every Saturday and Sunday, this flea market has recently become a hotspot for young people looking for bargains on more unique goods. You can easily spend a few hours here sifting through everything from clothes to household goods.

Is it worth the hype? 

Although it is a little out of the way, the Oi Racecourse Flea Market is worth the visit. Not only is it free to enter but with so many vendors selling so many things, it is likely that you will snatch a bargain somewhere. That said, since most of the items are simply laid out on tarps and mixed all together, you will need to dedicate some proper time to look through everything. Also, many TikTok users have stated how it is a great place to find second-hand designer brands for an insanely cheap price. Although this is partly true, there aren’t as many stalls selling luxury items as there used to be.

Address: 2-1-2 Katsushima, Shinagawa City, Tokyo

Alternatives: 

• Setagaya Park Fleamarket: A slightly smaller market held once a month 
• Shinjuku Chuo Park Flea Market: Ideal for more vintage items

Shimokitazawa

© Photo by Jane Pipkin

Once a low-key hangout spot for young Tokyoites, Shimokitazawa has become an extremely popular area with both locals and tourists alike. Filled with what feels like an endless amount of thrift shops, cafes and bars, Shimokitazawa is a popular choice for those a bit more of a laid-back afternoon. Despite many people still making TikToks about how much they love this neighborhood and how you can find some absolute gems, there is an increasing number of content creators talking about how the area has become too expensive.

Is it worth the hype? 

Undeniably, a lot of the secondhand clothes shops in Shimokitazawa are on the expensive side. This is likely because many of them have become more like curated boutiques rather than your regular secondhand store. However, there are still plenty of shops that sell more reasonably priced clothing. Although the neighborhood has changed over the last few years, it still maintains its unique charm and character. Shimokitazawa is worth stopping by as it offers a lot more than its shops like a vibrant nightlife and strong cafe culture.

Address: 2-24-2 Kitazawa, Setagaya City, Tokyo 

Alternatives:

• Koenji: Known for having cheaper thrift stores and cafes
• Kichijoji: Another popular neighborhood with those who love thrifting 

Shibuya Sky

© Photo by iStock: kanzilyou

Shibuya Sky is a 360° open-air observation deck in the heart of Shibuya which boasts unobstructed views of Tokyo and beyond. Since its opening back in 2019, it has firmly secured its place as one of the most iconic attractions in the whole city. It is probably one of Tokyo’s most photographed places on both TikTok and Instagram in the past few years.

Is it worth the hype?

No one can deny that the view from the top is pretty mesmerizing. The open deck really does add to the experience. Even though the view is nice both during the day and night, it is by far the best at sunset. The fact tickets for the sunset time slot always sell out a month in advance kind of proves this. Some say that the adult ticket price of ¥2,200 is a little steep but for the indescribable feeling you get from seeing the city from that height, it is worth it. If you do decide to go, keep in mind that it is quite hard to get that “perfect photo” of yourself with the view. The deck is always filled with people.

Address: Shibuya Scramble Square 14F, 45F-RT, 2-24-12 Shibuya, Tokyo

Alternatives:

• Tokyo Tower: Japan’s first and most famous night observatory
• Tokyo Skytree: The tallest tower in the world
• Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building: Free to enter 
• Tokyo City Sky View: Offers similar outdoor panoramic views to Shibuya Sky

Shodai (Soba Noodle Shop) 

© Photo by Jane Pipkin

Shodai is a soba noodle shop with a few branches across Tokyo. The restaurant’s White Curry Udon has been praised for its Instagrammable potential, and the taste has recently gone viral again on TikTok. The curry udon, topped with sweet potato cream, looks more like a bowl of whipped cream. Many people love it because it perfectly combines sweet and spicy flavors.

Is it worth the hype?

If you want to try a special udon dish, for a reasonable price, then Shodai is worth trying. The creamy curry udon has quite a sweet taste, compared to other soba and udon dishes, so it may not be for everyone. That said, the restaurant does offer other types of soba and dishes like tempura.

Address: South Column Kobayashi 1F, 1-1-10 Ebisuminami, Shibuya City, Tokyo 

Alternatives:

• Kanda Matsuya: Handmade noodles in a traditional-style restaurant 
• Dashin Soan: An understated restaurant offering handmade noodles and other dishes

BookOff Super Bazaar (Saitama)

© Photo by BoofOff

If you are an avid user of TikTok and have engaged with Tokyo content there, you are bound to have had the BookOff Super Bazaar in Saitama pop up on your feed at least once, or even twice. BookOff is part of one of Japan’s largest secondhand chain stores where you can find used books, clothes, household goods and much more. Apart from being a massive store, the BookOff Super Bazaar in Saitama has become insanely popular due to the fact you can find luxury designer items and current sought-after brands for a fraction of their retail price.

Is it worth the hype?

Some people may feel it is worth taking a trip to this specific BookOff due to the sheer amount of stock. However, it is kind of out of the way and for those who are short on time, the trip may not be worth it. There are just as many good second-hand shops, selling reasonably-priced luxury items, in the center of the city.

Address: Stella Town Block 3 North Annex 2F, 1-853-1, Saitama, Kita Ward, Miyacharacho 

Alternatives: 

• 2nd Street (Koenji and Harajuku branches in particular)
• Tampopo House: For super cheap clothing

Have you visited any of these places before? What other things have you seen trending in Tokyo on TikTok?