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Omotesando Avenue

Japanese version of the Champs-Élysées

Known by many as the Japanese version of the Champs-Élysées, Omotesando Avenue was in fact originally created in the Taisho Era (1912–1926) as the formal pathway to the Emperor Meiji and his wife Empress Shoken temple, also known as the Meiji Shrine.

Today things are really different and as stated earlier, Omotesando Avenue has been transformed into a more of a sophisticated shopping area than a religious one. Brands like Chanel, Loewe, Louis Vuitton, Tod’s, Dior, Prada and even Apple are now the rulers in this avenue of luxury.

Is this avenue worth checking out? Well yes – while you may found most of these brands in many other cities around the world, Omotesando and its Zelkova tree-lined avenue make for a nice pleasant walk before reaching the Meiji Shrine and the wacky Harajuku area.

Finally, if you have been vastly disappointed by Asakusa's cheap souvenir shops we strongly advise you to visit the Oriental Bazar located on the avenue. Oriental Bazaar offers premium goods and souvenirs from Japan without breaking the bank! Looking for something weirder? Go and check the new Kiddy Land store. Created in 1950, Kiddy Land is one of most famous toy establishments in Japan where you will find some of the coolest things that are only sold in Japan!

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Olga 8 years ago
One of my favorite places in Tokyo, but very crowded!
Gonzague Gay-Bouchery Videographer 8 years ago
Indeed, Omotesando is a nice place but the week-end it is quite hard to really enjoy it.

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