For a sense of the high life, take a stroll through the designer-clad streets of　Minami Aoyama. Following Omotesando-dori over the Aoyama-dori crossing,　this green and leafy　suburb is home to a number of the world’s leading　fashion houses, such as Dolce & Gabanna and Chloe. It also features the　legendary Prada building, designed in 2003 by Herzog and de Meuron, the　Swiss architects behind the Beijing Olympics’ Birds Nest. Busy at all times of　the day and evening, Minami Aoyama offers up fantastic people-watching and　an excellent opportunity to take in some of Tokyo’s most modern architecture.

Abiste

The sparkle and shine illuminating from the front window of this shop grabs your attention immediately as you walk down Omotesando. Filled from top to bottom with jewelry, trinkets, accessories and even office supplies that have been ‘bedazzled’—everything has been covered entirely in rhinestones in all colors imaginable—Abiste is kawaii in every sense of the word. Rainbow-colored diamante binoculars, anybody?

3-18-17 Minami Aoyama, Minato-ku
Tel: 03-3746-3433
www.abiste.co.jp

Anastasia

Elisabeth Lambert

Tucked away in the From-1st complex and hidden from street view is Anastasia, offering up a range of unique and stylish headwear. From newsboy, beret, cloche, military, fedora and beanie, there is a style to suit nearly everybody, man or woman, casual or something a little bit fancier. All items in this store are handmade, including the gorgeous brooch and pin accessories. Anastasia isdefinitely worth a look for people who are after a one-off, exclusive piece for their wardrobe.

5-3-10 Minami Aoyama, Minato-ku
Tel: 03-5484-5809

Brasserie Figaro

Elisabeth Lambert

At the quieter end of Omotesando-dori, Figaro is a popular French café, where the wait staff speak Japanese, English and French. With both indoor and outdoor seating available—just like similar brasseries in Paris—it is the perfect place to wind up your wander of Minami Aoyama with coffee, cake, and achance to watch the world go by. For those with an appetite, lunch and dinner sets are on hand and include choices of quiche, sandwiches and fish. Bring a book or a newspaper, pull up a chair outside, and enjoy a cool autumn afternoon with a warm drink.

5-3-10 Minami Aoyama, Minato-ku
Tel: 03-3499-6786

By Elisabeth Lambert