Shimo-Kitazawa is a trendy district with plenty of second-hand shops, bars, record shops, interesting fashions and nice cafes and restaurants. If you are into buying cheap clothes,

Tokyo National Museum (東京国立博物館) The first stop for anyone with a keen interest in Japanese history, art, design or fashion.

Shinjuku Gyoen in autumn A great place to start of your adventures

Caterium (キャットカフェ キャテリアム) Chilled out cafe, with the difference being all the cats walking about!

Design Festa Gallery (デザインフェスタギャラリー) A host of small galleries, more than 70 when at full capacity, showing off the latest up-and-coming artists. All sorts of styles, and ever changing exhibitions on display. Design Festa has become a bit of an institution in Harajuku, and makes going to an expensive gallery unnecessary for most. FREE • Times vary

The Grutto Pass

Mount Takao The essential hiking day trip from Tokyo. Super cheap to access, easy to navigate and all you can drink beer at the top!

Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum (東京都美術館) A prefectural art museum, largely built underground so as not to stand out too much in the green park.

A surprisingly interesting (and free!) museum, showcasing Japanese advertising over the centuries. From Kimono ladies selling beer to retro packaging, the museum is a fascinating change from the usual museums in Tokyo. FREE