What is Nishiogikubo?
Nishiogikubo is a small town located next to Kichijoji, one of the most popular spots in Tokyo!
Nishi Ogikubo is often overlooked because it is next door to Kichijoji, a very popular spot. However! I personally prefer Nishi Ogikubo to Kichijoji and would definitely recommend it! Rather, I do not want too many people to realize the good qualities of Nishi Ogikubo and too many people to come to Nishi Ogikubo. It is my own wish, but I would like to keep Nishiogikubo a secret if possible, and Nishiogikubo is such a secret gem spot!
If we were to raise a keyword that characterizes Nishiogikubo, it would be these ones!
Antique stores and cafes, Bookstore, bar, It will then become a group of cozy and delicious restaurants with a lot of personality that are run by individual owners!
Personally, I feel that there are more good restaurants in Nishiogikubo than in Kichijoji. Since I started eating at restaurants in Nishi Ogikubo, I always eat in Nishi Ogikubo when I go to Kichijoji. It is only one stop away by train or you can walk from Inokashira Park.
Atmosphere and Streetscape
Charming streetscape and atmosphere: Nishi Ogikubo has a unique atmosphere of a traditional downtown area, yet is lined with sophisticated and fashionable cafes and restaurants. The quiet, relaxed atmosphere combined with artistic elements attracts many people.
Diverse variety of restaurants: Nishiogikubo has a wide variety of restaurants and cafes of various genres. French, Italian, Japanese, curry, and many other cuisines can be enjoyed. In addition, many restaurants specialize in carefully selected ingredients and homemade dishes, making it an attractive place for food connoisseurs and gourmet lovers.
Natural environment and cultural elements
Natural environment and parks: There are many parks and natural environment around Nishi Ogikubo. For example, Inokashira Onshi Park is one of the largest parks in Tokyo, with beautiful nature and walking paths. This lush green environment is attractive to active people who take walks, picnic, and jog.
Cultural elements: Nishiogikubo also has many cultural elements. For example, music events and live music venues are popular, with many bands and musicians performing. There are also galleries and select art stores, offering many opportunities to experience art and culture. These factors make Nishi Ogikubo attractive to visitors.
JUHA, Recommended jazz cafe in Nishi Ogikubo
JUHA is a coffee shop in Nishiogikubo, Tokyo, named after the original title of the movie “White Petals” produced by Finnish film director Aki Kaurismäki. Jazz and other “romance” music is played in the cafe, immersing you in a world of movies and music. Although the cafe is presented as a jazz cafe, it also plays blues, tango, classical and other records.
The owner loves prewar records and many collectibles are posted on Instagram. In 2010, he and his wife opened JUHA, operating from the perspective of “romance” music. JUHA has a unique atmosphere, and behind the iron door is a space filled with the couple’s thoughts and feelings.
JUHA’s world depicted in timeless “Romance Music”
When I visited JUHA, Wayne Shorter / Footprints, Jim White & Marisa Anderson / Gathering, John Fahey / On the Sunny Side of the Ocean, and Colette Roper / Piano Pieces, all were played in the store on analog records.
Being there, I thought that JUHA, a jazz cafe where music from the Blue Note and Thrill Jockey labels played continuously, was the most beautiful space in the world to enjoy a good cup of coffee while soaking in the music.