In each place we've been in Tokyo, it has been hard not to notice the beauty, perfection, innovation and quirkiness of each area. However occasionally, we were also able to escape the crowds, glitzy luxury brand stores, and Michelin-starred restaurants of Ginza, Roppongi, Shinjuku and Shibuya to find some gems. Our three favorite areas of Tokyo were Daikanyama and Ebisu, two micro-neighborhoods of typically crowded and crazy Shibuya, and Harajuku, a fun, young, and fashion-forward area between Shibuya and Shinjuku.

Daikanyama

Daikanyama felt like the place where we would want to settle down in Tokyo. Although the area itself is very small, it is jam-packed with low-key outdoor cafes and restaurants, offbeat shops, cool people, and beautiful courtyards. The local bookstore T-Site, with over 140,000 titles, is completely unique and is as well designed as an art museum! We spent a few hours wandering through the winding streets, edgy boutiques, and even found an amazing ramen place. Click through the gallery here to see more photos from Daikanyama!

Ebisu

Ebisu feels a bit grittier than Daikanyama, but still possesses tons of charm and a hip vibe. We again had fun weaving through the narrow streets and popping our heads into artisan coffee shops and trendy boutiques, many with a California surfer influence! Ebisu gallery can be seen here:

Harajuku

A bit more on the beaten path than Ebisu or Daikanyama, Harajuku is trendy and hip in its own way. Known for its teen fashion and culture (costumes galore!), Harajuku is a place like no other in Tokyo or the world. We walked around Jingumae and were fascinated by the bright colors, stylish people, homegrown brands, and giggling schoolgirls everywhere! Luckily we also found a hidden garden that provided a brief respite from the madness of the area. We can't keep up with these kids! Click through here to see some photos from the Harajuku area:

-Michelle