Got the urge to commune with nature? Wanna hike, trek, climb, bike, kayak, swim a channel or eat Gorp on a mountain top? Then L-Breath is the spot for you. With 7 floors of 'gear', you could probably outfit your entire next expedition here, or at least look the part. There is plenty of high-quality, high-tech, colorful, ruff-and-ready stuff to choose from, whether you're a weekend tree-hugger, or a regular bark-gnawer. L-Breath has reams of gadgets that look and do cool stuff. Warm and fuzzy, light and slick, life-saving, adventure-chasing, snuggling-by-the-fire, out in the bush equipment for the entire family. So what are you waiting for—hit the trails with all you got.
Tokyo likes to challenge as many of your senses as possible so instead of asking 'Why would you have a book lounge and curry restaurant together?', the real question is 'Why not?'. These serves a good Japanese-style curry which is perfect sustenance as you peruse their book selection. The lounge is beautifully lit and furnished with mahogany panels and furniture. It's a lovely quiet place, an oasis to escape to for a quirky lunch in one of those places you can only find in Tokyo.
Tucked away in a small corner, the Ginza Kazuya is a small haven serving heavenly artisanal sweets.The chef-owner here is a one-man machine - he does everything on his own, from purchase the ingredients needed to make his 'Kazuya no ren' (the base of all his sweet products) to greeting and serving his customers. He fills his sweets with a variety of local ingredients; Ginza Kazuya confections are very popular with locals and the initiated so call in advance to reserve sweets as production is limited. The shop might be a little difficult to find but in the end it is all worth the effort.
Famous designer Sonia Park opened this concept store in Aoyama to the delight of her many fans; it really showcases her aesthetic - from the warm, vintage feel of the interior, to the range of perfumes, candles and clothing that she sells. Nothing comes cheap, but if you're looking for something of high quality and beauty, or you're simply a huge fan of Sonia Park herself, Arts & Science is definitely worth a visit.
Beams International Gallery is one of seven Beams that are clustered on Harajuku's main shopping street, Meiji Dori; this one stands out because of its impeccably chosen collection of designer ranges, many of which are grouped according to stylistic choices. Beams caters excellently for both men and women and inside, it promotes a calm, peaceful shopping experience; muted decor and chandeliers add to the atmosphere.
The Lacoste shop has a minimalist feel with neatly folded clothes carefully spaced on the shelves and carefully coordinated racks of clothes. The interior has a crisp black and white color scheme in keeping with the black on white logo outside. Stock includes the well-known crocodile logo T-shirts, as well as bags, belts, shoes, sweaters, shirts, hats and socks for men and women. Many of the clothes are well discounted from usual store prices. -AH