The COMM

4 Things You Can Do as A University Student in Japan

Everyone always says that your university years are the best years of your life—but why? Perhaps it’s because university is the place where we discover our first taste of freedom. When we’re in university, we can explore everything the world has to offer—the world is our oyster! So here’s a rundown of some of the joys of student life in Japan.

 

Image courtesy of Vania Widianti.

Shimokitazawa

After a long day at university, sometimes you need a quick pick-me-up. Nestled away from the hustle-bustle of Shibuya and Shinjuku, Shimokitazawa is the perfect place for you to unwind. The boho hub is home to Tokyo’s favourite cafés, delicious eateries, hip thrift stores, and live music venues. The best thing to do in Shimokitazawa is to walk around the narrow streets—you’re sure to stumble upon something unexpected!

Must-see places include Ocean BLVD, an eclectic and trendy second-hand store, and City Country City—a unique combination of coffee house, vintage record shop, bar, and pasta café!

 

Image courtesy of Vania Widianti.

Mode-Off

For eager shoppers, hearing “50% off” or “80% off” means there’s a bargain to be found. In Japan, the phrase “off” rings a different bell: the “Off” chain stores!

There are eight brands of “Off” chain stores, which include Mode-Off, Book-Off, Book-On, Garage-Off, Off House, Hard-Off, Hobby-Off, and Liquor-Off. Mode-Off, in particular, offers a wide variety of second-hand clothing at an affordable price, ranging from 300 yen to 1500 yen. The store is divided into three sections—women’s, men’s, and the 300 yen section.

Mode-Off can be a safe haven for those on a budget as you can stay chic without breaking the bank. Make sure to check out Mode-Off’s store in Shimokitazawa if you’re planning to hit two birds with one stone!

 

Image courtesy of tokyo.com.

Round One

With the swift rise of online games and video gaming consoles, you’d assume that arcade centres would be on their way out. Though this rule may apply elsewhere, it’s not necessarily the case in Japan where arcades continue to thrive!

One of the most famous entertainment establishments in Japan, Round One, remains the top destination for a fun get-together after school or work or a family day out. The appeal of Round One lies in its indoor arcade which offers a variety of recreational activities including bowling, karaoke, billiards, darts, and “spo-cha”—short for “sports challenge”. “Spo-cha” are facilities where visitors can enjoy an unlimited array of sporting activities such as basketball, volleyball, tennis, golf, futsal, and batting cages.

Round One also offers package deals under 1500 yen—so you can enjoy this amusement centre to your heart’s content. Come rain or shine, if you’re in it to win it, Round One is the one for you!

 

Image courtesy of OurWorlds.

Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea

Last on our list is a world-famous theme park that’s universally referred to as “the happiest place on Earth”. There’s something about Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea that isn’t offered anywhere else in the world. Both parks do a fantastic job of creating a unique ambience, and offer a variety of fun rides for all ages, as well as delicious options for food & drink! Try the honey-flavoured popcorn in Tokyo Disneyland, or the green alien mochi and sea-salt flavoured ice cream at Tokyo DisneySea.

To enjoy the full “Disney experience”, make sure to catch the parades and stick around long enough to see the nighttime shows. Don’t forget to snap your co-ord in front of the colourful and fun backdrops all around the parks!

 

Written by Vania.