A Page In Our Passport: Japan Travel Guide with style muse Nikki
Come behind the scenes with our style muse Nikki, as she explores Japan, giving us insight into her favourite places, hidden gems and how she styled her favourite pieces from the season.
Nikki, let's start by telling us an overview of where you went on your trip?
Tokyo, Kyoto, Kamakura, Osaka. I spent almost 3 weeks and thought that was the perfect amount of time!
What was your favourite place you went and why?
Kyoto 100%. Kyoto was so special. You are surrounded by beautiful shrines, temples, nature and culture, everywhere you look. It’s so peaceful and I felt like I learnt so much about the culture while I was there. I even felt like the food was way more traditional and loved seeing everyone walking around in their Kimonos.
Any stand out meals or sights you can share?
Anything MATCHA. The matcha in Japan is literally unMATCHED. I had it at least 3 times a day in all different forms. Ice cream, lattes, mochi, you name it! It’s all amazing. “Maisen” was also a favourite of mine. The Tonkatsu melts in your mouth. I also would never go back to the hotel room without stopping into 7/11 or family mart for a late night snack.
Best shopping spots you found?
The shopping was definitely the best I have ever experienced. Shimokitawaza is the best area for vintage/ thrift shopping. You can just walk around the streets straight from the train station. 2nd street, rag tag, desert snow, flamingo, trefac are all fabulous!
What did you love most about Japanese culture?
The thing I loved most is that the Japanese never fail to be kind, respectful & thoughtful. I love that they still carry on traditions from 100s of years ago but also has a feel of modernity.
You explored the coastal parts and islands of Japan as well as the cities, any recommendations of where to go for people wanting to visit?
Kamakura and Enoshima is only about a 1.5 hour drive from Tokyo and is beautiful day trip to escape the city for a day. “Surfers” is a chic little bar right on the water, where you can enjoy a cocktail, fresh seafood and watch the surfers. You can also do a hiking tour at Enosihma to great view of the whole city. If you have more time I would definitely recommend going to Okinawa. It’s known as the Maldives of Japan and It’s about a 2.5 hour flight from Tokyo.
You styled so many KIVARI pieces in such unique ways, how did your surroundings inspire your fashion sense whilst there?
The Japanese culture really influenced my fashion sense through its unique aesthetics and a blend of traditional elements like kimono fabrics & patterns and unique silhouettes, mixed with modern street fashion that had a lot vibrant colours and layering techniques. It was so cool to see that every individual had their own unique style.
