Review: Mustard Hotel Shimokitazawa

Why book?

A hostel vibe with young, international guests and visitors who sip flat whites in the cafe-cum-lobby.

Set the scene

In heart of trendy Shimokitazawa, Mustard embodies the neighborhood’s laidback vibe; a haven for streetwear savants who gather to co-work or grab lunch on the outdoor patio and steps that lead down to the pedestrian thoroughfare connecting the area’s disparate side streets.

The backstory

When officials buried the tracks of the Odakyu suburban metro line underground, a new opportunity presented itself to urban planners: create ample swaths of green space overtop; a novelty in cramped Tokyo. In came a long path from Higashi Kitazawa station all the way down to Setagaya Daita with shops, restaurants, and a handful of new hangouts like this trendy budget stay.

Rooms

No-frills rooms do have one little perk: a record player; apropos at a hotel that curates a fresh playlist from local artists every month. Carpeting—to reduce noise of rolling suitcases and other guests—could use a refresh.

Neighborhood

Over the last decade, the gravity of Tokyo’s coolest neighborhoods has continued shifting southwestward, beyond the circle of the Yamanote train line and out into the boroughs of Setagaya and Meguro. Shimokitazawa reigns supreme as the coolest district in all of Tokyo; a scatter of tradition and modern construction replete with chic espresso shops, vintage clothing stores, and plenty of curry parlors and ramen joints.

Anything left to mention?

Mustard has a sister property in Shibuya (no, not Ketchup) which earns high marks as well; we’re just partial to this more neighborhood-y location.