Shotengai
Tokyo neighborhoods often feature a Shotengai (shopping district), with shops lining both sides of a pedestrian mall. Many Shotengai date back to the feudal era, yet their decidedly brick-and-mortar business model continues to thrive in the modern era due to urban density, providing a niche where small businesses can flourish by offering shoppers diverse options within walking distance of home.
The traditional resides comfortably amid the modern
Tokyo supports a thriving international food culture (Le Jardin Gaulois)
Without a national brand name to draw in business, it takes personality to get attention
Shotengai usually feature specialty shops like tofu sellers and greengrocers.
It's not all about food: clothing and dry goods stores, florists, drugstores, and clinics are frequently found on Shotengai
