Backstreet style and old-world charm: What makes Tokyo so special?

Tokyo has rich and diverse offerings for locals and visitors alike. From second-hand shopping boutiques to laid-back roof-top gardens and quaint, traditional restaurants - Japan's capital has plenty to offer. 

Euronews spoke to some of those who live and work in the city, to find out what makes Tokyo so special to them.

Misha Janette is a creative director, former fashion stylist, journalist and blogger. She told Euronews why she loves living and working in Tokyo.

“In Tokyo, you are free to be whatever you want to be, wherever you want to be. So, that’s why you get all these interesting sub-cultures all around.

“I would say that one of the neighbourhoods that define my career and also the fashion scene in Japan is Harajuku, specifically a place called Ura-Harajuku. It means the back streets of Harajuku. There’s a specific street and it’s called Cat Street. That’s where people walk from Harajuku down to Shibuya, kind of shopping, but also parading their outfits a bit.

“One of my favourite used clothing stores to visit these days is BED, in a neighbourhood called Shimokitazawa. The owner, Miki, she has the best style, [a] really amazing eye for style. And so, if you come in here, you’re always going to find something really unique and cool to pick up.

“I really love riding electric bikes. It shows me all of these areas of quiet chaos that I would never have seen if I had just been taking the train and getting off at the same stations all the time."

The recently renovated Miyashita Park is a fresh feature of the city's ever-evolving landscape. It's equipped with a rooftop park and sports facilities, including a beach volleyball court.

“Another fairly recent, new addition to Tokyo is one of my favourite places to go hang out and