Introduction
Harajuku is a district in Tokyo, Japan that has become famous for its vibrant street fashion scene and unique culture. It’s a place where people come to express themselves through clothing, makeup, art, music and more. But when did it all start? In this article, we’ll explore the history of Harajuku and how it became one of the most popular places in Japan today.
What is Harajuku?
Harajuku is an area located between Shibuya and Shinjuku wards in Tokyo, Japan. It’s known as a center for youth culture, fashion trends and creativity, as well as being home to some of the country’s most iconic landmarks such as Meiji Shrine and Takeshita Street. The area has been a hub for Japanese street fashion since the 1980s, with many young people flocking to its streets to show off their unique style.
History of Harajuku
The history of Harajuku dates back to the early 20th century when it was established as an entertainment district for wealthy aristocrats living nearby in Shibuya ward. During World War II, much of the area was destroyed by air raids but it was quickly rebuilt after the war ended in 1945 with new buildings and shops popping up around the station area over time. In 1977, the opening of Laforet department store sparked a surge in popularity among teenage shoppers who were drawn to its trendy selection of clothes and accessories from international brands like Levi’s and Calvin Klein Jeans Co.. This marked the beginning of Harajuku’s transformation into a shopping destination for young people looking for stylish apparel at affordable prices.
The Early Years Of Harajuku
In the early 1980s, Japanese street fashion began to emerge in Harajuku with young people wearing outlandish outfits inspired by punk rockers or celebrities like Madonna or Michael Jackson on their days off from school or work. This trend soon caught on with other teenagers across Tokyo who wanted to express themselves through fashion without having to conform to traditional norms or societal expectations. As more young people started visiting Harajuku regularly to shop at Laforet or browse through second-hand stores like Kiddyland (which opened in 1983), it became increasingly popular as a hangout spot for those interested in alternative subcultures such as punk rockers or gothic Lolita girls dressed in frilly dresses with dark makeup accents around their eyes..
The Rise Of Japanese Street Fashion In The 1980s
By 1985, there were already numerous small boutiques selling handmade clothes designed by local designers like Takeo Kikuchi or Jun Takahashi that could be found throughout Harajuku’s winding streets – creating what would later become known as “Ura-Hara” (the backstreets) culture – which focused on more avant-garde designs than those found at mainstream stores like Laforet.Over time these small shops grew into larger independent boutiques selling items from both local designers and international labels such as Comme des Garçons or Yohji Yamamoto – helping solidify Harajuku’s reputation as one of Tokyo’s trendiest areas for shopping.
The 1990S And 2000S: A Period Of Growth And Expansion
In 1994, Takeshita Street opened near Laforet which further increased foot traffic from tourists looking for souvenirs from Japan’s capital city.As more stores opened up along this narrow street lined with colorful signs advertising everything from crepes stuffed with ice cream to traditional kimonos,so too did larger chain stores like H&M begin setting up shop nearby – making it easier than ever before for visitors to find fashionable items at reasonable prices.By 2004,there were over 200 different shops located around Takeshitasen including both independent boutiques run by local designers and large corporate chains offering mass-produced goods.This period also saw an increase in popularity among young people who enjoyed dressing up in elaborate costumes inspired by anime characters,leading many foreign tourists to flock towards this area during weekends due to its lively atmosphere filled with cosplayers dressed up as their favorite characters.
Harajuku Today
Today, Harajuku remains one of Japan’s top destinations for shopping,dining,sightseeing,and entertainment.With hundreds of shops lining its streets offering everything from vintage clothing stores selling rare finds from decades past to high end designer boutiques showcasing luxury labels,there’s something here for everyone no matter what your budget might be.Additionally,there are countless cafes,restaurants,bars,clubs and live music venues scattered throughout this vibrant neighborhood that make it an ideal spot for nightlife activities too!Furthermore,due to its close proximity to Shibuya station (just two stops away) many tourists also take advantage of visiting both districts during their stay in Tokyo so they can experience both sides of this fascinating city without having too far travel between them.
Conclusion
Harajuku has come a long way since its humble beginnings back in 1945 when it was first established as an entertainment district.From punk rockers sporting outrageous outfits during the 1980s all the way through today where you can find cosplayers dressed up as their favorite anime characters – this unique neighborhood has seen many changes over time yet still managed remain one of Tokyo’s most popular tourist attractions thanks its wide variety of shopping opportunities,delicious restaurants & bars,exciting nightlife venues & more!So if you’re ever visiting Japan make sure you don’t miss out on experiencing all that this amazing district has offer!
Check Out Facegear Cosplay Products!
Now that you know when did harajukustart why not check out our Facegear cosplay products? We have a wide rangeof cosplay costumes available rangingfrom classic anime characters like Narutoand Sailor Moon right throughto modern day superheroes suchas Spiderman & Wonder Woman! So no matter what your taste we’ve got somethingfor everyone! Visit our website todayto see our full selection!
Today, Harajuku remains one of Japan’s top destinations for shopping,dining,sightseeing,and entertainment.With hundreds of shops lining its streets offering everything from vintage clothing stores selling rare finds from decades past to high end designer boutiques showcasing luxury labels,there’s something here for everyone no matter what your budget might be.Additionally,there are countless cafes,restaurants,bars,clubs and live music venues scattered throughout this vibrant neighborhood that make it an ideal spot for nightlife activities too!Furthermore,due to its close proximity to Shibuya station (just two stops away) many tourists also take advantage of visiting both districts during their stay in Tokyo so they can experience both sides of this fascinating city without having too far travel between them.
Conclusion
Harajuku has come a long way since its humble beginnings back in 1945 when it was first established as an entertainment district.From punk rockers sporting outrageous outfits during the 1980s all the way through today where you can find cosplayers dressed up as their favorite anime characters – this unique neighborhood has seen many changes over time yet still managed remain one of Tokyo’s most popular tourist attractions thanks its wide variety of shopping opportunities,delicious restaurants & bars,exciting nightlife venues & more!So if you’re ever visiting Japan make sure you don’t miss out on experiencing all that this amazing district has offer!
Check Out Facegear Cosplay Products!
Now that you know when did harajukustart why not check out our Facegear cosplay products? We have a wide rangeof cosplay costumes available rangingfrom classic anime characters like Narutoand Sailor Moon right throughto modern day superheroes suchas Spiderman & Wonder Woman! So no matter what your taste we’ve got somethingfor everyone! Visit our website todayto see our full selection!
Now that you know when did harajukustart why not check out our Facegear cosplay products? We have a wide rangeof cosplay costumes available rangingfrom classic anime characters like Narutoand Sailor Moon right throughto modern day superheroes suchas Spiderman & Wonder Woman! So no matter what your taste we’ve got somethingfor everyone! Visit our website todayto see our full selection!
What year did Harajuku fashion start?
In the 1980s and early 2000s, Harajuku fashion styles became popular all over the world. There were many different styles and looks to choose from, and many of them were documented in FRUiTS magazine, which was founded in 1997.
What is the history of Harajuku fashion style?
Harajuku style has been around for a long time and became well-known in the west during the 2000s. It is often associated with colorful and unique outfits worn by teenage girls. On September 13, 2022, it will be celebrated as an official style.
Is Harajuku fashion still a thing?
Harajuku is known for its expansive range of niche fashion, which includes goth styles that have been around for many years. The goths of Harajuku are dressed in all black, making them a strong contrast to the brightly-colored ‘kawaii’ styles that are popular in the area.
When did Japanese street fashion start?
The foundation of quintessential Japanese streetwear was laid in the 1980s when various influences from the West broke norms and changed lifestyles. This led to the “golden years” of street style in Japan in the 1990s.
Who started Harajuku style?
Harajuku culture began during the postwar Allied occupation of Japan, when American soldiers and civilians lived in the area. Japanese youths became curious about this different culture and started shopping at local Western-style stores.
What is dark Harajuku called?
Dark Lolita is a subculture of Japanese youth that features dark makeup and clothing styles. It became popular in the late 1990s and early 2000s, and still exists among many people today.