Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on February 2013

Shimokitazawa is famed for its laid-back, doesn’t-care-what-anyone-thinks attitude, and it’s no more apparent than when it comes to festival time in the ‘burb. Last time it was a curry festival with a mascot—Curry Man, a man with a black-painted face wearing a golden unitard. Yeah, we don’t get the connection either. In the spirit of nonsensical festivities, the next matsuri installment is the first ever Shimokitazawa Spring Squid Festival (Shimokitazawa Haru no Ika Matsuri) happening from March 4-10. Restaurants and stalls will be serving specially made cephalopod dishes to mark the occasion. Visitors who choose to dine receive a stamp for each dish they devour, which can be exchanged for original squid festival merchandise on the last day of the festivities. There will be plenty of entertainment near the station, as well as live performances and an art exchange for younger visitors. We can’t promise, but we’re hoping someone will be walking around in a squid suit too.

Shimokitazawa, Mar 4-10. Nearest stn: Shimokitazawa. http://love-shimokitazawa.jp