Ikebukuro is the happening downtown (well, at least, one of the downtowns) of Tokyo. Enjoy a stroll at Sunshine City Aquarium, Sunshine City Observation Deck, J-World Tokyo amusement park, and tons of other oddities and attractions. This downtown area has the highest number of attractions and themed places of any neighborhood.

Mejiro is a small micro-neighborhood and a respite from the usual chaos of the urban districts. It is the home of Mejiro University. Experience Japan from a non-touristy perspective, and engage in some authentic food and shopping.

Takadanobaba is the hip district where many college students hang out. It is not coincidentally a well known drinking and nightlife micro-neighborhood. This district absolutely swarms with the local young people, who pour in from other districts to pour a beer.