TOKYO FASHION SCOUT

The first Gentle Monster flagship in Japan, sitting right next to Prada's glass tower in one of Aoyama's prime spots. Two floors of immersive retail that feels more like walking through a contemporary art gallery than shopping for sunglasses. The kinetic head sculptures on the ground floor — blinking eyes, subtle movements — are genuinely cool. Upstairs extends the art installation vibe with a gorilla sculpture and star installation.

Glasses run around ¥40,000-50,000 (€250-300) — expensive for eyewear but not insane luxury territory. The full optical and sunglasses range is here, including Maison Margiela collaborations. If you know what you want, you can be in and out in a few minutes.

Aoyama doesn't get the tourist crowds of nearby Harajuku or Shibuya, so the store is rarely packed. Just come here — even if you're not buying, the installations alone make it worth the detour.