I have been living in Tokyo for four and a half years, and Shimokitazawa is definitely my favorite neighborhood. Places like Shibuya or Shinjuku are ok for going out occasionally, but not to hang out on a regular basis (maybe I’m getting old…). Shimokitazawa is more laid back, less superficial… there are lots of great live houses, cafes, and little shops, and a lot less of chain stores (although there are two Starbucks. oops.).