Traveling today is very dependent on the internet, from booking accommodations to discovering new sightseeing spots, and from being able to meet up with friends to pulling up maps and using GPS. Tokyo, though well-known as one of the most high tech cities in the world, has been very slow in its development as being Wi-Fi-friendly, however. Until recently, free Wi-Fi was unheard of in this metropolis, but slowly and surely opportunities have popped up. One such opportunity is the free Wi-Fi service provided in Omotesando, a high-end commercial district in Tokyo.
Omotesando is the home of many elite designer shops, including all the top brand names and many international brands that are not regularly available in Japan. It is located in the Shibuya and Minato Wards of Tokyo, includes Omotesando Station, and extends to Harajuku, which is the home of Tokyo's wacky teen fashion scene. Of particular note in the area is Omotesando Hills, a well-known shopping mall, and the Oriental Bazaar, one of the best shops for traditional Japanese goods and souvenirs in the city. It is also known for having a plethora of funky cafes and restaurants to stop in at during your shopping spree.
The Omotesando area offers a free Wi-Fi service that is free and easy to access. Up and down the street are designated Wi-Fi areas, marked with large signs. The signs are found on trash cans, in smoking areas, near pay phones, around the Jingumae intersection, and in the Omotesando Hills shopping mall. Keep your eyes peeled for the signs - they're everywhere. Simply go to one of the free Wi-Fi areas, connect your device to the "OMO-Free" service, and have instant access to your email, maps, and most importantly, JapanTravel.com.
Sound easy? That's because it is. Sometimes the best things in life are free, and straight forward as well.
Omotesando Station, at the heart of the area, is a subway station on Tokyo Metro's Ginza Line, Chiyoda Line, and Hanzomon Line. From Harajuku Station (JR Yamanote Line), take the Omotesando Exit and then cross the street at the large, blue pedestrian overpass. The street leading away from you is Omotesando Dori.
