"Shotengai" is the Japanese word for a shopping arcade or shopping street. These areas each have their own distinctive atmosphere, and some even have distinct shopping. For example Asagaya's Pearl Center is filled with Japanese sweet shops, while Koenji's Pal Street features several vintage clothing shops. If you're looking for a place to do Japanese shopping or just go for a stroll, these shotengai can't be missed. The covered streets (Pearl Center & Pal Street) are also perfect for rainy days.