Most who are familiar with the Harajuku area have walked Cat Street, a predominantly pedestrian road that connects Omotesando avenue with Shibuya.

Fewer, however, have explored the narrow street parallel to Cat Street, running a shelf above topographically. While Cat Street swarms with hip kitties every day of the week, and was named for that quintessential fashion platform, the catwalk, the small street parallel to it has no name. I decide to explore the lesser known road.

Out of the spotlight: The street next to Cat Street is as quiet as a mouse.
Out of the spotlight: The street next to Cat Street is as quiet as a mouse. | KIT NAGAMURA