It’s winter in Tokyo, it’s cold, it even sometimes snows, but the bustling city life doesn’t stop (or even slow down) once the temperatures drop. Dress up in layers, throw a plush scarf around your neck, and prepare to brave the crowds: we’re heading to Harajuku. Chase away the winter blues by hitting Tokyo’s most colourful district, and follow our one-day guide around the area. Warning: it contains A LOT of calories (which you’ll burn walking around anyways).

First stop, MOSHI MOSHI BOX, located where Takeshita Street, Meiji Street and the entrance to Ura-Harajuku intersect, or in other words, the heart of Harajuku. The box (literally) is a treasure chest of information: you can pick up free maps of different areas of Tokyo, use the free WiFi and power, buy fun gifts for your friends (sushi socks, anyone?), exchange currency and get useful tips from the knowledgeable and friendly staff.

Before hitting the shops (because that’s the main attraction of Harajuku), make a pit stop at Eggs ‘n Things to fill up on some delicious pancakes from the Hawaiian chain. Yes, it’s perhaps the most popular pancake shop of the area, and be prepared to line, but for a good reason: warm, fluffy pancakes covered with whipped cream and fresh fruit. If you’re not into sweets first thing in the morning, you can also go for good ol’ eggs and bacon.

Now that your belly is full and you’ve escaped the cold for a bit, it’s time to start shopping! No Harajuku shopping spree would be complete without paying a visit to Kinsella, one of the best spots for cool vintage finds. Whether you’re in the market from eighties Adidas gear or nineties bands’ tour t-shirts, you’ll find something unique- no wonder it’s a favourite of Harajuku bloggers and street style darlings.

With hopefully a shopping bag (or two) in hand, head to the trendy Cat Street for more fashion inspiration. Cat Street has it all: snap-worthy fashion mavens, upmarket stores, a takoyaki (octopus balls) stand, lobster rolls and creamy coffee. If you’re short on time, Opening Ceremony is undoubtedly the place to hit to catch up on all the latest styles. While the NYC store has branches in LA and London, the Tokyo one has the most limited-edition gear and special discounts for international visitors.

Now that Cat Street has probably left you almost broke, it’s the ideal time to go to Chicago, a chain thrift store– you can’t miss the neon-lit, palm tree-adorned Omotesando storefront. During sales, some pieces are sold for as little as ¥300, so it’s a great place to stock up on traditional yukata (a light cotton kimono, stonewashed jeans, or… a wedding dress.

You’ve probably worked up an appetite swiping your credit card all over Harajuku, so it’s time for a break. We can’t think of a better way to stay warm than to indulge in hearty and nutritious burritos. Luckily, Australian chain Guzman y Gomez recently opened a branch on Harajuku’s busiest street corner. Fresh guacamole, beefy tacos, burritos and quesadillas await you.

For dessert (why not), pick up something frosty, colourful and Instagram-worthy at Monarch Cupcakes. The tiny shop offers a variety of colorful and delectable cupcakes whipped up according to the British recipe. Whether you like the classics such as vanilla, chocolate and the ubiquitous red velvet, or prefer the salt caramel and cookies and cream creations, you may not able to stop after eating just one. Could Harajuku cupcakes become the new crepe?

While Harajuku is best-known for its shopping and sweet treats, it’s also home to some of the coolest art galleries. Keep warm and expand your artistic horizons by stopping by Design Festa Gallery. Not only is it free, but its 21 rooms are filled with art to fit every taste and budget. Exhibitors are local (and international) artists who simply apply to exhibit their art. Make sure to pick up some unique items created by locals, and while you’re wandering in those back streets, you’ll most likely stumble upon similar art spaces.

As you’re probably exhausted and chilly from a day spent strolling around one of Tokyo’s busiest area, it’s time to wind down with a hot coffee from Streamers Coffee. Owner barista Hiroshi Sawada was a world champion at the 2008 Free Pour Latte Art Championship, which means your latte will not only be delicious, but adorned with beautiful art.

Before heading home, make sure you return to the Moshi Moshi Nippon Box to belt out some tunes in the karaoke room overlooking Meiji Street… a day in Harajuku should always end in style.