25/01/2017

Tokyo is the world’s most populous metropolis, home to neon-lit skyscrapers, historic temples, and over 36 million people. Exploring this sprawling city is a challenge, especially for non-native speakers. Japan’s addressing system – with buildings numbered according to when they were built, not their street location – adds an extra layer of complexity when trying to find your destination.

Inspired by their recent trip, what3words user Alex Even has created a ‘Paper Hunt’ guide to the city. It features the 3 word addresses of the bookshops, stationers and art supply stores that won her heart.

So, if you want to slurp coffee while surrounded by mountains of books in Shibuya, fixture.supple.learning will pinpoint the perfect hangout. Or maybe you fancy exploring the hip neighbourhood of Shimo-Kitazawa, in which case jogged.front.brittle identifies the entrance of a store full of paper-related goodies.

3 word addresses are making travel easier – helping tourism businesses share their location, and travellers explore the world without getting lost. Even language poses no barrier. Tourists can discover a 3 word address in their native tongue or use the what3words app to translate a foreign language address. Either way, it will still point to the same precise spot.