CONVERSATION WITH RHYME IN TOKYO
After a decade in Japan, RHYME has cultivated a unique creative identity that bridges Eastern and Western cultures through poetry, music, and storytelling. Drawing on her musical background and deep engagement with Tokyo’s cultural DNA—ranging from the sacred, shamanic movements of Noh theater to the city’s underground experimental scenes—she invites audiences into her world.
Her refined yet approachable aesthetic resonates through the narratives she shares, offering a sensory journey that connects people from the ground up. As a local creative and global tastemaker, RHYME continues to redefine cultural fusion in her Tokyo sanctuary.
THE FOUNDATION
NAME:
Rhyme Goldstar (middle name from being born on Christmas)
CURRENT LOCATION:
Tokyo
WHERE HAVE YOU SPENT MEANINGFUL TIME?
I have lived in Asia (being born in Australia) my whole life starting in China, to Indonesia then Japan. Bought myself a passport and went when I could.
WHAT DO YOU DO?
I am a music creator, stage performer, pioneer in places of poetry. Naturally I have become a special agent for those who want to explore Japan as unique as I have.
OUTSIDE OF WORK, WHAT SPARKS YOUR CURIOSITY?
I love rollercoasters…. I read a lot of books on the human spirit, coaching mentalities and of course… anything purple.
TOKYO
CITY NOTES
A personal take on the place you call home—or know best
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR CITY TO SOMEONE WHO’S NEVER BEEN?
My city is the place you should walk down a darkand questionable alley to get lost in, because in that space of the void is where you are really meant to be. My city finds you, but to keep anchor points, call out my name!
WHAT MAKES IT FEEL MEANINGFUL TO YOU, EITHER NOW OR OVER TIME?
Time.. is the greatest Rhyme I ever learnt and if you truly want to master the neon, time will make everything more meaningful.
WHAT THREE WORDS CAPTURE ITS ESSENCE?
Magnetism, Speed, Details.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME OF THE YEAR TO VISIT, AND WHY?
I think May. It’s warm enough, least amount of rain (what can I say I am a 晴れ女) and the spring brought out the best vegetables.
RHYTHM AND RITUAL
Your daily path through the city
HOW DO YOU START YOUR MORNINGS?
I am a ritual, Juice kinda gal. SUNSHINE JUICE would be my optimal cold press and kick to start the day after some zen.
A FAVORITE PLACE FOR A MID-DAY BREAK—COFFEE, LUNCH, OR SOMETHING SLOWER?
Slower? The Nuts Exchange. Pro-tip, Japan and veganism are still far from being friends, but its a wave catching. I truly believe the scene is way to SOY inundated and dairy =nogood for tummy’s. Being australian and a coffee snob I was used to good cuppa with homemade nut milk. But Tokyo didn’t understand me. I ran the idea out there for a true brunch spot for the coffee and conscious. The pure and hungover, the domestic and international and lo and behold The Nuts Exchange was born, zero waste and 100% authentic down to earth. We make homemade Macadamia milk inside everyday and you can enjoy Toriba coffee, Ecc McMuffin’s. (vegan patty, yuba and pumpkin paste) and a whole lotta deli, cookie goodness!
Trust me… I have turned a full blown Argentinian man onto it. So don’t “I don’t do vegan” me. Just get your order in.
DESIGN & INSPIRATION
Places, people, and details that reflect the spirit of the city
A FAVORITE STORE, BOUTIQUE, OR CONCEPT SPACE:
SOLAKZADE Concept… ICON. Thus I had the pleasure of enjoying some sake with Tatsuya and his brotherin store recently taking 2 of my clients shopping there. You don’t browse, the shop staff pick for you until you love it. It’s appointment only. It’s ALL deadstock, 1 offs. Custom fitted. Dating from 1800’s to Early 2000’s. Sunglasses, frames and Jewelry. I can’t say more… but wow.
A SPACE THAT INSPIRES YOU WITH ITS DESIGN:
I love the tea lobby room of EDITION HOTEL TOKYO
A LOCAL ARTIST, CHEF, DESIGNER, OR BRAND YOU THINK THE WORLD SHOULD KNOW ABOUT:
My massage therapist, Misaki. My Chiropractor, Soichiro and my Physical Therapist, Koki. DM me fortheir contact!
FINAL IMPRESSIONS
Places, people, and details that reflect the spirit of the city
BEST VIEW IN THE CITY:
45th floor, no exceptions
MOST ICONIC LOCAL FLAVOR:
The flavor of surprise wrapped in a shiso leaf topped with grated Kuzu peel and ume-boshi on the side.
ONE LOCAL EXPERIENCE EVERYONE SHOULD TRY AT LEAST ONCE:
Drinking sake beneath the cherry trees.