Think futuristic, fast, and sparkling – neon signs and the latest and most extreme Tokyo fashion trends. Karaoke clubs that are full all night, and lively pachinko parlors.
Shibuya is the heart of Tokyo and known as one of Japan’s most exciting places, full to bursting with incredible attractions. Whether you’re looking for shopping, sightseeing or just a night out on the town – Shibuya has it all! Among its many things to do are some classic must-sees: Taking in dazzling city views from Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden; getting great photos at the bustling scramble crossing outside Shibuya Station; exploring quirky fashionable stores like iconic Takeshita Street fashion paradise; and riding up Hachiko tower’s observation deck for more magical photographs.
If that hasn’t convinced you yet then there is plenty else waiting around each corner here. Come explore what makes this fascinating area so special – start by checking out our list below of unforgettable activities available only in vibrant Shibuya!
Shibuya SKY Observation Deck
Shibuya SKY Observation Deck gives you an amazing view of Tokyo’s skyline. Located on the top floor of Shibuya Scramble Square, this observation deck is 230 meters above ground and offers a panoramic view that stretches from Mt Fuji to Yokohama Bay Bridge.
You can also see landmarks such as the Imperial Palace, Tokyo tower, and Rainbow Bridge in one go! On clear days visitors are even fortunate enough to glimpse Mount Tsukuba or Izu Oshima Island far away in the distance. Nighttime brings with it its own magical beauty – lights transform into glittering diamonds strewn across a black sky filled with stars.
This is perfect for romantic dates or simply enjoying some peace amongst city life’s hustle and bustle below. It truly lives up to being “the heart of town”.
Shibuya Crossing
Shibuya Crossing is a bustling intersection in Tokyo, Japan. It’s also known as “The Scramble,” because of the hundreds of people crossing at once when the traffic lights change!
Its epic scale and energy make it one of the most iconic sites in all urban landscape photography. During peak hours, up to 2,500 pedestrians use this massive crosswalk every time it changes – so much that you can spot Shibuya Crossings from space! In 2006 Guinness World Records recognized it as “the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing”.
For tourists who wish to experience its true atmosphere and culture – rush-hour on weekdays gives an amazing opportunity: watching thousands swarm across with vibrant street fashion & signage like fish swimming downstream together.
The area around Shibuya also has many boutique shops & restaurants making for great experiences amid sky-high structures such as department stores or signature landmarks like the Hachiko Statue nearby the Tsutaya bookstore store building (109), which houses some 2000 popular brands inside 10 floors of modernized shopping mall, inviting further exploration throughout your visit.
Tokyo’s times square – The huge crosswalk in front of the Hachiko statue, is surrounded by glittering neon signs. During rush hours it’s an incredible sight to see thousands of pedestrians cross the street at once. It’s best to watch this organized chaos from the second-floor window of Starbucks, overlooking the crossing. This is definitely one of the most amazing things to do in Tokyo. Not to be missed!
Hachiko
Hachiko statue (just outside the Hachiko Exit of Shibuya Station). A favorite meeting point for Japanese youth. Hanging around Hachiko statue gives you an excellent people-watching spot. The statue is of a legendary dog that kept devotedly waiting for his master to come home from work by the station many years after the master had passed away.
When Hachiko the dog died, he was given a respectful funeral and a statue.
Hachikō Memorial Statue is an iconic monument located in Tokyo, Japan. It commemorates a faithful dog named Hachi who waited for his owner at Shibuya Station every day until the man’s death nine years later.
Every time Hachi saw his master coming home from work he would excitedly wag his tail and bark joyfully – no matter what the weather conditions or how late it was.
This touching story of loyalty has been inspiring people all over the world since 1934 when this memorial statue depicting Hachi with its paws outstretched toward Shibuya station was built to remember him forever.
The surrounding area also includes bronze paw prints each representing one year that dear old pup spent waiting outside faithfully – now that’s true dedication!
Yoyogi Park
Yoyogi Park is one of Japan’s premier urban green spaces and a popular hangout for Tokyo residents. It offers peaceful walks, relaxing picnics beneath its cherry trees, and stunning views across the capital city.
There’s also plenty to explore within its confines – Japanese gardens with streams that feed into ponds filled with vibrant carp fish, sports grounds offering kendo or even cycle polo on an old running track; plus food stalls serving traditional beef bowls as well as quirky snacks like OKONOMIYAKI-kon batting (stuffed pancake balls).
With regular events such as flea markets in summer months, live music during hanami parties over spring weekends, and international dance festivals throughout autumnal evenings – Yoyogi Park truly has something for everyone!
Japanese Cosplay on Sundays in Harajuku, 10 min walk from here.
See More: Gothic Lolitas And Maids: Japanese Cosplay
Love Hotels Hill – How Do You Recognize A Japanese Love Hotel? Think tacky and loud. Bright-lit neon signs with funny names, usually inspired by western love movies. Faux castle exteriors…Amenities typically include plenty of mirrors, large TVs with Karaoke and big bathtubs. Some of these hotels are themed and may come with costumes.
See More: Tokyo’s Love Hotels
Omotesando
Omotesando is a vibrant and stylish shopping street in Tokyo, Japan. Located near the famous Harajuku district, it’s known for its mix of luxury brands like Gucci and Louis Vuitton alongside Japanese fashion stores that offer unique clothing items from up-and-coming designers!
You can explore exclusive boutiques while taking in some of the city’s modern architecture found along this popular avenue.
Grab an ice cream cone or a bubble tea to cool off after hours spent browsing through all your favorite shops – Omotesando provides a great opportunity to relax amongst trendy locals as well as tourists alike looking for something special on their trip.
Whether you’re into high fashion or one-of-a-kind finds, this destination has everything you need for a memorable day out with friends exploring magical streets lined with iconic beauty.
Explore Harajuku
Explore Harajuku and discover a vibrant neighborhood filled with color, culture, and style. Located in Tokyo’s Shibuya ward it is the epicenter of Japan’s youth fashion movement. From hair salons to clothing stores dedicated solely to Lolita designs, you’ll find something that appeals to everyone who visits here. Unique shops like Body Line specialize in Gothic-Lolita attire while others offer traditional kimonos perfect for sightseeing around town.
Quirky cafes too are plentiful serving everything from pancakes shaped like pandas or takoyaki served up on sticks at stands along Takeshita Street – making your visit one for all senses!
Spend time exploring this unique area packed full of interesting people-watching opportunities as well as fantastic shopping experiences – there’s truly no better way than Explore Harajuku!
Takeshita Street
Takeshita Street is a popular shopping destination in the Harajuku district of Tokyo. It’s known for its mix of clothing, food, and entertainment outlets as well as trendy shops selling everything from vintage to Lolita fashion.
Every day thousands flock to Takeshita Street eager for an eclectic experience among its colorful surroundings. The street also hosts unique cultural events such as cosplay parades, performances by J-Pop stars, and themed art exhibitions that draw visitors from all over Japan (and beyond).
Despite being small in size—the entire length measures only 500 meters —Takeshita Street often feels like the center of Tokyo’s vibrant youth culture; unmissable if ever you find yourself exploring this incredible city!
Nezu Museum
The Nezu Museum in Tokyo is truly a one-of-a-kind experience. Aside from its impressively modern, airy architecture and beautifully landscaped grounds, it houses an impressive collection of art ranging from ancient artifacts found in Japan to traditional Japanese paintings dating back centuries ago.
Not only that but the collections vary greatly across age and power – offering something for everyone! With over 7,000 works consisting of sculptures made with bronze or clay; scrolls depicting landscapes or flowers; beautiful paintings featuring folding screens and walls hung with calligraphy sketches – all bound together by a dedication to quality few things can match this Gallery’s beauty & appeal .
This special place has become known not just as a top destination for cultural enrichment but also as a great spot for picnics surrounded by nature’s bounty-perfect finishing touch on any sightseeing day out!
Konno Hachimangu Shrine
One of the best things to do in Shibuya is to visit Konno Hachimangu Shrine. This shrine was built about 150 years ago and dedicated to the God of Happiness and has been a place for locals to come praying for good luck over the years.
Visitors from all walks of life can enjoy some cultural activities in this sacred space while feeling its serenity. There are several interesting rituals that visitors may participate in if they wish such as tying an omikuji (a fortune-telling paper) onto one of many emas placed on site or ringing their prayer bell inside the main building before offering prayers at the altar with incense sticks held between palms by clapping twice whilst sending imaginary smoke towards gods domain.
Whether it’s curiosity or genuine belief you hold within the heart when visiting here; the answer will surely be awaiting visitors soon enough!
Shibuya Nonbei Yokocho
Shibuya Nonbei Yokocho is Tokyo’s oldest and busiest drinking alley, filled with tiny bars, izakayas, hole-in-the-wall restaurants, and hidden gems.
This bustling inner city area has long been a favorite haunt for those looking to escape the hustle of downtown Shibuya.
Crammed full of patrons spilling out onto the street sipping on drinks from sake vendors or traditional Japanese taverns it’s an unmissable experience in Japan.
Additionally, visitors can savor some tasty yakitori skewers at one of many outdoor grills or chow down on delicious ramen noodles served up quickly by friendly staff members shouting their merits above all else!
Shibuya Center Gai
Shibuya Center Gai is a shopping and entertainment district located in Tokyo, Japan. It’s one of the city’s most popular hangouts for teens featuring hundreds of shops including fashion boutiques, restaurants & cafes.
During rush hour it gets extremely crowded with people who come to find the latest trends & enjoy all kinds of activities such as karaoke, billiards, or bowling alleys! At night time Shibuya becomes “the place” to be at while admirers can witness spectacular visuals from skyscrapers surrounding this incredible spot.
Spain-Zaka
Spain-Zaka Slope in Shibuya is a popular spot amongst tourists and locals alike. It’s renowned for its old Spanish-style architecture, allowing you to feel as if you’ve stepped into a different world right in the heart of Tokyo!
The slope itself begins at Bunkamura Street with red-tiled roofs reminiscent of Spain, before leading up towards love hotel hill. At the top there are charming cafes sitting alongside unusual shops – it’s here that people come to experience something truly unique during their visit to Japan.
If traveling through Shibuya be sure to get off at the Hachiko exit and take a stroll down the iconic Spain-zaka Slope – it will not disappoint!
Museum of Yebisu Beer
The Museum of Yebisu Beer Shibuya offers a unique and one-of-a-kind experience for beer lovers. It is the only museum dedicated to the history, production process, and culture of Japan’s oldest brand – YebisuBeer!
Not only can you learn all about this beloved drink at the interactive exhibits, but also enjoy tasting fresh sample beers produced on site as well as dining in an authentic Japanese setting while being surrounded by ancient artifacts related to brewing technologies from over 100 years ago.
Visitors can observe every step of how their favorite beer was created like inspecting vintage tools used during different periods used throughout its long history from 1887 until now.
This amazing venue not only allows visitors to appreciate more aspects of cultures beyond beverage consumption but it somehow does that so stylishly bringing emotions around quality drinks which makes them taste better yet savored with pleasure worthier than ever!
Shoto Museum of Art
The Shoto Museum of Art, located in the trendy district of Shibuya, Japan, is a true destination for art lovers. Not only does it boast an extensive permanent collection including classic Japanese works and international pieces from renowned artists like Monet and Picasso, but also dynamic special exhibitions throughout the year.
For example, its past show featuring sculptures by French artist Xavier Veilhan displayed life-sized figures across the museum’s spacious grounds – allowing visitors to contemplate their own physical presence amidst these artwork installations blurring boundaries between reality and illusion.
As such creative events keep happening all around this modern gallery complex; many regards The Shotō as one of most innovative museums worldwide showcasing brilliance every season!
Is Shibuya Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! Shibuya is one of the most popular destinations in Tokyo for good reason. It’s a vibrant and energetic city filled with fashion, shopping, dining, and entertainment that can’t be found anywhere else in Japan. The famous “Scramble Crossing” allows you to experience the hustle and bustle of Japanese life as people from across town are rushing to their various activities throughout the day.
Plus there’s nightlife districts like Dogenzaka where visitors can explore an endless array of restaurants serving up some delicious dishes blending traditional ingredients into modern flavors before heading out for drinks at any number bars or clubs around town. There’s something here for everyone so if your looking a great adventure check out this amazing place called Shibuya!
Shopping
Shibuya 109
a big shiny mall with more than 100 fashion boutiques that is hugely popular among Japanese teenage girls.
Shibuya 109 is a landmark building in Tokyo, Japan. It has become iconic for being the birthplace of modern Japanese fashion trends and styles—it’s also known as “the Harajuku of Shibuya.”
Inside its nine floors are over 100 stores that provide clothing selections from famous designers like Issey Miyake to up-and-coming streetwear brands catering to younger generations.
With cutting-edge designs ranging from Lolita and punk rock-inspired looks to more traditional kimono-style outfits, shoppers can find something unique no matter their tastes or budget level.
A trip there provides an experience unlike any other with not only great shopping but amazing food options too! Ramen shops line the streets surrounding it giving visitors a true taste of authentic Japanese culture at its finest!
Fantastic Department stores – like the huge Parco, Seibu, and Tokyu Hands, with reasonable prices compared to Ginza or Omotesando areas.
Fashion boutiques in the small alleys and sloping streets of the area.
Music shopping there’s no better place to explore Japanese pop and hip-hop than here. There are numerous record stores in the area but start at one of the big stores like Tower (the biggest in the world) or HMV.
See More: Best Spots For Tokyo Shopping
Nightlife – Clubs And Bars
La Fabrique (16-9 Udagawacho, Shibuya-ku). Parisian interior, with heavy red curtains and gilded mirrors.
Womb (2-16 Maruyamacho, Shibuya-ku). Probably the most famous of Tokyo clubs.
Karaoke – Thanks to the movie ‘lost in translation’ by Sofia Coppola everyone knows Karaoke now. There are a few options – a Karaoke bar, that’s where you sing in front of the whole crowd. The other option is a Karaoke box which is a private room you rent with your friends. The room is equipped with English and Japanese songs, microphones and a karaoke system. Karaoke – Japanese style – is the ultimate Tokyo nightlife experience. An unforgettable fun evening. It’s mad and it’s hilarious. You can find Karaoke Bars all over the area.
See More: Tokyo Nightlife
Restaurants
D47 SHOKUDO Shibuya
D47 SHOKUDO Shibuya is an exciting place to experience hearty Japanese cuisine. Located near the iconic scramble crossing and renowned shopping district, this unique eatery serves up a wide variety of affordable dishes made fresh each day – from ramen to gyoza! If you’re looking for something truly special, then you’ll be tickled pink by their ‘shiromaru classic’, which features slices of pork belly cooked in Tokyo-style soy sauce and served with green onion on top.
Even better: all meals come accompanied by either miso soup or white rice; pick your poison! After enjoying your delicious meal at D47 SHOKUDO Shibuya don’t forget to try one (or more!) of Japan’s favorite desserts like mochi ice cream or vanilla soft serve – it’s simply heavenly!
Esaki (B1 Hills Aoyama Bldg, 3-39-9 Jingumae). This three-star Japanese restaurant is one of the best-priced Michelin-rated eateries in Tokyo because it is open for lunch. The easiest way to try some of the Michelin restaurants without breaking the bank is to visit for lunch.
Ukai-Tei (Fifth Floor, 5-10-1 Jingu-mae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo). One of the best Tepanyaki restaurants in Tokyo, with antique interiors. The Tepanyaki chef prepares everything in front of your eyes. The 2009 Tokyo Michelin Guide awarded them one star.
Maison Paul Bocuse (Daikanyama Forum B1F17-16 Sarugaku-cho, Shibuya-ku). A Michelin-recommended French restaurant.
Coucagno (Sakuragaokacho 26-1, Cerulean Tower Hotel 40F). A French restaurant with amazing views of Tokyo Bay and Odaiba from the 40th floor.
See More: Tokyo Restaurants
Shibuya Hotels
Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel-from $370
The airport bus stops right at this hotel’s doorstep, so it’s practically a ‘door-to-door’ service. No carrying suitcases around. Your luggage is put on the bus, and off the bus straight into the hands of the hotel employees. Like many Tokyo hotels, this hotel is on the higher floors of an office building, so the views from the rooms are spectacular. Ask for rooms with Mt Fuji views. Great views from the Bar at the top of the hotel too.
The location is perfect – a few minutes walk from the subway station which has lines to pretty much anywhere in Tokyo.
Rates and Reviews: Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel Tokyo
See More: Tokyo Japan Hotel Deals: Cheap Hotel, Family Friendly, Romantic, And Business
Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu-from $250
The Narita limousine bus stops straight at the hotel. The hotel is connected underground to the Subway station and a walk away from restaurants, fast food chains, department stores, Karaoke bars, and clubs. Striking views from the hotel’s restaurant not only over the famous Shibuya crossing but also night views of Shinjuku. On clear days Mt Fuji can be seen too.
The elevators are see-through and they look down on the famous crossing.
Rates and Reviews: Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu
See More: Business Hotels in Tokyo
Subway
Shibuya is connected to all popular places to visit in Tokyo with the famous Yamanote Line and many other lines too.
Shinjuku, Harajuku, and Yoyogi Park are just minutes away on foot.
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Shibuya is a city full of energy and diversity, offering attractions for people from all walks of life. From shopping to sightseeing, there’s never a dull moment in this vibrant neighborhood.
Whether it’s exploring the renowned Shibuya Crossing or strolling through Yoyogi Park on sunny days, visitors are sure to find plenty of activities that will satisfy their curiosity and delight them with its unique offerings.
All these experiences help contribute to what makes Shibuya such an extraordinary place – one definitely worth visiting!
