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50 things to do in Shibuya

The best places to eat, shop and play in Tokyo’s buzziest neighbourhood – here's your guide to Shibuya

Shibuya: it's the 'hood with everything. Cutting-edge fashion boutiques, world-class nightclubs, unbeatable record shops, hip bars, dining options ranging from fancy washoku eateries to dirt-cheap diners – if you want it, you can probably find it here.

The area's also in the middle of a seemingly never-ending revamp, with new commercial complexes such as Miyashita Park , Shibuya Parco and Shibuya Scramble Square popping up around the busy station. With so much to choose from, where on earth should you start?

Read on for our essential Shibuya tips: the best places to shop, eat, drink and hang out in Tokyo's most eclectic neighbourhood. 

Note that due to Covid-19 safety rules , most restaurants, bars and other businesses are currently closing at 8pm.

RECOMMENDED: discover our guide to the 50 best things to do in Harajuku

1.  Brave the Shibuya Scramble Crossing

• Things to do

It ranks among the busiest pedestrian crossings on Earth – yet you may feel a strange sense of solitude descend as you make your way through the crowds.

2.  Wait longingly at Hachiko Square

• Attractions

Faithful mutt Hachiko spent nine years waiting for his master outside Shibuya Station, and is commemorated in a memorial service every April 8 at this still-popular meeting spot.

3.  See Shibuya from high in the sky at Shibuya Sky

Catch the best views of Tokyo at this 360° open-air observation deck at the rooftop of Shibuya Scramble Square . Shibuya Sky is approximately 230 metres above ground and is the highest point in the district of Shibuya. The ‘Sky Edge’, a corner where you can look down at the cityscape below without any obstruction, is a particularly good photo spot that provides a panoramic view of the city.

4.  Get into the gaming mood at Nintendo Tokyo

Considering ‘Donkey Kong’ came out nearly 40 years ago, it’s about time Japan finally got its own official Nintendo store. Located on Shibuya Parco’s Cyberspace floor, which is dedicated to otaku geeks, this outlet has everything a Nintendo fanboy or girl could ever dream of. Aside from the latest and most popular games, Nintendo Tokyo also offers a selection of merchandise you cannot find anywhere else.

5.  Update your tableware collection at Yumiko Iihoshi Porcelain

Ceramic artist Yumiko Iihoshi’s retail outlet carries her eponymous brand’s entire line, known for its simple yet classic design and impeccable blend of style and convenience. 

6.  Savour exquisite cocktails at The SG Club

Named after its founder, legendary bartender Shingo Gokan, The SG Club knows how to have fun with cocktails while still making seriously delicious drinks. This dual-bar venue made it to No 10 on the 2020  Asia's 50 Best Bars  list – when you spend an evening here, you'll see why.

7.  Dig into a sweet potato dessert at Tempura Motoyoshi Imo

• Restaurants

Tempura Motoyoshi is one of Tokyo’s most celebrated tempura specialists. A meal at this Michelin-starred restaurant in Minami-Aoyama could easily set you back ¥19,000. But if you want a little teaser before splashing out for an omakase dinner, drop by the restaurant’s offshoot at Daikanyama offering  deep-fried sweet potato tempura served with  salt-flavoured milk soft serve.

8.  Tour Japan through your tastebuds at D47 Shokudo

You can travel Japan in its entirety through your taste buds at this speciality restaurant in Shibuya Hikarie. The restaurant’s comprehensive menu features food and drink items from all 47 prefectures. You’ll want to check back frequently as the menu changes each month.

9.  Eat a little piece of the French countryside at Bistro Rojiura

Rojiura means ‘back alley’ and that’s where you’ll find this wonderfully casual restaurant – in a backstreet not far from Shibuya Station. A regular on the Michelin Guide’s Bib Gourmand list (although it missed out in 2021), the small eatery stocks a noteworthy selection of natural wine and is a great spot for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.

10.  Treat yourself to a seafood spread at Maguro & Deli Kadohachi

If you’re looking for fresh seafood, this takeaway shop in Daikanyama is the perfect place to order plates of sashimi, bento boxes and unique sushi offerings like Maguro Mille-feuille – multiple layers of tuna wrapped together in a sushi roll. The seafood is brought in fresh every morning from the Misaki Megumi Fisheries and you can customise your very own sashimi platter or seafood bowl with your favourite cuts of fish.

11.  Dine on fruit-heavy cuisine at Kiki Harajuku

• price 2 of 4

Hidden away in a quiet back alley just steps from the hustle and bustle of Harajuku lies Kiki, the domain of haute cuisine wizard Yuki Noda. With his love for fruit, he crafts French-inspired creative dishes, which go well with the Japanese wine on offer. Go for lunch, dinner, or opt for some of the fruity à la carte options.

12.  Shop like a sneakerhead at Sneakersnstuff

Sneakerheads will go into a frenzy when they see this three-building sneaker shop that's moved into Daikanyama's  Log Road . The space is now home to Sneakersnstuff, the Swedish-born sneaker empire that's taken the world by storm. The brand's seventh store worldwide and first store in Asia, the Tokyo shop features two unique buildings that almost feel like an art gallery and store merged together, as well as a tranquil café and terrace space.

13.  Enjoy music and a drink at Grandfather's

• Bars and pubs

Established 40 years ago, the aptly named Grandfather’s started out with a playlist style that was uncommon at the time, blending together rock LPs one song at a time. After all these years, the interior is still well maintained, giving off a rich ambience that’s appropriate for such a venerable bar and that lends an extra level of charm to the music.

14.  Become a Pokémon trainer at Pokémon Center Shibuya

The Pokémon Center Shibuya looks like the futuristic lab of the game’s Professor Willow. At the entrance, you’ll be greeted by a life-sized Mewtwo hibernating in a water tank, before you venture into a massive retail space filled with all your favourite Pokémon characters in every imaginable form.

15.  Pick up a vegan fruit sando at Fruits and Season

• Sandwich shop

Vegans rejoice! Although Japan’s famous fruit sandwiches might sound vegan-friendly, most use cream and sliced bread containing milk or eggs. But herbivores can tuck into these luxurious fruit sandwiches with egg- and dairy-free shokupan, filled with fruit and soy-based whipped cream.

16.  Snack on a rare treat at Kon

• Yoyogi-Uehara

This quaint café in a revamped traditional Japanese house serves up a distinctive menu of konnyaku inarizushi and kakigori shaved ice. Inarizushi are little pockets of deep-fried tofu stuffed with rice, but Kon takes this traditional dish up a notch by filling konnyaku (konjac) pockets with rice. This unique take on inarizushi originated in the Kumamoto region and is a rare treat to find in central Tokyo. During the warmer months, Kon also specialises in kakigori shaved ice topped with seasonal fruits, vegetables, herbs and spices. 

17.  Upgrade your lifestyle at Farmer's Table

Located on the fourth floor of a nondescript building in Ebisu, this spacious store houses everything from fashion, Chemex coffee equipment and door mats, to fine jewellery, antique glassware and other little trinkets. Clothing comes in the form of closet staples like simple T-shirts and hoodies, and even a selection of shoes.

18.  Pick up a book or two at Daikanyama Tsutaya Books

In a perfect world, all bookshops would be like this. Tokyo's Klein Dytham Architecture won an award at the World Architecture Festival for their work on Daikanyama T-Site, which is spread across three interlinked buildings adorned with lattices of interlocking Ts. That 'T' stands for rental chain Tsutaya, whose seemingly bottomless pockets helped fund the kind of book emporium that most capital cities can only dream of.

19.  Combine coffee with wagashi at Cobi Coffee Aoyama

This classy coffee shop inside the Bloom & Branch store in Aoyama invokes the atmosphere and techniques used in coffee shops of yore, drip coffee made with cloth filters included. Pair your cup of joe with traditional Japanese desserts like yokan jelly and castella cakes.

20.  Pair wine and music at Studio Mule

At this hideaway wine bar, owner Toshiya Kawasaki takes the Japanese concept of a listening bar – where the proprietor plays their own collection of records on a high-end audio system – and combines it with his love of natural wine.

21.  Slurp on quality noods at Menya Nukaji

This Udagawacho hotspot uses a rich, delicious gyokai tonkotsu broth made from simmering chicken, pork and seafood. The rich light-brown soup is packed with flavour and pairs well with the straight and firm noodles. The basic ramen starts at just ¥800, but for ¥1,200 you’ll get a bowl with all the trimmings including lightly seared chashu pork, menma bamboo shoots, a flavoured egg and green onions.

22.  Enjoy an old-school cup of coffee Satei Hato

• Coffeeshops

Stepping through the low, marble-tiled entrance, the first thing you’ll notice is the gorgeous tableware displayed behind a long hardwood counter. That’s not to say that the surroundings here outshine the coffee – on the contrary, Satei Hato’s hand-drip offerings maintain the absolutely highest quality. Choose from up to eight varieties of charcoal-roasted beans and watch as the formally dressed staff prepare your treat with almost religious dedication.

23.  Geek out underground at Mandarake

You don’t have to go all the way to Akihabara to get your otaku fix: this subterranean shop in central Shibuya is overflowing with manga, anime, collectable toys and more.  Serious collectors should stay tuned to the shop’s socials for store events and auctions where you can get your hands on rare finds.

24.  Drink the world on tap at Goodbeer Faucets

• Craft beer pubs

Like a craft beer bar on steroids, the awkwardly named Goodbeer Faucets has over 40 microbrews on tap, served in a slick chrome-and-concrete setting.

25.  Grab coffee and doughnuts at Higuma Doughnuts + Coffee Wrights

This light and airy café space situated behind the bustling streets of Omotesando and Harajuku is a mashup of two Tokyo institutions: Coffee Wrights and Higuma Doughnuts . Serving, well, coffee and doughnuts, we can’t think of a better combination to lift our spirits. The venue also offers plenty of seating, with indoor benches and tables in the sunken café space, as well as outdoor benches stretching out from the expansive floor-to-ceiling windows. 

26.  Visit the site where Shibuya got its name at Konno Hachimangu Shrine

• Religious buildings and sites

This quiet little shrine marks the spot where the aristocratic Shibuya family, believed to have given the area its name, once lived. The shrine is designated as a tangible cultural property by Shibuya ward and is also home to a number of treasures including a pair of lion masks carved by craftsman Hidari Jingoro and a mikoshi (portable shrine), which is used during festivals.

27.  Lick a long ice cream at Shiroichi

• Ice-cream parlours
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Shiroichi’s cones are something to marvel at. These soft serves are unusually long and thin, so you’ll want to devour yours quickly before it melts or topples over. That’s not hard to do, though – the fresh milk frozen treat is utterly irresistible.

28.  Eat some sophisticated soba at Ryan

Tokyo has no shortage of excellent traditional soba noodle restaurants. But for a creative and contemporary – yet entirely authentic – take on soba, visit Ryan in Shibuya.  The soba menu ranges from plain chilled soba served with a rich dashi-based dipping sauce to more complex offerings like hot soba with anago (sea eel) and vegetable tempura.

29.  Relax on a rooftop garden at Miyashita Park

• Shopping centres

The renovated   Miyashita Park   is another new addition to Shibuya’s ever-changing cityscape. Previously a public park located along the Yamanote line, this glitzy new three-storey building is home to a shopping mall, a variety of   restaurants   and cafés, hotel and spacious rooftop park.

30.  Hang out, Oslo-style at Fuglen Tokyo

Bringing some Norwegian flair to a remote corner of Shibuya, this bar and café serves top-notch coffee by day and classy cocktails at night. Like the retro furniture? You can buy that, too.

31.  Go vegan at Izakaya Masaka

Hidden among the cool restaurants of Shibuya Parco ’s Chaos Kitchen, this shitamachi (downtown) izakaya-style restaurant serves only vegan dishes. The main dish is the mock karaage made with soy meat instead of chicken, which comes in five different flavours including grated radish, Chinese black vinegar, Sichuan style hot and spicy, sweet and sour, and teriyaki mayonnaise.

32.  Dine at a restaurant run by robots at Pepper Parlor

Located on the fifth floor of  Shibuya Fukuras  in Tokyu Plaza Shibuya, this cutting-edge café-lounge is not about spicy food; it’s name is derived from Pepper, the adorable semi-humanoid robot created by SoftBank Robotics. Just head to the counter where Pepper will take your order (in Japanese, English and Chinese), as well as recommend dishes based on your current mood.

33.  Taste the kakigori revolution at Sebastián

Shaved ice meets cream cake at this restaurant that’s created their very own version of kakigori, which they call ‘dolce shaved ice’. Watching the owner expertly assemble his original Mango Shortcake kakigori is fascinating – layers of ice, mango syrup, whipped cream and mango pieces come together to form what looks exactly like a real cake.

34.  Bite into perfectly crisp katsu at Torikatsu Chicken

This hidden gem of a restaurant looks like it’s stuck in the ’70s, from its location in a forgotten back-alley building and old-school interior to its surprisingly low prices. It specialises in cutlets – meat and vegetables breaded with panko and deep fried. The popular set meal, which comes with a chicken cutlet, ham cutlet and croquette plus rice, miso soup and shredded cabbage, is only ¥700 – it’s arguably the best value meal in central Shibuya.

35.  Eat your way around the world at Eat Play Works

Located along Hiroo's main shopping street, this multi-purpose building boasts 16 restaurants spread over two floors, offering everything from Japanese and Mexican cuisine to specialities from Spain, Italy, France and the Middle East. Eat Play Works is also home to an outpost of the popular Blue Bottle Coffee shop.

36.  Marvel at world-famous art at Nanzuka 2G

An offshoot of Tokyo gallery Nanzuka Underground, 2G is located inside the trendy Parco shopping centre and is an art gallery and retail store offering cool collabs with some big name artists. Expect to find T-shirts and phone cases with prints by Hajime Sorayama, as well as collectables like Bearbricks and more.  The gallery space in the back shows a rotation of exciting Japanese and international artists including installations by Tetsuya Nakamura and contemporary pieces by Daniel Arsham.

37.  Show off your best hip hop moves at Harlem

Located in the same building as Club Atom, Harlem has been the mecca of hip-hop culture in Japan since the mid 1990s. If you want to see B-boys and fly girls shakin’ it, as well as some of Japan’s up-and-coming MCs, this is the spot. The tunes are basically straight-up rap with a little R&B mixed in. DJ Hazime and other well-known Japanese spinners often play here.

38.  Gaze at the stars at Cosmo Planetarium Shibuya

The high-tech digital projector isn’t the only modern convenience at this planetarium: some of the seats also rotate individually, allowing you to behold the cosmos at your own leisure.

39.  Snag sushi for a steal at Sushi Tokyo Ten Shibuya

Looking for an omakase sushi meal that won’t break the bank? Edo-style sushi specialist Sushi Tokyo Ten has one of the best deals in town. Don’t be put off by its classy décor; dinner omakase is just ¥7,000 a person, but the lunch set is an even bigger steal, coming in at just ¥3,850 a person.

40.  Fill up on takoyaki at Tempu

There are few things more satisfying than a fresh batch of takoyaki (octopus balls) after a long night of karaoke, best paired with a frothy cold beer. Tempu owner Masahide Sakuramoto is from Osaka, where the dish originates. He serves perfectly golden brown spheres fresh off the griddle in this brightly lit standing-only eatery where customers pour their own drinks and pass dishes to each other in cheerful comradery.

41.  Catch a cinematic concert at WWW

The tiered floor is a dead giveaway: WWW was an arthouse cinema before it found its current vocation as a gig spot. Sister venue WWW X upstairs boasts an even more powerful sound system.

42.  Spice up your eating adventures at Ryukyu Chinese Tama

This restaurant serves Okinawan and Chinese food but the taco rice they offer features Ozaki wagyu beef. Wine aficionados will appreciate the bottle-lined wall – the prices are written on the bottles so it’s easy to choose one that fits your budget.

43.  Enter a fashion fantasy at Archive Store

• Vintage shops

Hidden in a basement away from the busy streets of Shibuya, Archive Store is a treasure trove for fans of coveted Japanese and international designers such as Comme des Garçons, Yohji Yamamoto, Martin Margiela and Raf Simons. The store is worth a visit in its own right for its edgy, hyper-modern interior fitted with mirrored walls and a mysterious, dimly lit atmosphere. 

44.  Try out futuristic accommodation at The Millennials

Think of it as a 21st-century take on the capsule hotel: each guest stays in a tiny but comfy ‘smart pod’, complete with remotely adjustable lighting and recline, plus a projector for watching movies.

45.  Stock up on quality bread at Levain Bakery

• Yoyogi-Hachiman

One of the pioneers of Tokyo’s artisanal bread scene, Levain has been serving its wild-yeast leavened bread and baked goods since the ’80s. Located on the ground floor of a residential apartment block in Shibuya’s trendy Tomigaya district, the cosy, den-like brick bakery and adjacent cafe is inspired by ‘a mountain cottage at the border of France and Switzerland’.

46.  Peruse novelty knick-knacks at Tokyu Hands

From stationery to toilet-seat covers, this is the largest household goods store in Tokyo, packed with knick-knacks for the home. Particularly interesting is the party supplies section, which gives a unique glimpse into the Japanese sense of humour. It can be difficult to find your way around the multitude of floors, but getting a bit lost is part of the fun, right? 

47.  Stop and stare at 'The Myth of Tomorrow'

Lost for decades in Mexico, Taro Okamoto’s 30m-long mural was recovered and moved to a new home in 2008: the station concourse inside Shibuya Mark City. Sometimes compared to Picasso's Guernica , 'The Myth of Tomorrow' depicts the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki as an eruption of vibrant colours, centering around a skeletal figure caught in the blast.

48.  Sip on a seasonal cocktail at Ishinohana

• Cocktail bars

Seasonal cocktails are the speciality at Ishinohana, Shibuya's answer to the high-end cocktail bars of Ginza. At a basement location just a minute's walk from Shibuya Station, owner Shinobu Ishigaki wields an array of fresh fruit and vegetables when creating his distinctive drinks: a gin and tonic is enlivened with kumquat, a margherita gets an injection of housemade cassis confiture.

49.  Dance the night away at Womb

Womb is a top-flight club with a vast dancefloor, great lighting, a super-bass sound system and what claims to be ‘Asia’s largest mirror ball’. House, techno and drum ’n’ bass are the usual sounds here. Womb’s schedule is packed with foreign names, but DJ Aki (drum ’n’ bass) is one local hero who plays here.

50.  Play a round of ping pong at EST

A saving grace for fans of indoor recreation, EST Shibuya is a playground of ping pong tables, billiards and bowling alleys. There are four floors reserved for bowling alleys alone, where if you’re hungry you can order a snack from the touch panels available at every lane.

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11 Best Things to Do in Shibuya

Shibuya is Tokyo’s youth mecca, never short of shopping complexes, bars, art, music and — luckily for us — things to do.

We’ve got all the highlights covered — where to score the best views and souvenirs, how to beat (or join!) the crowds, and recommendations for digging into Shibuya’s famous nightlife and music scene.

Note: You don’t need a lot of money to explore Shibuya; a lot of things to see and do are on the streets.

1. People watch at Shibuya Crossing

2. say “hi” to the iconic hachikō statue, 3. spend the day with art at a gallery.

• 4. Reach new heights at Shibuya Sky (and others)

5. Hunt for music

6. shop ‘til you drop.

• 7. Fill up on cheap sushi

8. Climb a wall at Miyashita Park

9. have a beer down a boozy back alley.

• 10. Dance the night away at a club

11. Explore Love Hotel Hill

Honourable mentions.

Pro tip: Make new friends and experience the local nightlife on a bar-hopping tour of Shibuya . Or if you want to try some uber-cool Japanese whiskey bars, try a members-only whiskey bar tour .

We can’t talk about Shibuya without mentioning the mega-famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing , so let’s start this list off with a bang of neon colors.

Every few minutes at this massive, noisy intersection, traffic lights turn red and swarms of pedestrians battle to cross the road. This is the iconic shot you see in the movies and social-media posts about Tokyo. When you’re not gawping at all the folks weaving and dodging, you can watch the giant Times Square-style digital billboards playing ads and the latest J-pop sensations’ music videos.

Don’t feel like battling the crowds? Get a birds-eye view of the crossing from Mag’s Park Rooftop ( ¥ 1,500 incl. one-drink), at a restaurant or cafe around the intersection, or from one of the skyscrapers in the area. See our how to photograph Shibuya Crossing guide for more tips.

Cheapo hack : We're not known to recommend Starbucks, but the branch at Shibuya Crossing merits a mention because a) it's said to be the busiest in the world, and b) it provides a good viewpoint over the intersection.-->

It’s practically required that you snap a pic of loyal dog Hachikō at least once when you visit Shibuya, or perhaps offer him a Puppuccino.

Follow the paw prints at Shibuya Station and you’ll find Hachikō, Shibuya Station’s mascot. Hachikō is the dog that waited faithfully at the station every day for his guardian, a professor, to come home from work. After the professor died, Hachikō continued to wait in the same spot every day until his own death. Today, the statue is probably the most popular meeting spot in Japan (good luck finding your date in a sea of people trying to do the same).

Other cool sculptures in the area include the Moyai Head on the south side of the station (bonus: this is a favorite spot for buskers), the naked children playing on an iron globe near the west exit, and the girl holding fruit in Dōgenzaka.

Pro tip: Speaking of cute animals, also keep your eyes out for Shibuya’s adorable 3D Akita Inu and 3D panda billboards.

Want to see contemporary art without paying steep entry fees? Check out one of the free art spots around Shibuya Station. On the north side, Diesel Art Gallery charges nothing to see exhibits of talented domestic and international artists. By Shibuya River, Inari Bridge Square has many outdoor exhibitions to see as you walk on by.

Meanwhile, the eighth floor of shopping complex Shibuya Hikarie (appropriately called 8/) has several gallery and event spaces for contemporary Japanese art. Also visit Gallery X by Parco to see interesting works by fun pop artists; the entry fee depends on the exhibition but is usually ¥ 500 .

Pro tip: On the less shiny side streets of Shibuya, you can find plenty of unusual and creative stickers plastered on lampposts, as well as graffiti-decorated walls. While some might call this vandalism, we think it’s a pretty cool scene.

4. Reach new heights at Shibuya Sky (and other buildings)

In recent years, many skyscrapers have risen up in Shibuya. So high that they have created unmissable, 360-degree views of Tokyo . At the tippy-top of the list is Shibuya Sky , which is on the 47th floor of Shibuya Scramble Square . It has great views of Shibuya Crossing and Mt. Fuji . This experience costs ¥ 1,800 ; book tickets online in advance , but we genuinely think it’s worth it.

There are also some cheaper views closer to earth. Shibu Niwa rooftop terrace on the 17th floor of Tokyu Plaza has an amazing night view of Shibuya. It’s free to access between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m.; you’ll need to have dinner or drinks to stay longer than that, though. And to get a snap of the famous intersection, you’ll have to ask a staff member for special access.

Shibuya Parco (free) boasts a beautiful open rooftop and the 11th-floor Sky Lobby in Shibuya Hikarie also has no charge, but the panorama is a little far from the action.

Tokyo’s music scene is explosive, and much of that spark is found in Shibuya. There’s an underground scene here that sees alternative bands playing backstreet shows. Crate diggers can also find plenty of records (new and old ) — be sure to check out our top recommendations .

You could also give Tower Records a visit. The store is still going strong in Japan, and offers a line-up of free mini-live shows almost every day of the week. These could be acoustic strumming, classical piano concertos, or full-on stage shows with strobe lights in the basement.

When in Shibuya, do as the locals do and shop, shop, shop. Places like Mega Don Quijote (which, by the way, is excellent for souvenirs ) are just too hard to resist. Also good for souvenir hunting are the emporiums of miscellanea Tokyu Hands and Loft . They sell all kinds of stationery, fun kitchen gadgets, and beauty supplies.

The most famous shopping destination in all of Shibuya is Shibuya 109 . For decades, Tokyo teens (and their suburban counterparts) have flocked to this beacon of trendy, fast fashion.

Department store Shibuya Parco is another local fashion landmark. The brands here skew a bit more high fashion — which makes it a great place to check out the latest looks — but there’s also a Nintendo boutique (something for everyone, right?).

Then there are the malls, like Shibuya Scramble Square , the aforementioned Tokyu Plaza , and Hikarie . These are part of Shibuya’s redevelopment and have neat design and architecture. Shibuya Modi’s overgrown entrance and the local Disney Store are also unique sights.

7. Go for sushi

Shibuya has become a destination for delicious, and (important to us) reasonably priced sushi . If you are looking for a true in-and-out Japanese experience, then try Standing Sushi Uogashi Nihonichi .

Tired legs and prefer to sit? There are some excellent kaiten-zushi — sushi counters where plates of sushi come round on conveyor belts — here, too. Katsu Midori is quite literally considered one of the best in the city, though there is usually a queue. Tenkazushi , in Dōgenzaka, meanwhile, is known to be a fantastic bargain.

Here’s some more budget sushi inspiration (including Shibuya suggestions, and some further afield). Sushi not your thing? Have some cash (but not much)? Then here are a handful of affordable Shibuya lunch spots with sets under ¥ 1,000 .

Miyashita Park is much more than just a shopping complex. On its roof, you’ll find a bouldering wall, a skate park, and a sand court (used for sports such as beach volleyball and soccer). There’s also plenty of space to hang out (and many do) late into the evening. Catch seasonal events, such as winter illuminations, or a party or two in event space Or .

At the base of the building, you’ll also find a sprawling yokocho, more on that below .

When sunset hits and lanterns start flickering on, it’s time to head to Shibuya’s signature retro drinking strip: Nonbei Yokochō . This yokochō — the word for side streets filled with tiny bars and restaurants — has been around for more than 70 years, and its vintage Shōwa-era style is a big part of the appeal. Incidentally, “nonbei” means “drinker” in Japanese, which gives you an idea as to the clientele and atmosphere.

A lot of people compare Nonbei to Golden Gai in Shinjuku, but we’ll let you be the judge. Like Golden Gai, there are some cheap-ish places to eat and drink here and some not-so-cheap places (though it can be a little hard to tell from the outside).

Miyashita Park also has a yokochō. Spilling out onto the street, these restaurants aren’t considered the best of Shibuya’s food scene, but they are a chill spot to have a drink in the open-air and take in the ambience of Shibuya. Add to the list Shibuya Parco’s basement floor, which is filled with interesting izakaya (including vegan and insect options ).

10. Dance the night away

The two top club spots in Tokyo are Roppongi and — you guessed it — Shibuya. Once the shops pack up, hordes of young people flock to the Dōgenzaka area to release their inhibitions and let loose. There are plenty of pre-club all-you-can-drink deals to be had in the surrounding vicinity, so you can be well-lubricated (and save on those pricey drinks) before going inside.

Some clubs offer discounted admission if you arrive by, say 11 p.m. We recommend Harlem for hip-hop and R&B lovers; if EDM is more your thing, check out Club Camelot .

You may also enjoy a night of karaoke at one of Shibuya’s endless establishments, like this one from Lost in Translation .

If you’re interested in wacky architecture or just some titillation, take a walk around the famed Love Hotel Hill in Shibuya’s Dōgenzaka area. Comparison shop; dodge the guys trying to attract customers looking for cheap sex , peep shows, and “soap lands” (aka sexy massage parlors); and marvel at the cool, retro coffee shops and bars that are stuck in between. One thing though: if you’re actually looking to partake of a room, give our guide to love hotels a read first. Not all are made equal.

Join a ramen tasting tour

There’s no doubt that ramen is one of the most popular Japanese foods, but with so many different kinds out there it can be hard to choose what to try. But if you join this ramen tasting tour , you won’t have to. You can try mini bowls of six different kinds of ramen while exploring Tokyo with an expert, local guide.

Dress up as your favorite superhero and zoom around in a go-kart

Go-karting around Tokyo is undoubtedly one of the most popular tourist activities (and one of the least popular with the locals!). It makes for a fun and memorable group activity — dress up and have your photo taken cruising across Shibuya crossing, driving around Harajuku and beyond.

Whilst there’s several go-karting providers across the city, this highly-rated go kart provider in Shinjuku covers a route through Shibuya. NB: You need an international driving permit, or driving license suitable for Japan.

Make memories on a bar-hopping tour

Get the real Shibuya nightlife experience by following a local guide’s expertise. Hop on a tour and find underground bars and izakaya you’d never have found yourself.

We’ve reviewed a Shibuya bar hopping and izakaya experience to give you an insight on what to expect — spoilers: lots and lots of alcohol.

Dress up for Halloween

If you happen to be in town near the end of October then you’ve got to stick around for Halloween in Shibuya — it’s a whole other level of crazy. As of 2023, note that the infamous street celebrations have been effectively banned, but if still you want to dress to impress, check out some of the other many Halloween events in the area .

If you’re not done yet, why not combine your Shibuya explorations with our DIY walking tour from Shibuya to Harajuku? It’s nearby, so you might be interested in our Things to do in Harajuku guide, too.

This post first published in 2014. Last updated in November 2023, by Alex Ziminski.

閱讀中文版本: 東京渋谷十大必玩推介

• Shibuya Parco
• Shibuya Stream
• Hachiko Memorial Statue
• Shibuya Scramble Crossing
• Hikarie8 Art Gallery
• Parco Gallery X
• Tower Records Shibuya
• Diesel Art Gallery
• Shibuya Scramble Square
• Tokyu Plaza Shibuya
• Inari Bridge Square
• Shibuya Nonbei Yokocho
• Mega Don Quijote, Shibuya
• Disney Store – Shibuya
• Shibuya Hikarie
• Shibuya 109
• Tokyu Hands – Shibuya
• Loft – Shibuya
• Miyashita Park
• Restaurants
• Standing Sushi Uogashi Nihonichi Shibuya Centergai
• Tenkazushi Shibuya Dogenzaka
• Katsu Midori Seibu Shibuya
• Art galleries
• Department store
• Featured-shibuya
• Love hotels

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30 Cool & Quirky Things to Do in Shibuya, Tokyo’s Iconic Area!

Shibuya achieved iconic fame with its appearance in Lost in Translation , with Scarlett Johansson crossing Shibuya Crossing, amongst other scenes based in and around this vibrant area. Since then, everyone has been angling for the lists of the best things to do in Shibuya . Shibuya has become a place of pilgrimage for millions of tourists who were intrigued by this movie, and by Japanese culture. Many spots in Shibuya offer the perfect selfie or Instagram moment, or for hard-core shoppers, you can shop until you drop. There are culinary experiences everywhere you look. And of course, there are places just to sit and take in the hustle-bustle of daily life. Join us as we share 30 fun and exciting things to do in Shibuya , Tokyo's iconic area!

In this article: ・ 1. Eat your way through Tokyo! Shibuya Dining recommendations for foodaholics ・ 2. Amazing sights and sounds you will never forget – A Japanese world which is unforgettable ・ 3. I have never tried that before! World-leading experiences ・ 4. Night-time Shibuya – one of the best areas for night larks! ・ 5. Get gifts for mom, dad, brothers, sisters, children, relatives, friends, me, my pet, and more!

Eat your way through Tokyo! Shibuya Dining recommendations for foodaholics

1. eating wagyu is a must when in japan.

Japanese wagyu beef is meat whose reputation just keeps growing and growing, and generally served at very high prices abroad! However, in Japan, the prices are a bit more reasonable, and at restaurants like Ushigoro Bambina, Motsukichi, and Henry’s Burger, you can indeed have a taste bud-exploding meal. Wagyu beef is really like no other beef, and once you try it, you will understand why, and with the above restaurant recommendations, you don’t need to break the bank to get a bite!

2. Feed your belly – and your eyes, with stunning Shibuya night views

One stop away from Shibuya brings you to Omotesando. This luxury shopping district is also famous for its modern architecture , and with that architecture , you can find amazing restaurants that offer the perfect view of the city. Of course, the food is delicious too, but you might find your eyes wandering to the windows, again and again, enthralled by the tantalizing view. Some restaurants, like Vino Buono, only have limited window-side tables, so a reservation is an absolute must, but others like Franzuya, Two Rooms Grill, and Mercer Café Terrace House have terrace seating. You will have to keep reminding yourself to take your eyes off the view and eat!

3. Walk up a hunger - then chow down at one of Shibuya's buffet restaurants!

One of the best aspects of Shibuya is its sheer variety and volume of restaurants, and after a big day of sightseeing, you got to have a big meal! Being a tourist in Tokyo will certainly clock up your calorie counter, but one of the things to do in Shibuya is checking out an all-you-can-eat restaurant! One thing to remember about Japan is that regardless of the price, people want tasty food, so while all-you-can-eat in a different country can be a bit disappointing in the taste bud department, in Japan, your taste buds will be ignited! Check out some of our recommendations in the link below.

4. Traveling Japan on a budget? Grab dinner at one of Shibuya’s incredible cheap restaurants!

Drinking and dining in Shibuya can be a little pricey; however, a visit to here doesn’t mean you have to eat at a convenience store to save money. Some restaurants cater to all budgets, including ones that cost less than $10! Meshiya Tajibei has a variety of low-fat meals, which are both filling and cheap, while Yanbaru Shibuya brings Okinawan food straight to your belly, all for under 1,000 yen (including tax). Head over to Torikatsu Chicken for a more indulgent dinner where the teishoku (set meal) comes with rice, miso soup, and you can choose two fried items for 650 yen, three items for 800 yen and four items for 1,000 yen (including tax).

5. Savor some of Shibuya's Tonkatsu – magical fried meat which you can never get enough of

This fried pork cutlet is an everyday staple for eating at home and out at restaurants, and in combination with rice, cabbage, and a dark sauce similar to Worcester sauce, yet distinctively not, it is very delicious! The best thing about this dish is that you don’t need to break the bank to get a bite, and in Shibuya , some restaurants serve up tonkatsu for less than 1,500 yen so that you can combine a visit to this area with some great food.

6. Sample perfectly balanced bubble tea in Shibuya!

Although the popular style of bubble tea originated in Taiwan, it has really taken off around the world, and it will come as no surprise that you can find some of the best bubble tea around in Tokyo. In Shibuya , you will find the relatively new store of the Alley Lujiaoxiang. This store is oozing in modern design while serving up delicious bubble tea with ingredients imported straight from Taiwan.

7. Order up some 'high-speed' food at Japan's new-style conveyor sushi - Exciting thing to do in Shibuya!

Dining in Shibuya - but with a twist! At Uobei Sushi , you can try the truly Japanese phenomenon of conveyor sushi , with a difference! Here you order what you want to eat on a tablet, and then you wait for your train or car to arrive – literally. The food arrives on a conveyer belt on a stylized tray, which looks like trains from around Japan and race cars. Rather than having the food endlessly go-round on a conveyer belt, you can feel that your food is fresh, and enjoy the unique novelty of having it delivered by train!

8. Grab a bowl of Japan’s world famous ramen – A taste explosion for your mouth

Ramen has seen an explosion in popularity around the world in recent years, but you really need to try it in Japan to get a real authentic taste. Japan is after all the home of ramen , and this is one big thing to do in Shibuya , as you can come face to face with ramen made by true masters. Seitokudo has a great variety of ramen , plus some delicious desserts. At the same time, Tonari is famous for its oyster ramen , and the ramen of Kichitora is so renowned that it has opened stores overseas. There are, of course, many ramen restaurants in Japan, but Shibuya , with these three restaurants and many more, is an excellent place to start.

Amazing sights and sounds you will never forget – A Japanese world which is unforgettable

As with any mega-city, from its bustling neon streets to scenic outlying areas, Shibuya 's a town filled with 'people moments.' People watching just might top your list of things to do in Shibuya !

9. Discover the true story of Hachiko, the statue outside Shibuya Station

Thanks to this famous statue outside Shibuya Station, and also to movies like Richard Gere’s movie Hachi: A Dog’s Tale , which was adapted from the true story of Hachiko, this loyal pooch has become one of the most famous in the world. In 1924 Professor Hidesaburo Ueno took in an Akita Inu dog, which he named Hachiko, and they got into a routine of the dog waiting for the professor every day at Shibuya Station. However, one day the professor died while at work, but Hachiko continued to wait. Heartbreakingly, he waited every day for over nine years. Today his statue stands by the station in tribute to Hachiko, waiting still for Hidesaburo.

10. Walk in a bamboo forest

Admittedly not in Shibuya central, but only a 20-minute train and bus journey from Shibuya Station, the Suzume-no Oyado Ryokuchi Park has a gorgeous bamboo forest , which was planted over 200 years ago. There is something quite special about bamboo forests , and here you can wander around to your heart’s content and enjoy the extraordinary sight that only bamboo can offer. In one corner of the park , there is also a restored traditional Japanese house.

11. ‘Swim’ in the Shibuya Scramble Crossing and watch the hypnotic movement of people

At Shibuya Crossing, you can see for yourself the famous sight of hundreds of people converging and dispersing over this crossing over and over again. It has become so infused with images of Tokyo that it’s rare for a movie set in Tokyo not to show this crossing. You can also watch it from cafes and shops nearby, from whichever angle to try you will get a great photo – just try not to get in the way of the busy commuters and shoppers!

12. Enjoy a stroll around Yoyogi Park - a natural park near the surroundings of electric Shibuya

When people think of what to do in Tokyo , taking in a quiet park visit might not come to mind. Yoyogi Park is three minutes away from Harajuku Station, which amidst the very urban setting of the Shibuya area, offers up the third largest park in Tokyo. It is quite the contrast, and to a certain extent, bit of a relief, compared to the hustle-bustle of Shibuya . It's a definite must on things to do in Shibuya . At this large park , you can get away from it all and enjoy nature at its best, especially during cherry blossom season when its 730 cherry trees start blooming.

I have never tried that before! World-leading experiences

13. go and see a real baseball game a treat for fans and non-fans alike.

Jingu Stadium is just a couple of stops away from Shibuya , and here, in this massive 30,000 seater venue, you can see a real baseball game. Baseball is a big sport in Japan, and it is enjoyable to watch regardless of whether you are familiar with this sport or not. On top of the sport itself, at this stadium, you can enjoy great food and drinks, and during the summer months, there are firework displays. Tickets can be bought online via an English language website.

14. Do an all-nighter - Shibuya is the best place to spend the night!

As the evening draws in and Tokyo’s subway comes to a finish, people who are out on the town have to make a difficult decision: go home or spend the night out! For many people, the choice is made for them when they realize they missed their last train, but never fear for Shibuya never sleeps. It is brimming with late-night izakayas, karaoke parlors, internet cafes , and more. If you have to or want to spend the whole night out, then Shibuya is the place for you.

15. Enjoy a whirlwind 48 hour tour which includes Shibuya

Thinking of what to do in Tokyo ? Even if you are only in town for a short time, you can go on an amazing whirlwind tour of Tokyo, which includes Shibuya as its last stop. You can take in the best spots around this amazing city while saving the best for last. You will indeed be tired by the end, but you will have memories to cherish forever. This tour gives you a fair bit of free time in Shibuya , and it is also one of the best places to have that last drink or meal.

16. See in the New Year in one of the most iconic locations in the world

Most Japanese people return to their hometowns for New Year’s Eve and get ready for a long evening of food, drink, and TV, but increasing numbers of young people have been coming to Shibuya to celebrate the end of the year. They are attracted to all the restaurants and bars in this area, but most of all, there is nothing more iconic than bringing in the New Year at Shibuya Crossing! The road is closed from 10:30 pm, and a stage is erected, and soon enough, the streets are filled with the pounding of thousands of streets. It will undoubtedly be a night never to forget!

17. Join an authentic Japanese tea ceremony – tradition against the backdrop of Tokyo’s bright lights

There are places in Shibuya , which, amidst all the excitement and electric atmosphere of this bustling area, also point back to Japan’s roots. And, there are perhaps a few things which are as traditional as a real Japanese tea ceremony . At Komaba Waraku-An, you can experience this ceremony and be transported back in time. It serves as a real reminder of how deep Japanese culture is. Experience the rules, customs, and of course, the tea from a true tea master at this beautiful tea house.

18. Get pushed! You can’t visit Japan without enjoying the challenge of riding a crowded train!

If there is one thing that Japan’s subway is famous for, it has to be how crowded they can be, whereas in other countries if a train is crowded, while still giving people a sense of some personal space, no one else will get on, in Tokyo things are slightly different. If there is room to breathe, then there is space for more bodies! By now, YouTube videos of people being packed into trains are well-viewed, and it is undoubtedly an experience to try – though in general, it is best to avoid. The truth is that you don’t need to try and set out to experience this. At one point or another, it will just happen to you. If you happen to want to ride the Denentoshi Line early in the morning towards Shibuya , then you had better be prepared!

19. Get a Japanese "Gyaru" Makeover at Shibuya's Ganguro Café

The 90s subculture of ganguro girls is still alive and well in Shibuya , and even more so at the Ganguro Café. This café serves up delicious food treats and drinks; all served by ganguro girls. This subculture took off before the turn of the millennium and featured tanned skin and colorful makeup, which seems to take a long time to prepare. However, this isn’t just a café to get up close with ganguro girls, who can also get a full makeover for 6,500 yen to look like a ganguro girl.

20. Have a cup of coffee with a gorgeous little animal at one of Tokyo’s famous animal cafes

Animal cafes have taken off in Japan, and that comes as no surprise as what could be better than a cup of coffee with a cute little animal. There are a variety of cafes around Tokyo, including owl and rabbit cafes , and in Shibuya , you can try perhaps one of the most elegant cat cafes around - Cat Cafe MoCHA. Just remember you can’t take the cats home!

21. Take a lesson and become a true taiko drummer

Taiko drumming looks as fun as it appears! It is also quite the workout. Today taiko drum performers travel the world showing off their skills, and in Shibuya , you can try it out for yourself and see for yourself what it takes to become a performer. At TAIKO-LAB, there are different kinds of classes just waiting for their future taiko drummer stars.

22. Discover a different (virtual) reality in Shibuya!

While walking Shibuya ’s streets can feel like a different reality in itself, you can enter another reality at Tyffonium Shibuya ! At this ground-breaking venue, you can experience two kinds of virtual reality, the ‘corridor,’ which is a 30-minute horror attraction that costs 2,400 yen (tax included) and ‘fluctus,’ a 20-minute fantasy world where you travel by ship (2,000 yen). There aren’t many people who can say that they have experienced a different reality while enjoying the extraordinary reality of Shibuya !

Night-time Shibuya – one of the best areas for night larks!

23. get your pre-game on at the shibuya oiran warm up bar.

Shibuya is a hot spot for clubbing, and there is nowhere better to start your night then at the Shibuya Oiran. It opened in 2010 and has quickly become the venue of choice for DJs and clubbers in the know, the first floor offers a quite unusual stand-up bar – which is in contrast to most Japanese bars and izakayas, which are usually sit down only, or have minimal space for standing customers. While on the second floor you can sit down and have something to eat.

24. Drink and eat with the surroundings of traditional Tokyo in a unique izakaya

Iwao is an izakaya that imparts the feeling of an old onsen , and indeed it is located in a building that is over 70 years old. The exterior has a modest appearance, as if it is hiding nothing, but step inside and you will find a treasure house of old wooden beams amidst the bustle of a popular restaurant. There is a cover charge of 432 yen, but you can eat and drink until 1 am at the weekend, and the food is so delicious that you probably will be here until 1 am!

25. Try a taste of old Tokyo at Shibuya Dagashi Bar!

Shibuya Dagashi Bar is wholly original and perfect for anyone who likes a drink and has a sweet tooth. Here you can enjoy over a hundred types of candy alongside a drink, and the table charge, for two hours. They have reproduced the atmosphere of an old-style sweets shop, and the food menu as well includes dishes which are favorites with children. It is an Instagramable bar and quite unique!

26. Relax over some great drinks in some of the most happening places in Tokyo

Shibuya has several great places for relaxed eating and drinking, and at locations like Ningen Kankei and Café Bohemia, you will feel all of your stress melt away. Ningen Kankei is brilliant for snacks with a slow drink; you can sit back and take it easy. Meanwhile, Café Bohemia has Shibuya ’s largest open terrace and is perfect for a meal, and on Tuesdays and Thursdays, a belly dance show !

27. Go clubbing like you have never gone clubbing before

If you want to go clubbing in Japan, then you need to go clubbing in Shibuya , it doesn’t matter what day of the week it is, or what time of year it is, there will be something going on somewhere. It also doesn’t matter what kind of music you are into; you will find a club that suits your tastes. Shibuya ’s Womb offers some of the best EDM, Drum n Bass, and Techno crowds, while Club Asia has a mix of techno and house music. There is a lot of scope for exploration in Shibuya , and it will be a night you will never forget.

Gifts for mom, dad, brothers, sisters, children, relatives, friends, me, my pet, and more!

28. get food souvenirs for friends back home.

Tokyo has a lot of department stores , and each one is full of food gifts, but how many can say that they have a hundred sweets and food sets from across the country? Shinjuku Takashimaya can lay claim to this boast, and here you can feast your eyes upon amazing treats in all shapes and forms. This place is especially perfect if you have visited other places in Japan and forgot to buy souvenirs as you will probably find something here, and we won’t tell anyone if you don’t!

29. Discover the latest best Japanese cosmetics at Loft

Loft is a chain of stores that sell a wide range of items, including some quite random things, but also, they have a great selection of cosmetics, with many at a great low price. Shibuya Loft is just a couple of minutes from Shibuya Station and is massive. It has seven floors which are full of things-which-I-want-to-buy, and of course on the second floor, if you can make it that far, you will find their brilliant cosmetics range.

30. Explore Tokyo’s amazing fashion scene – add a few Shibuya outfits to your wardrobe!

Trendsetters are probably already aware of where they need to go in Japan to see the latest fashion, and it all starts with SHIBUYA109. This department store opened in 1979 and has over 120 shops that cover every aspect of fashion, and every trend. Even if you don’t want to buy anything, it is still a treat to explore these shops, and without doubt, you will end up buying something anyway!

Written by: Mike Sullivan

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17 Top Things to Do in Shibuya with My Ideal Itinerary

Thinking about what things to do in Shibuya on your Tokyo visit this year? Well, you’ve come to the right place because I’ve picked out the top things for you to do there !

Shibuya is a place that truly deserves to be added to everyone’s Tokyo itinerary . Its countless shops, restaurants, and entertainment spots make it a popular destination that many travellers visit every year.

So, allow me to guide you through the 17 best things to do and see in Shibuya , including how to arrange them into your itinerary . 😊

Explore Shibuya: Key Things to Do in This Iconic Spot!

1. spend time at the shibuya scramble square, 2. catch the shibuya crossing, 3. drive a go-kart in shibuya streets, 4. drop by disney store, 5. explore the shibuya center-gai, 6. pay a visit to hachiko statue, 7. check out nintendo tokyo in shibuya parco, 8. dine in at uobei shibuya dogenzaka, 9. go shopping at shibuya 109, 10. wander through miyashita park, 11. savoring shibuya yokocho cuisine, 12. enter the famous mega don quijote, 13. look into the matsumoto kiyoshi, 14. order a ramen at ichiran shibuya, 15. pop by abc-mart grand stage, 16. shop at daiso, 17. get around muji shibuya, my suggested itinerary for shibuya, things to do in shibuya, tokyo (map), related posts.

If you’re looking for exciting things to do , don’t miss the iconic Shibuya Scramble Square !

This modern skyscraper offers a Shibuya Sky Observation Deck on its top floor, which promises awe-inspiring, unobstructed views of Tokyo .

The scenery from the observation deck is exceptionally stunning , making it an ideal spot for photography , especially during the nighttime.

You definitely won’t regret visiting this place.

Tip: To guarantee your entry to SHIBUYA SKY Observation Deck, I highly recommend buying your SHIBUYA SKY tickets here in advance, as they sell out quickly.

SHIBUYA SKY consists of 3 sections: SKY GATE, SKY STAGE, and SKY GALLERY.

• SKY GATE: Start the adventure by buying your tickets at level 14. Then, ride the lift that leads you to level 45. From there, take the escalator going to level 46, where you’ll see the famous observation areas―Sky Stage and Sky Gallery.
• SKY STAGE: Experience breathtaking views of Shibuya’s skyline from this outdoor observation area. You can also spot Shinjuku , Mount Fuji , Tokyo Tower, and more. Don’t miss to see the busy Shibuya Scramble Crossing with lots of people crossing the road.
• SKY GALLERY: Explore the renowned indoor observation area for panoramic city views and interactive exhibits showcasing Shibuya. And lastly, pop by the cafe & bar lounge and simply relax. This is a great location to just unwind while witnessing the stunning cityscape.

It is impossible to cover top things to do in Shibuya without mentioning the world-renowned Shibuya Crossing .

This popular spot often appears in many Tokyo social media posts due to its immense popularity .

It has even appeared in many international movies like Resident Evil: Afterlife, Lost in Translation, and The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift.

Try joining the crowd and cross this busy intersection road for a fantastic experience.

You can also capture the bustling crowd as they cross this busy intersection in a fast-paced manner.

Want a unique and thrilling way to explore Shibuya ? Driving a go-kart is the way to go!

Feel the thrill as you drive across the famous Shibuya Crossing and through the cool areas of Harajuku and Omotesando .

But there’s more! Dress up as a superhero or cartoon character and stand out on the streets!

People will smile, wave, and even take photos of you as you drive by. It’s a great way to see the city and enjoy a special experience all at once .

So why wait? Book your go-kart adventure here and enjoy the ride!

A trip to Shibuya should include visiting the Disney Store . Inside this miniature version of the Tokyo Disneyland castle, you’ll discover many amazing finds .

Navigate all 3 floors that feature a spiral staircase―like those in fairy-tale movies. Each floor is filled with various Disney-related items.

Check out some adorable Chipmunk , Donald Duck , Mickey Mouse , and Minnie Mouse stuffed toys.

Tip: Make sure bring your passport to the Disney Store to access tax-refund services on purchases over 5,000 yen (before tax).

Shibuya Center-gai is the place to go for shopaholics . It’s an iconic shopping street lined with various shops from one corner to another.

Here, you’ll find top fashion stores and local clothing stalls , such as ZARA, H&M, and Uniqlo.

It’s not just a shopping paradise but also a foodie destination .

Hundreds of restaurants are scattered around the area for you to explore , offering delicious local Japanese cuisines and snacks.

You’ll find sushi, ramen, and even fast-food options lining the street.

Don’t forget to check out the Hachiko Statue !

It’s a statue of a loyal dog named Hachiko , known for waiting at Shibuya Station every day for nine years for his owner , even after his owner had passed away.

The statue is a sweet reminder of the deep bond between dogs and their owners , symbolizing love and loyalty.

Be sure to capture the moment with a photo beside the world’s most devoted dog !

On your list of things to do in Shibuya , don’t miss out on Nintendo TOKYO , especially if you’re a Mario fan.

Located on the 6 th floor of Shibuya PARCO , the store offers exclusive merchandise featuring Nintendo favourites like Mario, Zelda, and Splatoon .

You can browse through apparel, accessories, stationery, and plushies , with some being limited-edition items only available at this flagship store .

The store itself is a visual delight, featuring life-sized statues of Mario and Splatoon characters . These provide fantastic photo opportunities , allowing you to capture memories of your visit .

So, remember to add Nintendo TOKYO to your Shibuya itinerary — you won’t regret it!

Adjacent to it, the Capcom Store offers merchandise from Megaman and Street Fighter , while a nearby Pokemon Center caters to all your Pokemon shopping needs.

For the best and freshest sushi to eat in Shibuya , go directly to Uobei Shibuya Dogenzaka .

The options here are amazing . And the best part? They are budget-friendly for every sushi lover . For just 110 yen , you’ll enjoy a platter of fresh, appetizing sushi!

This high-tech restaurant offers digital ordering through multi-language tablets , available in English, Korean, Chinese, and Japanese .

Once you’ve finished ordering, your food will be conveniently delivered via a high-speed conveyor belt .

The picture above shows some of the sushi I’ve tried during my visit.

All of them are very delicious but my personal favourites are the salmon sushi and Bluefin tuna sushi. So, make sure you try these two when you visit this famous sushi restaurant.

Shibuya 109 is a famous destination for fashionistas and trendsetters eyeing for the latest fashion trends !

There are 10 floors inside this popular building. Each floor features different trendy options, mostly for ladies’ fashion needs and other stuff.

Over 120 shops offer the latest fashion items, including apparel, bags, shoes, accessories, and more!

All these items are reasonably priced so you better prepare your budget ahead so you can buy everything you need.

Just across the Shibuya 109 is another fashion destination―but for men. So, after you shop at this iconic spot, hop over to 109 Men’s!

Once you get to Miyashita Park near Shibuya Station, there’s a variety of activities to engage in.

Start by exploring the beautifully landscaped green spaces located at the top of the building , where you can relax and perhaps enjoy a picnic .

For a unique experience, try the bouldering wall , where you can engage in some light climbing activities.

When hunger strikes, Miyashita Park doesn’t disappoint; it boasts a food court and several cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a variety of delicious meals and snacks.

Craving an authentic Japanese food experience? Shibuya Yokocho is your go-to spot.

As you wander through narrow walkways lined with unique bars and restaurants , you’ll notice each has its own special atmosphere .

With 19 eateries available , each offers a special taste of traditional Japanese cuisine.

Here, not only you can enjoy local ramen, rice bowls, gyoza, yakitori, and fried chicken , but also explore more of Japan’s beloved soul food.

Indeed, every spot promises a unique and delightful taste adventure!

One of the great things you can do while in Shibuya is shopping at Mega Don Quijote .

This is a well-known discount store in Japan among both locals and travellers.

Though there are several stores in the country, the one in Shibuya is the biggest of them all .

You’ll find a wide selection of items at the store , including Japanese souvenirs , local snacks , beauty products , gadgets , clothes , and toys !

Grab a bite of some of the best Japanese snack foods like Umaibo , which is a famous, puffed cylindrical snack.

You can also try Sennarido Crispy Wasabi Pistachios , Kit Kat chocolates , and Pocky biscuit sticks.

Matsumoto Kiyoshi is no doubt the most popular drug store within Shibuya . In fact, it is visited by thousands of travellers and even locals regularly.

Here, you’ll discover an array of products, ranging from face masks to body scrubs and more!

For some makeup products, check out their foundations, lipstick, blush-on, eyebrow pencil, and mascara .

They even have various sunscreen brands , including the top-selling Anessa UV . This sunscreen comes in a pre-packed version so you can easily bring it anywhere.

Craving for an authentic ramen experience? Head over to Ichiran Shibuya .

The ramen sold here is something that you’d certainly remember even after your trip .

Its soup is a fusion of milky, sweet, and spicy flavours. And the smooth, thin noodles perfectly complement the pork toppings and the original red sauce.

Plus, it’s near top shopping spots like Shibuya 109, Shibuya Center-gai, Disney Store and Mega Don Quijote .

So, after all your shopping, you can head directly to the ramen restaurant and enjoy a bowl of tasty ramen.

Visiting Tokyo soon? Read my detailed guide to 35 must do and see in Tokyo !

Shoe enthusiasts will definitely fall in love with ABC-MART Grand Stage . You can find this store in Center Gai shopping street .

Look around for your favourites sneakers inside this famous footwear company.

This well-known sneaker chain store gathers all top brands , including Adidas, Nike, Reebok, Converse, New Balance, and a lot more!

And of course, these shoes are affordably priced, making them more attractive to both local and international tourists.

When jotting down things to do during your Shibuya exploration , consider stopping by Daiso .

This famous chain store is known for their extensive assortment of products and goodies that are generally sold for just 100 yen .

So, if you want to buy a lot without breaking the bank, go explore this store .

They have travel goods, decorative items, cosmetics, stationery, fashion accessories, and toys .

In addition, they sell snacks and drinks , along with some cheap souvenirs .

MUJI Shibuya is unlike any other local store in the district.

It targets a specific audience ―those who prefer elegant designs and minimalist beauty .

This famous Japanese retailer is the perfect place to visit in Shibuya for those eyeing for authentic Japanese trends.

See the amazing women’s fashion collection as well as men’s style. There are plenty of choices available, from simple designs to casual ones .

To help in organizing your personal Shibuya itinerary, I have provided some sample itineraries below.

I’ve divided these into two sections for your convenience: half-day and full-day itineraries .

Each section highlights essential places to visit and suggests how long you should spend at each location . Hopefully, this will save you some time in planning.

Option 1: Half-Day (7 Hours)

• 1:15 PM – Hachiko Statue
• 1:20 PM – Shibuya Crossing
• 1:30 PM – Ichiran
• 2:00 PM – Disney Store
• 2:30 PM – Mega Don Quijote/ Nintendo TOKYO
• 3:30 PM – Shibuya Center-gai
• 4:30 PM – Shibuya 109/ Street Go-Kart
• 5:45 PM – Uobei/ Shibuya Yokocho
• 6:15 PM – Shibuya Scramble Square

Option 2: Full-Day (10 Hours)

• 10:15 AM – Hachiko Statue
• 10:20 AM – Shibuya Crossing
• 10:30 AM – Disney Store/ MUJI
• 11:00 AM – Mega Don Quijote/ Nintendo TOKYO
• 12:30 PM – Ichiran
• 1:00 PM – Shibuya Center-gai
• 3:00 PM – Daiso
• 3:30 PM – ABC-MART Grand Stage
• 4:00 PM – Matsumoto Kiyoshi
• 5:45 PM – Shibuya Scramble Square
• 7:45 PM – Uobei/ Shibuya Yokocho

For a broad picture of must-do things in Shibuya , I have prepared a customized map above.

This map will show you the specific locations of top attractions , including the best shopping spots and restaurants .

It will also highlight the nearby train stations for each spot .

Train Station Exits

Tokyo Itinerary: The Best 7-Day Guide for a Fantastic Trip

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17 Best Things to Do in Shibuya, Tokyo

Discover the heartbeat of Tokyo in the vibrant district of Shibuya, where modern fashion trends and skyscrapers meet traditional shrines, food, and customs in a dynamic blend. 

This bustling hub of Japan’s capital, renowned for its iconic Shibuya Crossing and Hachiko Statue, among other major sites, offers a myriad of experiences that captivate every visitor. 

From trendy boutiques and cutting-edge technology to serene areas for contemplation and lively entertainment, Shibuya is a sensory feast that offers something for everyone. 

In this comprehensive guide, we’re sharing things to do in Shibuya, ensuring you can embrace the essence of this dynamic Tokyo neighborhood.

Table of Contents

1. Shibuya Crossing

The first thing on our list is easily one of the most exciting things to do in Shibuya. Everyone who visits this iconic area of Tokyo should experience the famous Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world. 

At this busy intersection in the heart of Tokyo, ten lanes of traffic and five major crosswalks converge.

On average, 2,500 people traverse this junction at every crossing. The crossing has been used in movies, art, and many festive celebrations. If you are not overwhelmed by crowds, it’s a must-see spectacle, especially during rush hours.

2. Shibuya Sky

For an escape from the hustle and bustle of the Shibuya Crossing, head to Shibuya Sky, an observation deck that offers panoramic views of Tokyo. 

It’s located atop the Shibuya Scramble Square building, the tallest building in the district, according to this Shibuya Sky guide by Japan Travel Planning. It costs adults $17 USD (children of various ages can enjoy different discounted rates), and you can purchase tickets online.

The observation deck is open all day, though sunset is the best time to visit. If you can’t get a ticket for this time, you can visit in the late afternoon and stay at the observation deck until the sun sets for dramatic views.

3. Center-Gai

Another hot tip is to explore Center-Gai, a lively central hub characterized by its shops, boutiques, and cafes. Center-Gai is a meeting point for the youth of Tokyo, where the latest fashion trends and music are readily available, so it’s a great place for tourists to go shopping and people-watching. Delve deep into Tokyo culture by uncovering the style and energy of the Center-Gai area.

4. Meiji Shrine

From the Center-Gai, take a walk to the nearby Meiji Shrine, a peaceful Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity of Emperor Meiji and his consort, Empress Shoken. Meiji Shrine was erected in 1920, eight years after the passing of the Emperor. 

It was destroyed in the war but rebuilt not long after and remains important to the people of Tokyo. This tranquil shrine is surrounded by lush greenery, so it provides a serene escape from the urban hustle.

5. Shibuya 109

Any tourist might be interested in the Shibuya 109 mall, but it was designed specifically with the 30-year-old woman in mind. This mall was intended to be a fashion community made up of small retailers dedicated to different avenues of modern fashion. 

Shop at the Shibuya 109 famous fashion department store to discover the latest Tokyo trends. This mall is not only a mecca for fashion enthusiasts, but it is also a great place to get a deeper insight into Shibuya society and culture.

6. Cat Street

Another great way to soak in the culture and fashion trends of Shibuya is to wander along Cat Street, a trendy shopping street connecting Shibuya and Harajuku, the fashion district. 

Here, you will find a mix of trendy boutiques, cafes, and street art. Despite its popularity, Cat Street is a back street with more of an understated feel, as compared with some of the busier streets in the fashion district. 

7. Hachiko Statue

While in Shibuya, you can also pay homage to the incredibly loyal Akita dog, Hachiko, at the Hachiko Statue located near Shibuya Station. 

Hachiko’s owner, Hidesaburō Ueno, used to commute to work daily by train, and Hachiko would leave the house and greet his owner at the station every day.

One day, Ueno did not return, having suffered a cerebral hemorrhage and died, but Hachiko continued to wait for his master at the station every day for the next nine years, nine months, and 15 days. 

He always arrived precisely when the train was due at the station. The statue symbolizes loyalty and is a popular meeting point.

8. Parco Department Store

If you are looking for more shopping recommendations, check out Shibuya Parco, a stylish department store with a variety of shops, including fashion, beauty, and lifestyle brands. 

Explore nine floors, over 200 stores, artsy boutiques, and great food options in this modern department store.

9. NHK Studio Park

Another popular thing to do in Shibuya is to visit NHK Studio Park. This is a mini broadcasting theme park where you can learn about Japanese broadcasting, participate in interactive exhibits, and maybe catch a live recording. 

Watch close-up how shows are produced and enjoy a behind-the-scenes view of what the broadcasting world is like at NHK Studio Park.

10. Hands Department Store

If you’re into arts and crafts, browse through Hands, formerly known as Tokyu Hands, a large and diverse department store offering a wide range of products, from stationery to home goods. 

Its primary focus is on materials for crafts and DIY projects, so if this interests you, you’ll enjoy browsing the aisles of Hands.

11. Mega Don Quijote Shibuya

Next up, we have a colorful experience. All visitors to Shibuya should experience the eclectic Mega Don Quijote store, also known as Mega Donki, a discount retail chain offering a vast array of goods. 

Whether you’re looking for snacks and souvenirs to take home, electronics, cosmetics, or quirky Japanese items, you’ll find it all at Mega Donki.

12. Shibuya Stream

Check out Shibuya Stream, a skyscraper and retail complex that boasts excellent opportunities for shopping and dining, as well as boasting office spaces. 

It is located near the Shibuya Crossing and provides a slightly more chill getaway from the hustle and bustle than the streets below. The architecture is impressive, and the complex often hosts events.

13. Shibuya Niku Yokocho

Visitors to Shibuya should also stop to enjoy a meal at Shibuya Niku Yokocho, a foodie’s paradise specializing in yakiniku (grilled meat). This food alley is an indoor bazaar comprising various meat eateries on the second and third floors of the Chitose Kaikan, a building located in Shibuya Center-Gai. 

It’s a great place to savor Japanese barbecue. You can order from various vendors and enjoy them all in one place at Niku Yokocho.

14. Bar Crawl in Shibuya at Night

A great way to experience the city by night is to go on a bar crawl, either self-planned or as part of an organized group. 

While crawling some of the best bars in the area, such as The Bellwood and Cé La Vi, you should make sure to try some traditional local beverages. Sapporo beer, Japanese sake, and highballs (Japanese whisky and soda) are all good options.

15. VR Zone Shinjuku

Whether you are with family, friends, or a partner in Tokyo, a great way to have fun is to immerse yourself in virtual reality at VR Zone Shinjuku. This is a unique space for modern fun and tech-based entertainment with VR technology and experience-oriented machines. 

From gaming to virtual tourism, explore all VR Zone Shinjuku has to offer.

16. Yoyogi Park

Yoyogi Park is a popular Tokyo destination, especially on Sundays, when it serves as a gathering spot for rock music enthusiasts, jugglers, comedians, martial arts clubs, cosplayers, and various other subculture groups . 

In spring, the park attracts thousands for cherry blossom viewing (hanami), offering picnic areas, bike paths, sports courts, and a dog run. This is the perfect place to contemplate your journey so far and unwind.

17. Shibuya Museum of Scramble Crossing

Last but certainly not least, you can discover the history and significance of Shibuya Crossing at the Shibuya Museum of Scramble Crossing, located in Shibuya Hikarie. 

If you have visited the crossing and need to know more about this iconic and stunning place, the museum will answer your questions and illuminate more about the history of this fantastic area in Japan’s capital city. 

As you have seen, there are various fantastic tourist spots and historic sites to visit in Shibuya, Tokyo. While you explore its bustling streets and cultural gems, let the stories, tastes, and smells of this iconic place sink in. 

From the electrifying Shibuya Crossing to the serene Meiji Shrine, each experience is a magical part of the unique tapestry of this iconic district. 

Whether you are exploring the local hip fashion at Shibuya 109 or savoring the peace and beauty of Yoyogi Park, Shibuya offers a diverse and captivating journey. 

All in all, Shibuya is an urban playground where tradition and innovation blend to create a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. So, book your journey today and get ready to uncover the wonders of Shibuya in person.

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Where many of Japan's fashion trends come from

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About Shibuya

If you could only choose one place to shop in Tokyo, then Shibuya is the place to be. Famous for its busy and colorful district, packed to the gills with shops, restaurants, clubs and avid shoppers. Shibuya is also famous for its enormous intersection which hundreds of people crossing at any one time. You can even experience this marvelous view from the second story window of the probably most profitable Starbucks in the world.

Just around the corner you will find Center Gai , a busy pedestrian area filled with shops selling the latest wear and accessories. Strolling through this neon lit zone is an experience in itself. For the ladies it would be a sin to miss out on the iconic cylindrical building that is known as Shibuya 109 , where you can find hundreds of boutiques spanning ten floors of fashionable goodness. However, do not fear gents, because there is a Shibuya 109 Men opposite from Starbucks, although not as grand as its counterpart.

Over a dozen department stores are dotted around the area, where corporate giants Seibu and Tokyu own the majority of them. As for dining, you are spoilt for choice since you can find pretty much any type of cuisine to suit even the fussiest of eaters. You can entertain yourself endlessly by going the one of the many game centers, indoor sports facilities, cinemas, clubs, bars, the list goes on.

However, do not fear if you are a bit scared of the crowds; there is much more to discover in the surprisingly quiet back streets. I am thinking of the goat cafe just a 5-minute walk from the station. In that same are is a wonderful macrobiotic cafe , run by a young couple, and they serve excellent vegan but very creative food. For a very different bar experience, check out Nonbei Yokocho , or Drunkard’s Alley, also just a stone's throw away from the station—just to give you a few ideas.

Shibuya’s icon is the infamous Hachiko dog statue, situated next to the train station 's Hachiko Exit. You can see people taking snaps of the floppy-eared canine with their cell phone cameras at any given moment. This is quite possibly the most famous waiting area in all of Japan, as is evident by the dense crowd that engulfs the area.

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15 Best Things to do in Shibuya Tokyo (2023)

This post may contain compensated links. Find more info in our disclosure policy

With the iconic Shibuya Crossing at its center and the endless food, drinks and shopping options there are lots of fun and quirky things to do in Shibuya. An entertainment mecca, Shibuya is always heaving with Tokyo’s fashionable youth, workers from the surrounding offices and tourists keen to experience the neon lights and crowded streets that Tokyo is famous for. We’ve had a lot of fun exploring its streets and entertainment and have put together our guide to the best things to do in Shibuya!

Table of Contents

Tokyo Essentials

Where to stay in tokyo.

• Mitsui Garden Hotel Koyobashi:  close to both Tokyo Station and Koyobashi Metro Station, this is a great base for exploring the city  –  check prices here!
• Shibuya Excel Hotel, Tokyu : close to Shibuya Station the hotel’s 25th-floor restaurant level offers the best views of Shibuya and the location is excellent for exploring the city –  check prices here!
• Keio Plaza Hotel:  a 5 minute walk from Shinjuku Station, Keio Plaza has comfortable rooms and awesome views of Shinjuku –  check prices here!

Click here for the best Tokyo hotel prices

Sim Cards and Internet

One of the best investments for a Japan trip is a sim card or 4G hotspot for internet access while on the go. A sim card is perfect if you just have your phone while 4G hotspots are great if you have multiple devices or if you’re travelling in a group.

We used the Klook app to order our sim cards. The app is great as you can order in advance, pick up on arrival or from various departure cities and the price is usually discounted.

• The best 4G hotspot on offer is provided by URoaming with unlimited data –  check prices now!
• The best sim card is from Docomo –  check prices now!

Click here to order your sim card or 4G hotspot now

Tokyo Transport

From Narita airport take either:

• Tokyo Skyliner:  train to downtown Tokyo in 41 minutes –  check prices here
• Airport Bus:  bus to Downtown Tokyo from Narita or Haneda Airport-  check prices here!

Depending on the duration of your stay, a 24, 48 or 72 hour subway pass is invaluable for navigating Tokyo. We saved so much money using our 3 day subway pass. The passes can be picked up at one of the designated arrival airports in Japan and work for unlimited rides on Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway lines –  check prices now!

Click here to order your Tokyo subway pass

Things to do in Shibuya tip: After we’d used our unlimited passes we switched to a rechargeable Suica or a Pasmo card. The cards are swiped at the ticket barriers to pay for the train fare instead of buying individual tickets for each train ride and are quicker and more convenient than individual journey tickets – check prices now!

Best Things to do in Shibuya

From the iconic Shibuya Crossing to the famous Tokyo maid cafes, here’s our guide to the best things to do in Shibuya.

1 | Shibuya Crossing

Many visitors are drawn to Shibuya to experience Shibuya Crossing, the iconic Tokyo intersection with a maze of pedestrian crossings. With 3,000 people crossing at peak times, Shibuya Crossing is amazing sight to behold.

Zigzagging across the intersection with thousands of other pedestrians is an amazing experience.

Things to do in Shibuya tip: Shibuya Crossing is amazing at night, when the intersection comes alive with neon lights, traffic and crowds!

2 | Shibuya Crossing from above

Watching the crowds is a truly unique experience and there are a few places to catch a fantastic view of Shibuya crossing.

The Starbucks Shibuya Tsutaya is no ordinary Starbucks! It is one of the best spots for a birds eye view of the action at Shibuya Crossing. Grab an iced-coffee or a snack at the ground floor of the cafe and make a beeline for a window seat on the first floor for one of the best views of the crossing.

On the west side of the crossing, the 3rd floor cafe of the flagship L’Occitane store also offers great views. A host allocates seating in the cafe resulting in a more relaxed atmosphere and the flavored iced teas are a real treat.

Things to do in Shibuya tip : The Shibuya Starbucks gets really busy. It’s a popular coffee stop as well as attracting Shibuya sightseers eager to experience its incredible views. Make sure to budget some time to wait for one of the highly coveted and limited window seats as there’s likely to be a queue.

3 | Take in the views from Shibuya Sky

There have been a number of observation decks in Tokyo and one of the recent additions is Shibuya Sky. Shibuya Sky is a 360-degree panoramic observation deck located at the top of the Shibuya Scramble Square skyscraper, 229m above the streets of Shibuya.

Things to do in Shibuya tip: The views from Shibuya Sky are especially good after dark so the best time to visit is just before sunset, so you can experience the views before the sun goes down and after dark!

It has one of the best views in Tokyo and is a must-visit when in Shibuya. We recommend buying your tickets in advance to save time queueing when you visit – check prices now!

Book your Shibuya Sky tickets now

4 | Maid Cafe

Maid Cafes are a bizarre, quirky and crazy Japanese tradition inspired the obsession with manga and anime and the Maidreamin Maid Cafe, is a must visit in Shibuya. Prepare for a cuteness overload as the maids, adorned with frilly maid costumes, do everything they can to make sure the masters and princesses (that’s you!) have a fun time. They sing, they dance and make quirky characters in the food and drinks. Chances are, like us, you’ll leave just as baffled as when you arrived! –  check prices now!

Click here to for Maid Cafe tickets

Things to do in Shibuya tip : language isn’t a problem at Maidreaming in Shibuya as some of the servers speak fluent English. Make sure to check the cafe rules before you visit as there are often set rules around interaction with maids and photography in the cafe.

5 | Hachikō

The story of Hachikō the dog is one of the most beautiful tales we’ve come across on our travels. The ever-loyal Hachikō would meet his owner at the Shibuya train station each day on his return from work. His owner Ueno passed away while at work and, for more than 9 years after his death, Hachikō continued to wait at the train station for his the owner. A statue was erected outside the Shibuya train station dedicated to the loyal and faithful Hachikō!

A wall mural, also in memory of Hachiko, depicting an extended family of Akita dogs is located close by.

6 | Genki Sushi

Genki Sushi is a popular Shibuya sushi spot due to a combination of affordable prices and the sushi train delivery! In Genki, orders are placed through a multi-language tablet and food is then sent directly to the table by conveyor belt. Unless you order drinks, you don’t actually interact with the serving staff as everything happens automatically. It’s quite a novelty and a fun place to visit!

Things to do in Shibuya tip: Genki is well known for its salmon with green onion and chili oil dish and it tastes delicious!

7 | Nonbei Yokocho, Drunkards’ Alley

Similar to Shinjuku’s Piss Alley, Nonbei Yokocho is a quiet lane filled with tiny bars  running under a train track close to Shibuya Crossing. Drunkards’ Alley is a favorite hangout of Japanese salary men and the atmosphere is dark and moody with lanterns lighting up the alley and yakitori smoke filling the air. It’s a world away from the hustle and bustle of Shibuya’s neon lights and a great place to spend an evening in Tokyo.

8 | Love Hotel Hill

A collection of Tokyo’s famous love hotels are found on a hill in Shibuya known as Love Hotel Hill. The love hotels, where one can stay overnight or ‘rest’ for a few hours, were originally aimed at couples who want some privacy in the name of love!

Discretion is key at the love hotels! Room rates, room pictures and availability are usually displayed outside the hotel or in the lobby. Some of the reception desks even use curtained windows so the check in agent doesn’t make eye contact with customers directly!

More recently, love hotels are also a good source of cheap accommodation.

Things to do in Shibuya tip : many love hotels do not accept reservations in advance and, some of the less expensive, do not accept credit card. Some love hotels do not accept non Japanese speaking couples.

9 | Yoyogi Park

Located between Harajuku and Shibuya, the bustling Yoyogi Park is a hangout for locals and tourists alike. Yoyogi is one of Tokyo’s largest parks and it is perfect for a stroll after the craziness of Harajuku or Shibuya. We loved spotting the adorable dogs, the street artists and the fun atmosphere at the weekends!

Things to do in Shibuya tip: our favorite part of a Yoyogi visit is chancing upon the rockabilly dancers who often perform on Sunday’s in the park. They are easy to spot as crowds quickly gather when they perform and the 1950’s style denim and leather jackets and slicked back hair are a giveaway!

10 | Meiji Shrine

One of Tokyo’s most famous shrines, the Meiji shrine is dedicated to Emperor Meiji, the first emperor of modern Japan. It’s an incredible experience to move from the chaotic streets of Shibuya and Harajuku to the serenity and tranquility of the shrine.

Meiji Shrine is accessed via two huge torii gates which lead to a forest with over 100,000 trees. A huge display of sake barrels along the entrance path are one of its most notable sights and signify a gift to the gods.

In late June, the Shrine’s Inner Garden is a spectacular sight with 150 species of irises in full bloom. The Treasure House hosts portraits and kimonos of previous Japanese Emperors as well as personal items of the Emperor and Empress.

Visitors can wander through the rest of the shrine complex and make offerings in the main hall or write their hopes and prayers on an ema.

Things to do in Shibuya tip :  Meiji Shrine is one of the most popular shrines in Japan and welcomes millions of visitors every year. Admission to Meiji Shrine is free but both the Inner Garden and the Treasure House require the purchase of a ticket which each cost 500 yen.

11 | Harajuku

Located between Shinjuku and Shibuya, Harajuku is one of the most fun places to spend time in Tokyo. A colourful part of Tokyo, it is traditionally the centre of Japan teenage culture and fashion styles and there are lots of quirky and unique things to do in Harajuku .

From Robot Restaurants to rainbow food and Samurai Museums, Harajuku is an excellent accompaniment to a day in Shibuya!

12 | Shibuya Station

Eight train and subway lines pass through Shibuya Station but, amid the chaos of passing through, make sure to look up.

On the second floor of the station there is a giant mural, the ‘Myth of Tomorrow’ created by the Japanese artist Taro Okamato. It depicts an atomic bomb explosion alluding to the Second World War bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

The station also offers excellent views of Shibuya Crossing from its indoor walkway between the Yamanote Line Tamagawa exit and the Keio Inokashira Line exit.

Things to do in Shibuya tip :  Shibuya is a busy station so be careful not to get in the way of commuters while admiring the mural and the views!

13 | Shopping in Shibuya

Shibuya is a shopping mecca and its streets are lined with fashion, home, lifestyle, electronic and souvenir shops.

For fashion lovers there are huge UNIQLO, Zara, Forever 21 and H&M stores.

Tokyo Hands, one of our personal favourites, offers a huge collection of cute and quirky items that will require hours of browsing. We spent a crazy amount of time on the stationary floors!

The shopping malls include Shibuya 109 and Shibuya Modi and both have a great mix of stores.

Daiso and Can-Do are Japanese discount stores stocking a fun range of products for 100 yen or less and both have branches in Shibuya.

14 | Tourist Information Center

Shibuya’s Tourist Information Center is housed in an old train car which was used on the Tokyu Tokyo Line until March 1970. Located outside Shibuya Station beside the Hachicko Statue, it is charming, helpful and totally photogenic!

15 | Shibuya Nightlife

Always buzzing with activity, Shibuya is a great neighborhood in which to experience Tokyo nightlife. Shibuya is a popular place with everyone from college students to salary men and attracts a mix of both locals and tourists. There’s a huge selection of night time entertainment from the quaint izakaya, or Japanese taverns, to karaoke joints, cheap restaurants, busy nightclubs and modern cocktail bars.

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• Destinations

WHAT to Do in SHIBUYA (11 Things to Explore in the Vibrant Heart of Tokyo!)

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Welcome to the bustling and vibrant neighborhood of Shibuya in Tokyo! Shibuya is known as one of Tokyo’s most iconic and energetic districts. It is a hub of entertainment, fashion, and culture.

Are you wondering what to do in Shibuya ? From its famous scramble crossing to its trendy shops and electrifying nightlife, Shibuya offers activities and experiences for everyone to enjoy.

Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a seasoned explorer, this post will take you on a journey through the top things to explore in Shibuya .

Get ready to immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and flavors of this dynamic neighborhood, and discover the best ways to make the most of your time in Shibuya. So, grab your camera, put on your walking shoes, and let’s dive into the vibrant world of Shibuya!

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• 1. Tokyo At-A-Glance
• 2. Map with Top Things to Do in Shibuya
• 3. What to Do in Shibuya?
• 4. 11 Things to Explore in the Vibrant Heart of Tokyo
• 4.1. Explore the Famous Shibuya Crossing - The World's Busiest Intersection
• 4.2. Dive into Shopping and Dining at Shibuya Center-Gai
• 4.3. Take Commemorative Photos of Hachiko Statue
• 4.4. Visit Meiji Shrine - A Serene And Beautiful Shinto Shrine
• 4.5. Check Out the Shopping Scene at Omotesando
• 4.6. Explore Takeshita Street
• 4.7. Take a Stroll on Sophisticated Cat Street
• 4.8. Explore Spain-zaka Street
• 4.9. Enjoy Shibuya's Nightlife
• 4.10. Experience VR (Virtual Reality) in Shibuya
• 4.11. Discover Some of Shibuya's Hidden Gems
• 5. Intrepid Scout's Tips for What to Do in Shibuya

Tokyo At-A-Glance

Before diving in, here are a few helpful tips for planning your trip to Tokyo:

• Best Time to Visit Tokyo

Tokyo experiences four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter, each with its unique charm.

Spring (March to May): Spring is one of the most popular times to visit Tokyo due to the famous cherry blossom season. Spring weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10 to 20 C (50 to 68 F).

Summer (June to August): Summer in Tokyo can be hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 25 to 35 degrees Celsius (77 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit). However, it is also a vibrant season with various summer festivals, outdoor events, and fireworks displays.

Autumn (September to November): Autumn is another popular time to visit Tokyo, with mild weather and beautiful fall foliage in parks and temples. The temperatures range from 15 to 25 C (59 to 77 F).

Winter (December to February): Tokyo’s winter is generally cold, with temperatures ranging from 0 to 10 C( 32 to 50 F). However, Tokyo’s winter illuminations and holiday decorations are spectacular, creating a festive atmosphere throughout the city.

• Where to Stay in Tokyo

My first choice is to always stay in Ginza . Ginza is Tokyo’s luxury shopping district, known for its upscale boutiques, department stores, and high-end restaurants.

There are several hotels that I stayed at and really enjoyed. Check them out and see which one you like the best:

Muji Hotel Ginza – this is my first choice. The rooms are elegantly designed like all Muji products. The location is perfect near the JR Yamanote line. The in-room extras, all Muji branded, are great, with everything from the slippers to bags of Japanese sweets yours to take with you. The breakfast is lovely with healthy and high-quality food options.

AC Hotel by Marriott Tokyo Ginza – it is a beautiful, modern, and well-maintained hotel right in the heart of Ginza. The rooms are a good size, which is unusual for Tokyo, nicely designed, and super clean.

Agora Tokyo Ginza – stylish and elegant hotel. The location is great close to train stations. Rooms are on the smaller side, however, they are very comfortable and clean. You will love the bathroom which is beautifully designed and huge in size.

• How to Get Around in Tokyo

Tokyo has an extensive and efficient public transportation system that makes it easy to get around the city. Here are some common methods of transportation for navigating Tokyo:

The Tokyo Metro and subway are a convenient and efficient way to travel within the city, with multiple lines covering different areas. Make sure to get rechargeable IC cards such as Suica or Pasmo, which offer discounted fares and can be used on multiple transportation systems.

Japan Railways (JR) operates several lines in Tokyo, including the Yamanote Line, which is a loop line that circles central Tokyo and connects major neighborhoods.

Buses are another option for getting around Tokyo, although they are not as easy to use as Tokyo Metro and subway, as well as JR.

Taxis are widely available in Tokyo, but they can be more expensive compared to other forms of public transportation.

Walking is a great way to explore Tokyo’s neighborhoods like Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Asakusa.

• Intrepid Scout’s Tip:

Make sure to buy JR Pass before going to Japan. It is a huge cost-saving tool . It allows unlimited use of most JR trains, including the Shinkansen (bullet trains), limited express trains, and local trains, for a set period of time (7, 14, or 21 days).

The JR Pass also includes some additional benefits , such as free seat reservations on most trains, which can be especially useful during peak travel times, and access to some JR buses and ferries. It also covers the Tokyo Monorail to/from Haneda Airport and the Narita Express to/from Narita Airport, which can be convenient for travelers arriving or departing from these airports.

Map with Top Things to Do in Shibuya

What to Do in Shibuya?

11 things to explore in the vibrant heart of tokyo, explore the famous shibuya crossing - the world's busiest intersection.

The iconic Shibuya Crossing is a bustling intersection located in the heart of Shibuya and is known as the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing .

With its sheer size and electrifying energy, Shibuya Crossing has become one of the most famous landmarks of Tokyo and a must-visit destination.

First and foremost, the sheer volume of people at Shibuya Crossing is awe-inspiring!

As the traffic lights turn red, pedestrians from all directions start to gather at the crossing, waiting for the signal to change. Once the signal changes to green, the intersection is filled with a sea of people moving in unison, crossing the intersection all eager to make their way to the other side.

The sight of the synchronized movement of people, the sound of footsteps, and the flashing lights of billboards overhead create a sensory overload that is both awe-inspiring and exhilarating.

Shibuya Crossing / What to Do in Shibuya

Shibuya Crossing has been featured in several famous movies, TV shows, and music videos. Here are some of the most popular ones:

• The movie “Lost in Translation” , directed by Sofia Coppola, features Shibuya Crossing in a memorable scene where the main characters, played by Bill Murray and Scarlett Johansson, navigate the bustling streets of Tokyo.
• The movie “Fast & Furious: Tokyo Drift” showcases Shibuya Crossing in several high-octane car chase scenes.
• The movie “Resident Evil: Retribution”  features Shibuya Crossing as a backdrop for intense action sequences, including a battle with zombies amidst the busy pedestrian crossing.

One of the best ways to experience Shibuya Crossing is by standing at one of the surrounding vantage points. Here are some of the best spots where you can get a bird’s-eye view of the crossing :

• Starbucks Shibuya Tsutaya – Located on the second floor of Tsutaya Shibuya , the Starbucks cafe offers a great vantage point overlooking Shibuya Crossing. However, it is a busy place and you might have to patiently wait for an opportunity to get to one of the windows.
• Shibuya Sky – The observation deck is located on the rooftop of the Shibuya Scramble Square Building , which is one of the tallest buildings in Shibuya, and is definitely one of the best spots to photograph the crossing.  The glass windows extend all the way to the floor, giving you uninterrupted views. However, there is an entrance fee to the deck which are s typically around 2,000 to 2,500 yen for adults.
• Shibuya Stream – Shibuya Stream has a rooftop terrace with an open-air deck with glass railings, providing an excellent spot for photography. But, it is not free. There is an entrance fee to the rooftop terrace which is typically around 2,000 yen.
• Pedestrian Bridges – There are two pedestrian bridges that you might want to check out: the Shibuya Mark City Bridge and the Tokyu Plaza Shibuya Bridge . Both are popular spots for photographing the crossing.
• Street Level – Don’t forget that capturing the energy and atmosphere of Shibuya Crossing from the street level can result in some unique and dynamic photos! Make sure to include some foreground, and middle ground to create some dimension.

Hands down, Shibuya Crossing is a place where the pulse of the city can be felt, and the fast-paced urban lifestyle of Japan comes to life. A visit to Tokyo would not be complete without experiencing the electrifying energy and iconic atmosphere of Shibuya Crossing.

Dive into Shopping and Dining at Shibuya Center-Gai

Shibuya Center Gai is a bustling shopping street located in the heart of Shibuya, known for its trendy fashion boutiques and unique shops. Here are some of the shops you should not miss:

• Uniqlo is a great store that you need to check out. Once I visited the store, I fell in love with this brand. It is known for its minimalist designs, high-quality materials, and attention to detail. They offer a wide range of basic wardrobe staples, including t-shirts, jeans, outerwear, sweaters, dresses, and accessories. It has nice clean lines, neutral colors, and versatile styles that can be easily mixed and matched for everyday wear. The brand’s name “Uniqlo” is short for “Unique Clothing Warehouse”.
• Zara is another international fashion brand that offers a wide range of clothing, shoes, and accessories for men, women, and children, known for its on-trend designs.
• Wego is a popular Japanese fashion brand that offers trendy and casual clothing for men and women, with a focus on street style and youth culture.
• Loft is a lifestyle store that offers a wide range of products, including stationery, home goods, beauty products, and unique Japanese merchandise.
• Village Vanguard is a unique store that offers an eclectic mix of merchandise, including books, novelty items, quirky home goods, and unique gifts.
• Bershka is another international fast fashion brand that offers trendy clothing, shoes, and accessories for men and women, with a focus on street style and youthful fashion.
• Tokyu Hands is a popular Japanese department store known for its wide range of products, including home goods, crafts, stationery, and beauty products.
• Don Quijote is a well-known discount store chain in Japan that offers a wide range of products, from cosmetics and snacks to electronics and souvenirs, with a unique and diverse selection.

Shibuya Center-Gai / What to Do in Shibuya

Center Gai is also known for its diverse dining options , with numerous cafes, restaurants, and food stalls serving a variety of cuisines. From Japanese street food to international cuisine, you can find something to suit your palate.

Here are some popular dining spots in Center Gai that you should add to your list:

• Ichiran Ramen is a great ramen restaurant chain in Japan known for its unique dining experience and delicious tonkotsu (pork bone broth) ramen. The broth is rich and creamy, made from simmering pork bones for hours to extract the maximum flavor. You can customize your ramen by filling out an order sheet with your preferences, including noodle firmness, soup richness, garlic strength, spice level, and other toppings.
• Gyukatsu Motomura is another very popular restaurant in Shibuya known for its specialty dish called gyukatsu, which is a deep-fried beef cutlet. The beef cutlets are breaded and deep-fried to a crispy texture, while the inside remains tender and juicy. The result is a beautifully flavorful cutlet. Just writing about it makes me hungry!
• Uobei Sushi is a great and affordable fast-paced sushi dining experience in Shibuya. It is known for its unique system where you place your orders using a touch screen panel, and the sushi is delivered to your table on a conveyor belt.
• Pablo Mini is a popular dessert cafe located in Shibuya known for its delectable and adorable mini cheese tarts in various flavors, including matcha, chocolate, and seasonal flavors. The cafe is a part of the famous Japanese cheese tart brand, Pablo, which is known for its high-quality and delicious cheese-based desserts.

Gyukatsu Motomura / What to Do in Shibuya

Pablo Mini / What to Do in Shibuya

Take Commemorative Photos of Hachiko Statue

Hachiko’s Memorial Statue is a famous bronze statue of the dog Hachiko right next to the Shibuya Station.

The statue is a symbol of unwavering love, devotion, and loyalty.

Hachiko , also known as “Hachi”, was a Japanese Akita dog that belonged to Professor Hidesaburo Ueno, a professor at Tokyo Imperial University.

According to the story, Hachi would accompany Professor Ueno to Shibuya Station every day when he went to work, and would patiently wait for him to return in the evening.

However, in 1925, Professor Ueno unexpectedly passed away at work, leaving Hachi waiting at the station, unaware of his owner’s fate.

Despite Professor Ueno’s passing, Hachi continued to go to Shibuya Station every day for the next nine years, waiting for his owner to return.

He became a symbol of loyalty and devotion, capturing the hearts of the local community and gaining national attention. In 1934, a bronze statue of Hachiko was erected near Shibuya Station to commemorate his loyalty and dedication.

Today, the Hachiko statue in Shibuya is a popular meeting spot for locals.

Hachiko Memorial Statue / What to Do in Shibuya

Visit Meiji Shrine - A Serene And Beautiful Shinto Shrine

Meiji Shrine is a beautiful and serene Shinto Shrine that should not be missed while visiting Shibuya.

Meiji Shrine was built in 1920 to honor Emperor Meiji , who played a pivotal role in modernizing Japan during the Meiji Restoration period. Emperor Meiji is revered as a symbol of Japan’s transition from a feudal society to a modern, industrialized nation.

Meiji Shrine’s architecture is a perfect example of traditional Shinto Shrine design which is simple, yet elegant, with attention to detail. The main gate, torii gates, and other structures are made of wood and copper, reflecting the architectural style of the Meiji era.

Meiji Shrine / What to Do in Shibuya

Meiji Shrine is located in a serene forested area, making it a peaceful oasis in the heart of bustling Tokyo. The shrine is surrounded by a large forested park called Meiji Jingu Gyoen , which is home to over 100,000 trees donated from all over Japan.

Meiji Jingu Gyoen / What to Do in Shibuya

Check Out the Shopping Scene at Omotesando

Omotesando is a must-visit destination for fashion enthusiasts, design aficionados, and anyone looking for a unique shopping experience in Tokyo. It is often referred to as Tokyo’s Champs-Élysées due to its wide tree-lined boulevard and fashionable atmosphere.

There are many international and Japanese designer brand stores, flagship stores, and concept stores.

Omotesando is known for its unique and modern architecture , with many flagship stores designed by world-renowned architects. The buildings themselves are often considered works of art, with innovative and eye-catching designs.

For example, the Omotesando Hills Shopping Complex , designed by renowned architect Tadao Ando, features a sleek and minimalist design with a spiraling ramp that connects its multiple floors. The Prada Building , designed by Swiss architects Herzog & de Meuron, is another notable architectural landmark in Omotesando, with its distinctive glass and stone facade.

Omotesando is also famous for its concept stores , which offer unique and immersive shopping experiences. These stores go beyond traditional retail and offer a combination of shopping, art, design, and culture.

A popular concept store is the Omotesando Koffee , a minimalist coffee shop housed in a converted traditional Japanese house, known for its excellent coffee and serene ambiance.

Japanese designers have their flagship stores or boutiques in Omotesando, offering unique and innovative fashion items that blend traditional Japanese aesthetics with contemporary design. Brands such as Comme des Garçons, Issey Miyake, Yohji Yamamoto, Sacai, and A Bathing Ape (BAPE) are some of the local Japanese brands that you can find in Omotesando.

Winter Illumination in Omotesando / What to Do in Shibuya

Explore Takeshita Street

Takeshita Street is a popular and vibrant shopping street located in the Harajuku neighborhood within the Shibuya District.

Takeshita Street / What to Do in Shibuya

Here are some of the best places to check out on Takeshita Street:

• Crepes are a popular street food on Takeshita Street. My favorite ones are Marion Crepes and Angels Heart . They come in a variety of sweet and savory flavors. They are delicious, so make sure to get a savory and sweet one.

Marion Crepes / What to Do in Shibuya

Crepes on Takeshita Street / What to Do in Shibuya

• If you have a sweet tooth, Totti Candy Factory is a must-visit. This colorful candy store offers a wide range of colorful and oversized candies, including rainbow-colored cotton candy and lollipops, that make for great photo opportunities.

Totti Candy Factory / What to Do in Shibuya

• Daiso is a popular Japanese chain of 100-yen stores, and Daiso Harajuku located on Takeshita Street is a must-visit for budget-conscious shoppers. You can find a wide variety of affordable and cute items, including stationery, beauty products, accessories, and more.
• WEGO is a popular Japanese fashion brand that offers a wide range of trendy clothing and accessories, with a focus on street fashion, casual wear, and vintage-inspired styles. It’s a favorite among Harajuku’s youth and is known for its unique and affordable fashion items.
• Takeshita Street is renowned for its fashion boutiques that offer a wide range of trendy and unique clothing items, accessories, and cosmetics. From colorful and eccentric street fashion to kawaii (cute) styles, you’ll find an array of fashion-forward stores catering to different tastes.
• Harajuku is known as the birthplace of cosplay , and Takeshita Street is no exception. There are several shops that specialize in cosplay costumes, wigs, and accessories for those who are interested in Japanese anime, manga, and gaming culture. Make sure to check out ACOS (Anime Cosplay) . It is a well-known cosplay store chain in Japan, and its Harajuku store is located on Takeshita Street. They offer a wide range of cosplay costumes, wigs, props, and accessories from various anime, manga, and gaming series.
• Calbee Plus is a snack shop that offers freshly made potato chips and other snacks. They have a customization station where you can choose your favorite toppings, such as cheese or chocolate, to be added to your chips. It’s a fun and tasty experience to create your own unique flavor combination.

Calbee / What to Do in Shibuya

Take a Stroll on Sophisticated Cat Street

Cat Street is located just a short walk from Takeshita Street. It is a trendy shopping street known for its upscale boutiques, vintage stores, and stylish cafes.

It’s a great place to find unique and high-end fashion items, as well as enjoy a more relaxed and sophisticated atmosphere compared to Takeshita Street.

The Cat’s Tail is a popular boutique on Cat Street known for its unique and eclectic fashion items. They offer a wide range of clothing, accessories, and lifestyle products, with a focus on vintage-inspired, bohemian, and casual chic styles. The store has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, and you can find many one-of-a-kind pieces to add to your wardrobe.

Ragtag is a well-known vintage clothing store on Cat Street that offers a curated selection of high-quality and fashionable pre-owned clothing. They have a wide range of items, including clothing, accessories, and bags, from both Japanese and international brands. If you’re into vintage fashion, Ragtag is a must-visit store on Cat Street.

Deus Ex Machina is a unique concept store on Cat Street that combines a motorcycle workshop, cafe, and retail space. They offer a range of motorcycle-inspired clothing, accessories, and lifestyle products, along with a cafe that serves coffee, food, and craft beer. It’s a cool and laid-back place to explore, even if you’re not into motorcycles.

UNITED ARROWS is a popular Japanese fashion brand that has a store on Cat Street. They offer a curated selection of stylish and high-quality clothing for men and women, with a focus on contemporary and minimalist styles. The store has a sleek and modern interior, and you can find a wide range of clothing, accessories, and footwear.

The Great Burger is a trendy burger joint located on Cat Street, known for its delicious and Instagram-worthy burgers. They offer a variety of gourmet burgers, including vegetarian and vegan options, with creative toppings and combinations.

Streamer Coffee Company is a specialty coffee shop on Cat Street that is popular among coffee enthusiasts. They are known for their high-quality coffee, including specialty lattes and pour-over coffee, and they have a cozy and stylish interior where you can relax and enjoy your coffee.

Explore Spain-zaka Street

Spain-zaka, also known as Spain Slope, is a trendy street with lots of unique shops and a stylish vibe located near the Harajuku neighborhood in Shibuya.

• Laforet Harajuku is a famous fashion department store located on Spain-zaka Street. It’s known for its avant-garde fashion and cutting-edge designs, showcasing the latest trends from both local and international designers.
• Kiddy Land Harajuku is a must-visit for fans of character goods and toys. This iconic toy store offers a wide range of toys, games, and merchandise featuring popular characters from anime, manga, and other Japanese pop cultures.
• Harajuku Owl Cafe is a unique cafe where you can interact with cute and friendly owls up close. The cafe offers a chance to hold, pet, and take photos with these majestic birds while enjoying a drink or snack.
• Mame-Shiba Cafe is another animal-themed cafe located on Spain-zaka, where you can interact with adorable miniature Shiba Inu dogs. These small-sized Shiba Inus, known as “mame-shiba,” are known for their cute and expressive faces.

Enjoy Shibuya's Nightlife

Shibuya is known for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues that cater to a variety of tastes.

The area around Dogenzaka and Nonbei Yokocho is well known for its nightlife scene.

Club Womb , one of Tokyo’s most famous nightclubs, is located in Dogenzaka . It’s known for its cutting-edge electronic dance music (EDM) scene, attracting both local and international DJs, and offering a high-energy clubbing experience. Club Womb is a must-visit spot for electronic music enthusiasts and party-goers.

Nonbei Yokocho is a small, narrow alleyway located in Shibuya. And, it is kind of a hidden gem off the touristy path giving you a chance to explore a more local and authentic side of Tokyo.

The name “Nonbei Yokocho” translates to “drunkard’s alley” or “alley of the drunkards,” reflecting its reputation as a place where you can enjoy drinks and socialize in a cozy, traditional setting.

Nonbei Yokocho is famous for its retro ambiance with low-rise buildings, and dimly lit lanterns creating a nostalgic feel of old Japan. It is filled with small, intimate izakayas (bars) that can seat only a handful of customers at a time.

The izakayas in Nonbei Yokocho offer a wide range of Japanese food and drinks, including sake, beer, grilled skewers (yakitori), fried dishes (karaage), and more. Many of the izakayas have been operating for decades and are run by proprietors who take much pride in serving customers.

Nonbei Yokocho / What to Do in Shibuya

Experience VR (Virtual Reality) in Shibuya

Virtual Reality (VR) experiences have become increasingly popular in recent years, and Shibuya offers several options for VR enthusiasts.

VR Park Tokyo is a state-of-the-art VR entertainment facility located in the heart of Shibuya. It offers a variety of VR experiences, including immersive games, interactive experiences, and virtual adventures.

You can try out a wide range of VR activities, such as fighting zombies, exploring virtual worlds, and solving puzzles.

VR Zone Shibuya is a virtual reality arcade also located in Shibuya that offers a range of VR experiences.

It’s operated by Bandai Namco, one of Japan’s leading entertainment companies, and features popular VR games and experiences based on popular franchises like Mario Kart, Dragon Ball, and Gundam.

Discover Some of Shibuya's Hidden Gems

While there are many popular spots in Shibuya, there are also hidden gems that offer unique and off-the-beaten-path experiences for those who are willing to explore.

• As mentioned earlier, Nonbei Yokocho , also known as “Drunkard’s Alley,” is a narrow alley lined with small bars and izakayas (Japanese-style pubs). Despite its central location in Shibuya, Nonbei Yokocho retains a nostalgic and retro atmosphere, with its narrow cobblestone streets and dimly lit bars. It’s a hidden gem for those seeking an intimate and authentic drinking experience in a traditional Japanese setting.
• Udagawacho Coffee is a small, hidden coffee shop located in a narrow alley off the main streets of Shibuya. It’s known for its cozy and relaxed ambiance and serves delicious coffee brewed with care and precision. The shop also offers a small selection of pastries and sandwiches, making it a perfect spot for a quiet break from the hustle and bustle of Shibuya.
• 246 Common is a hidden courtyard located behind the busy streets of Shibuya, offering a unique blend of food, fashion, and art. It’s a creative and alternative space that hosts various events, pop-up shops, and exhibitions, showcasing the work of local artists and designers.
• Bunkamura Street is a narrow pedestrian street located near the Bunkamura cultural complex in Shibuya, lined with stylish boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. It’s a hidden gem for fashion enthusiasts and those looking for unique and independent fashion brands, as well as a quiet spot for a leisurely stroll away from the crowded streets of Shibuya.
• Love Hotel Hill is a hidden area in Shibuya known for its quirky and unique love hotels, which are themed hotels typically designed for couples seeking privacy and intimacy. The area offers a unique and colorful atmosphere with its neon signs, flashy decorations, and themed rooms.

Intrepid Scout's Tips for What to Do in Shibuya

Shibuya has been a hub for various subcultures that have emerged and evolved over the years.

Gyaru is a Japanese subculture that originated in the late 1990s and early 2000s and was popularized in Shibuya.

Gyaru fashion is characterized by glamorous and exaggerated looks, with a focus on tanned skin, dyed hair (often blonde or colorful), heavy makeup, and flashy clothing.

Gyaru girls, also known as “gals,” are known for their confident and outgoing personalities and their love for fashion, nightlife, and socializing in Shibuya’s trendy streets.

• Harajuku Fashion

Harajuku fashion, known for its eccentric and avant-garde styles, has had a significant impact on Shibuya’s fashion and subculture scene.

Harajuku fashion encompasses various styles, including Lolita, Decora, Visual Kei, and more, and has been a source of inspiration for many young people in Shibuya who embrace alternative and unique fashion expressions.

• Otaku Culture

Otaku refers to individuals with a deep passion for anime, manga, video games, and other forms of Japanese pop culture.

Shibuya is home to many shops, arcades, and cafes catering to otaku interests, making it a hotspot for otaku culture.

Shibuya’s “geek” culture can be seen in various forms, such as cosplay (costume play), maid cafes, anime-themed merchandise, and gaming events, attracting otaku enthusiasts from all over Japan and beyond.

• Urban Street Culture

Shibuya has a thriving street culture scene, with an emphasis on hip-hop, skateboarding, and street art.

Many young people in Shibuya are influenced by urban street culture, and you can often see them dressed in streetwear, practicing skateboarding tricks, or enjoying street art exhibitions and installations.

Shibuya’s streets and parks often serve as a gathering place for urban street culture enthusiasts, creating a vibrant and dynamic subculture scene.

Find Out More About Japan:

14 Amazing Things to Do in Arashiyama (Map+Useful Tips)

What to See at Nijo Castle in Kyoto (10 Top Things to Know)

Stunning Golden Pavilion in Kyoto (How to Visit and What to See)

Amazing Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto (8 Things to Know Before You Visit)

First Visit to Kyoto – How to Visit and What to See (11 Things You Can’t Miss)

Perfect Day Trip to Miyajima from Kyoto, Osaka, or Hiroshima

10 Amazing Things to Do in Hiroshima You Can’t Miss of Your Visit 

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2 thoughts on “ WHAT to Do in SHIBUYA (11 Things to Explore in the Vibrant Heart of Tokyo!) ”

I remember Shibuya Crossing from my trip to Japan in the 1980s. It loved how despite the throngs of people, everyone managed to make it across in time. I am sure it has got much busier since then though.

It is an incredible place. I can just watch for hours. It is something else during the rain. All you see is a sea of umbrellas.

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20 fun things to do in Shibuya

Shibuya is an exciting and varied area in Tokyo. This guide lists some of the top attractions and activities you can do in Shibuya and offers our favorite places to eat, drink and visit.

Shibuya represents one of the 23 wards within Tokyo. It covers approximately 15 square kilometers and is a most renowned destination for locals to enjoy free time and tourist attractions.

This includes fun and fabulous places including Harajuku Omotesando Aoyama and the surrounding area around Shibuya station, often also called Shibuya, just for confusion.

Shibuya: Best Things to Do

Shibuya is Tokyo’s youth center and offers many restaurants and bars. List the best places to see in Shibuya that will definitely go up your bucket list. A popular tourist site in Tokyo. Shibuya Crossing certainly won’t blow your mind. If you are looking for the best photos around Shibuya Crossing, please follow the links below! There are many restaurants including noodles and sushi and everything in between.

Hachiko Statue

The statue of Hachiko is one of many meeting points at Shibuya, just behind the train station. It is certainly a great way of commemorating Haniko’s best friend and taking a picture of him. I mentioned Hachiko earlier in an article, “24 hours in Tokyo”. Hachiko waited every day at his owner’s house at Shibuya Station, before he walked home together.

The owner of Hachiko’s house sadly died at the end of his academic years. Every night for the next 7 years, Hechikiko returned to Shibuku station and was awaiting his owner. Eventually, some commuters noticed him.

Shibuya Crossing

Do I have a desire to explore? Let me begin with the Shibuya pedestrian trek which is the main attraction in Shibuya. You can visit Shibuya Crossing at night when virtually no one can travel this route.

This is an extremely cool and apocalyptic feeling about Tokyo. Take your time and enjoy the enormous distance between buildings to capture some amazing photographs, which are normally impossible due to the crowds surrounding them. It’s quite an enjoyable movie experience and highly recommended for Shibuya.

Shibuya Station

As mentioned earlier, Shibuya trains station is among Tokyo’s largest. There are no restrictions on visiting this large multi-story shopping center. Do not worry about crowding. It is great fun when you can easily navigate the station using a Tokyo subway map.

Shibuya Station has shops, restaurants, and stores. You’ll find many activities at the Shibuya Station to see how Tokyo and Shibuya are divided in the area. Essentially, if you’re really interested in all the details and exploring it, you’ll always find something you want!

Yoyogi Park

When people think about visiting Tokyo it can be difficult to imagine if you want to go to a peaceful park. It is located three kilometers from Harajuku Station and within the extremely urban surroundings of the Shibuya area.

This contrast is quite a relief and at least in a small part a little relief compared with Shibuyo’s hustle-bustles. This is an absolute necessity for the things to do in Shibuya. The large grounds offer an ideal way to enjoy nature at its best, particularly during the cherry blossom seasons.

Sopping In Shibuya

The place is probably the best for shopping among visitors and there are practically all kinds of shops. The biggest branch is the Shibuya Megadonki, opening in 2017. The landmark building at Shibuya PARCO has been refurbished and reopened in Autumn 2019. Currently one of the biggest stores in Shibuya PARCO is Nintendo Japan’s first official Nintendo store.

Manga Cafes

What is Shibuya’s best place to eat? If you can’t drink, you can have a few fun geeky activities in Shibuya. Shibuya also has tonnes of manga cafes, in which it is possible for anyone renting a booth to view and buy manga books. When Manga Cafés became popular there were a couple of new programs for memberships. Members have lower rates, can sleep overnight, and have a bathing and shower room available. Is it really nice to stay here? You must learn Japanese for most hotels because there’s no language textbook available.

Sakuragaoka-Cho Street

Once you’ve had the most of Shibuya, you can chill at Sakuraoka-Cha. During the Sakura season, things are usually quite hectic. Then go there and watch people and enjoy matches and desserts throughout the day. This is a favorite neighborhood in Shibuya

Nonbei Yokocho

Nonbei Yokocho literally translates into ‘Drunken Alleys’. There’s a famous Izakaya alley containing a nostalgic feeling located off Shibuya’s main highway. Have fun getting drunk and be local.

Pachinko Parlours

Pachinko is an Asian arcade where players play slots and games. It’s definitely an experience, so I suggest that you try it. Since gambling was typically legal in Japan the place Pachinko needed to be crafty. Pachinko isn’t considered gambling because you won’t win anything. You win small Pachinko balls for special prizes. The token can be purchased from a shop nearby for money or another item. Since there was no money received at the parlor, no laws had changed.

Go and see a real baseball game!

Jingu Stadium is only two stops from Shibuya and there, in this massive arena of over 3000 seats, there is an authentic baseball match.

Baseball in Japan is an extremely popular sport that is enjoyable for anyone who’s not familiar with this sport. In addition to the sport itself at the stadium, there is delicious food and beverages available, and during the summer fire displays will take place. Tickets are sold via an English website.

Walk in a bamboo forest

Admittedly not in Shibuya Central but less than 20 minutes by bus from Shibuya station, Suzume-ni Oyadi Ryokuchi Park contains a stunning bamboo forest that began to flourish 200 years ago.

It is very special in the Bamboo Forest so you can walk at the right place, enjoying the incredible sights which Bamboo provides. On one corner of the park, there’s even a restored traditional Japanese building.

Takeshita Street

Takeshita Street is usually chock full of people and is a melting pot of Tokyo’s youth fashion and unique Harajuku culture. You can buy just about anything fashionwise from traditional yukata and kimonos to funky Harajuku fashion. Takeshita Street is one of the first things we’ll see when stepping out of Harajuku Station

What To Eat In Shibuya?

There’s a stack of great places to grab a bite to eat in Shibuya.

There are numerous good food outlets in the area that include affordable Sushi restaurants and high-end Wagyu restaurants and the region offers a range of restaurants at an affordable level. This list is the best restaurant in Shibuya.

Grab a bowl of Japan’s world-famous ramen – A taste explosion for your mouth

It is an explosion in popularity worldwide, but it must definitely be tried in Japan for authentic tastes. Japan is also a great destination for Japanese Ramen and it is surprisingly important to visit Shibuya because there’s an opportunity to meet real masters with ramen.

Seitokudo offers many ramens and delicious desserts. Tonari is also famous for oyster ramen and the ramen of Kichitsora has been widely praised. The Japanese food scene certainly offers a variety of ramen restaurants, but Shibuya has three restaurants and many more.

Order some fast food at Japan’s new conveyor sushi – An exciting thing to do in Shibuya!

Restaurants in Shibuya. Uobei Sushi allows you to experience this Japanese-style sushi conveyor. It’s different! It’s where one orders what they want on tablets, then waits for their car. Food is deposited into conveyors on a stylized tray, which appears to represent trains around Japan and racing cars. Instead of wasting time transporting food around on conveyor belts, you can feel like you have fresh food.

Eating wagyu is a must in Japan!

Japanese wagyu beef meats grow in popularity as they are often grilled and served at high prices abroad. However in Japan, the prices are somewhat less expensive; at restaurants such as Henry’s Burger Motsuchi, Ushigoro Bambina, and Moshiba, the food tastes amazingly good. Wagyu beef is unlike any other type of beef, but you can understand why once you try it.

Where to stay in Shibuya?

Other than Love and Captiva Hotel, you can find many great hotels in Shibuya. If you want to stay at Shibuya Hotel – Tokyo, you can easily find good accommodation nearby. We picked out Shibuya accommodation that will ensure you are happy with the accommodation you have booked for your trip.

Love hotels

Shibuya, just like Shinjuku, is famous for many love hotels, particularly in an area called “Love Hotel Hill”. Hotels generally provide places in which you can stay if you want to spend some of the day and some nights.

These aren’t your typical hotel rooms because men are using the room for short periods of privacy. There are definite guidelines at the hotel and security guarantees are maintained. I wrote some additional information in our Tokyo Adult Guides. Love hotels appeared in several recent movies, Among them are 2020 Lost Girls & Love Hotels.

Capsule hotels

What can be done in Shibuya? Get away from taverna hotels! It makes sense to have no money to get a cab home after a fun day at work or to live too long to walk. Capsule hotels provide an ideal solution as they allow you time to get your sleep. As the title explains, it sleeps on capsules. The hotels generally serve only males, though some are also geared toward women. Each capsule includes alarming equipment and a television. The capsules are much larger in older hotels and have additional amenities like large chairs and tables.

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20 Best Things to Do in Shibuya

Updated on: February 18, 2024

Step into Shibuya, Tokyo’s iconic heartbeat , and you’ll immediately sense the blend of the modern and traditional. Imagine standing at the crossroads of Times Square’s dazzling lights and Japan’s rich cultural tapestry. Sounds enticing, doesn’t it?

In Shibuya, every street corner tells a story, every alleyway beckons with new adventures, and every moment holds a surprise. You don’t just visit Shibuya; you experience it.

Whether fashion pulls you in, or the tantalizing scent of authentic Japanese cuisine tempts you, Shibuya has something for everyone. Ready to explore? Let’s dive into the top 20 things to do in Shibuya .

Best Things to Do in Shibuya

Shibuya crossing, hachikō statue, shibuya 109, center street (center gai), shibuya scramble square, nonbei yokocho, yoyogi park, meiji shrine, love hotel hill.

• Koen-dori Street

Shibuya Hikarie

Street art and murals, food (local favorites), vr park tokyo, tokyu hands, toho cinemas shibuya.

Imagine standing on the edge of a sea of humanity, all waiting for the same cue. Then, in an instant, the lights change and everyone surges forward.

Welcome to the Shibuya Crossing, often dubbed the “Times Square of Tokyo.” Every time the pedestrian lights turn green, thousands flood the intersection, weaving seamlessly between each other.

But this isn’t just a crossing; it’s a symbol of Tokyo’s organized chaos. For the best experience, grab a coffee from a nearby cafe and watch from above. Seeing this iconic dance from a bird’s-eye view truly gives you a sense of its grandeur.

And if you’re brave enough, join the throngs and become a part of Shibuya’s most dynamic ballet. Remember, capturing this moment on camera is almost obligatory for any traveler!

As you wander through the bustling streets of Shibuya, a heartwarming story waits around the corner.

Meet Hachikō, the loyal dog whose bronze statue stands proudly near Shibuya Station. This faithful Akita dog captured the hearts of many by waiting every day for his deceased owner to return, showcasing unparalleled loyalty.

Today, locals and tourists alike flock to this monument, not only to pay respects but also as a popular rendezvous point. So, as you stand by Hachikō, you’re not just witnessing a symbol of unwavering dedication but also participating in a living tradition.

And as you snap a photo with the statue, remember the poignant tale it represents, a tale that transcends time, reminding us all of the enduring bonds between man and animal.

Step right into the epicenter of Tokyo’s youth fashion at Shibuya 109. This towering building doesn’t just house fashion; it defines and shapes it.

As you enter, each floor greets you with a whirlwind of the latest trends, vibrant colors, and eclectic styles. From edgy streetwear to dainty accessories, Shibuya 109 serves as a fashion forecast, dictating what the youth of Tokyo will sport next.

As you move from one store to the next, you’ll not only shop but also witness the birthplace of trends that might just take the world by storm. And remember, even if fashion isn’t your passion, the sheer energy and creativity of Shibuya 109 make it a must-visit.

So, take the plunge, immerse yourself in the fashion frenzy, and maybe even reinvent your style!

Venture just a short distance from the famed Shibuya Crossing, and you’ll find yourself on Center Street, locally known as Center Gai.

It’s not just any street; think of it as Shibuya’s dynamic artery, pumping with youthful energy and vibrant vibes. As you stroll, neon lights illuminate your path, revealing an array of shops, eateries, and the latest pop culture trends.

Every turn offers a sensory feast, from the tantalizing aroma of street food to the visual spectacle of avant-garde fashion. It’s here that Tokyo’s youth come to see and be seen. And as night falls, Center Gai truly comes alive, transforming into a nocturnal playground.

So, whether you’re hunting for that perfect souvenir or just soaking in the ambiance, Center Gai guarantees an experience that’s pulsating and unforgettable.

Elevate your Shibuya experience, quite literally, at the Shibuya Scramble Square . Towering above the cityscape, this architectural marvel invites you to ascend its heights and capture Tokyo from a perspective like no other.

As you rise, floor by floor, anticipation builds. And then, you’re there – the observation deck, a window to Tokyo’s sprawling beauty. With every glance, you’ll spot iconic landmarks, weaving rivers, and the rhythmic dance of the city below.

But it’s not just about the view. Within its walls, Shibuya Scramble Square houses a tapestry of shops, eateries, and cultural experiences. So, after you’ve savored the panorama, descend and explore the treasure trove below.

Wander a little off the main streets of Shibuya, and you’ll discover Nonbei Yokocho, a charming alleyway that feels like a step back in time.

Nestled between the gleaming high-rises, this narrow lane, lined with traditional wooden buildings, offers a stark contrast to the bustling modernity outside.

As you meander through, the ambient glow of lanterns lights your way, revealing quaint bars and eateries, each with its own unique story to tell. Here, the past intertwines with the present, as old-school taverns serve both age-old sake and contemporary cocktails.

Engage with locals, savor traditional dishes, and listen to tales from yesteryears. Nonbei Yokocho doesn’t just provide a culinary journey; it immerses you in an ambiance steeped in history and nostalgia.

So, let curiosity guide you, and cherish the memories you’ll undoubtedly forge in this enchanting enclave.

Imagine taking a breather from the urban hustle and finding yourself amidst a verdant paradise. That’s Yoyogi Park for you, Shibuya’s very own green sanctuary.

Nestled amid the city’s concrete landscape, this expansive park beckons with wide-open spaces, tranquil ponds, and shaded groves.

As you meander along its pathways, each corner unveils a new facet, from traditional tea ceremonies to spontaneous music performances. But there’s more than meets the eye.

Seasonally, Yoyogi Park transforms, with cherry blossoms painting it pink in spring and golden leaves heralding autumn’s embrace. And let’s not forget the myriad of cultural events that find a home here, creating a tapestry of experiences that blend nature with artistry.

Whether you’re seeking solitude, recreation, or cultural immersion, Yoyogi Park extends an invitation that’s hard to refuse. Dive in, explore, and let nature’s serenity wrap around you.

Venture a little deeper into Shibuya, and a serene haven awaits you: the Meiji Shrine. Enclosed by towering trees, this Shinto shrine offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s perpetual motion.

As you approach, the grand Torii gate stands as a sentinel, guiding you into a realm where tradition reigns supreme. With every step on the gravel path, the sounds of the city fade, replaced by whispers of the wind and the distant melody of ritual chants.

Here, you don’t just observe; you participate. Purify yourself at the cleansing fountain, offer your prayers, and if you’re fortunate, witness traditional wedding ceremonies unfold.

But the Meiji Shrine isn’t just about rituals. Its lush grounds and tranquil garden beckon for exploration, providing a soothing backdrop for reflection.

So, take a moment, breathe in the spiritual ambiance, and reconnect with a side of Tokyo that resonates with timeless grace.

Navigating the energetic streets of Shibuya, you might stumble upon a uniquely Japanese phenomenon: Love Hotel Hill.

Distinguished from the ordinary by its neon signs and unmistakably playful architecture, Love Hotel Hill introduces visitors to a quirky facet of Tokyo’s urban culture.

For the uninitiated, love hotels are short-stay hotels designed primarily for couples, providing them with privacy amidst the dense city sprawl. But Love Hotel Hill isn’t just about its primary purpose; it’s about celebrating eccentricity in design and function.

As you walk along, the kaleidoscope of themes, from fairy tale castles to futuristic pods, captures the imagination. Each hotel vies for attention with its distinct facade, hinting at the escapism awaiting inside.

Moreover, these establishments now beckon not just couples but curious travelers as well. With their hourly rates and unique room designs, many tourists find them an intriguing accommodation option, offering a memorable experience unlike the typical hotel stay.

Koen-Dori Street

Koen-dori Street in Shibuya pulsates with shopping allure. Begin at Parco – a trendsetting department store that houses both international and local brands.

A few steps away, Loft offers an array of unique homeware and stationery. For those seeking a touch of Japanese design, Beams is a must-visit with its curated apparel.

As you wind down, grab a treat from Café de l’Ambre , an old-school coffeehouse, and reminisce over your finds.

All in all, Koen-dori encapsulates Shibuya’s shopping essence, where iconic stores converge to create a memorable retail journey.

More info ➜ Best Theme Cafes in Tokyo

Ready to groove? Then make your way to Club Womb, Shibuya’s pulsating heart of nightlife.

As you step inside, the bass reverberates, setting the tone for an unforgettable night. Recognized globally, Club Womb doesn’t just play music; it crafts a sonic experience, drawing in both local enthusiasts and international DJs.

Every night, a new rhythm takes over, from electrifying techno to soulful house beats. And as the lights dance in tandem with the music, the crowd comes alive, moving as one.

But beyond the beats, what truly sets Club Womb apart is its immersive ambiance. Dive into its multi-level floors, each with a distinct vibe, ensuring every visit feels fresh and invigorating.

So, lace up your dancing shoes and get ready to lose yourself in the rhythm, because Club Womb guarantees a night where the beat goes on until dawn.

For those with an ear for nostalgia, Shibuya has the perfect haunt: Disk Union .

As you push open its doors, a world of vinyl awaits, with rows upon rows of records spanning genres, eras, and artists. This isn’t just a store; it’s a testament to the timeless appeal of music in its purest form.

As you flip through the stacks, every record tells a story, from classic rock anthems to elusive indie releases. But here’s the catch – Disk Union doesn’t just cater to the seasoned collector.

Whether you’re a vinyl veteran or a curious newbie, the knowledgeable staff is always on hand, guiding you, offering recommendations, and sharing little-known music tidbits.

So, as you hold that vinyl, feel its weight, and drop the needle on the turntable, let the analog soundscapes transport you. At Disk Union, music isn’t just heard; it’s felt, deep in the soul.

Stepping into Shibuya Hikarie, you’re immediately enveloped in modern sophistication. This iconic complex boasts a premium shopping arena where top-tier brands meet innovative local designers.

As you ascend, diverse dining options offer both local and global flavors, complemented by mesmerizing city views. Beyond retail and gastronomy, Hikarie shines with its art galleries and performance spaces, capturing Tokyo’s vibrant cultural pulse.

In essence, Shibuya Hikarie is more than a landmark; it’s a condensed experience of Tokyo’s modern luxuries.

Wandering through Shibuya is like navigating an open-air art gallery. Vibrant murals, spanning from expansive building canvases to intimate alley sketches, showcase Tokyo’s pulsating artistic heartbeat.

These pieces, a blend of modern themes and traditional motifs, reflect the city’s evolving narrative. Beyond mere observation, the art encourages interaction, offering glimpses into Tokyo’s youth culture and vivid aspirations.

So, step into Shibuya’s lanes, and let the walls narrate their tales in vivid colors and strokes.

Dive into Shibuya’s culinary landscape, where traditional and modern flavors intertwine. Start with street staples like takoyaki, then head to revered spots like  Ichiran Ramen  for soul-soothing noodles.

Explore the artistry of sushi at establishments like  Midori Sushi . Beyond Japanese delicacies, Shibuya’s cosmopolitan flair shines at places like  Afuri , blending international tastes seamlessly.

In Shibuya, every bite not only satiates hunger but also narrates a tale of Tokyo’s diverse gastronomic legacy .

Karaoke Kan

Heralding from the heart of Japan’s entertainment culture, there’s one activity you simply can’t miss in Shibuya: karaoke.

And where better to belt out your favorite tunes than at Karaoke Kan , Shibuya’s premier singing destination?

Push open its doors, and you’re welcomed into a labyrinth of private rooms, each equipped with top-notch sound systems, an exhaustive song library, and vibrant ambiance.

Whether you’re a seasoned crooner or just humming along, Karaoke Kan offers the stage to unleash your inner star. But it’s not just about the music.

Dive into the menu, and you’ll find an array of snacks and drinks to fuel your performance. As the evening progresses, the atmosphere becomes electric, with laughter, cheers, and melodies echoing down the halls. So, gather your crew, pick that chart-topper, and let the music take over.

Stepping into the future has never felt so real, thanks to Shibuya VR Land. Tucked away amidst the vibrant streets of Shibuya, this entertainment hub catapults you into virtual worlds brimming with adventure, excitement, and awe.

Slip on the VR headset, and suddenly, you’re not just in Shibuya; you’re soaring through fantastical skies, diving deep into mysterious oceans, or battling futuristic foes. Each experience at Shibuya VR Land, curated with cutting-edge technology, promises unparalleled immersion.

The beauty of it all? There’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer thirsting for a challenge, a family seeking shared adventures, or a curious soul ready to explore, the myriad of VR experiences caters to all tastes and ages.

But beyond the games, it’s the shared excitement, the gasps of wonder, and the collective joy that makes a visit memorable.

Dive into this realm of virtual magic at Shibuya VR Land, and let the worlds of imagination redefine your reality.

Edit: This location has been definitely closed.

Venture into Tokyu Hands, Shibuya’s sanctuary of innovation. Beyond everyday household items, expect uniquely crafted kitchen gadgets, ergonomic office tools, and a DIY enthusiast’s dream collection.

Don’t miss the vast array of stationery, celebrating the best of Japanese design. But it’s more than just shopping – with regular workshops and demos, Tokyu Hands ensures a hands-on, discovery-filled visit.

In this iconic store, every aisle promises a new find, making shopping a true adventure.

Lights, camera, action! For cinephiles and casual movie-goers alike, Shibuya’s Toho Cinema offers a world where stories come alive.

Standing tall amidst the urban landscape, this iconic cinema house is more than just a place to catch the latest blockbusters. It’s a celebration of film culture.

As you settle into the plush seats, the state-of-the-art sound systems promise an auditory experience that envelops and transports. But beyond the tech, Toho Cinema captivates with its diverse repertoire.

From global hits to indie gems and Japanese cinema classics, there’s always something to pique your interest. Moreover, special events, like director Q&As and film festivals, offer deeper dives into the world of movies.

So, grab that popcorn, dim the lights, and let the silver screen at Toho Cinema whisk you away on a cinematic journey.

Nestled in Shibuya, Bunkamura stands as a cultural jewel.

First, immerse yourself in global rhythms at The Orchard Hall, showcasing top-tier concerts and ballets.

Next, wander through the Bunkamura Museum of Art, where rotating exhibits bridge the old and new. Don’t miss Theatre Cocoon, where plays breathe life into timeless tales.

Beyond performances, Bunkamura’s cozy nooks and cafes invite reflection, making it more than a venue—it’s a voyage into Japan’s artistic heart.

Final Thoughts

Reflecting on our journey through Shibuya, it’s clear that this district pulsates with a unique blend of tradition and modernity.

From iconic crosswalks to immersive cultural hubs, each corner of Shibuya unfolds a new story, a fresh experience.

As you meander through its streets, the interplay of history, fashion, art, and cuisine continuously enthralls.

Indeed, whether you’re seeking the latest trend, an artistic masterpiece, or a culinary delight, Shibuya never ceases to inspire and captivate. So, as you chart your next adventure, remember the myriad wonders Shibuya offers, and let this vibrant district beckon you once more.

If you are wondering what to do in Tokyo, check this article below!

• Best Places to Go in Tokyo

Are you also looking for the things to do in the areas near Shibuya?

• Top Things to Do in Akihabara
• Best Things to Do in Shinjuku
• Best Things to Do in Harajuku
• Best Things to Do in Ueno
• Top Things to Do in Roppongi

Shibuya is globally recognized for its bustling Shibuya Crossing, youth fashion, and vibrant nightlife . It’s also a hub for shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.

Yes, Shibuya, like most parts of Tokyo, is generally safe even at night. However, as with any major city, it’s advisable to remain aware of your surroundings and avoid poorly-lit or deserted areas.

Shibuya is easily accessible via Tokyo’s vast train and subway network . The JR Yamanote Line, among others, stops at Shibuya Station.

Shibuya is lively year-round. However, if you’re aiming for milder weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting during spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November).

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The 10 Coolest Things To Do In Shibuya Not To Miss

The Land of the Rising Sun’s capital has countless interesting places to visit but if there’s one you shouldn’t miss , it’s definitely Shibuya! This special ward in Tokyo is a very authentic city and a symbol of Tokyoite culture. It’s also very popular among high school and university students who shop and hang out in this very busy commercial and business center.

Tourists come to Shibuya to discover a unique side of Tokyo . You might even notice that the way people dress there is quite different, especially if you compare it to the way people in Asakusa dress for example. I cannot say it often enough so I’ll say it again: what I really love about Tokyo is the way tradition and modernity coexist in perfect harmony.

I do love hanging out in Shibuya so every time I travel to Tokyo, I make sure to drop by to have a drink with a few friends of mine who live in Tokyo. What watch how the neighbourhood look like? Watch this:

In this blog post, I’m going to share with you my top 10 favorite places in Shibuya but of course, let’s look at travel options and accommodation first.

How To Get To Shibuya?

Shibuya is located west of Tokyo and the best way to get there is to take the train to Shibuya Station, which is a very busy railway station. You can get there through the Yamanote loop line, as well as through the Ginza and Hanzomon lines.

If you’re looking for the cheapest and fastest train rides to Shibuya, you can use Hyperdia ‘s website in its English version (not many Japanese railway websites have one!).

Let’s say you’re in Roppongi for example, here are your options:

As you can see, the second route is the fastest and also the cheapest. It’s only 30 yen cheaper but keep in mind that some tickets to the same destination can have very different prices. I recommend you always check your best options on Hyperdia when you’re using the train in Tokyo and in Japan in general.

Shibuya Station is a pretty big station and although there are many signs designed to help you find your way, you could easily get lost there so here’s a map to help you out:

Where To Stay In Shibuya?

If you’re staying in Shibuya, you will be able to use the train to visit the whole city of Tokyo if that’s what you’re up to! What’s also very convenient is that if you’re planning to go out and party all night, you can walk all the way back to your hotel if you don’t want to take the last train (or the next day’s first train, depends on how you intend to spend the night!). Keep in mind that there will be no trains after midnight and that taxi rides are quite expensive. By the way, if you plan to go out often in Tokyo, you can save money with this 7-day nightclubbing pass .

The first time I went to Tokyo, I booked a room at the Granbell Hotel Shibuya . Location-wise, it was easy to go pretty much anywhere from there. Other than that, the hotel had great, modern rooms which are ideal if you’re traveling with a partner, and also very affordable considering the level of comfort and convenience the hotel offers.

I got a hotel room upgrade by the way so I stayed at the hotel’s suite which was perfect! 🙂

If you can’t afford to spend much on accommodation and prefer to stay at a hostel, you can try the Wise Owl Hostels . I spent some time there; it’s one of the cheapest hostels around and it’s really great. Make sure to book your room early enough though, it gets full pretty quickly.

Buy your train ticket, book your room and sit down for this list of my 10 favorite spots in Shibuya!

• Hachiko Statue
• Shibuya Crossing
• Basketball Street
• Uogashi Nihon-ichi Standing Sushi Bar
• Capsule Hotels
• Nonbei Yokocho
• Love Hotel Hill
• Tower Records
• Shopping malls

1. Hachiko Statue

Everybody knows Hachiko, he’s the most famous dog in all Japan! Statues of the dog have been built in Tokyo and the most well-known of them all is the one standing in Shibuya. The statue is now a very popular meeting spot because the city tends to be very busy, especially at night, so people meet there to avoid getting lost.

If you’re wondering who is Hachiko and how he came to be famous, well here’s the story. Hachiko was an Akita dog whose master was a professor at the famous Tokyo University, also known as Todai. The dog was the eighth born of his mother’s litter of puppies, hence his name, hachi in Japanese meaning eight. Hachiko also means “8th prince”. Every morning, Hachiko’s master would leave for work and Hachiko would accompany him to Shibuya Station. The dog would go back to the station every evening to wait for his master.

But on the 21st of May 1925, Hachiko’s master dies at work from a brain hemorrhage and never goes back home. Hachiko, who went to the station that day to wait for him like he does every day, never saw his master again. He kept coming back to Shibuya Station at the same time every evening to wait for his master… for the next 10 years. Hachiko came to be held as an example of loyalty and is today the symbol of the city.

2. Shibuya Crossing

Shibuya Crossing is undoubtedly the most crowded spot in Tokyo! You can go there if you leave the Shibuya Station from the Hachiko exit, it’ll be right in front of you. Just like every big scramble crossing in Tokyo, it stops vehicles in all directions for a few seconds to allow pedestrians to cross the street. Shibuya Crossing has become an attraction for tourists looking for the very authentic buzz you get when crossing a street in Tokyo! Here’s a video of what it looks like:

You can also get a bird’s eye view of the Crossing from the Train Station or from the Starbucks you see in the bottom right corner of the picture below.

By the way, if you want to cross the famous crossing in style with a kimono, feel free to book this tour and make fun pictures! 🙂

3. Basketball Street

Basketball Street is one of the most popular streets in Shibuya, here’s its exact location . I always wondered why it’s called Basketball Street and finally got to understand the reason behind the name. Apparently, a few years ago, many street sellers or “curbsiders” were doing business there and that’s where the street got its bad reputation from. Japanese people would call it kowai-gai or “the scary street”.

So the Japanese local authorities got rid of the street sellers first, then the local (legal) trade association decided to rename the street after a basketball field nearby and that’s that!

You’ll notice many basketballs scattered here and there as well as these signs:

The street’s new name was an attempt to get rid of its former reputation and give it a brand new cool one and it worked! Basketball Street is now a very popular street where people come to shop, hang out, grab a bite to eat or have a drink!

4. Uogashi Nihon-ichi Standing Sushi Bar

Location  : https://goo.gl/maps/GgVFGMY5vEp

Average price for a pair of sushi  : 200 yen ($1,8)

This restaurant is in Basketball Street and it’s my favorite in Tokyo! As the name suggests, you shouldn’t be expecting a luxury restaurant. It’s actually a tiny sushi bar where you get to eat your sushi standing up, at best. But it’s a very friendly restaurant! And the sushi are very affordable and taste great. The salmon-mayo ones with the smokey, blow-torched sauce are my favorite! Absolutely delicious!

If you are a big fan of Japanese food, make sure to check out this article too: Tokyo Food Tour .

5. Capsule Hotels

I know I already recommended a couple of places you can stay at in Shibuya but you can also try this very authentic experience for a change: sleeping in a capsule hotel. Of course, if you have claustrophobic tendencies, it’s better to avoid this altogether but if you don’t, I can guarantee you’ll be surprised by how comfortable these capsules are!

There are many capsule hotels in Shibuya but The Millennials is one of the best out there. It’s literally five minutes away from the train station. It opened in March 2018 so it’s a pretty modern hotel with state-of-art equipment! How’s that, you say? Well, instead of a TV set that would take up space, you get a room with a projection screen to watch movies on! And as you’re thinking it can’t get any better, let me tell you that you can get free beers from 5:30 to 6:30PM!

Looking for a capsule hotel elsewhere? Here’s a good selection of capsule hotels to try in Tokyo .

By the way, if you are looking for activities to do in all Tokyo, read this blog post: Best things to do in Tokyo .

6. Nonbei Yokocho

Location :  https://goo.gl/maps/6XLsFeB6Vhm

Nonbei Yokocho are small pedestrian streets in Shibuya where there’s just enough room for 4 or 5 people, widthwise that is, so you’ll probably find yourself standing pretty close to other people (strangers most likely) while eating or drinking and you wouldn’t be missing the point at all! The idea behind it all is to create just enough space for friendliness and new relationships to form.

By the way, there’s a very similar street in Shinjuku , it’s called Golden Gai and it’s actually even more popular than Nonbei Yokocho. If you happen to visit Shinjuku, dropping by Golden Gai would be a very interesting idea!

7. Mandarake

Location :  https://goo.gl/maps/5e89XJSYGoA2

If you’re a manga and/or anime fan, you need to visit Mandarake in Shibuya. It’s a huge underground store and you get the impression you’re entering a cave filled with otaku goodness. And that’s actually what it is: books, figurines, spin-off products, they’re all in there! Here’s a virtual tour of the store (sorry for the poor sound quality).

If you’re looking for more stores like this, go to Akihabara , which is the otaku cultural center in Tokyo.

8. Love Hotel Hill

This is a very peculiar place in Shibuya. So peculiar it’s borderline weird! Tourists don’t usually know about Love Hotel Hill; it’s right behind the 109 department store building , near Shibuya Crossing.

As the name suggests, Love Hotel Hill is a hill where many love hotels work hard to offer the best experiences to customers! What’s a love hotel, you say? It’s a hotel where couples can stay the night in complete and utter privacy. No need to be judgmental about it like some people are in other parts of the world.

Many Japanese people live with their parents’ sometimes past their thirties and therefore cannot spend time with their boyfriends or girlfriends in the privacy of a room that can cater to their needs, let’s say. So they go to a love hotel where they can rent a room for a few hours or for the entire night if they want to. If you’d like to try it, book a room in advance at the Love Hotel Sulata and enjoy yourself!

You can find more Love Hotel recommendations in Tokyo here: Love Hotel Tokyo .

9. Tower Records

Location :  https://goo.gl/maps/E6mSYrkFea82

Towers Records occupies 8 floors dedicated entirely to music. It’s quite popular in Shibuya and people still go there to buy CDs of their favorite bands. You can find pretty much any music you’re looking for there but you’ll notice that J-Pop dominates the market. You don’t have to buy anything, it’s just fun to take a look around or have a drink at the Tower Records Cafe on the building’s first floor where music events are often held. Last time I was there, there was a famous J-Pop singer who unexpectedly dropped by the cafe to surprise his fans and sign a few albums.

10. Shopping Malls

If there’s only one thing left to do in Shibuya, it’s definitely shopping! If you’re looking for latest fashion trends, you can try Forever 21 , which is dedicated mostly to adolescents. You can also visit the Shibuya 109 shopping mall. Keep in mind that these stores are quite expensive and it’s mostly due to the fact that they are located in Shibuya.

If you’re looking for better deals, you can try the Mega Don Quijote where you’ll find basically everything at lower prices. You can buy food, souvenirs, clothes, halloween costumes, bicycles, everything you can think of, for much cheaper prices.

My favorite shopping mall in Shibuya is Hikarie , it’s right behind the train station so make sure to check it out.

I hope this brief digital guidebook will come in handy and that you’ll use it to plan your next trip to Tokyo. Let me know in the comments what’s your favorite spot in Shibuya!

If you want to know more about my trips around Asia, make sure you follow me on  Facebook , Instagram  and  Pinterest .

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Things To Do in Shibuya, Japan – Tokyo’s Special District

Shibuya, Tokyo is surely a must-visit when you’re in Japan! This district offers a lot of awesome things to do in Shibuya for tourists. Find out what those are here!

I know Tokyo , Japan is included on your travel bucket list. But of course, being the capital of Japan, you should expect to see tons of shopping centers, and when we say shopping centers, we’re talking about high-end ones. Not only that, but it’s also popular for having lots of cafes, restaurants, markets, and some of the best hotels in Japan . And Shibuya, being Tokyo’s special ward is a popular tourist destination in the country. It offers various experiences for visitors. In this article, we’ll tell you what things you can do when you’re in Shibuya Tokyo.

If you’re looking for the perfect luxury accommodation for your stay in Tokyo, for business or pleasure, we recommend that you check out the Prince Hotel Tokyo .

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Table of Contents

Top Things To Do in Shibuya, Japan

1. be stunned at the meiji jingu shrine.

Meiji Jingu Shrine is a beautiful tree-filled area that is cool on the hottest day. The shrine is huge and consists of several fascinating cultural and religious festivals. The entrance gate, which is called ‘Torii’ in Japanese, is also huge. Everything here is so calm that you will forget you are in the middle of Tokyo. You may even get a chance to witness a Japanese wedding here when you visit.

2. Visit the ever-popular Shibuya Crossing

A place in Tokyo that offers a great photo opportunity! Yes, it’s a crossing, but people who love photography and enjoy being in front of the camera would love this place. Not only that but it also has tons of shops, arcades, and just cool things to see! Yes, it is crowded but bearable. A must-see if you are visiting Tokyo.

3. Have a peaceful day at Yoyogi Park

Yoyogi Park is a 134-acre green space near the Shibuya area of Tokyo. It is full of walking trails, picnic areas, bike trails, etc. The park is extremely clean and well-kept. If you are tired of the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, this park is a great opportunity to enjoy Japanese gardening art or to visit a holy and tranquil place.

4. Experience the busy Shibuya Center-Gai

This place is full of people from locals to tourists experiencing the busy district of Shibuya. It is filled with eateries, bars, and shopping. Enjoy shopping and restaurants in the streets nearby. Something you should not miss when in Shibuya. However, if you don’t like crowded and busy areas, this is not the place to be.

5. Appreciate the beauty of Meiji Shrine Imperial Garden

When you visit the Meiji Shrine, it is impossible not to stumble upon the Imperial garden. It is a huge park to walk and breathe fresh air. Some parts of the garden are more touristic and some are nicely hidden. Such a lovely way to enjoy nature.

6. Enjoy extraordinary shopping at Takeshita Street

This is a busy but fun street to go shopping for all your Japanese souvenirs. There are lots of side streets to wander down too. If you’re traveling with kids, you can bring them here as there are tons of sweets, fashion accessories for youngsters, and a lot more. And if you’re a fan of cosplay, you might want to check this place out.

7. See high-end shops at Omotesando

Omotesando is a pleasant street to walk on in all seasons. If you fancy high street and high-end shopping this is the place to be. It is close to Takeshita street so you can visit both in one day, depending on how much shopping you want to do. The buildings in the surrounding area are also very picturesque with their awesome and unique architecture.

8. Have a quieter shopping experience at Shibuya Cat Street

This entire Shibuya area is deceiving – you wouldn’t think it would have high-end stores, but it has blocks after blocks of amazing, high-end shopping. Cat Street has a lot to offer for tourists and locals. First and foremost this street is closed to traffic, so you can walk at leisure. There’s a great variety of shops. It also has a nice relaxed atmosphere compared to the hustle and bustle of other shopping areas in Tokyo.

9. Walkthrough the Shinjuku Southern Terrace

A pleasant place to walk through compared to the busy street of Tokyo. This is also near all the shopping centers and you cannot miss it if you come out from Shinjuku Train Station. It is recommended to come here at night when the lights are turned on as it looks so beautiful.

10. Do a lot of shopping at Takashimaya Times Square

Takashimaya Times Square is located just across from Shinjuku Station. It offers a complete shopping experience! From top fashion brands, uniquely Japanese gifts, duty-free items, family fun, or a delicious meal, name it and this place has it. Save your energy as this requires a lot of walking. Plus Tokyu hands next door! Surely a must place to visit in Shinjuku Area.

11. Find accommodation in Shibuya, Japan

Come and Take a Look at The Statue of ‘Hachiko’

In case you’re not aware, one of the world’s considered most loyal dogs is the Japanese Akita dog. His name is Hachiko, the dog who waited for his owner for 9 years at the Shibuya Station. If you watched the movie ‘Hachi: A Dog’s Tale’, you might be familiar with how loyal this dog is. And we’re talking about great loyalty here, to the point that Japan even made a statue solely dedicated to Hachiko. It can be found right in front of the Hachiko Exit at Shibuya Station.

With all these things to do in Shibuya, Japan, you’ll surely go back to this wonderful district. So if you’re ready to have a trip to remember, then head your way to Japan and have a blast in Shibuya!

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25 Best Things to Do in Shibuya 2024

Best Things to Do in Shibuya: From Shibuya Crossing to Shibuya109 Shopping Mall

The center of young generation, Shibuya is the most energetic district in Tokyo, offering countless restaurants, shops and entertainments! Here are best things to do in Shibuya area which should definitely be added to your bucket list.

While a variety of areas have been gaining attention in Tokyo tourism, Shibuya remains the center of all trends in Tokyo, including fashion and business. Symbolized by that crowded intersection, Shibuya is one of the busiest areas with many places for tourists to visit and various seasonal events held throughout the year.

New commercial facilities, hotels and other unique spots are opening every day in Shibuya . There are a wide range of options for restaurant, bar and Izakaya in Shibuya , which is why it is recommended for nightlife. Its proximity to other popular areas such as Harajuku and Shinjuku and excellent accessibility is another attraction.

Check out this list of best things to do in Shibuya including the classic tourist attractions and the hottest spots to go right now.

*Please note that this article contains affiliate links.

1. Shibuya Scramble Crossing

The busiest pedestrian crossing in the world, with as many as 3,000 people crossing at a time , Shibuya Scramble Crossing or simply called Shibuya Crossing will surely blow your mind! One of the most popular tourist attractions in Tokyo is a must-visit photo spot among most tourists. There are several great spots in Shibuya where you can capture the great views of the crossing. Check out the link below introducing some of the best photo spots around the crossing!

▶ Best Photo Spots for Shibuya Scramble Crossing

2. Shibuya Center Gai Street

There are a variety of restaurants including Ramen, Sushi, fast food and everything along this street. Shibuya Center Gai Street is the first choice for visitors in Shibuya to dine and enjoy nightlife since it has plenty of cafes, restaurants, bars, Izakaya (Japanese style pub) and clubs. The street is even more vibrant and colourful with neon lights of shop signs after dark. Shibuya Center Gai Street is also an ideal place for shopping as there are numbers of stores including department stores, clothing stores, drug stores and stationery stores. The entrance of the street located right off the Scramble Crossing.

3. Shibuya 109

Shibuya 109 has been an icon of Tokyo’s young fashion culture for a couple of decades being adored as “Marukyu” among young fashionistas, especially from the gyaru subculture . The 10-story fashion complex is home to over 100 boutiques, offering a wide range of fashion items with the latest trends, mostly with affordable prices. The building is located just across the Shibuya Crossing. MAGNET by SHIBUYA109, another shopping complex targeting young men is located only a few blocks away.

4. Hachiko Statue

The Hachiko ’s bronze statue has been a symbol of Shibuya for over 80 years and it’s the most popular meeting point of the district. You can meet him in front of Shibuya station’s Hachiko Exit.

5. Shibuya Scramble Square

The tallest building in Shibuya area, Shibuya Scramble Square has opened in 2019 autumn with over 200 shops and restaurants. At the roof top of the building, there is an observatory “ Shibuya Sky ” where you can gaze the coolest view of the streets of Shibuya including the Shibuya Crossing.

▶ Click HERE to Book a SHIBUYA SKY Admission Ticket Now!!

6. Shibuya PARCO

The iconic commercial building in Shibuya, Shibuya PARCO has been renovated and re-opened in 2019 autumn with nearly 200 shops, restaurants and entertainment facilities. Some of the most notable shops at Shibuya PARCO is the first official Nintendo store in Japan, Nintendo TOKYO where you can shop the latest games as well as a wide range of game-related merchandise. The store is located on the Cyberspace Shibuya floor (6F) which is dedicated to game, anime and character items. Pokemon Center Shibuya is also located on the same floor!

7. Nonbei Yokocho

Nonbei Yokocho literally means “drunker’s alley”. It’s a small and narrow Izakaya alley with nostalgic atmosphere located off the main street of Shibuya. Have a great experience to get drunk like locals 🙂

8. Niku Yokocho

The best place to eat for meat lovers with low budget! Niku Yokocho is a complex building with 26 restaurants mainly serving meat dishes. There are lots of tiny izakaya in this alleyway and hard to pick good ones to visit. Try this Shibuya Bar Hopping Nightlife Tour with Magical Trip and you’ll get to taste finest meat dishes at their handpicked izakaya bars.

9. SHIBUYA MEGA DONKI

Don Quijote (DONKI) is arguably the most popular place to shop among tourists as you can find pretty much everything including living necessities to unique souvenirs. The biggest branch of Don Quijote, Shibuya Mega Donki is located in Shibuya, which comprises 7 floors and is open for 24 hours.

10. Shibuya Stream

A new landmark of the district, Shibuya Stream is a 180m tall multi-purpose complex, directly linked to Shibuya Station. The 35-story building is home to various facilities such as shops, restaurants, event hall, hotel and office. It’s one of the most trending spots to hang out in Tokyo.

11. Shibuya Loft

If you are hunting for cool and unique souvenirs from Japan, LOFT is one of the best shops where you can find a range of those items. LOFT has stores across Japan, and Shibuya LOFT is one of the biggest branches, offering a wide variety items in the 6-story outlet including satationery, household goods, accessories, clothes, bags, cosmetics products, souvenirs and many more.

12. Shibuya Hikarie

Shibuya Hikarie is a popular shopping complex near Shibuya Station which consists of numbers of shops, restaurants, cafes and some office. It also has an admission free observation deck where you can enjoy a great overlooking view of vibrant and energetic Shibuya neighbourhood as well as a diorama view of railways. The observation deck is located on the 11th floor of the building (182m).

13. Miyashita Park

Miyashita Park is a commercial complex with a rooftop park, which opened in 2020 after being renovated from a public park. The cool designed building consists of shops, restaurants and a hotel, and there are a skatepark, bouldering facility and green space on the rooftop.

14. Shibuya Sakura Stage

Shibuya Sakura Stage is a new large-scale complex that was completed in late 2023 and is scheduled to open in summer 2024 with various establishments. It’s located in Sakuragaoka area of Shibuya district, and directly connected to Shibuya Station by a pedestrian bridge.

Shibuya Sakura Stage is designed as a multifaceted space that embodies the spirit of Shibuya’s dynamic culture. The cutting-edge digital space and refreshing greenery will combine to construct a city within a city that will create new interactions and experiences, offering a unique experience for visitors.

15. Dogenzaka-dori

Dogenzaka-dori is large multi-purpose complex located in Dogenzaka area of Shibuya districts. It was completed in March 2023, and opened in September same year, as part of the Shibuya Ward Dogenzaka 2-chome Development Plan. The complex is about 115 m high and consists of 28 floors with shop and restaurants on its 1st and 2nd floors, office from 3rd to 10th floors and a hotel “Hotel Indigi Tokyo Shibuya” from 11th to 28th floors.

16. SHIBUYA Blue Cave

Illumination events are one of the most popular things to do in Japan during winter. One of most popular winter illuminations in Tokyo is Shibuya Blue Cave which invites over 2 million visitors in Christmas season.

When in comes to eating out in Tokyo, Shibuya offers one of the largest dining options for tourists. Various restaurants with wide price range can be found within the district including budget friendly sushi,  high-end wagyu , delicious ramen and mouthwatering okonomiyaki . Please check out the link below for recommended restaurants in Shibuya area!

▶ Best Restaurants in Shibuya

18. Trendy Cafes

Instagram worthy food and drinks become the biggest trend in Japan lately, and Shibuya is the best area to find eye-popping, yet delicious food as many cafes and restaurants are located in this area.

More Info ▶︎10 Best Pancakes in Shibuya Area ▶︎8 Best Desserts in Shibuya and Harajuku

19. Clubbing

When it comes to nightlife, Shibuya is one of the most vibrant and dazzling districts in Tokyo. Shibuya is where several small and large-scale nightclubs and bars gather, where you can hang out and dance the night away until morning. Some of the most famous nightclubs in Tokyo such as WOMB, ATOM TOKYO and Club Camerot are located in Shibuya

20.Yoyogi Park

Yoyogi Park is one of the largest parks in Tokyo, situated in the north of Shibuya district. The park consists of spacious lawn areas, ponds and forested areas which are perfect for outdoor activities. Besides, the park holds various seasonal events through the year.

Yoyogi Park can be also accessed from Harajuku Station, and it’s connected to Meiji Shrine, one of the most famous landmarks in the city.

21. Kintsugi Experience

Kintsugi (金継ぎ “golden joinery”) is a traditional technique of fixing broken pottery using lacquer and gold. It’s a Japanese art of repairing based on the philosophy of Japanese tea ceremony to accept breakage as part of the object’s history rather than disguising with something.

Near Shibuya, there is a workshop where you can have a traditional Kintsugi experience, learning the technique of repairing broken ceramic pieces and recreate an art piece. Explore the new-found Japanese culture through this hands-on activity and take home one and only Kintsugi art made by you!

▶ Japanese Traditional Kintsugi Experience in Tokyo 

22. Samurai Armor Studio

Samurai armors (called Kacchu in Japanese) is a transitional protective equipment, worn by Samurais mainly during battles using swords and bows. It’s one of the most fascinating things about Japanese history and tradition. Samurai Armor Studio offers a great Samurai experience. You can put Kacchu on yourself, take photos and even go on a street of Shibuya to have a photo shooting session.

▶ Book Samurai Photoshoot Experience in Tokyo

23. Yebisu Beer Museum

Yebisu Beer Museum is the museum of one of the most popular Japanese beer, Yebisu. Great place to learn the history of the beer and of course taste them 🙂

24. Sushi Making

Cooking class is becoming one of the hottest activities for foreign visitors in Japan today, and Sushi making is the most classic one. Although Shibuya is Tokyo’s center of the young culture, you can join a traditional Sushi making class hosted by a local teacher! How about making and tasting delicious Sushi dishes by yourself, and take the recipes back home??

▶︎Book the best Sushi cooking class in Shibuya!

More Info ▶︎Best Sushi Making Classes in Tokyo

25. Shibuya Halloween

The notorious “ Shibuya Halloween ” is an “unofficial” street event that invites over 1 million party animals in unique and crazy Halloween costumes. However, due to the past Halloween events at Shibuya which went out of control resulting multiple arrests, Shibuya district decided to ban public drinking during Halloween season from 25 October to 1 November 2019.

If you are wondering what to do in Tokyo, check this article below! ▶︎Best Things to Do in Tokyo

Looking for other interesting areas in Tokyo?

Thanks for reading! I hope you have enjoyed my list of the best things to do in Shibuya! For more info about Shibuya and nearby area, please check listed articles!

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"The world is my oyster" A globetrotter 🌎 and hammock lover 🌞 who loves taking adventures to fuel wanderlust. Born and raised in Japan, I have lived and explored countries around the world. As a resident of Japan and based on my travel experience, I'd love to share my knowledge and tips for travelling Japan with my readers. I hope my story will help you plan your trip and have a great time in Japan 🌈

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10 Best Things to Do in Shibuya, Tokyo | A Visual Guide & Map to Shibuya

Konnichiwa / こんにちは / hello.

Shibuya is a shopping and entertainment district in central Tokyo, Japan and exactly what your Lost in Translation dreams are made of. The bustling crowds of people and neon signs will leave you mesmerized, and of course no trip to Tokyo is complete without witnessing and being part of the famous Shibuya Crossing. 

There are plenty of things to do in Shibuya, especially if you enjoy shopping or people watching . From visiting the statue of the world’s most loyal dog to immersing yourself in the world of Japanese stationary, Shibuya is the place to be . We recommend exploring during the day and then revisiting at night just to see how packed Shibuya Crossing can get. Here are 10 things to do in Shibuya  with a map included at the end, so keep scrolling! 

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Things to Do in Shibuya

Table of contents, 1. grab a bowl of udon at hanamaru.

Hanamaru is a fast casual udon chain that is extremely budget friendly . You can order a basic bowl of udon noodles for just 130 yen (approximately $1.15 USD)! The other options range from $3-$6, depending on the type and size you purchase. Hanamaru also offers a fry bar with plenty of tempura add-ons to top off your piping hot bowl of udon. This place is highly recommended as it’s perfect if you need a quick bite on the go, plus it’s cheap and delicious!

HANAMARU Address: 1-3-3 Dogenzaka, Shibuya 150-0043, Tokyo, Japan Hour: Open Daily 8AM – 11PM *multiple locations in Shibuya, check map below for more!

2. Visit the Hachiko Memorial Statue

Hachiko is an Akita breed dog whose loyalty has gone down in Japanese history and is often considered the world’s most loyal dog . Hachiko would wait at Shibuya Station everyday for his owner to come home from work, but after his owner passed away he continued to wait at the station for the next 9 years until his own death. A bronze statue now commemorates Hachiko outside Shibuya Station and is located right next to the busy Shibuya Crossing intersection, making it a popular meet up point . 

HACHIKO MEMORIAL STATUE Address:  2-1 Dogenzaka, Shibuya 150-0043, Tokyo, Japan Hours: Open 24 Hours

3. Take part in the Shibuya Scramble

Shibuya Crossing is the world’s busiest pedestrian intersection . It’s often called “the scramble” because it consists of thousands of people scrambling to cross the street in all directions at once. Try not to get lost in the midst of it, but if you find yourself on the wrong side of where you wanted to be, think of it as another opportunity to take part of the scramble! 

SHIBUYA CROSSING Address: Shibuya 150-8010, Tokyo, Japan Hours: Open 24 Hours

4. Check out the best 100 yen shop in Tokyo

After visiting multiple 100 yen shops in Tokyo during our trip, we found Can Do to be the best one! 100 yen shops are the equivalent to western dollar stores, but a million times better in selection and quality. Do yourself a favor and check out this store for great ceramics and home decorations . It is also the perfect place to purchase snacks and souvenirs to bring back home! 

CAN DO Address:  36-6 B1F Udagawa-cho, Shibuya 150-0042, Tokyo, Japan Hours: Open Daily 10AM – 10PM

5. Wander the vibrant side streets of Shibuya

Wandering the streets of Tokyo is honestly a dream come true, but Shibuya adds a bit of sparkle and pizzaz . There is just so much to see, and if you’re a street photographer you’ll find yourself snapping pictures left and right.

6. Buy stationary from MUJI

If you’re a fan of stationary and high quality writing instruments you have to check out MUJI’s selection. Japanese goods are next level, and Japanese people take stationary very seriously. Besides stationary, MUJI also offers top notch home goods and apparel. The MUJI store in Shibuya is 6 floors and also offers a cafe so you can replenish yourself if you get tired from shopping. There are a few MUJI stores in the US and internationally, but it’s so much cheaper buying it directly from the source. If you can’t wait and don’t mind spending a bit more, you can also buy MUJI’s stationary online ! 

MUJI Address: 21-1 Udagawa-cho, Shibuya 150-0042, Tokyo, Japan Hours: Open Daily 10AM – 9PM

7. Experience “flying” sushi

If you’re looking for fresh and cheap sushi, stop by Genki Sushi for a budget friendly meal. You place your order on an iPad, which is then sent to the chefs in the back and the sushi is made to order and sent “flying” out to you on the belt . Don’t confuse “flying” sushi with the more common conveyer belt sushi, where you pick from the selection of pre-made sushi, “flying” sushi is so much better!

GENKI SUSHI Address:  24-8 1F Udagawa-cho, Shibuya 150-0042, Tokyo, Japan Hours: Open Daily 11AM – 12AM (10:30AM on Saturday and Sunday)

8. Visit the first Tokyu Hands

Tokyu Hands is a “one stop shop” department store, which offers everything you can imagine from DIY goods and knick-knacks to kitchenware and luggage. The location in Shibuya is the first Tokyu Hands store that opened in 1976 and offers 8 floors, though each floor is staggered into three sections, so it’s really 24 mini floors! Try not to get lost and spend all your money, which is easier said than done! 

TOKYU HANDS Address:  12-18 Udagawa-cho, Shibuya 150-0002, Tokyo, Japan Hours:  Open Daily 10AM – 9PM

9. Go shopping at Shibuya 109

Oh, Shibuya 109 . Where dreams are made and crushed because you realize you can’t fit everything you want in your luggage. Shibuya 109 is for women’s fashion, but there is also 109 Men’s just across the street. Prepare your wallet before entering, everything is super kawaii~ (cute). 

SHIBUYA 109 Address:  2-29-1 Dogenzaka, Shibuya 150-0043, Tokyo, Japan Hours:  Open Daily 10AM – 9PM

109 MEN’S Address: 1-23-10 Jinnan, Shibuya 150-0041, Tokyo, Japan Hours:  Open Daily 10AM – 9PM

10. Watch the Shibuya Scramble from above 

After you’ve experienced the scramble yourself, watch it from above! Starbucks is a popular spot to watch, but we recommend going to Hoshino Coffee for a more relaxed view and to try out their awesome drinks and desserts. Make sure you ask for a seat next to the window , though you may have to wait if it’s busy, it’s worth it! 

HOSHINO COFFEE (located inside 109 MEN’S) Address: 1-23-10 Jinnan, Shibuya 150-0041, Tokyo, Japan Hours:  Open Daily 10AM – 11PM

Things to do in Shibuya map

Which of these things in Shibuya would you do?

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48 Comments

Hahah, I’m always a little wary of crowds and think that I would prefer to watch the scramble from above. The flying sushi sounds amazing too, I love how innovative the Japanese are when it comes to things like that. Great suggestions on things that are authentic and provide a great experience. I hope to go some day.

It can definitely be a exhilarating! Watching it from above is just as fun. Plus you get better photos, haha. Thank you! Hope you’re able to find your way to Japan soon 🙂

This is detailed. Bookmarking the page for my visit to Japan. I must at least do 7 out of 10 of these things

Why not 10/10? 😉

Tokyo looks epic! I’m not much of a sushi fan though so would have to pass one that. However I would defo take part in the ‘scramble’! haha!

This is such a fun guide! I want to do all of these things. I really want to visit a 100 yen shop and the scramble looks insane!

I LOVE 100 yen shops, they’re the best!

The Hanamaru food looks delicious, and it comes with a good price. The Shibuya Crossing looks really busy, a perfect place to watch people from a bar/restaurant. "flying" sushi, what a great concept, glad you explain this.

Haha, when I tell my friends about "flying" sushi they’re always confused! Had to explain.

So, so glad I came across your blog. We’re planning a trip to Japan in October (need to book our flight tonight, yikes!!) and we’re totally overwhelmed by all the things to do. The video of the Shibuya Crossing had me laughing out loud… ordered chaos, perhaps? Definitely adding Hoshino Coffee to my list. Will check out more of your posts! 🙂

Ahh, I’m so excited for you! Have an amazing time, and I hope you find my posts useful. I seriously laugh every time I watch that video! They’re so fun.

It certainly looks vibrant. I’ve always shied away from Tokyo as I get freaked out in really busy cities, preferring countryside, etc. I’ll check out more of your posts

It’s definitely hectic, but that’s part of the fun. You can find little peaceful parks all around the city!

Never been, but 1, 5 & 7 are the most appealing to me.

There is so much to do at Shibuya that I don’t think even four days will suffice. I would love to stop by ‘the scramble’ and people-watch as well as take a time-lapse video. My love for stationary is bound to get my feet moving to Muji. Cheers!!

Shibuya crossing is perfect for time-lapse videos! And you would definitely love MUJI, everything is top-notch!

Your posts remind me of my time there a few months back. I did everything except for trying the flying sushi at Genki Sushi for a budget friendly meal. Maybe next time.

Perfect reason to go back 😉

I would love to try the flying sushi 😉 Such a diverse list of activities! I am sure everybody will find something (s)he likes…

Such great tips and list of activities. Japan is on my bucket list and hope to visit it soon.

When I lived in Japan some time ago, I really enjoyed the sheer variety of different things to do and experience. I love the selections you have shown here and it brings back many fond memories. I need to go back for another visit soon.

I’m so jealous! Tokyo has so much to offer, that’s why I’m going back for a month to try and take it all in, but I know that still won’t be enough time.

That Udon looks magnificent, nothing like a nice fresh bowl of Japanese noodles. The bowls and plates look beautiful too, we love that style of homeware. Great insight into the central district of Tokyo.

Yes, Japanese ceramics are great! I came home with a bunch of things I really didn’t even need, haha..

Shibuya looks great – the streets are colourful and vibrant like Taiwan. One day I hope to get there – I’ve read so many blogposts about it and I love Japanese food. Great list – thanks for sharing…

I haven’t been to Taiwan, hoping to go someday! If the streets are vibrant like Tokyo’s, I can’t wait!

I wish I’d known about the flying sushi! I’ve been to Shibuya, and I can say this is a great list. Thanks for the maps and addresses! It will make it much easier for my next trip!

You’re welcome! Hope you can make it back soon to try out the flying sushi 🙂

How awesome! I’ve heard of Shibuya, but always thought it was just a crazy crossing area. I love the idea of ordering sushi from an iPad. Seems like it would be such a trip!

Very cool ideas! I’ve always wanted to see (and photograph!) the Shibuya Crossing. Definitely something I’ll do when I visit Japan!

I would definitely prefer to watch the Shibuya scramble from above and the flying sushi sounds awesome!

NIce post!! Very organized and well written!!! Never been in Japan but probably I will do because I’m in love with Japanese cuisine, so genki sushi would be perfect for me!!!

Shibuya looks like a must see point of interest in Tokyo. I loved the movie Hachiko, so I would definitely take lots of photos with the Hachiko statue outside Shibuya station. You photos are wonderful, so detailed and colorful.

I still need to watch the movie! That’s on my to-do list! Thank you for the kind words 🙂

Beautiful! I would love to travel here, the food looks amazing!

Interesting things! Knowing about Shibuya scramble for the first time. I definitely want to take a photo of this place from top. I like the flying fish concept, It confused me initially. 🙂

Haha, I think it confuses a lot of people initially!

Shibuya is such a vibrant and young district! I know a lot of people go there to shop for the latest fashion! I love those 100 yen shops – I am always able to get some quality products for real cheap price!

Shibuya is definitely a fashionista’s dream!

Wow! What a great place, although I think crossing the street would give me loads of anxiety. I love that 100 yen store! Those bowls are so pretty.

It’s okay, you can always see it from above! 🙂

Japan would be a great place to visit !! And I love sushi ! Wonderful post

Great tips! Shibuya looks like my kind of place – love to people watch. Wouldn’t mind trying the flying sushi!

There are so many things to do on the area. I would like to see everything from ground and roof level. I didn’t know a statue of Hachiko is in the area.

Great article! Very helpful.

Nice article and summary of things to do in Japan

I had a 14-hour layover and just stayed in Shibuya the whole time and LOVED it! Walked around till the wee hours, drank, ate, snoozed in a capsule….everything!!! Sheeeboooyaaahhhh!!!!

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20 Best Things to do in Shibuya

Shibuya is a major business and commercial center in Japan. In addition, it is home to the world’s busiest railway stations, Shibuya and Shinjuku Stations. It is one of the most colorful and popular shopping & entertainment districts in Tokyo. As a result, this area is filled with hordes of tourists year-round. Before we share the best things to do in Shibuya, here are our recommendations.

Table of Contents

Shibuya Things To Do Overview

• Best Thing to do in Shibuya at Night – Definitely head to Shibuya Crossing as it has a different vibe at night. Once the locals knock off work, people seem to be much happier as they head home or hang out with friends. With all the buildings lighting up, it’s definitely a photo worth taking. You can also visit the Hachiko Memorial Statue , but it’s likely to be busy so be patient if you want a photo. Then explore the huge variety of restaurants in the side streets near Shibuya crossing.
• Weird & Unique – Everything is unique in Shibuya, but if you want a memorable experience, check out the pet cafes . Everyone loves animals! Hold a cute little hedgehog, play with puppies, or take some photos with gorgeous owls. Generally, the dog cafes are the busiest so you may need to book ahead. Hedgehog cafes are busy too, but you’ll be able to get in as long as you’re patient in line. Owls – not as busy, but they are still adorable!
• Free Things to do – People-watching is certainly a different experience in Shibuya. You can see the craziness at Shibuya crossing or strange cosplay students on Takeshita Street . But if you prefer some peace and quiet, Yoyogi Park has some beautiful natural scenery away from the buzzing city.
• Most Popular Landmark – Meiji Shrine is definitely one of the best landmarks to see in Shibuya. Ideal for couples and families, enjoy a 10-minute stroll through the thick natural forest. Explore the grounds, and of course, take plenty of photos in front of Meiji Shrine.

1. Yoyogi Park

As one of the largest city parks in Tokyo, you should include Yoyogi Park in your Shibuya sightseeing plan. Come spring, the park becomes a charming place where you can view cherry blossoms in their full splendor. Check out the ginkgo tree forest which transforms into an intense golden colour during autumn. It also features ponds, forested areas, and wide lawns where you can enjoy picnics, jogging, and other outdoor activities.

• Opening Hours: Daily 24/7
• Address: 2-1 Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 151-0052, Japan

Check Tours   Official site

2. Meiji Shrine

Situated adjacent to the busy Harajuku Station and Yoyogi Park, Meiji Shrine is part of a sprawling forest area in Tokyo. It was built as a dedication to the spirits of the first emperor of modern Japan, Emperor Meiji, and Empress Shoken. A majestic torii gate welcomes you as you enter the shrine grounds. A tranquil forest will then greet you with approximately 100,000 Jingu trees. There are various walking trails inside the shrine grounds, perfect for leisurely strolls.

• Opening Hours: Daily 5:10am-5:50pm
• Address:  1-1 Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 151-8557, Japan

3. Togo Shrine

Togo Shrine is situated near the Harajuku Station, close to Meiji Avenue and Takeshita Street. This Shinto shrine is dedicated to Admiral Togo, who defeated the Russian fleet in 1905 during the Russian-Japanese War. The grounds are smaller than that of the Meiji Shrine but offer a calming respite from the hustle and bustle of Shibuya. Check out the bookstore and museum within the grounds, dedicated to Marquis Togo.

• Opening Hours: Daily 6:30am-5pm
• Address:  1 Chome-5-3 Jingumae, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0001, Japan

Official site

4. Shibuya Crossing

Said to be the world’s busiest intersection, Shibuya Crossing is an iconic Tokyo attraction. Located close to Shibuya station, most visitors can stand on the side streets and just wait for the craziness to happen. Or, join the hundreds of locals rushing across the busy intersection from all directions. One of the best spots to watch this happen is at Starbucks on the 2nd floor, but it can get crowded here too. Buy a coffee, find a seat, and prepare for the ultimate people-watching experience.

• Address:  Near Shibuya Station

Check Tours

5. Hachiko Memorial Statue

Your kimono-wearing adventure can continue as you visit the statue of Hachiko. This is where you can also take photos with the image of the faithful dog. The statue is a tribute to the Akita dog who patiently waited for his master in Shibuya Station daily, even after his master died. Hachiko continued to visit the station until he himself died nearly 10 years after his master. After that, his body was cremated and laid to rest beside his dear owner.

• Address: 2 Chome-1 Dogenzaka, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0043, Japan

6. Shibuya Food & Drinks at Night

Go on a culinary adventure as you sample the local food scene on an enlightening walking food tour. Visit Shibuya’s best back alley eateries, where you will get the chance to sample local delicacies. Try out the interesting tastes of okonomiyaki (savory pancake), takoyaki (octopus balls), yakitori (barbecue) skewers, and sushi. A stop at the local depachika (underground food hall) will also be included, where your local guide will provide more insights into the local food culture.

• Duration: 3 hours
• Departure: 2 Chome-1 Dogenzaka, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0043, Japan

7. Harajuku

The dynamic Harajuku district is a must-visit on your Shibuya itinerary! Harajuku is the place where fashionistas, rock stars, and other celebrities shop when creating new trends. This area is renowned for its extreme fashion scene and colorful street art. Your friendly local guide will help you explore this unique shopping district, which features cheaper fashion options such as 100-yen shops. In addition, this area is home to boutiques featuring up-and-coming designers. Go to Omotesando Street where you will find high-end designer brand shops such as Prada and Louis Vuitton.

8. Takeshita Street

Takeshita Street and its side streets feature the heart of the teenage culture in Harajuku. This area is where you will find numerous fashion stores, boutiques, and shops that cater to the younger generation. Browse to your heart’s content, and marvel at the array of fashion choices available here. You’ll see goth styles, popular band shirts, fairy tale princess clothing, and even cosplay outfits. After all that browsing and shopping, try out local Japanese delicacies for snacks, such as crepes with sweet fillings, ice cream, and bubble tea.

• Opening Hours:  shops open daily from 11am
• Address: Near Harajuku Station

9. Harry Hedgehog Cafe

Visit the Hedgehog Café HARRY to get an up-close and personal experience with hedgehogs in the heart of Shibuya. This is where you will see hedgehogs in various colors, including cinnamon, albino, and salt & pepper. The friendly café staff will teach you how to properly and safely handle the adorable animals. As a result, you can have a wonderful time hugging them or having your photographs taken together. The four-toed hedgehogs you will see in this café are also for sale, so you can take home the one you fall in love with.

• Opening Hours: weekends 12pm-7pm
• Address:  Japan, 〒150-0001 Tokyo, Shibuya City, Jingumae, 1 Chome−13−21 原宿２号館 4F シャンゼール原宿1号館

Check Tour   Official site

10. Owl Village Harajuku

Owl Village is a place where you can safely interact with owls in a relaxing environment. Retreat to the calming rooms where you can enjoy spending time with the owls without being disturbed by loud noises. Have your picture taken with a serene-looking owl perched on your arm for a truly memorable souvenir of your Shibuya trip! After spending time with the owls, head over to the café area for some drinks and light snacks.

• Opening Hours: Daily 1pm-6pm
• Address:  Japan, 〒150-0001 Tokyo, Shibuya City, Jingumae, 1 Chome−21−15 原宿ATMビル4F

11. Dog Cafes

Are you missing your canine best friend while you’re on vacation? Check out a few dog cafes in Shibuya for some serious dog-loving time. Dog Heart Café is located close to Yoyogi Park, and is home to enthusiastic dogs waiting for you to spend time and play with them! A café area which is off-limits to the dogs is available, where you can find refreshing beverages for sale. Visit the Harajuku Mame Shiba Café to see Mame Shiba Inu dogs, which are smaller than the more popular Shiba Inu breed. This café will make you feel like you’re in a cozy Japanese home, with low dining tables and tatami flooring.

• Opening Hours:  Daily 11am-7pm
• Adddress: Japan, 〒151-0063 Tokyo, Shibuya City, Tomigaya, 1 Chome−45−2 Ｙ’ｓパークビル2F

Harajuku Mame-Shiba Cafe

• Opening Hours: Weekdays 12:30pm-5:30pm; Weekends 12pm-7pm
• Address: 3f, 1 Chome-6-10 Jingumae, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0001, Japan

12. Omotesando

Omotesando is a tree-lined avenue known for its high fashion stores and is a popular luxury brand shopping destination. As you walk around this area, you will also see examples of modern architecture. Make sure you check out the eye-catching Prada Building and the Espace Gallery on top of the Louis Vuitton store. Go to the upscale Omotesando Hills shopping complex where you will find international fashion labels like Jimmy Choo and Valentino. In addition, you will also see Japanese fashion houses Jun Hashimoto and Yohji Yamamoto. Location: Avenue from Meiji Shrine entrance to Aoyama Street

13. Kawaii Shopping

The Harajuku district in Shibuya is a haven for all things kawaii (cute), where your senses can feast on kawaii culture treats. Try to resist the temptation of shopping ‘til you drop at Takeshita Street, where numerous shops are overflowing with the trendiest clothes, accessories, and irresistible trinkets. Indulge in some kawaii candies, rainbow cotton candy, or sweets-filled crepes in between shopping to keep your energy level high! Visit LaForet , a huge department store featuring stylish stores that offer everything from cosplay outfits to goth fashion.

14. Shibuya Cat Street

Shibuya Cat Street is a must-visit if you want to go shopping without the hectic pace of the other places in Shibuya. It is centrally located between Harajuku and Shibuya, the biggest shopping districts in Tokyo. This is the place to check out the trendiest shopping options, from international brands to upscale boutiques, vintage clothing, and local designer shops. Even the restaurants are trendy in Cat Street, where you can find coffee shops serving brew, alongside cafes with a hipster vibe.

• Opening Hours: Most shops open daily from 11am
• Location: Cat St, Shibuya

15. Tokyo Camii & Turkish Culture Center

The awe-inspiring Tokyo Camii is the largest mosque in Japan. It is located in a quiet neighborhood with an adjoining Turkish culture center. This beautiful mosque was constructed in the Ottoman Turk style, with its interiors softly lit up due to the stunning stained-glass windows. A visit to the Turkish Culture Center will give you engaging insight into the religion of Islam through pamphlets and narratives.

• Opening Hours:  Daily 10am-6pm
• Address: 1-19 Ōyamachō, Shibuya City, Tokyo 151-0065, Japan

16. Yebisu Garden Place

Spend some time visiting the beautiful Yebisu Garden Place, a commercial complex that is a “city within a city”. In addition, a brewery formerly stood at the site of this attraction. It is home to numerous restaurants, a department store, residential spaces, a hotel, and a photography museum. Enjoy spectacular views of the Tokyo city skyline from the sky lounge in Yebisu Garden Place Tower. See the most beautiful bookstore in Japan – Tsutaya Bookstore.

• Opening Hours:  Daily 7am-12am
• Address:  Japan, 〒150-6018 Tokyo, Shibuya City, Ebisu, 4 Chome−20, ガーデンプレイス

17. The Museum of Yebisu Beer

Opened in 2010 to commemorate the beer brand’s 120th year, the Museum of Yebisu Beer offers a one-of-a-kind museum experience you can enjoy with all your senses. The gallery features old advertising boards, videos, historic bottles of Yebisu, and old photographs that will let you peek into the history of the brand. Join the 40-minute Yebisu Tour which includes fascinating stories about the history of Yebisu. In addition, you can also enjoy a beer-tasting session. Check out the beer-tasting salon where you can use vending machine coins to purchase draft beer. Don’t forget to browse the museum shop for unique souvenir items.

• Opening Hours:  Tuesday to Sunday 11am-6pm
• Address:  Japan, 〒150-8522 Tokyo, Shibuya City, Ebisu, 4 Chome−20−1 恵比寿ガーデンプレイス

18. Yamatane Museum of Art

Take a break from all the frenzied shopping and sightseeing, and go for some art appreciation at the Yamatane Museum of Art. This art museum features a varying collection of Nihonga-style watercolors and modern Japanese paintings. These striking displays are replaced 7-8 times a year because of the sensitive nature of Nihonga artwork. As a result, visitors get to view different collections throughout the year.

• Opening Hours:  Tuesday to Friday 10am-4pm; Weekends 10am-5pm
• Address:  3 Chome-12-36 Hiroo, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0012, Japan

19. Nezu Museum

Situated in the fashionable neighborhood of Minami-Aoyama, Nezu Museum is home to an extensive collection of East Asian and Japanese art. Included in this collection are over 7,400 paintings, calligraphy, textiles, and ceramics. You will appreciate the beauty of your surroundings as you explore the grounds and stroll through the lovely Japanese-landscaped garden. Take a much-needed breather and relax with tea or lunch at the Nezu Café inside the garden with breathtaking views.

• Opening Hours:  Tuesday to Sunday 10am-5pm; Monday closed
• Address:  6 Chome-5-1 Minamiaoyama, Minato City, Tokyo 107-0062, Japan

Shibuya Map

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Many might be familiar with the area surrounding the JR Shibuya Station– but the sizeable ward actually includes other famous locations such as the fashion district of Harajuku, Omote-sando, and Yoyogi Park. Other famous landmarks in Shibuya include the Hachiko statue, the Shibuya 109 shopping center, and Takeshita Street in Harajuku.

If you’re ever wondering about what to do in Shibuya, check out our top 20 things to do in this area.

1. People-watch at the Starbucks in Shibuya Crossing

Located on the second floor of the Tsutaya building that sits facing Shibuya Crossing, this Starbucks location is perfect if you want an unparalleled view of the iconic intersection. They have a seating area with floor-to-ceiling windows that allows visitors to enjoy a drink while seeing the thousands of people make their way across the street.

2. Say hello to Hachiko

A symbol of loyalty and meetings, the statue of the dog Hachiko stands at the infamous Shibuya Crossing. The story of Hachiko is very sweet: the loyal Akita dog would wait to meet his owner, Hidesaburo Ueno, at Shibuya station every day. Even after his owner passed away, Hachiko contained to wait for his return for over nine years, until his death in 1935.

While Hachiko's grave is next to his beloved owner in Aoyama cemetery, a statue of the loyal pup sits outside of Shibuya station. Now, it's a popular meeting spot in the hustle and bustle of the world's busiest intersection.

3. Join a Shibuya food tour

It’s hard to choose from the seemingly never-ending list of delicious eateries that Shibuya has to offer — why not join a tour and not have to worry about weighing your options? We have quite a few of food tours in Shibuya, one for every type of traveler!

• Shibuya Scramble, Harajuku, & Takeshita Street Food Tour
• Shibuya Food Tour With An Expert Guide
• Retro Shibuya Food Tour
• Shibuya Scramble: Hidden Bars & Lively Izakayas

Not that you need a food guide to eat well in Shibuya, but having somebody who knows where the best spots are helps make the most of your time in Tokyo's trendiest district.

4. Hang out at Miyashita Park

Newly redesigned in 2020, Miyashita Park is a shopping complex that sits in front of Shibuya Station. The south block is an indoor shopping mall, whereas the north block is an outdoor shopping area– housing many designer stores such as the world’s first flagship men’s Louis Vuitton store, a rooftop hotel, a music bar, and an art gallery.

On the open-air rooftop, visitors can enjoy relaxing on the sizeable lawn, hang out at the beach volleyball court, or even spend time at the skate park. The Shibuya Yokocho alley located on the first floor consists of a diverse array of 19 eateries, from restaurants that serve Korean cuisine to ones that offer regional Kansai food. The best part is that Yokocho alley is open until 5 am or 11 pm on Sundays. The complex– including the spacious rooftop– is entirely free to enter. 

5. Explore lesser-known art collections

While the large museums in Tokyo often get attention, smaller collections deserve some praise too. PARCO Museum Tokyo is a small museum that sits inside the PARCO fashion mall near the JR Shibuya Station and has temporary exhibits of contemporary works across various mediums. If you’re looking for older artworks, the Ota Memorial Museum of Art has a rotating display of Ota Seizo V’s collection of over 12,000 ukiyo-e works. But if you want to check out the art scene outside of Tokyo, the d47 Museum is a small museum that showcases design pieces from all 47 prefectures of Japan. 

6. Visit the Nintendo and Pokemon stores at Shibuya PARCO

Shibuya PARCO is a shopping mall in the heart of the area and houses many unique stores, including the first official Nintendo store in Japan. This shop is lined with larger-than-life figures from their game collection that you can take pictures with. They offer a diverse array of products ranging from game consoles to game merchandise that is specific to Japan– it's the perfect spot for Nintendo fans alike.

The same floor also hosts a Pokemon Center, Capcom store, and other game-related shops.

7. Slurp your way through a ramen tour

Shibuya houses some of the best restaurant gems serving quintessential Japanese soul food: ramen! No trip to Japan is complete without enjoying a bowl of ramen. To read more about the different kinds of ramen in Japan, reference our Ulitmate Ramen Guide .

For the connoisseurs out there, check out our Ramen Tour to taste 6 dishes that take the noodle game up a notch.

8. Practice retail therapy at SHIBUYA109

Located near the JR Shibuya Station, SHIBUYA109 is a ten-story department store that has become a mecca for young fashion enthusiasts. Locals will often call it “ichimarukyuu” (the Japanese pronunciation of each number) and has become a cultural icon in Tokyo.

The building has a diverse lineup of shops that specialize in various different J-fashion subgenres, including gyaru and lolita fashion. 

9. Expand your palette at depachikas

“Depachika” is a portmanteau of the word “depato” (short for “department store” and “chika” (basement in Japanese). It’s quite literally an underground food scene– food markets with shops that sell specialty and regional foods are located in department store basements. In the video below, byFood host Shizuka explores one of Shibuya's many depachikas.

The markets include delis and food stands that sell specialty food that makes for perfect gifts. The Takashimaya Shibuya location arguably offers one of the best depachikas in the city. Shoppers can choose from a substantial array of unique and delicious foods, and even enjoy them in their rooftop gardens. 

10. Pay a visit to the Konno Hachimangu Shrine

Only a four-minute walk away from Shibuya Station, this Shinto shrine is a historic oasis nestled among the hustle and bustle of the area. It plays an integral role in Shibuya's history, which was initially founded in 1092 by the Shibuya clan– dating long before how we know the ward as it is today. Visitors will see the original structures that have sat on the shrine grounds since the 17th century. The property also includes a ritual stage and a small exhibit with free admission.  

11. Try the street food

If there’s one thing that’s a must-do activity in Shibuya– it’s to try out the diverse street foo d . Shibuya is a haven for these shops, with the center-gai (the “center” of the ward that’s a hub for youths) and hidden yokochos (alleyways in Japanese) amidst skyscrapers.

While there’s a lot to choose from, the highly dense ward has a lot to offer in the nooks and crannies that can be easily overlooked. If you want to experience the street food scene without the hassle, try out the Street Food Hunt in Shibuya ! 

12. Savor izakaya food with a vegan twist

Izakaya (Japanese pubs) food is a must-try and completely possible for those who maintain a vegan diet. Izakaya Masaka is located inside Shibuya PARCO, an izakaya serving an all-vegan menu. Goers can enjoy classic dishes such as gyoza, soy meat karaage (Japanese fried chicken), and even Chinese-fusion food. 

For more vegan food options, check out our Tokyo Vegan Guide .

13. Go Bar-Hopping

Shibuya is one of the best locations in the city for nightlife, and this includes bars! There are an overwhelming amount of establishments to explore, from high-end cocktail bars with gorgeous views to hole-in-the-wall basement haunts. It's difficult to choose with so many options, so the best way to save time, and experience the bar scene, is to join a Shibuya Bar-Hopping Tour !

Explore other Tokyo bar-hopping tours , too!

14. Sip on coffee made by a robot at Henn na Cafe

You might be familiar with the internet sensation Hen na Hotels, a hotel chain that's run by robots and located all across Japan. This cafe is operated by the same company, with the same concept– your go-to cafe order is brought to you by robots instead of humans. The barista robots do everything, from grinding the coffee beans to handing the cup to you.

For more coffee options, check out our recommendations on Unique Cafes in Shibuya .

15. Explore high fashion at Archive Store

Hidden in a basement in Shibuya, the Archive Store is a gem for fashion junkies. This store sells archival pieces from international and Japanese fashion brands, including Junya Watanabe and Commes des Garcons. Their collection is changed seasonally but never fails to boast an extensive collection of iconic fashion pieces and rare finds.

16. Izakaya-hop down Nonbei Yokocho (Drunkard's Alley)

Nonbei Yokocho, or Drunkard's Alley, is a street endlessly lined with small izakayas and eateries tucked away in the middle of Shibuya. The stores encapsulate the true izakaya atmosphere with an intimate yet lively environment that perfectly pairs with drinks. Visitors can catch an authentic glimpse of the Tokyo drinking culture, as it's a staple location for locals.

17. Feast on an inexpensive Michelin award-winning meal 

Enjoying Michelin-starred food doesn’t mean it can’t be wallet-friendly. Pork Vindaloo Taberu Fukudaitoryo is a curry restaurant that has received a Bib Gourmand Michelin award for its spectacular–as you guessed it– pork vindaloo. This is the only meal on their menu, but the ¥ 1,000 price tag and award-deserving curry make for a spectacular culinary experience.

18. Enjoy the nightlife

There’s a good reason why the nightlife in Shibuya is so famous. If you’re ever wondering about what to do in Shibuya at night, the plentiful nighttime scene has your back. While the ward during the daytime is fun in itself, a new side awakens as the sun sets. Its nightclubs often garner attention– but did you know that Shibuya nightlife has its own history dating back decades? The Retro Shibuya Food Tour offers guests a glimpse into long-standing establishments that make up the heart of Shibuya.

19. Scale new heights at Shibuya Sky

Shibuya Sky is a 360-degree observation desk that sits on top of the Shibuya Scramble Square building. Standing about 230 meters away from the ground, visitors can get an unobstructed view of the city. The deck is divided into an indoor and outdoor area: the indoor section is equipped with a restaurant and lounge area, and the latter includes a lawn area as well as comfortable seating. The scramble cross-intersection can be seen during the daytime and the dazzling Tokyo cityscape during nighttime. But keep in mind that tickets are needed for entry, which can be bought either at the venue or online. 

20. Groove to music at record shops

The Tower Records is an iconic record shop equipped with a bookstore as well as a cafe, sat in the heart of Shibuya. Customers can browse through an extensive collection of records and even listen to them before buying. If you’re into indie record shops, BIG LOVE Records in Jingumae is excellent. A large and diverse collection of vinyls, tapes, and CDs is sold in this shop– and another section is dedicated to their craft beer and coffee bar. 

Author’s choice: Have a food truck bite at La Cabina Tokyo

Something that I’ll always love is food truck cuisine– especially taco trucks. La Cabina Tokyo is a food truck that sells delicious Mexican cuisine in the heart of Shibuya, near the Bunkamura complex. The carne asada tacos are my go-to order, but the ceviche tacos deserve an honorable mention. Spending an activity-filled day in Shibuya and closing it off with a flavorful plate of tacos is one thing I’ll never get tired of. 

The unique atmosphere and rich culture of the ward make visiting Shibuya, Tokyo, an unforgettable one-of-a-kind experience. It's one of the top well-known wards among the 23 wards of Tokyo– but this is for a good reason. Whether you're a foodie, nightlife lover, fashionista, or simply curious about Japanese culture, you won't be disappointed by a visit to Shibuya.

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What to do in Tokyo Japan

Wondering what to do in Tokyo? Discover the best sites and most exciting things to do in Tokyo Japan.

No trip to Japan would be complete without visiting the capital city of Tokyo. As polite, respectful, and mild-mannered as the Japanese are, it can also be a fun and quirky culture. Tokyo is definitely evidence of this. This huge city is full of light, color, and craziness all around contrasted by serious businessmen and women bustling on their way to work and serene ancient temples and shrines.

If you’re going to Japan and seeing more than just Tokyo, explore my Japan first timer’s guide and itinerary .

Planning a Trip to Japan?

If you’re planning a trip to Japan, let me do the work for you. This 2 week Japan Itinerary is a detailed step-by-step guide for how to visit this amazing country.

Getting Around Tokyo

Getting around Tokyo is easy, especially if you plan on having a phone with your service turned on or using a portable WiFi device. If you’re using a Japan Rail Pass , the Tokyo metro will be covered. Read more about why you may NOT want to use your JR Pass in Tokyo here.  You might end up wanting a Tokyo Metro Pass and using your Japan Rail Pass for the rest of the country. 

Where to Stay in Tokyo

I was lucky enough to have military friends who hosted us in the military hotel in Tokyo, which was very affordable. But for the rest of our trip we stayed in Airbnbs or Hotels. See this great list of where to stay in Tokyo  and where to stay in Tokyo with kids. 

What to Eat in Tokyo

One of the best things to do in Tokyo is to try ALL the food! Seriously, this city is a foodie paradise! You can find anything from gourmet steak to quirky desserts! Be sure to read this guide to food in Japan.  

There are so many things to do in Tokyo. It could possibly take you a lifetime just to get through the list of this big city. I was there for only a week and was able to see a lot, but could have stayed forever, I loved it so much! But these were my favorite things to do in Tokyo Japan:

If you want to see some wacky sites, be sure to head to Harajuku for some sugar and fun. Known for its funky shops and sugar overload, Harajuku will overstimulate your senses and have you laughing at the same time! It’s just one of the craziest things to see in Tokyo and you will not forget it! 

Keep an eye out for some amazing Japanese street fashion, also known as Harajuku style. Harajuku style is a fun, colorful mix of punk and pink that is very popular among Japanese teenagers seen mainly around the Harajuku district.

You can find the main street for Harajuku on Takeshita street, which will be teeming with Harajuku girls, funky shops, and colorful food!

Some of my favorite stops in Harajuku were the giant rainbow cotton candy, rainbow ice cream, rainbow slushies, and jiggly Japanese pancakes from Rainbow Pancake .

You may hear a lot of Japanese saying “kawaii,” this just means “cute.”

Be sure to check out these incredible places to have high tea in Tokyo too!

For a list of foods you MUST try in Japan Read my Japan Food Guide Here:

Take a Cooking Class in Tokyo 

Even better than eating all the amazing food in Tokyo is learning how to make your own Japanese food! These are a few of my favorite in-home cooking experiences in Tokyo:

Noodle & Ramen Making

Gyoza Making

Udon Noodle Making

Sushi Roll Workshop

Meiji Shrine

In the heart of the city, right next to Harajuku lies Tokyo’s Meiji Shrine and temple. Covering 170 acres of beautifully forested land, the Meiji Shrin complex is sort of like Tokyo’s Central Park. The original shrine was constructed in 1920, destroyed in the air raids during WWII and rebuilt in the 1950’s.

When you visit Tokyo be sure the visit the Meiji Shrine and leave a prayer or well wish on the wall. Also be sure to check out the beautifully covered sake barrels.

Mario Kart Tokyo

One of the most fun things to do in Tokyo was the Mario Kart Tokyo tour, also known as “Maricar.” We dressed up in Mario costumes and drove go-carts around the streets of Tokyo. I’ll be honest, to the mom in me, this felt a little unsafe, driving on the freeway with no helmets, etc. but it was such a blast! I was laughing the entire time, it was just so crazy! I’d say this is one of the top 10 things to do in Tokyo. 

Mario Kart is a bit of a splurge, but honestly, this is a once in a lifetime experience and one you don’t want to miss in Tokyo! You can book your Mario Kart Tokyo tour here. I’ve been dying to take my kids back here and do this, it’s a perfect thing to do with teens in Tokyo if they’re 16+ and have a driver’s license and international driver’s permit.

Note: You must be 18 or older and have an international driver’s permit. You can easily get one of these for $20 at any AAA office. 

Book a Photoshoot

We always love to book a photoshoot when we’re traveling. As a mom, it’s tough to get in the photos since I’m always behind the camera. We love using Flytographer to capture our memories. You can get $25 off your shoot by booking with this link or using code WANDERLUST.

Digital Art Museum teamLab

This one of a kind digital art museums is one of my favorite things to do in Tokyo. Not only can you get some really cool pictures, but it is also a great place to go to escape the heat of the summer or cold of the winter. Wander 100,000 square feet created with 520 computers and 470 projectors. The digital art will take your breath away! You can book your tickets here. 

Shibuya Crossing

This is one of the top things to do in Tokyo! Considered the busiest crosswalk in the world, hosting 2.4 million passengers a day, Shibuya crossing is a must do in Tokyo. I highly recommend going at night as this is when it’s the busiest and most exciting. Cross it a few times and take a video to say you’ve done it. It’s quite the experience. When you book a Mario Kart Tokyo tour you can also book the route that goes through Shibuya crossing, which I highly recommend!

Catch a Bird’s Eye View

There are several places in Tokyo to get a good view of the city. Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree are the most famous. You’ll recognize Tokyo Tower from almost any picture of Tokyo as the iconic Japanese Eiffel Tower.

Another good option is the Tokyo Skytree near the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, which is the tallest tower in the world and the second tallest structure, second only to the Burg Kalifa in Dubai. Both towers cost around $20 USD to enter and I think they’re worth the experience.

Shinjuku feels like the Vegas of Tokyo. It’s a little wild and very bright and colorful. Go at night to see all the lights. You’ll find a lot of interesting themed restaurants and shops here like the Robot Restaurant.

Robot Restaurant

Note: Robot Restaurant is now closed. This was recommended to us by several people living both in and out of Japan and let me tell you, it was wild and worth every Yen! Don’t go to the Robot Restaurant expecting a decent meal. You go for the experience, and what an experience it is. The only way I can really describe it is like watching a Vegas show while dropping acid. Not that I really know what that’s like, but I can only imagine. You can book tickets to the Robot Restaurant here. 

This district in Tokyo is a beautiful area full of temples, shrines, and tons of shopping. Like much of Tokyo, the area was destroyed during WWII and rebuilt post-war. Be sure to try the food in the stalls and the giant lantern at the entrance.

Tokyo Disney Sea 

A trip to Tokyo would not be complete without spending a day at Disney Sea. Many have said that this is the best Disney park in the world. The Japanese really go all out with characters and food so I can definitely see why! 

You can book your tickets to Tokyo Disney in advance here . Tokyo Disney is surprisingly more affordable than Disneyworld or Disneyland ! 

If this doesn’t keep you busy, check out these 51 fun things to do in Tokyo. 

Best Hotels in Tokyo

Are you visiting Tokyo and not sure where to go? These hotel recommendations are helpful as you plan your trip!

Toggle Hotel Suidobashi TOKYO

Located in Central Tokyo, the toggle hotel suidobashi TOKYO is a 4-star hotel that offers air-conditioned rooms, shared lounges, free WiFi, and a terrace in each room.

The rooms here are often small in size, yet they offer comfortable beds and amazing views of the city. Each room includes a desk and a flat-screen TV that guests can use to watch movies and shows. If you ask me what’s the major pros of this hotel, the location. It’s in a very convenient location near many shopping street and sightseeing. This hotel is great for backpackers and solo travelers who want a good deal while being the in the center of Tokyo.

Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills- a concept by Hyatt

The Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills opened in June 2014 and is the 12th Hotel branded by Hyatt. Well, if you know Park Hyatt Tokyo, you know how high the standards are for this one in particular.

This 5-star luxury hotel is right by the Tokyo Imperial Palace and Meiji Jingu Shrine. In this hotel, they offer an indoor pool, full breakfast with a surcharge, comfortable rooms complete with modern amenities, a restaurant and bar, and an impressive view of Tokyo city. Plus, the concierge team is very helpful and provides excellent customer service.

The Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho, A Luxury Collection Hotel

This one is located in the Chiyoda neighborhood, so it’s close to Tokyo. What’s great about this hotel is that it’s conveniently connected to the rail/subway station, which if you’re going here from Tokyo, you can just take a train from Tokyo station.

The Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho is a 5-star hotel near Tokyo Imperial Palace and Tokyo Tower. It has a modern design, spacious rooms with hardwood floors, and floor-to-ceiling windows to give you a stunning view of Tokyo.

Hilton Tokyo Hotel

Nearby Shinjuku Central Park and the Shinjuku Skyscraper District, the Hilton Tokyo Hotel is another great option for a stay in Tokyo. This Hilton hotel is within walking distance of the shopping, entertainment, and business districts of Tokyo. It offers free access to its indoor pool, sauna, and fitness center. Plus, their restaurant serves delicious traditional Japanese cuisine and offers a buffet breakfast.

It also has modern rooms with great city views, comfortable beds, and amenities like free WiFi, a flat-screen TV, an electric kettle, and complimentary tea. This hotel is connected to the Tochomae Subway Station, the hotel is a 5-minute walk from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building.

Best Tours in Tokyo

Tokyo in a day tour with yanasen and asakusa.

If you’re planning on staying in Tokyo for a short amount of time, then this guided tour can really help you get into the Japanese culture by visiting Tokyo’s most visited place. One of the best ways to do that is by taking the Tokyo in a Day Tour with Yanasen and Asakusa. This tour takes you through the colorful streets of Tokyo, including a visit to the vibrant Yanaka district and the famous Buddhist temple of Senso-ji.

Tokyo Pop Culture Tour for Kids

A great way to introduce Japanese culture to your children is by taking them on the Tokyo Pop Culture Tour for Kids. This is a 2-hour tour that takes you to Takeshita Street, Shibuya, a Themed café where your kids can play and explore the world of anime, arcades, and manga through these activities.

Tokyo Evening Sake Tasting Tour

Go on a 2-hour guided tour with a local expert that will let your experience the traditional Japanese drink “Sake”. This Tokyo Evening Sake Tasting Tour will take you to some of the best places to sample sake. During this tour, you’ll be visiting local bar located in Shitamachi where you can try different kinds of sake. The expert will also teach you about the history and culture behind this traditional beverage.

Tokyo Food Tour: Savoring Tsukiji Outer Market

A 3-hour tour surrounded by all things food and culinary. Tokyo Food Tour: Savoring Tsukiji Outer Market gives you the opportunity to learn about Japan’s unique food culture and have an amazing gastronomic experience. During this tour, you’ll be visiting the Tsukiji district which is known for its enormous and vibrant fish market. Get a chance to have Japanese cooking classes of a lifetime!

Here’s everything you can look forward on this tour:

• Learn about the history of Japanese cuisine
• Led by a culinary expert

Tokyo Night Food Tour in Shibuya

I’ll tell you, a night food trip in Shibuya is one of the best ways to experience Tokyo’s nightlife. This 3-hour tour will take you around Shibuya and visit some of its most famous eateries.

You’ll get to visit some of the inexpensive places to drink and enjoy snacks. You’ll get to enjoy the local Japanese craft beers and sake that are famous in Shibuya while snacking on Japanese street food. Plus, you’ll get to explore the amazing neon-lit streets of Tokyo and get a great insight into the city’s culture.

Tokyo Private Tour by Car / Van – Guide Option Available

If you’re not a fan of walking tours, this private car tour composes of 10 hours approximately, to explore Tokyo in a luxurious and personalized way. You’ll get to explore Tokyo at your own pace and spend as much time as you want at landmarks such as the Meiji Shrine, Imperial Palace, and Tsukiji Fish Market.

Private Custom Tour: Tokyo in a Day

Another great private tour is the Tokyo in a Day Tour. This tour will pack as many sightseeing locations and attractions into your full day of exploring Tokyo. It could be a 4-hour or 8-hour private custom tour, it’s completely up to you.

The highlights of this tour includes:

• Let an experienced guide help you create a half-day or full-day sightseeing itinerary
• See city attractions like Meiji Shrine and the Imperial Palace, or discover Tokyo neighborhoods, depending on your interests
• Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant (if full-day tour selected)
• Explore the city by train and subway, or upgrade for transport by comfortable, private vehicle

Tsukiji Fish Market Food and Culture Walking Tour

Tsukiji Fish Market is one of the most famous markets in Tokyo, with a wide variety of seafood products. During this 3-hour you’ll be with some of the known Michelin-starred chefs as they shop for ingredients. As you wander around the market, your guide will explain the local culture and explain the different types of seafood that are being sold in the 80-year-old market.

Here, you’ll get to:

• Great way to get a sense for Japan’s unique culinary culture
• Sample a range of sushi, sake, fresh Tuna, and Japanese omelets Rub shoulders with Japan’s Michelin-starred chefs as they shop for ingredients
• Eat and drink like a Japanese local

Shibuya All You Can Eat Best Food Tour

I’d say this is one of the best parts of this tour list so far, a 4-hour All You Can Eat Best Food Tour. This food tour takes you to the lively Shibuya district and gives you the unique opportunity to try some of the best Japanese food.

Tokyo: 2-Hour G uided Sumo Mor ning Practice Viewing Tour

I love this tour as I am always very curious about how Sumo wrestlers train and compete. During this two-hour tour, your guide will take you to the popular Ryogoku district in Tokyo.

These are some of the highlights of this tour:

• Get the rare opportunity to enter a Sumo stable
• Watch Sumo wrestlers in training up close
• Learn about the history and the art of Sumo wrestling from your local guide

Tokyo: Ramen Tasting Tour with 6 Mini Bowls of Ramen

If I can only choose one favorite food among Japanese cuisines, it’s ramen. This 3-hour tour will take you to different ramen shops in Tokyo and let you sample up to 6 different bowls of ramen. Get ready to become a ramen expert, learning about ramen origins, types, preparation, and trends.

Tokyo: Tsukiji Market Walking Tour & Rolled Sushi Class

What a fun way to enjoy Japanese cuisine through these Japanese cooking classes amid touring the Tsukiji Outer Fish Market.

On this tour, you’ll get to:

• Experience the hustle and bustle of the Tsukiji Outer Fish Market in Tokyo
• Explore culinary traditions at the Tsukiji Fish Market and a cooking lesson
• Take part in a cooking lesson at one of Asia’s largest gourmet cooking schools
• Prepare washoku dishes, including rolled sushi, Temari sushi, and miso soup
• Sit down and savor a lunch comprised of the dishes you have prepared

Tokyo: Kimono Dressing, Walking, and Photography Session

Surely, a not to miss in Tokyo would be a kimono experience. This 3-hour tour will give you the chance to dress up in a gorgeous authentic kimono and take a leisurely walk around the city.

Here’s everything you’ll get to do on this tour:

• You can wear a real kimono, not a tourist one.
• You can learn how to walk and behave in kimono from a guide.
• You can choose from about 50 kimonos of your love.

I hope you have an incredible time when you visit Tokyo. It’s a place everyone should see and I just know that you’ll fall in love with it too!

Once you decide what to do in Tokyo, you can plan the rest of your trip to Japan. Check out these great day trips from Tokyo . Be sure you look into transportation and especially remember to buy your Japan Rail Pass BEFORE you go to Japan. You can learn more about the Japan Rail Pass and why you need it here.

Things to do in Japan FAQ

Anime, manga, and video games. These three are some of the top things Tokyo is best known for. Other popular attractions and things to do in Tokyo include shopping, the popular Japanese dishes, nightlife, sightseeing, and exploring Japan’s ancient culture and of course, Mount Fuji.

For an authentic experience, I enjoyed visiting the Tokyo National Museum and the Meiji Shrine. Other popular attractions include Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Tokyo Tower, and Ueno Park.

It can be! You can take tours so that you can get a good overview of Tokyo. You can also take day trips to other cities nearby such as Yokohama, Osaka, and Kyoto.

Visitors can do a wide range of activities in Tokyo. Popular activities include visiting museums and art galleries, exploring temples and shrines, shopping, eating out, attending traditional festivals and events, experiencing the nightlife, enjoying outdoor activities such as hot springs and hiking. There are also plenty of opportunities

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