Food at Harajuku 2024: "Kawaii" Photogenic Sweets & Eats
Harajuku is famous as the hub of Tokyo's youth culture, represented by the iconic Takeshita Street lined with people dressed in unique fashions.
However, Harajuku's appeal extends beyond fashion and shopping.As a local Tokyoite, I believe no other area blends "Kawaii" and deliciousness in its unique food culture quite like Harajuku.
The colorful sweets and stylish cafes you won't see elsewhere are a major reason why Harajuku is so popular among local Tokyoites.Recently, with the rise of Instagram and other social media, being "photogenic" has become increasingly important.
Harajuku is perfectly suited to this social media era, continuously churning out attractive and "Kawaii" sweets and foods that make you want to snap photos.
For example, rainbow-colored cotton candy, colorful cafe interiors, and character-themed meals – Harajuku is overflowing with photogenic foods.
As a local Tokyoite who has repeatedly visited and experienced Harajuku's 2024 food scene, allow me to share its highlights.
Why don't you join me on this guide and immerse yourself in Harajuku's pop food culture? It's sure to be a unique experience that will make for lasting memories of your time in Tokyo.
Now, let's embark on a journey into the "Kawaii" gourmet world of Harajuku!
5 Sweets and Street Foods to Savor Harajuku's "Kawaii" Food Culture
As you stroll through Harajuku, you'll find many colorful sweets that catch your eye. The uniquely "Kawaii" visuals always excite me like nothing else.
It's a common sight for Tokyo teenagers to walk around Takeshita Street with a sweet treat in hand. If you're visiting Harajuku, you simply must indulge in these photogenic sweets, just like the locals!
Here, I'll introduce a selection of recommended street sweets and foods that I, as a local Tokyoite, have personally enjoyed.
Totti Candy Factory: Colorful Sweets are a Hit
Source: Tabelog by PekopekoAnnie
"Totti Candy Factory," located on the central Takeshita Street in Harajuku, is a representative store for the area's Kawaii sweets.
Their signature menu item is undoubtedly the colorful and large cotton candies. When I first bought one, I immediately took a photo and posted it on Instagram!
With most menu items priced under 1,000 yen, it's no wonder these Kawaii sweets are popular among young people as an affordable treat. The portions are quite large, so I recommend sharing with friends while strolling.
The live cotton candy-making demonstration at the storefront is a must-see. I was excited just watching the colorful cotton candy magically take shape!
<Store Information>
Address: Ryu Apartment 2F, 1-16-5 Jingumae, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0001
Closed: None
Phone: 03-3403-7007
Hours: 10 AM–7 PM
Hours (Saturdays, Sundays): 9:30 AM–8 PM
Website: http://www.totticandy.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/totticandyfactory/
If you are interested in TOTTI CANDY FACTORY in Harajuku, check the article below! I summarized in more details and how I felt there.
sena kanda
SweetXO HARAJUKU: Specialty Shop for Instagram-Worthy Sweets
Source: Tabelog by run723m
Next, I'll introduce "SweetXO HARAJUKU," another sweet shop on Takeshita Street.
This store exclusively sells sweets that are Instagram-worthy. The ones I found particularly cute were the drinks shaped like baby bottles.
At first, I felt a bit embarrassed buying them, but once I held them, I couldn't help but exclaim, "Kawaii!" and took countless photos.
Perhaps due to its pursuit of Kawaii visuals, this popular store always has a line. To avoid the wait, I try to visit right after opening in the morning.
<Store Information>
Address: Harajuku 77 Building, 1F, 1-16-6 Jingumae, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0001
Closed: None
Phone: 03-5413-6683
Hours: 11 AM–6 PM
Hours (Saturdays, Sundays): 10 AM–7 PM
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetxo_goodgrief/
If you are interested in sweet xo harajuku, check the article below! I summarized in more details and how I felt there.
sena kanda
Marion Crêpes Takeshitadori: Harajuku's Classic Sweet
When it comes to sweets in Harajuku, crepes are a must.
While there are several crepe shops in the area, my go-to is "Marion Crêpes." I'm drawn to their wide variety of flavors and sizes, with strawberry toppings being my personal favorite.
Although the portions are generous, I find the taste surprisingly light, making it perfect as a snack while strolling.
With prices around 500 yen, they're reasonably priced, making it easy to stop by. The crepes are also photogenic, so this is a recommended spot.
<Store Information>
Address: Juness Building 1F, 1-6-15 Jingumae, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0001
Closed: None
Phone: 03-3401-7297
Hours: 10:30 AM–9 PM
Hours (Saturdays, Sundays): 10 AM–9 PM
Website: https://x.gd/ECUSK
If you are interested in Marion Crepes in Harajuku, check the article below! I summarized in more details and how I felt there.
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IKEA Harajuku: Exclusive Street Food Items at the Harajuku Branch
Source: Tabelog by hiromu1232123
An unexpected hidden gem is the cafe attached to "IKEA Harajuku," located inside the "With Harajuku" commercial facility.
Here, you can find the Harajuku-exclusive food item "Tsunbroad," which is popular among local Tokyoites. It's a fusion of Harajuku crepes and Swedish cuisine, with variations like salmon-wrapped or sweet varieties.
Priced between 400-500 yen per item, the cost-performance is excellent, making it an affordable treat. While you can dine in with set menus, the popular local style is to take the Tsunbroad to-go and enjoy it while strolling around Harajuku!
<Store Information>
Address: 1-14-30 Jingumae, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0001, Inside WITH HARAJUKU
Closed: None
Phone: 050-4560-0494
Hours: 11 AM–9 PM
Website: https://www.ikea.com/jp/ja/stores/harajuku-pub246450b0
Strawberry Fetish: Kawaii Specialty Shop for Strawberry Sweets
For the final street sweet and food, I'll introduce the adorably red "Strawberry Fetish," specializing in traditional Japanese strawberry candy, "Ichigo Ame" (candied strawberries). Fresh strawberries are skewered and coated in melted sugar or candy, priced between 500-800 yen per skewer.
The strawberry candy sold here is more accessible than traditional Ichigo Ame while maintaining a photogenic appearance.
Of course, the strawberry candy is the most popular item, but my personal favorite is to order a half-and-half with the grape candy. The vibrant colors and juicy sweetness of the fruits are irresistible.
<Store Information>
Address: 1 Chome-16-5 Jingumae, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0001
Closed: None
Phone: 03-6434-7837
Hours: 10 AM–8 PM
Hours (Saturdays, Sundays): 9:30 AM–8 PM
Website: http://strawberryfetish.com/
If you are interested in STRAWBERRY FETISH in Harajuku, check the article below! I summarized in more details and how I felt there.
sena kanda
5 Photogenic Cafes & Restaurants Loved by Local Tokyoites in Harajuku
In addition to colorful sweets, Harajuku is also home to many stylish cafes and restaurants.
Here, I'll introduce 5 photogenic cafes and restaurants in Harajuku that I, as a local Tokyoite, have carefully selected. These are spots that local Tokyoites repeatedly visit, so they're sure to please. Be sure to stop by!
Rainbow Pancakes: Enjoy "Kawaii" Pancakes
Source: Tabelog by Jasmine_m
Located in Harajuku, "Rainbow Pancakes" is a popular cafe known for its Instagram-worthy, voluminous pancakes, served in an adorably colorful interior.
The pancakes are topped with fresh seasonal fruits like strawberries, ice cream, and whipped cream, satisfying both visually and taste-wise. Pancakes can be enjoyed for 1,000-1,500 yen each.
I often visit this cafe with friends, and we order different toppings to share and savor the various flavors.
If you visit with sweet-loving friends or family, the excitement is sure to be amplified.
<Store Information>
Address: 4-28-4 Jingumae, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0001
Closed: Tuesdays, Wednesdays
Phone: 03-6434-0466
Hours: 11 AM–6 PM
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rainbowpancake/
If you are interested in Rainbow Pancake in Harajuku, check the article below! I summarized in more details and how I felt there.
sena kanda
Panesu: Pop Design Cafe for Instagram
Source: Tabelog by karin
With its photogenic exterior and interior, "Panesu" is a cafe that offers a modern twist on traditional Japanese cafe menus.
I'm particularly fond of their "pudding," which not only looks cute but also delivers on taste, leaving a high level of satisfaction.
Combining the coziness of a neighborhood cafe with an Instagram-worthy vibe, it's a unique spot even within Harajuku.
<Store Information>
Address: Miyazaki Building 101, 6-28-5 Jingumae, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0001
Closed: Wednesdays
Phone: 03-6427-4577
Hours: 10 AM–6 PM
Website: https://bread-espresso.jp/shop/junkissa_panesu.html
If you are interested in Panesu in Harajuku, check the article below! I summarized in more details and how I felt there.
sena kanda
INITIAL Omotesando: Unmistakably Photogenic Parfaits
Source: Tabelog by INITIAL Omotesando
Located in the upscale Omotesando area of Harajuku is "INITIAL." Their signature menu item is undoubtedly the voluminous parfaits.
The towering mountains of ice cream are an eye-catching sight. When I actually tried them, I felt they were even more generous than they appeared in photos.
While the parfaits are on the pricier side at 2,500 yen each, the harmonious combination of fresh cream and fruits makes it well worth the price in my opinion.
Themed around "desserts to enjoy after a meal," the portions are quite substantial, so I recommend visitors to Harajuku stop by for a parfait during a sightseeing break.
<Store Information>
Address: 6 Chome-12-7 Jingumae, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0001
Closed: None
Phone: 03-6427-4577
Hours: 12 PM–9 PM
Hours (Saturdays, Sundays): 11 AM–9 PM
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/initial_omotesando/
If you are interested in INITIAL at Omotesando, check the article below! I summarized in more details and how I felt there.
sena kanda
Pompompurin Cafe: Popular Sanrio Character Cafe
Source: Tabelog by 118vs
This is a cute cafe in Harajuku themed around "Pompompurin," a popular character from the Sanrio brand known for Hello Kitty. It's a must-visit for Sanrio fans!
From the menu to the interior, everything is Pompompurin-themed. Food items like curry rice and hamburger sets range from 1,600-1,800 yen, while sweets are priced between 1,000-1,500 yen.
They also offer a limited-quantity, luxurious sweets set in an afternoon tea style for around 3,000 yen. Personally, I highly recommend this sweets set as it's incredibly cute and delicious.
<Store Information>
Address: 3F Cute Cube Harajuku, 1 Chome-7-1 Jingumae, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0001
Closed: None
Phone: 050-5472-9378
Hours: 11 AM–7 PM
Hours (Saturdays, Sundays): 10 AM–7 PM
Website: https://pompompurincafe.com/about
If you are interested in Pom Pom Purin Cafe in Harajuku, check the article below! I summarized in more details and how I felt there.
Eri
THE GREAT BURGER: Impactful Burgers with Visually Striking Presentations
Source: Tabelog by cybersurfer4u
While Harajuku is known for its abundance of sweets-focused cafes, "THE GREAT BURGER" is a burger specialty shop, true to its name.
However, it stands apart from fast food with its high-quality ingredients and substantial sizes.
My personal recommendation is the cheese burger topped with avocado. Its hefty appearance always makes me want to take a photo.
The burger menu ranges from 1,000-1,400 yen, which is quite pricey compared to fast food. But the taste, quantity, and visuals are top-notch, making it the perfect spot when craving a stylish, hearty burger in Harajuku.
<Store Information>
Address: 6-12-5 Jingumae, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0001
Closed: None
Phone: 03-3406-1215
Hours: 11:30 AM–10 PM
Hours (Saturdays, Sundays): 11 AM–10 PM
Website: http://www.the-great-burger.com/
3 Photogenic Izakayas (Japanese Pubs) to Enjoy Drinks in Harajuku
While it's recommended to head over to the nearby Shibuya area (one station away on the JR Yamanote Line) for nightlife, Harajuku does have a few stylish izakayas (Japanese pubs).
Here, I'll introduce 3 izakaya spots carefully selected by me, a local.
Usagi: Teppanyaki Izakaya
Source: Tabelog by Usagi
You can have teppanyaki delicacies like okonomiyaki (savory pancakes with different toppings) casually at "Usagi" izakaya in Harajuku.
It's interesting to see the chefs prepare a range of mouthwatering teppanyaki meals in front of you at "Usagi," where you have counter seats.
I always go for the 5,000 yen course, which offers a variety of teppanyaki dishes and an all-you-can-drink option. It closes late, so I suggest going there for supper after touring Shibuya or Harajuku.
<Store Information>
Address: 1 Chome-22-1 Jingumae, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0001
Closed: Thursdays
Phone: 03-6804-2944
Hours: 11:30 AM–2:30 PM, 6–11:30 PM
Hours (Saturdays, Sundays): 11:30 AM–3 PM, 6–11 PM
Website: https://usagi-harajuku.owst.jp/
Chouchin: Stylish Izakaya Experience
Source: Tabelog by Chouchin
Next, I'll introduce "Chouchin," located in the Omotesando area. The appeal of this izakaya is being able to enjoy authentic Japanese pub fare in a stylish setting.
Their specialty is the combination of "highball" (a whisky-based cocktail) and fried chicken, beloved by local Tokyoites. When I visited previously and ordered this duo, the crispy batter and juicy chicken were absolutely delicious. The highball complemented the flavors perfectly.
Instead of the typical sashimi and sushi found at most izakayas, they offer an extensive selection of fried and grilled dishes. This makes it a great choice even for those who don't enjoy raw fish, including foreign visitors.
With an all-you-can-drink option priced around 4,000-5,000 yen per person, it's an izakaya you can casually enjoy while savoring the stylish atmosphere.
<Store Information>
Address: 2F3F Jingu-mae Building Square, 4 Chome-29-9 Jingumae, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0001
Closed: None
Phone: 03-5411-7427
Hours: 5 PM–11 PM
Hours (Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays): 5 PM–11:30 PM
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cafeizakaya_chochin/
Omotesandria: Casual Sushi and Wine Pairing
Source: Tabelog by Omotesandria
The last spot I'll introduce is "Omotesandria," also located in the Omotesando area. This is a rather unique place where you can enjoy sushi paired with wine.
I had always thought sushi in Tokyo is typically paired with Japanese sake or beer. But after visiting this shop, I realized that sushi and wine can be an unexpectedly delicious combination.
My recommendation is their 5,000-6,000 yen sushi and wine course. It includes a set of sushi made with that day's recommended fish, along with delicious wines. The pricing is reasonably affordable compared to typical sushi restaurants.
With the concept of "casually enjoying sushi and wine in a pop setting," they also offer quite authentic, high-quality sushi, making it a recommended izakaya.
<Store Information>
Address: B1-G Section, 5 Chome-51-8 Jingumae, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0001
Closed: None
Phone: 050-5448-5347
Hours: 11:30 AM–2:30 PM, 5 PM–11 PM
Hours (Saturdays, Sundays): 12 PM–11 PM
Instagram: https://omotesandria.com/
FAQs About Food in Harajuku
I've covered a range of recommended food spots in Harajuku. To conclude, here are some frequently asked questions from visitors, answered by me, a local.
What is the most photogenic "Kawaii" sweet in Harajuku?
If I had to name the most photogenic sweet in Harajuku, it would undoubtedly be the rainbow-colored items. The colorful cotton candy from "Totti Candy Factory" that I introduced first is sure to garner lots of "likes" if you post it on Instagram!
How can I avoid crowds at popular sweets and cafes in Harajuku?
Popular spots in Harajuku, especially on weekends, can have long lines. It's best to avoid having to wait in line for a long time during your travel.
In such cases, I recommend visiting in the morning hours. By going shortly after opening, you're more likely to be seated smoothly. Try timing your Harajuku visit to match the opening hours of the spots you want to visit.
What is the price range for food in Harajuku?
Harajuku offers a wide range of prices, from sweets to dinners. Many of the street sweets can be enjoyed for under 1,000 yen. For cafe meals and sweets, the average price is around 1,000-2,000 yen. As for izakayas, expect to pay 4,000-6,000 yen per person for course menus with all-you-can-drink options. A la carte izakaya dishes are more reasonably priced.
Any tips for strolling and eating in Harajuku?
Popular with both local Tokyoites and visitors is Harajuku. Holidays can see Takeshita Street in particular become rather busy.
Enjoying street food and sweets, watch out that you don't run into other people and drop your delectables. Moreover, remember to return any rubbish to your hotel or properly dispose of it in bins.
Are there any tours to fully experience Harajuku's sweets and street strolling?
Here are two tours that allow you to efficiently enjoy the Kawaii town of Harajuku:
"Harajuku Kawaii Fashion & Pop-culture Tour" by Magical Trip
Source: Magical Trip
This 3-hour walking tour by us at Magical Trip explores Harajuku, the holy ground of Kawaii culture.
You'll stroll through Takeshita Street and enjoy Harajuku's unique sweets and shopping. The tour also includes time for a local Tokyo lunch like okonomiyaki (savory pancakes).
Unlike the other tour, this one does not visit the nearby world-famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing area or other spots like Meiji Shrine. Instead, it allows you to fully immerse yourself in Harajuku's Kawaii culture over 3 hours, making it ideal for those who want to thoroughly experience this area.
Click here for more details: Harajuku Kawaii Fashion & Pop-culture Tour
"Harajuku & Shibuya Half Day Walking Tour" by GoWithGuide
Source: GoWithGuide
This is a 4-hour walking tour by GoWithGuide that covers Meiji Shrine, Takeshita Street, and then heads to Shibuya.
Unlike the Magical Trip tour, this one visits many famous spots in the Harajuku/Shibuya area, but spends less time at Harajuku's Kawaii spots specifically. It's recommended for those who want to efficiently see multiple areas at a reasonable pace with a guide.
As no meals are included, and the tour ends in Shibuya, you may want to plan for activities in Shibuya after the tour to make the most of your time.
Click here for more details: Harajuku & Shibuya Half Day Walking Tour
I tried to convey in this post the pleasures of Harajuku's culinary scene and suggested restaurants from the viewpoint of a Tokyo native who has fully experienced it.
I carefully chosen a selection of the "Kawaii" and tasty sweets and meals that I've personally liked in order to introduce more people to Japan's "Kawaii" culture through Harajuku's food scene.
Make time to visit these locations, savor the delicacies, and don't forget to snap lots of photos! Tokyo's young love Harajuku, and one way to find out why is to experience its culinary culture.
