Itinerary: One Day in Shibuya & Harajuku - A Guide to Trends of Tokyo
I'm going to tell you a one-day schedule that, from 9:00 AM to about 6:00 PM, is full of the attractions of Shibuya that I think every tourist to Tokyo should see!
A major reconstruction that is estimated to happen once every 100 years has recently added to the urban attractiveness of Shibuya, a lively neighborhood that symbolizes Tokyo.
With the emergence of skyscrapers and plazas, this fast evolving metropolis is Tokyo's hub for business, entertainment, and shopping.
Not alone are big business buildings with food and shopping options what make Shibuya appealing. Famous nightclubs frequented by musicians from all over the world and the streets where youth culture originated are further distinctive aspects of Shibuya.
An amazing sequence from the film "Lost in Translation" featured the Shibuya Scramble Crossing. Actually, you may witness this well-known crossroads that has been in many movies by going to Shibuya.
A little farther to the Harajuku district, there are green areas like Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park, away from the bustle of the city, even if Shibuya Station offers a modern and trendy environment.
Furthermore, like Shibuya, Harajuku is home to the well-known "Takeshita Street," a center of Tokyo's pop culture.
Together with the Shibuya Station neighborhood, these locations allow you to effectively spend a day seeing Tokyo's modern and historical landscapes.
I live in Tokyo, therefore I have seen directly how this city is being rebuilt. I made this schedule since, after that experience, I firmly believe that international visitors should see Shibuya's newest attractions.
Consult this one-day itinerary before visiting Tokyo!
Recommended Route to Experience Shibuya in One Day
Start early in the morning if you want to see Shibuya in a single day. But since a lot of the stores in Shibuya close early, let's begin at Meiji Shrine, which is conveniently close to Shibuya Station.
We shall wander slowly in the morning and take in the stunning shrine structures, the surroundings of Meiji Shrine, and Yoyogi Park's vegetation. After that, we'll tour Takeshita Street, the center of Harajuku pop culture, and travel down Cat Street, dubbed the "backside of Harajuku," to Shibuya.
When you get at Shibuya, first snap a memento picture in front of the station with the Hachiko monument. Let us next cross the Scramble Crossing, one of the most well-known junctions in the world. Please pick from my four favorite Tokyo local restaurants for lunch, which are all surrounding Shibuya Station.
We'll tour the big Shibuya shopping centers in the afternoon. With so many fashion things available, we will thoroughly enjoy shopping at locations like 109 and Parco. At last we arrive at Shibuya Scramble Square, a brand-new icon in the area. Beautifully suitable for the conclusion of the day, the observation deck offers a view of Shibuya at night.
The suggested itinerary to see all of Shibuya in a day is summarized above. The map below displays the positions of each location. Allow me to now begin our one-day Shibuya sightseeing tour!
9:00 AM JR Yamanote Line Harajuku Station
This one-day trip starts at 9:00 AM from JR Yamanote Line Harajuku Station.
Using the JR Yamanote Line, you can conveniently access Harajuku Station from major stations in Tokyo.
From Shibuya Station, it's just a 2-minute ride on the JR Yamanote Line. From Shinjuku Station, you can also arrive in 7 minutes using the Yamanote Line.
If your accommodation is along the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line or Fukutoshin Line, it's also OK to get off at Meiji-jingumae Station.
9:05 AM - 10:00 AM Meiji Shrine: Explore a Vast Historical Spot in the City on a Cool Morning
Source: Wikipedia
Our first stop, a short walk from Harajuku Station, is Meiji Shrine.
Meiji Shrine is entered through a big gate. Beyond it is a sizable woodland that is difficult to imagine is in the middle of Tokyo. I am immediately taken from the bustle of the city into a hallowed place every time I pass through the gate.
Meiji Shrine is a shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji, who ruled Tokyo over 100 years ago. Although worshippers can be seen from early morning, the shrine grounds are spacious, so you won't feel crowded.
When one gets to the main shrine structure, "magnificent" really does sum it up. Beautiful traditional architecture will enthrall you. Having paid your respects, I suggest "testing your luck" by drawing a "omikuji" fate slip. You can take in traditional Tokyo culture while you read your fortune.
There is no linguistic problem at Meiji Shrine because the omikuji are also written in English.
Meiji Shrine opens at sunrise, so you can enter from around 5:00 AM in summer and around 6:40 AM in winter.
After enjoying the beautiful scenery and tranquility of Meiji Shrine for an hour from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM, let's take a stroll in the adjacent Yoyogi Park next.
<Information>
Address: 1-1 Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 151-8557
Closed: None
Phone: 03-3379-5511
Hours: 6:40 AM - 4:00 PM (varies by season)
Website: https://www.meijijingu.or.jp/
10:05 AM - 11:00 AM Yoyogi Park: Enjoy the Seasonal Nature of Japan in the Morning Air
Source: Wikipedia
Yoyogi Park, adjacent to Meiji Shrine, is a large park that feels like an oasis in the city despite being located in the center of Tokyo.
Once you step into the park, you can often feel the bustling atmosphere of people, in contrast to the tranquility of Meiji Shrine just a moment ago. On weekends, various events are often held in the park, and it is crowded with Tokyo locals and tourists.
In fact, this Yoyogi Park is the site of the Olympic Village for the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. I think it's wonderful that the Olympic legacy can still be enjoyed by so many people today.
As you stroll through the park, you can feel the beauty of nature in each of the four seasons. Especially during the cherry blossom season in spring and the autumn foliage period, you can enjoy the pink flowers and trees dyed in yellow and red.
After enjoying the nature of Yoyogi Park for an hour from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, let's head to Takeshita Street in Harajuku, where you can feel the energy of young people, next.
<Information>
Open 24 hours
Address: 2-1 Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 151-0052
Phone: 03-3469-6081
Website: https://www.tokyo-park.or.jp/park/yoyogi/
11:10 AM - 00:00 PM Takeshita Street Harajuku: Feel the Culture and Trends of Tokyo's Youth
Source: Wikipedia
After enjoying the liveliness of Yoyogi Park, if you head east from Harajuku Station, you will find yourself in the mecca of youth culture.
Whenever I set foot on Takeshita Street after visiting the tranquil Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park, I feel as if I have come to a different world.
Colorful and pop shops line the street, and the avenue is filled with the energy of young people. This is the center of Tokyo's youth culture, where people and shops at the forefront of fashion and trends gather.
The sidewalks are often crowded with people, but I think that creates the fun atmosphere of Takeshita Street.
The charm of Takeshita Street lies in its unique ambiance. Many pop and cute fashion items can be found here, and Japan's distinctive "kawaii culture," which pursues all things cute, is condensed in this area.
Moreover, Takeshita Street is also famous for having many sweet shops popular among young people, such as crepe stands. In this itinerary, we will walk a bit more until lunchtime, so I recommend trying some sweets in Harajuku.
Even with just about an hour of stay, simply walking along Takeshita Street allows you to feel the trends of Tokyo.
Next, let's head to Cat Street, which is at the end of Takeshita Street. We will further explore the charms of Harajuku, the center of fashion!
Address: 1-16-6 Jingumae, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0001
00:10 PM - 00:30 PM Cat Street: Walk Through the Vintage Clothing Street to Shibuya
Source: Wikipedia
After enjoying the liveliness of Takeshita Street, we head to "Cat Street." This street got its name because there used to be many cats here.
Located between Harajuku and Shibuya, this street is also called the "backside of Harajuku."
Whenever I step onto Cat Street, I always feel a slightly different atmosphere from Takeshita Street. While there are also clothing stores and cafes lined up, the flow of people is more gentle, creating a calmer streetscape. That's why it's called the "backside."
What always catches my interest on Cat Street is the array of unique vintage clothing stores. The shops filled with items of distinctive taste feel like a treasure hunt. Together with Takeshita Street, you can feel the diversity of fashion among Tokyo's youth.
Walking south on this street for about 20 minutes, we finally arrive in Shibuya.
00:30 PM - 00:45 PM Shibuya Station Hachiko Statue: Enjoying the Symbol of Shibuya Up Close
Source: Shibuya City Libraries
Leaving Cat Street behind, we head towards the center of Shibuya.
The "Hachiko Statue" is an iconic presence in this area, located right outside the "Hachiko Exit" of Shibuya Station. It sits with a stately appearance in the square bustling with many people.
In fact, there is a touching story hidden behind this Hachiko Statue. Hachiko is known for faithfully waiting for his deceased owner at Shibuya Station every day for 10 years. Many people were moved by his loyalty, and this statue was built.
When I first learned about this story quite some time ago, I remember my heart warmed feeling Hachiko's unchanging affection for his owner.
The Hachiko Statue is now also known as the most popular meeting spot in Shibuya. When meeting friends in Shibuya, I always say, "Let's meet in front of Hachiko!"
After taking a commemorative photo in front of the Hachiko Statue while reflecting on the story of the loyal dog Hachiko, let's head to one of the most famous intersections in the world, the Scramble Crossing, next.
Address: 2-1 Dogenzaka, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0043
00:45 PM - 1:00 PM Scramble Crossing: Feel the Midday Bustle of the Metropolis
Source: Wikipedia
Leaving the Hachiko Statue, we finally head to the Scramble Crossing, which could be called the heart of Shibuya. Located just a 1-minute walk from the Hachiko Statue, this intersection is known as one of the most famous in the world where large numbers of people cross simultaneously.
Arriving at the intersection, what spreads before your eyes is literally a sea of people. Every time the traffic light turns green, people from all directions pour into the intersection at once, a sight that overwhelms even me, a Tokyo local.
After feeling the high population density and energy of Shibuya by walking through the intersection, be sure to look up at the buildings surrounding the crossing as well. Giant screens display colorful advertisements and the latest music videos, allowing you to feel the cutting edge of Tokyo.
We've walked a lot up to this point, so let's explore delicious lunch spots in Shibuya next!
Address: 2-24-12 Shibuya, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0002
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM Savor Lunch Around Shibuya Station, the Trendsetting Center of Tokyo
When you've walked from Harajuku to Shibuya and your stomach is completely empty, enjoy lunch around Shibuya Station, the trendsetting center! I'll introduce four recommended restaurants that even I, as a Tokyo local, frequent.
Shibuya Shokudo Ventuno Tokyo: Casual "Yoshoku" Restaurant
"Shibuya Shokudo Ventuno Tokyo," popular among Tokyo locals, offers Western cuisine arranged in a Japanese style called "yoshoku."
When I first visited here on a weekend, what particularly caught my eye was the "Adult Okosama Lunch" for 1,800 yen. "Okosama Lunch" is a menu often seen in restaurants, featuring a small amount of various dishes that children like, such as hamburger steak and pasta, all on one plate.
This "Adult Okosama Lunch" is the grown-up version of that. I actually tried it, and it was a satisfying plate with a colorful presentation, great taste, and ample portion!
This menu is only available on weekends, but standard menus like curry rice are also offered for 1,000-2,000 yen.
If you're looking for lunch in Shibuya, please visit this restaurant to experience the "yoshoku" culture of Japan.
<Store Information>
Address: B1F Takagi Building (IKEA Shibuya), 24-1 Udagawacho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0042
Closed: Sundays
Phone: 03-3477-1199
Hours: 11:30 AM–3:30 PM, 5–10 PM
Hours (Sundays): 11:30 AM–3:30 PM, 5–9 PM
Website: https://ventuno-tokyo.owst.jp/
Ichiran: A Must-Visit Ramen Shop When in Tokyo
Source: Ichiran Official Website
The popular ramen restaurant "Ichiran" in Shibuya is a chain known for its ramen using pork-based "tonkotsu" broth, but it's also famous for its unique interior design.
The counter has individual booths set up to block the view of other customers, allowing you to concentrate on the taste of the ramen. Even now, I still find this sense of "one-on-one time with ramen" to be very fresh and exciting.
The menu has numerous customization options, allowing you to create a bowl to your liking. Incidentally, I always add a flavored egg.
Being a popular restaurant among both Tokyo locals and foreign tourists, there is often a line, but it's well worth the wait. It's a recommended ramen shop where you can discover a new way to enjoy ramen.
<Store Information>
Address: Iwamoto Building, B1F, 1-22-7 Jinnan, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0041
Closed: None
Phone: 050-1808-2546
Hours: 12–6 AM, 10 AM–12 AM
Website: https://ichiran.com/shop/tokyo/shibuya/
Pepper Parlor: A Restaurant Where Robots Serve Lunch
Source: Pepper Parlor Official Website
The biggest feature of "Pepper Parlor" is that the robot "Pepper" provides the service. One Pepper is assigned to each table and handles everything from taking orders to serving.
When you enter the restaurant, the adorable Peppers warmly welcome the customers. Choosing from the menu while conversing with Pepper is sure to be a unique and exciting experience unlike any other in Shibuya.
The pasta and other food menu items are reasonably priced at 1,000-1,300 yen, but the taste is authentic. Furthermore, the dessert menu is also substantial, with pancakes for 980 yen and more.
For those who want to spend an extraordinary lunchtime in Shibuya, this spot is highly recommended. The interaction with Pepper, which gives you a sense of Tokyo's cutting edge, will surely become an unforgettable memory!
<Store Information>
Address: B1F Takagi Building (IKEA Shibuya), 24-1 Udagawacho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0042
Closed: Sundays
Phone: 03-3477-1199
Hours: 11 AM–11 PM
Hours (Sundays): 11 AM–10 PM
Website: https://www.pepperparlor.com/
TOMBOY Cafe Shibuya: Popular Cafe Lunch Among Tokyo Locals to Enjoy Ethnic Cuisine
Source: Tabelog by TOMBOY Cafe Shibuya
The appeal of "TOMBOY Cafe Shibuya" is that you can enjoy ethnic lunch menus such as gapao rice plates. The array of dishes with an Asian flair are outstanding in both appearance and taste.
What I particularly like is the "taco rice," which is rice topped with taco ingredients. The slightly spicy seasoning and juicy ingredients match perfectly with the rice.
The lunch menu is reasonably priced at 800-900 yen, which is a nice point. You can enjoy hearty dishes at an affordable price.
Actually, there is another store of the same chain in Shibuya, but that one mainly serves curry. I've visited both, but I felt that "TOMBOY Cafe Shibuya" offers a more stylish atmosphere.
If you want to enjoy ethnic cuisine and a fashionable space in Shibuya, please visit this cafe.
<Store Information>
Address: 1F Flat Maruyama, 10-13 Maruyamacho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0044 150-0042
Closed: None
Phone: 050-5592-1161
Hours: 11 AM–11 PM
Website: https://tomboy-shibuyamaruyama.owst.jp/
2:30 PM - 5:00 PM Enjoy Shopping While Visiting Famous Spots in Shibuya
After savoring lunch, we will enjoy shopping while visiting famous spots in Shibuya. From large shopping malls like Shibuya 109 and Parco to unique shops in Center Gai, Shibuya has a diverse range of shopping areas.
Center Gai: A Place to Feel the Trends of Tokyo
Source: Wikipedia
Among Shibuya's shopping areas, "Center Gai" is particularly popular with young people. This street is known for its abundance of fashion and trend items aimed at youth.
With shops ranging from street fashion to "cute" items like those in Harajuku, it's a spot where I always feel stimulated just by browsing.
Center Gai also has a wide selection of restaurants. It's nice to have cafes and fast food shops where you can casually stop by when you get tired of walking while shopping.
Access from Shibuya Station is also excellent, making it easy to move to other shopping malls. If you want to fully enjoy shopping in Shibuya, Center Gai is a must-visit place.
Access: 28-6 Udagawacho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 154-0042
Shibuya Parco: Recommended for Its Subculture Floor
Source: Wikipedia
Among Shibuya's shopping spots, "Shibuya Parco" boasts a particularly unique presence. This shopping mall houses shops from various genres, including fashion, food, and subculture.
Especially noteworthy is the 6th floor. Here, you'll find shops representing Japan's gaming and anime culture, such as the Pokémon Center, Nintendo's official store, and the Capcom Store.
As someone who loves Nintendo games, I always get quite excited on this floor filled with character goods from Mario, Zelda, and more!
Also, the rooftop has a free observation space where you can overlook the cityscape of Shibuya, which is another pleasant point. It's recommended to take a break while enjoying the view of Tokyo during your shopping.
<Information>
Address: 15-1 Udagawacho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-8377
Closed: None
Phone: 03-3464-5111
Hours: 11 AM–9 PM
Website: https://shibuya.parco.jp/
Shibuya 109: A Shopping Center for Young People
Source: Wikipedia
"Shibuya 109," with its distinctive cylindrical exterior, is especially recommended as a place to enjoy fashion for young women.
Compared to the relatively casual fashion gathered in "Center Gai," 109 houses the latest fashion brands, making it appealing to feel the current trends firsthand.
If you're shopping for clothes in Shibuya, be sure to visit 109.
<Information>
Address: 2-29-1 Dogenzaka, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0043
Closed: None
Phone: 03-3477-5111
Hours: 10 AM–9 PM
Website: https://www.shibuya109.jp/
MAGNET by SHIBUYA109: A Commercial Facility Packed with Subculture
Source: ONE STOP! SHIBUYA
In addition to Parco, if you're looking for subculture items in Shibuya, "MAGNET by SHIBUYA109" is also recommended. This commercial facility brings together shops of subcultures such as games, idols, and anime.
Shops handling unique goods and collaboration items from anime and games line up, making it an irresistible spot for fans. MAGNET also has a wide selection of clothing stores such as street fashion.
The concept of MAGNET is "stimulation." As the name suggests, I also get excited about new game and anime goods whenever I come here. Akihabara is also famous as the center of Tokyo's "otaku culture," but MAGNET has more shops that are easy to enter.
If you want to fully enjoy Shibuya's subculture, I highly recommend visiting MAGNET.
<Information>
Address: 1-23-10 Jinnan, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0041
Closed: None
Phone: 03-3477-5111
Hours: 10 AM–9 PM
Website: https://magnetbyshibuya109.jp/
Shibuya Station & Shibu Chika: Exploring Various Shops in the "Dungeon"
Source: Shibu Chika Official Website
Shibuya Station is a hub-like presence located in the center of Tokyo, but its charm isn't limited to above ground. In fact, beneath the station, there is a vast space called "Shibu Chika" that spreads out like a maze.
Shibu Chika is located right below the Scramble Crossing. When you go underground, you'll find various stores and complex passageways lined up, and even I, a Tokyo local, still get lost. It's a space truly deserving of being called Shibuya's underground "dungeon."
The recommended way to enjoy Shibu Chika is to explore various shops casually without fearing getting lost, without any particular destination in mind. Let's check out different shops with a feeling of being immersed in a game.
If you enjoy shopping in Shibuya, be sure to visit this underground "dungeon" as well.
Access: 2-2-1 Dogenzaka, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0043
3 Recommended Spots for Taking a Break Around Shibuya Station While Shopping
I'll introduce three recommended spots for when you want to take a little break while enjoying shopping in Shibuya.
Starbucks Coffee SHIBUYA TSUTAYA 2F: Overlooking the Scramble Crossing
Source: Tabelog by Ayachiho
If you want to take a break while shopping in Shibuya, "Starbucks Coffee SHIBUYA TSUTAYA 2F" is recommended.
The biggest charm of this Starbucks is its prime location. From inside the store, you can see the Scramble Crossing, which could be called the symbol of Shibuya.
Through the large windows of the store, you can see the figures of people coming and going in Shibuya. If you sit by the window, you can take a photogenic picture overlooking the Scramble Crossing.
The menu is the same as other Starbucks, but as a local, I often take people visiting Shibuya for the first time to this Starbucks where they can enjoy the special view.
Also, this store has a wide selection of Japan-original Starbucks goods. Tumblers and mugs with Shibuya-specific designs are perfect for souvenirs of your trip.
<Store Information>
Address: 2F QFRONT, 21-6 Udagawacho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0042
Closed: None
Phone: 03-6416-3857
Hours: 7 AM–10:30 PM
Website: https://store.starbucks.co.jp/detail-2003/?utm_source=GMB&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=store&utm_content=2003
THE MATCHA TOKYO: Taking a Break with Japanese Tea Drinks
Source: Tabelog by Oniku Monster
If you want to enjoy drinks and sweets with a modern twist on Japan's traditional tea "matcha" in Shibuya, "THE MATCHA TOKYO" is recommended.
They offer specialty menus using 100% high-quality organic matcha. Many of the menu items are priced at 600-1,000 yen.
Looking over the menu, you'll find a variety of matcha drinks such as lattes and frappes. What I personally like is the latte art they create for you. The visuals that make you want to take out your camera are sure to be Instagram-worthy.
The soft-serve ice cream, where you can enjoy the rich flavor of high-quality matcha, is also recommended. With just one bite, the deep aroma of matcha spreads throughout your mouth.
Please try the unique menu items here that fuse Japanese tradition with modern trends.
<Store Information>
Address: 6-20-10 Jingumae, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0001
Closed: None
Phone: 050-5435-1201
Hours: 11 AM–9 PM
Website: https://www.the-matcha.tokyo/
MIYASHITA PARK: Relaxing with Coffee in the Rooftop Park
Source: Wikipedia
Attracting attention as a new landmark of Shibuya is "MIYASHITA PARK." This complex facility was born through a large-scale redevelopment of a place that was once a beloved park.
On a sunny day, I often take a break on the rooftop park on the top floor of this facility. The open space is filled with lush grass.
There is also a Starbucks on the rooftop, so it's recommended to relax on the grass with a coffee in hand.
This complex has many areas where you can shop, so it's perfect for killing time until your next plan while taking a break.
Access: 6-20-10 Jingumae, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0001
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM Shibuya Scramble Square: Overlooking Tokyo in the Evening from Shibuya's New Landmark
Source: Google Map by Meg A.Y.
I will wrap up our one-day trip to Harajuku and Shibuya at "Shibuya Scramble Square," which just opened in 2019. This commercial facility is Shibuya's new landmark, boasting 47 floors above ground and a height of 230 meters.
Though Scramble Square has a variety of stores, our visit will be to the "SHIBUYA SKY" rooftop observation facility. I was struck, the first time I went, by the 360-degree panoramic view of Tokyo that was tinged with dusk, and I thought it was the ideal place to enjoy the cityscape.
The cityscape that progressively starts to light up and the orange-tinted sky contrast beautifully if you visit the observation deck at this time of day. Feels like a movie scene, this lovely setting.
You won't mind waiting in line for the observation deck elevators once you see this amazing view, although there are frequently large lines!
A little pricey at 2,500 yen, tickets may be had for 2,200 yen online in advance. For the great experience, I believe the price is justified.
Please have a look at this vista from the observation deck. This one-day trip will undoubtedly become a priceless memory.
<Information>
Address: 2-24-12 Shibuya, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0002
Closed: None
Phone: 03-4221-4280
Hours: 10 AM–9 PM
Website: https://www.shibuya-scramble-square.com/sky/
Areas to Enjoy Shibuya's Nightlife After a One-Day Trip
After a day of sightseeing in Shibuya, I'll introduce four recommended spots if you want to experience Shibuya at night.
Nonbei Yokocho: Old Tokyo Remaining in Shibuya
Source: Nonbei Yokocho Official Website
Right next to Shibuya Station, there is an alley that feels as if you've time-traveled to the past. That's "Nonbei Yokocho."
Around forty pubs and restaurants are arranged down this little alley in Shibuya, a neighborhood where the spirit of old Tokyo is still very much alive. Finding such a classic location in Shibuya shocked me when I first heard about this alley!
The alley is made picturesque at night when all of the lanterns lining it light up at once and provide a soft glow over it.
Please visit if you're in Shibuya till the evening as many of the stores stay open past 6:00 PM.
Address: 1-25 Shibuya, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0002
Dogenzaka/Hyakkendana: The Original Bar District of Shibuya
Source: Google Map by Masaki Sato
This area, which was once the center of Shibuya, is a bit of a deep spot in Shibuya, and it may take some courage to enter the shops, but it's perfect for a night stroll.
However, in addition to old bars, there are also many love hotels and adult shops, so it's best to avoid bringing children.
But for adults who want to experience the local Shibuya at night, I recommend taking a walk. Whenever I visit here, I find myself drawn to the slightly retro signboard lights.
Address: 2-18-16-2 Dogenzaka, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0043
Shibuya Niku Yokocho: Enjoying Japanese Meat Dishes and Drinks
"Shibuya Niku Yokocho" is a place where restaurants offering various Japanese meat dishes gather.
It provides a vibrant ambiance with a large selection of food options including yakitori and sushi made with Japanese meat and beverages.
The good part about "Shibuya Niku Yokocho" is that you may enjoy different stores. I come here a lot when I want to have a good time drinking with pals.
<Store Information>
Address: Chitose Kaikan, 2F, 13-8 Udagawacho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0042
Closed: None
Phone: 03-6416-4099
Hours: 5 PM–3 AM
Website: https://nikuyokocho.jp/
Maruyamacho: Enjoying Nightclubs in Shibuya
Source: Google Map by WOMB
"Maruyamacho," the center of Shibuya's nightlife, is a popular area among young people and music fans, with many famous nightclubs such as "WOMB" gathered here.
However, there are also many pickup artists in the area, so women should visit this area with friends rather than alone.
It's a recommended area for those who want to spend a night in Shibuya enjoying music such as EDM and HIPHOP.
FAQs About One-Day Trips to Shibuya & Harajuku
I've organized frequently asked questions and answers that travelers have when fully enjoying Shibuya and Harajuku in one day.
What are the recommended spots to enjoy the night view in Shibuya?
I recommend staying at the observation deck of Shibuya Scramble Square, which we visit in the evening in this itinerary, until the sun sets. For a free spot, go to the rooftop of Parco.
From where should I enjoy the Scramble Crossing?
If you view it from the second floor of Starbucks SHIBUYA TSUTAYA, you can overlook the crossing from just the right height and distance, so it's especially recommended for taking photos.
Is there a tourist information center in Shibuya?
If you want to get information about Shibuya sightseeing on-site, there is the "Shibuya Chikamichi Information Center" directly connected to the station, which supports multiple languages. You can get guidance on Shibuya's attractions and event information. For more details, access the URL below.
Website: https://tokyotouristinfo.com/detail/M0257
Is there a way to get from Harajuku to Shibuya other than walking?
If you use the JR Yamanote Line, you can go from Harajuku Station to Shibuya Station in 1 stop, about 3 minutes. If you get tired of walking in Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park and use the train, you won't be able to walk Cat Street, but enjoy Takeshita Street near the station and then take the JR.
Are there any tours that allow sightseeing in Shibuya for a day?
There aren't any for a full day, but there are tours that focus on food and half-day tours.
"Shibuya Bar Hopping Night Tour in Tokyo" by Magical Trip
Source: Magical Trip
This 3-hour night tour provided by us, Magical Trip, starts from around Shibuya Station and visits 3 hidden izakayas.
It also stops by Shibuya Niku Yokocho, where you can enjoy various meat dishes, and savor wagyu, sushi, and sake. Food and drink costs are included in the price, and at around $99, it's reasonably priced compared to other tours.
While it visits fewer places than the other two tours, it's recommended for those who want to fully enjoy each spot.
Click here for more details: Shibuya Bar Hopping Night Tour in Tokyo
"Best of Shibuya Food Tour" by Arigato Japan Food Tours
Source: Arigato Travel
This three-hour trip takes you through Shibuya's back lanes and undiscovered eateries. You'll go to five Shibuya eateries on this trip.
It's a little pricey—at 24,000 yen (about $155)—but it covers a lot of spots, so it's ideal for anyone who wants to quickly sample a lot of Shibuya's cuisine. Food and drinks are included.
Click here for more details: Best of Shibuya Food Tour
"Harajuku & Shibuya Half Day Walking Tour" by GoWithGuide
Source: GoWithGuide
This is a 4-hour walking tour that heads to Shibuya after enjoying Meiji Shrine and Harajuku. It's like a half-day version of this itinerary.
In Shibuya, you can enjoy the Scramble Crossing and Hachiko Statue, but after that, the tour ends at Shibuya Station, so it's recommended for those who want to spend time freely around Shibuya Station.
Click here for more details: Harajuku & Shibuya Half Day Walking Tour
This schedule presented a strategy to spend a whole day taking in the vibrant Shibuya neighborhood of Tokyo.
There are many things to do in the contemporary and chic setting surrounding Shibuya Station, from dining and shopping to nightclubs.
Furthermore, you may quickly reach green areas like Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park as well as Harajuku's "Takeshita Street," a center of Tokyo's pop culture, if you go a little farther from Shibuya.
As a resident of Tokyo, I firmly believe that this itinerary will let travelers enjoy Shibuya's attractions. Use this one-day itinerary before visiting Tokyo to really appreciate the many attractions of Shibuya!