Shibuya Center-Gai: Shop, Eat, and Play in Tokyo's Trendiest Neighborhood
I'll share the appeal of Shibuya Center Street, a representative spot for Tokyo's youth culture.
After crossing the famous "Scramble Crossing" from the Hachiko Square, this area stretching toward Udagawacho is a microcosm of Shibuya, a hub for shopping, gourmet food, and entertainment. It's a spot you can't miss when visiting Shibuya!
Shibuya Center Street is also a special place for me, a local Tokyoite. During my student days, I often hung out with friends at Center Street, and just walking through this fashion-conscious street made me feel stylish.
Time has passed, and Center Street has become more touristy, with more chain stores and visitors. However, I still feel that this street retains its energetic appeal for youth.
Now, Center Street has become a famous tourist spot, attracting many visitors from both Japan and abroad. It offers an infinite array of shopping options, from large fashion buildings to chain stores and unique novelty shops! It's also packed with trendy restaurants, photogenic sweets, and cafes.
But with so many choices, it can be confusing where to go, right?
That's why in this article, as someone who has frequented Shibuya Center Street since my student days, I'll provide a detailed explanation of the highlights of this street.
From the perspectives of shopping, gourmet food, and entertainment, I'll share how to enjoy Center Street. Please use this as a reference when visiting Shibuya, as you're sure to have a wonderful Center Street experience!
If you are interested in Shibuya nightlife, check the article below! I summarized how and where you can enjoy them as much as possible.
Access to Center Street
If you're visiting Shibuya Center Street, the closest route is to head straight for Shibuya Station. Right in front of the station exit is the world-famous Scramble Crossing, and the entrance to Center Street is right next to that intersection.
Shibuya Station is also a major transportation hub in Tokyo, with many train and bus lines passing through. It's served by the JR Yamanote Line, Tokyo Metro, and Tokyu Line, among others.
In particular, the JR Yamanote Line provides easy access from major spots, taking only about 10 minutes from Shinjuku. As a local Tokyoite, I always use the JR Yamanote Line when visiting Center Street.
After arriving at Shibuya Station, exit at the Hachiko Exit, cross the Scramble Crossing, and head for the entrance of Center Street. Along the way, you might be overwhelmed by the crowds of people, but I think that's also part of Shibuya's charm.
If you are interested in explore Tokyo's trendy culture, check the article below! I summarize how and where you can enjoy them as much as possible.
3 Ways to Enjoy Center Street, the Hub of Youth Culture
Here, I'll introduce 3 ways for visitors to enjoy Center Street that I, as a local, would highly recommend. From shopping to food strolls and cultural discoveries, please use this as a reference to fully savor Center Street.
Indulge in the Shopping Paradise
Center Street is a shopping paradise lined with youth-oriented fashion shops and subcultural goods stores.
You'll find many clothing stores, from fast fashion brands like GU to unique Tokyo-style T-shirts and accessories.
Center Street is also a great place to buy inexpensive and unique souvenirs. You can find character keychains, mugs, stationery, and more – perfect little gifts. The uniquely "cute" Japanese design goods are sure to be a hit as souvenirs for friends overseas.
Shopping at Center Street isn't just about buying fashion and goods – it's an experience where you can feel the youth culture firsthand. Even when I don't have anything specific to buy, as a local Tokyoite, I enjoy window shopping at Center Street.
Why don't you stroll through this energetic street, popping into various shops?
Enjoy Food and Sweets Popular with Local Tokyoites
Source: Tabelog by chokochitc
Center Street is also an area with many restaurants and cafes popular with young people. With photogenic cafes and restaurants scattered throughout, it's a spot that can't be missed by foodies.
I'd particularly recommend cafes that offer photogenic sweets. Here, you can enjoy colorful pancakes and parfaits. Not only are they visually adorable, but the taste is also authentic and highly satisfying.
Personally, if you're going to enjoy the gourmet scene at Center Street, I recommend checking out the menus and "looks" of the restaurants in advance on websites and SNS. Be sure to savor the sweets and cafes that make you want to take pictures.
Experience Entertainment
Source: Wikipedia
Center Street is also famous as a spot to experience various forms of entertainment, in addition to shopping and gourmet food. Among these, game centers are particularly popular with young people.
At the game centers on Center Street, you can enjoy a variety of cutting-edge Japanese games, from rhythm games to fighting games. Here, you're sure to feel the forefront of Japan's gaming culture.
And when it comes to Center Street, you can't miss out on "Purikura" (print club). This is a photo booth popular among Tokyo's youth, perfect for making memories with friends and family.
Try creating your own original photos by using various backgrounds, stamps, and text. By the way, when I asked a high school girl relative, she said the fun of Purikura is editing the photos to an exaggerated degree that makes everyone unrecognizable!
Whether it's immersing yourself in the latest games or having a blast at Purikura, be sure to enjoy these forms of entertainment at Center Street.
5 Recommended Spots for Shopping in the Center Street Area, the Shopping Paradise of Tokyo
If you want to enjoy the "shopping paradise" of the Center Street area, which stores are recommended?
While Center Street has many street-level stores of famous fashion brands, here I'll introduce 5 spots that I, as a local Tokyoite, always visit. From cute novelty goods and fashion to character goods, you can enjoy shopping while experiencing Tokyo's youth culture and subculture.
Village Vanguard Shibuya Main Store: A Treasure Trove of Pop Goods and Fashion Items
Source: Google Map by Tek Woj
One of the most well-known shops in Center Street for its uniqueness is "Village Vanguard."
This store offers a wide range of products, from food items and household goods to apparel, all with a pop style.
There are many popular character goods from Japan and overseas, including anime, games, and movies. If you're a fan, you're sure to be captivated by the diverse selection.
The Shibuya Main Store of Village Vanguard has a charming vibe reminiscent of a secret base. As you navigate the maze-like aisles, products keep appearing one after another, leaving me feeling excited every time I visit. However, I recommend not bringing large luggage.
While Village Vanguard has locations in other areas of Tokyo, this Shibuya store is particularly large and well-stocked, making it perfect for finding unique souvenirs.
<Store Information>
Address: Shibuya Daiichi Kangin Kyodo Building, B1F & B2F, 23-3 Udagawacho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0042
Closed: None
Phone: 03-6416-5641
Hours: 11 AM–9 PM
Website: http://www.village-v.co.jp/
Shibuya Loft: A 7-Story Building with a Diverse Selection of Novelty Goods
Source: Google Map by DI WHITE ALSHION
"Shibuya Loft" is a particularly popular novelty goods store in Center Street. From the basement to the 6th floor, a wide variety of products are crammed into the 7-floor building.
You'll find a diverse range of practical and stylish items, from stationery and interior goods to kitchenware, cosmetics, and fashion accessories.
What I'd recommend are the unique stationery collections. There's an array of cute designs for notebooks, pens, masking tapes, and more – unique stationery only found in Tokyo.
With 7 floors featuring all kinds of novelty goods, even I as a local feel like I'm on a treasure hunt when visiting "Loft." It's a great place to find stylish souvenirs.
<Store Information>
Address: 21-1 Udagawacho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0042
Closed: None
Phone: 03-3462-3807
Hours: 11 AM–9 PM
Website: https://www.loft.co.jp/shop_list/detail.php?shop_id=189
MEGA Don Quijote Shibuya Main Store: Inexpensive and Unique Items Galore
Source: Google Map by MEGA Don Quijote
For shopping in Shibuya's Center Street, you can't miss "MEGA Don Quijote." This large store is packed with all kinds of items, from famous brand products to unique Tokyo souvenirs.
The products are categorized by floor, making it efficient to find what you're looking for, whether it's cosmetics, luxury goods, or daily necessities. Aside from the luxury brand floors, the prices are relatively reasonable, so I recommend it for those who want to do a lot of shopping.
Tokyo-style snacks are also sold at inexpensive prices, so if you're looking for snacks, MEGA Don Quijote is a must-visit.
<Store Information>
Address: 28-6 Udagawacho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 154-0042
Closed: None
Phone: 057-007-6311
Hours: Open 24 hours
Website: https://www.donki.com/store/shop_detail.php?shop_id=442
SHIBUYA109: A Massive Fashion Building Hugely Popular with Young People
Source: Wikipedia
While not strictly in the Center Street area, the nearby "SHIBUYA109" is a massive fashion building that enjoys immense popularity among young people. Its cylindrical design is a landmark in the Shibuya area.
SHIBUYA109 is known for housing shops that mainly offer fashion items for girls and women in their teens and twenties. The store interiors are crammed with trendy, cute clothing, making it a "place of aspiration" for young girls.
When I visited SHIBUYA109, I saw stylish items as well as uniquely designed clothing that I wouldn't typically wear. It's a spot that can't be missed by fashion enthusiasts.
Additionally, the basement food court often features menus collaborating with popular anime and characters, so I recommend exploring it as well.
If you want to experience the cutting edge of Tokyo fashion, be sure to visit SHIBUYA109 in addition to Center Street.
<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: Shop for Tokyo's Latest Subculture
Source: Wikipedia
Located right next to Shibuya Center Street, "MAGNET by SHIBUYA109" is a commercial facility where you can experience Tokyo's cutting-edge subculture. With a wealth of shops specializing in games, idols, anime, and more, it's truly an "otaku holy ground" in Shibuya.
Furthermore, MAGNET by SHIBUYA109 also has many clothing stores focusing on street fashion. It's a spot where you can simultaneously experience Tokyo's subculture and fashion culture.
While Akihabara is famous as an "otaku holy ground" in Tokyo, my impression is that MAGNET has more casual shops compared to Akihabara. As such, it's a place I can easily take first-time visitors and foreign tourists.
If you want to experience the forefront of Tokyo's subculture, be sure to visit MAGNET by SHIBUYA109. Immerse yourself in the "now" of Shibuya by finding items related to your interests, whether it's games, anime, or fashion!
<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/
8 Recommended Spots for Experiencing Food and Drinks in the Lively Center Street Area
In addition to shopping spots, Center Street is home to many restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy food and sweets.
While there are many chain cafes like McDonald's, here I'll introduce 8 unique and photogenic spots that I, as a local, recommend.
4 Photogenic Cafes and Restaurants in Shibuya Center Street
First, I'll introduce 4 cafes and restaurants in Center Street that are true to the individuality of the area – the kind of places that make you want to post pictures on Instagram.
Shibuya Nishimura Fruits Parlor: Delicious and Visually Stunning Parfaits
Source: Tabelog by toshicki 100%
If you're looking for "cute" sweets with great visuals in the Shibuya Center Street area, "Shibuya Nishimura Fruits Parlor" is a must-visit.
The parfaits loaded with fresh fruits and cream are truly "photogenic" dishes. Both the taste and visuals offer a special dessert experience found only here.
Priced between 1,000 and 2,000 yen, they are a bit pricey, but the quality in taste and visuals is well worth it. When I actually tried them, I was amazed by the freshness and deliciousness of the fruits, and above all, the photogenic presentation.
In fact, Shibuya Nishimura Fruits Parlor is a long-standing parlor that has been loved by local Shibuya residents for many years. I highly recommend visitors to stop by at least once.
<Store Information>
Address: 1F, 22−2 Udagawacho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0042
Closed: None
Phone: 03-3476-2002
Hours: 10:30 AM–9 PM, 10 AM–9 PM (Sundays)
Website: https://snfruits.com/
Cat Cafe MOCHA: Relax While Interacting with Cats
Source: Google Map by Peppy Peeper
If you're looking for a unique cafe experience in Shibuya Center Street, I recommend "Cat Cafe MOCHA."
Inside, there are many cats lounging in domed beds hanging from the ceiling. It's a paradise for cat lovers.
The fee is 1,078 yen for 30 minutes on weekdays and 1,210 yen on weekends and holidays, with free drinks included. The charm is being able to relax while playing with the cats.
When I visited, just watching the freely roaming cats was enough to leave me feeling completely relaxed. For cat lovers, it's a blissful space.
If you love cats, be sure to visit this cafe and interact with them while taking lots of pictures!
<Store Information>
Address: 32-12 Assorti Shibuya, 8F, Udagawacho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0042
Closed: None
Phone: 03-6455-3503
Hours: 10 AM–8 PM
Website: https://catmocha.jp/shibuya/
EDW yellow Shibuya: Huge Portions of Pancakes to Fill You Up
Source: Tabelog by EDW yellow Shibuya
If you're looking for hearty sweet treats in Center Street, I recommend "EDW yellow Shibuya."
Their specialty is pancakes. Starting at 1,600 yen, the portions are huge and the taste is excellent, providing more than enough value for the price.
As a local Tokyoite, I'm used to the generous portions, but when I recently took a foreign friend here, they were amazed by the sheer size of the pancakes when they arrived. Of course, the taste was also top-notch!
While it's a popular place with some wait times, it's well worth it.
<Store Information>
Address: 2F QFRONT, 21-6 Udagawacho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0042
Closed: None
Phone: 03-6712-7844
Hours: 11 AM–10 PM
Website: https://www.instagram.com/edwyellow_shibuya/
Risotto Cafe Tokyo Kichi Shibuya Branch: Enjoy Delicious Risotto in a Stylish Setting
If you want to casually enjoy Italian cuisine in Center Street, I recommend "Risotto Cafe Tokyo Kichi."
This is a popular restaurant offering authentic risotto in a photogenic, stylish interior. The menu features various types of risotto, from truffles to seafood, allowing you to savor the deep flavors of Italy.
I'm personally grateful that they're open late into the night. If you've been walking around Shibuya and get hungry late, this is a great restaurant to visit.
<Store Information>
Address: 28-1 Takayama Land 15 Bldg., 7F, Udagawacho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0042
Closed: None
Phone: 03-3770-8960
Hours: 11:30 AM–11 PM
Website: http://1or8-kichi.com/tokyokichishibuya/
2 Popular Street Snacks for Young People in Center Street
When it comes to food strolls in Shibuya, the nearby area of Harajuku is more well-known, but Center Street also has some recommended street snacks. Here are 2 snacks that I, as a local, recommend enjoying while strolling through Center Street.
Maison Creperie: Enjoy Crepes While Strolling Center Street
Source: Google Map by becc
Crepes have long been a popular snack among young people in Tokyo. Many youths can be seen buying crepes from "Maison Creperie" and strolling around Center Street.
It's famous for offering "cute" crepes, with many images shared on SNS. Priced between 600 and 700 yen each, the prices are reasonable.
My recommendation is the classic "Chocolate Banana Crepe." The combination of chocolate and banana is a beloved taste for Tokyo locals. The cute visuals make it enjoyable to eat while walking.
When visiting Center Street, I recommend getting a crepe from this shop and enjoying it while street strolling.
<Store Information>
Address: Kn Shibuya Bldg. I, 13-11 Udagawacho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0042
Closed: None
Phone: 03-6416-9871
Hours: 12 PM–11 PM
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maison_creperie_udagawa/
coco FRESH TEA & JUICE: Tapioca Drinks Popular with Tokyo Teenagers
In addition to crepes, another quintessential sight of young people in Shibuya is them walking around with tapioca drinks in hand. A popular spot in Center Street is the Taiwanese drink stand "coco FRESH TEA & JUICE."
At coco, you can find a wide variety of drinks, from the classic tapioca milk tea for 700-900 yen to fruit teas and juices.
The standard "Tapioca Milk Tea" combines chewy tapioca balls with fragrant milk tea in a perfect combination. I recently tried it for the first time and immediately wanted to have it again – it was that delicious!
When strolling through Center Street, I highly recommend getting a tapioca drink from coco and immersing yourself in the vibe of Tokyo's youth culture.
<Store Information>
Address: 32-15 Udagawacho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0042
Closed: None
Phone: 03-6455-2813
Hours: 11 AM–10 PM
Website: https://cocofreshtokyo.amebaownd.com/
2 Recommended Izakayas for Enjoying the Lively Nightlife of Center Street
Center Street has a lively atmosphere during the day with its pop vibe, but at night, many pubs (izakayas) open up, transforming it into a nightlife district. While there are some izakayas with persistent touts that I wouldn't recommend, here I'll introduce 2 izakayas that I, as a local, can vouch for as safe and comfortable spots for visitors.
Yakitori Tsukimi: Enjoy High-Quality Chicken Dishes in Center Street
Source: Tabelog by Yakitori Tsukimi
If you want to enjoy delicious yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) in Shibuya Center Street, I recommend "Yakitori Tsukimi." This restaurant prides itself on its yakitori made with high-quality chicken.
"Yakitori" refers to chicken skewered and grilled over charcoal, a classic Japanese dish. At Yakitori Tsukimi, they offer a variety of chicken dishes centered around yakitori. The yakitori skewers range from 200 to 250 yen each, which is reasonably priced.
When I visited, I was amazed not only by the delicious, high-quality yakitori, but also by the lively yet relaxing atmosphere amidst the bustling Center Street. It's an izakaya that I recommend for enjoying food and drinks in Shibuya, whether with family or a date.
<Store Information>
Address: M&I Building, 2nd Floor, 34-6 Udagawacho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0042
Closed: None
Phone: 03-6416-1173
Hours: 5 PM–12 AM, 3 PM–12 AM (Sundays)
Website: https://yakitoritsukimi.com/
Kandaya Shibuya Center Street: Reasonably Priced, Delicious Food and Drinks
Source: Tabelog by kuishinbou33
If you're looking for reasonably priced, delicious food and drinks in Center Street, I recommend "Kandaya," the Shibuya Center Street branch of the popular izakaya chain.
The appeal of this place is its affordable and tasty dishes. They offer a variety of izakaya snacks priced between 200 and 400 yen that pair well with drinks. The dishes have unique designs that are also photogenic. Every time I visit, I can't help but order more and more!
They also have a 1,100 yen weekday set menu that includes 10 dishes and a drink, which is a great value.
The interior is divided into a standing bar area and table seating. When I visited, I found the standing bar area to be surprisingly quiet and relaxing.
If you want to enjoy reasonably priced, delicious food and drinks in Center Street, be sure to check out "Kandaya."
<Store Information>
Address: Prince Building, B1F, 25-3 Udagawacho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0042
Closed: None
Phone: 03-3496-7397
Hours: 2 PM–11 PM
Hours (Saturdays, Sundays): 12 PM –11 PM
Website: https://www.teng.co.jp/kandaya/
2 Spots for Enjoying Pop Entertainment in Center Street
In addition to fashion and gourmet food, Shibuya Center Street is also well-equipped with entertainment options. From the latest game centers to uniquely Tokyo photo booth experiences, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy pop culture. Here, I'll introduce 2 entertainment spots that I, as a local, recommend.
Adores Shibuya: Enjoy the Latest Game Center in Center Street
Source: Google Map by Roman Ispas
The large game center "Adores Shibuya" in Center Street spans from the 1st to 4th floors, offering a variety of arcade games and crane games that are sure to delight game enthusiasts.
The crane game corner is lined with popular character plushies. While it can be addictive, in my experience, the crane games here are quite challenging, so be careful not to overspend.
With its wide range of game genres, I recommend this spot for all age groups. When visiting Shibuya, be sure to stop by Adores Shibuya for an exciting game experience.
<Store Information>
Address: 13-11 KN Shibuya 1 Bldg., Floors 1-4, Udagawacho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0042
Closed: None
Phone: 03-3496-5856
Hours: 10 AM–11:30 PM
Website: http://www.adores.jp/tenpo/shibuya.html
Purikura no Mecca: Experience Tokyo's Pop Photo Booth Culture "Purikura"
Source: Google Map by Saheki Hironobu
Are you familiar with "Purikura"? Purikura, short for "Print Club," refers to photo booths where you can print out photos you've taken, a uniquely Japanese youth culture phenomenon.
"Purikura no Mecca" in Center Street is a spot where you can fully enjoy Purikura. The store is lined with the latest Purikura machines, popular for their unique and pop photo results.
The fun of Purikura is being able to add cute decorations like hearts and stars or write messages.
Interestingly, according to a relative in her teens, the current trend among Tokyo youth is to put the Purikura photo stickers inside a transparent phone case on the back.
Conveniently, Purikura no Mecca has a powder room, so you can touch up your makeup before taking photos. With prices starting at 400 yen per session, it's reasonably priced, allowing you to try out multiple machines.
<Store Information>
Address: 29-1 Udagawacho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0042
Closed: None
Phone: 03-3496-5856
Hours: 9 AM–11 PM
Fridays, Saturdays: Open 24 hours
Website: http://xn--u9jugk5freucucg.com/
Shibuya Spots to Visit Combined with Center Street
In the area surrounding Center Street, there are several iconic sights representing Shibuya. If you're visiting Center Street, I recommend also stopping by these spots. Here are 3 places that I, as a local Tokyoite, often combine with visiting Center Street.
Harajuku Takeshita Street: The Center of Youth Culture Alongside Shibuya's Center Street
Source: Wikipedia
Takeshita Street in Harajuku is situated one stop on the JR Yamanote Line, or twenty minutes' walk, from Shibuya Center Street. Called the epicenter of Tokyo's young culture, this neighborhood is dotted with vibrant pop-up stores and is considered sacred to the city's "kawaii" (cute) culture.
I'm always struck, when I go down Takeshita Street, by the youthful, stylishly attired crowd. At par with Shibuya's Center Street, it's a lively street.
Shopping is made easy by its reasonably priced accessories and other goods. I suggest having a soft serve or crepe while touring the neighborhood because there are several picturesque sweet shops.
Address: 1-chome Jingumae, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0001
Scramble Crossing & Hachiko Statue: World-Famous Icons of Shibuya
Source: Wikipedia
Right opposite to Center Street in Shibuya, you can't miss the "Scramble Crossing" and the "Hachiko Statue." Famous worldwide, Shibuya is typified by the enormous crossroads where people flow in all directions.
You will want to snap pictures and movies as soon as you see the crossroads; it seems like a scene from a film. Simply watch out not to trip and fall with your smartphone!
At Shibuya Station's Hachiko Exit, meanwhile, is a bronze statue of a dog. It's a favorite meeting place for residents as well, based on a genuine tale of a dog that waited for its departed owner till the very end.
See the Hachiko Statue and Scramble Crossing together with Center Street; they are both iconic of Shibuya.
Address: 2-24-12 Shibuya, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0002
Shibuya Scramble Square: Overlooking the Metropolis of Shibuya
Source: Google Map by Meg A.Y.
"Shibuya Scramble Square" is a business complex that was opened in 2019 and has gained notice as a recent landmark in Shibuya. Standing 230 meters tall and 47 stories above ground, this structure has come to represent the neighborhood.
The rooftop "SHIBUYA SKY" observation platform is a must-see if visiting in conjunction with Center Street. The Shibuya cityscape is visible from the 360-degree panoramic perspective. Particularly beautiful is the vista as night falls.
I've been a few times as a native Tokyoite, and each time was well worth the little wait to get to the observation deck. Clear days even allow you to see Mount Fuji in the distance.
An observation deck ticket costs 2,500 yen for same-day entrance or 2,200 yen for advance booking. Although it is expensive, there is no place like to have the view of Shibuya. I heartily suggest tying in a trip to SHIBUYA SKY with your Center Street sightseeing.
<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/
FAQs About Shibuya's Center Street
Here are some frequently asked questions about Shibuya's Center Street, along with answers. From souvenir shopping to tour information, this is packed with tips to help you make the most of your Center Street experience.
Where is the best place to buy souvenirs in Center Street?
If you're looking to buy souvenirs in Center Street, I recommend "Loft," "Village Vanguard," and "MEGA Don Quijote." These stores offer a wide variety of unique snacks and novelty goods unique to Tokyo.
In my experience of visiting these 3 spots repeatedly, I'd recommend Loft for stylish and functional stationery and novelty goods, Village Vanguard for pop character goods, and MEGA Don Quijote for Tokyo-style snacks.
What other kinds of stores are in Center Street?
While this article highlighted many of the uniquely local cafes in Center Street, it's also home to well-known chain cafes like Starbucks and Doutor, as well as the UNIQLO sister fashion brand "GU."
Are there any tours that allow you to fully experience Center Street or the Shibuya area?
While I'm not aware of any tours specifically focused on Center Street, here are 2 tours that cover the Shibuya area where Center Street is located. I recommend using these tours in combination with exploring Center Street on your own, referring to this article.
"Shibuya Bar Hopping Night Tour in Tokyo" by Magical Trip
Source: Magical Trip
This 3-hour night tour offered by us at Magical Trip departs from near Shibuya Station and visits 3 local guide-recommended izakayas.
It's ideal to experience the nightlife of Shibuya after savoring Center Street during the day. Priced at $99 per person with food included, it's reasonable and known for offering delicious food and drinks.
I recommend this tour as the perfect choice after enjoying the daytime highlights of Center Street based on this article.
Click here for more details: Shibuya Bar Hopping Night Tour in Tokyo
"Shibuya Free Walking Tour" by Tokyo Localized
Source: Tokyo Localized
This is a 2-hour tip-based walking tour that covers the main sights of Shibuya, including Center Street, guided by a local.
While there's no time for leisurely dining, it's perfect for those who want to efficiently explore the streets of Shibuya. A local guide will show you around at a reasonable pace.
Click here for more details: Shibuya Free Walking Tour
In this article, I aimed to share the charms of Center Street from my perspective as a local Tokyoite who has frequented the area since my student days. While exploring shopping, gourmet food, and entertainment from various angles, I hope you found spots that piqued your interest.
Be sure to use this guide to immerse yourself in the "now" of Shibuya during your visit to Center Street. You're sure to understand why this area is so beloved by Tokyo's youth!
If you are interested in 17 sightseeing spots in Shibuya, check the article below! I summarized how and where you can enjoy them as much as possible.