A hub of Japanese youth culture and fashion, 渋谷 Shibuya is a bustling commercial and entertainment district located in the heart of Tokyo. It is known for its vibrant atmosphere, trendy fashion boutiques, and iconic pedestrian scramble crossing. The fast-paced area is host to a number of trendy fashion shops, as well as an eclectic selection of restaurants, cafes, and bars, serving both local and international cuisine. Heading in any direction from its world famous pedestrian scramble crossing, visitors to Shibuya can enjoy a bevy of entertainment and culinary options to make their trip well worth it.
Access
Many of Shibuya’s most popular attractions are within short walking distance from Shibuya Station (JY20), which is on the JR Yamanote Line. Shibuya Station can also be reached via the Keio Inokashira Line, the Tokyu Toyoko Line, Tokyo Metro’s Ginza Line, Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line, and Hanzomon and Fukutoshin Lines.
Taking the JR exit of Shibuya station will deposit you right in front of the famous Scramble Crossing, as well as the statue of loyal dog Hachiko.
Food and Drink
Shibuya is known for its wide range of dining options, catering to both locals and tourists alike. As such a popular hub for travelers, Shibuya is a perfect spot to try out multiple types of classic Japanese dishes.
Izakayas
You could likely throw a stone in any direction and hit an izakaya in Shibuya. These traditional Japanese gastropubs line the area’s streets, and are a big part of Shibuya’s nightlife festivities. One notable spot in particular is 渋谷横丁 Shibuya Yokocho, an indoor alley that boasts a cluster of izakayas offering a wide and delicious array of Japanese pub food, which is sure to present enticing options for any bar-hopper.
Shibuya Yokocho offers a more traditional Japanese pub experience in the middle of one of Tokyo’s most modern areas.
Sushi
Shibuya has many sushi restaurants, ranging from high-end to budget-friendly options. Shibuya is a great place to dig into one of Japan’s most iconic dishes.
Ramen
Shibuya is home to some of the best ramen shops in Tokyo, offering various styles and flavors of this beloved Japanese noodles dish. Be sure to explore alleyways in order to uncover some hidden gems.
Shibuya is home to a number of famous ramen restaurants, some running at all hours of the day. [Photo for illustrative purposes only]
Sweets
The fashionable district of Harajuku is a very close neighbor to Shibuya, and its tasty dessert culture is very much present in Shibuya proper. The crepes, parfaits, and pancakes that have put Harajuku on the map can also be enjoyed in Shibuya, so those with a sweet tooth won’t feel left out.
Shopping
渋谷センター街 Shibuya Center Gai
Pass through Shibuya’s famous Scramble Crossing to find yourself in the narrow streets of Shibuya Center Gai, a hub for shops and boutiques focused on Japan’s latest fashion and music trends. The busy pedestrian area serves as a shopping zone during the day, but in the evening you will see Shibuya’s hopping nightlife and popular clubs come alive.
SHIBUYA109
Shibuya109 is one of the area’s landmark shopping complexes, filled with over a hundred shops that show off the trendy fashion of Shibuya’s more youth-oriented boutiques and clothing stores. The popular shopping mall is a must-visit for those looking to take home some Shibuya souvenirs.
Shibuya109 is a Tokyo shopping landmark.
Sightseeing and Activities
Shibuya is largely known for its exciting nightlife, including many popular clubs and restaurants, as well as ample shopping options. The area also has quite a few fun activities and sightseeing spots to fill out your itinerary during the day.
Shibuya boasts a number of clubs and live-houses that give is a reputation for a fun nightlife scene. [Photo for illustrative purposes only]
Shibuya Scramble Crossing: No trip to Shibuya would be complete without walking through and taking in the atmosphere of the famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing. It’s regarded as one of the busiest crossings in the world, with thousands of people crossing it every time the traffic lights change. The crossing is surrounded by neon billboards and screens, making it a popular spot for photography and people-watching. It’s also very closely located to the statue of Hachiko, an Akita dog known for loyally awaiting the return of his master, even after his human companion had passed. Hachiko has become somewhat of a mascot for the area, and his statue a popular rendezvous point.
Shibuya’s famous Scramble Crossing.
Shibuya Scramble Square
A towering skyscraper that overlooks Shibuya Station, the Shibuya Scramble Square has an observation deck (called Shibuya Sky) that treats visitors to a gorgeous view of the famous Scramble Crossing below, as well as most of the surrounding area. The building is also home to many restaurants and shops.
In summary, Shibuya is a standout destination for those looking to get a taste of one of Tokyo’s most prominent shopping and entertainment centers. Traveling through Shibuya and taking in its atmosphere is a sensory adventure in and of itself. With food and shopping options emblematic of Japan’s most modern trends, Shibuya should be at the top of the list for travelers in Tokyo.
