Shibuya is one of the most popular neighborhoods in Tokyo and among the most visited. It is undoubtedly one of the most dynamic areas of the city, like the Shibuya station, one of the busiest in the Japanese capital. The neighborhood is very reminiscent of Times Square for its large screens and buildings with constantly moving advertisements. Check my 15 days itinerary in Japan to know everything about my Japanese trip.
The young people of Shibuya express themselves through the art of cosplay and ganguro and kogal fashions, thus making the neighborhood even more colorful and particular characteristic. It is also one of the neighborhoods where the Yakuza is most present.
HOW TO GET TO SHIBUYA
Shibuya is very easy to reach by all means of transport. If you have decided to book your hotel here from Narita airport just take the Narita Express. Here you find all the info.
With the Japan rail pass from Tokyo station, you can take the JR Yamanote Line (green) train line for 10 stops. While in the metro there are 8 stops and it is the Hanzomon line (violet) or with the Ginza line (yellow) they are 9. Do you want to know how the Japan Rail Pass works? Or if it is convenient?
Taxi is not convenient, even if they are only 8km and there are no direct buses.
SHIBUYA STATION
Shibuya is one of the strengths of the city of Tokyo for both tourism and shopping, here you can find everything. The main tourist points are Statue of Hachiko right in front of the JR train station exit, it’s small but easily visible.
Also in front of the station is the Shibuya Crossing, rumored to be the busiest intersection in the world (and definitely in Japan). To be able to make a good video you can go to the terrace of the Starbucks (but it is always full and not very high) Or go up to the terrace of the MAGNET by SHIBUYA109, on the top floor you can enjoy a great view paying only 300 yen. Book here the Shibuya Tour: Street Food and Karaoke.
HARAJUKU STATION
Just north of the Shibuya stop, we find Harajuku Station famous for Takeshita street. A street full of shops a bit freaky where you can always find people in disguise. At the end of Takeshita street, you will find one of the most sought after cafe places in the Kawaii Monster Cafe.
Kawaii Monster Cafe is a perfect place for children and adults. I advise you to arrive 20min before the opening in order not to queue, or to book (you can choose the best tables). You will pay 500yen plus mandatory consumption per person (I do not recommend hamburgers).
The last stop is the Meiji Shrine, a Shinto shrine dedicated to the souls of Emperor Mutsuhito and his wife, Empress Shoken. The original building was destroyed during the Second World War, the current sanctuary was completed in October 1958. It is absolutely worth visiting, here weddings are often celebrated, you will see many spouses.
