Shibuya Travel Guide – Tokyo

Shibuya is one of the 23 special wards of Tokyo, Japan. It is one of the city’s most popular neighborhoods and is known for its famous Shibuya Crossing, the busiest pedestrian crossing in the world. Shibuya is also a major shopping and entertainment center, home to many shops, restaurants, bars, and clubs.
Shibuya Crossing is one of Tokyo’s most popular tourist attractions. The crossing is located in front of Shibuya Station, one of the busiest train stations in the world. The crossing is always crowded and is a popular spot for people-watching.
Shibuya is also a major shopping center. The neighborhood is home to many shops, including department stores, boutiques, and specialty stores. Shibuya is also a major entertainment center, home to many theaters, cinemas, museums, and art galleries.
Shibuya is a vibrant and lively neighborhood with much to offer its visitors. It is a popular place for shopping, dining, drinking, and entertainment.

What to see in Shibuya

Aoyama Cemetery

In the elegant Aoyama district lies the sprawling cemetery of the same name. Opened in 1874, it houses the graves of many of Tokyo’s most historically and culturally significant citizens, and during the Meiji era, it was the primary location for a large number of foreign graves. People come to this cemetery to deposit the ashes of their loved ones, but it is also open to the public and is a pleasant place to stroll. The park is filled with cherry trees, and in spring, the area is very busy, with cherry blossom viewing parties.

Ura-Harajuku

In the Ura-Harajuku area, also known as the back of the Harajuku, you’ll find a beautiful place to wander and get lost, as there’s always something to discover. Here you’ll find charming cafes, small houses with flowers at the entrances, restaurants with very personal offerings, and independent fashion stores that are far from the crowds on Takeshita Street (nor are their prices, of course). If you like exploring the younger, trend-setting art scene, don’t miss Design Festa Gallery, an artistic space for young people. The Sakura-tei okonomiyaki restaurant is also a good option at affordable prices. Of all the alleys, perhaps the most famous is Cat Street, a pedestrian street that takes you to Shibuya and is full of alternative fashion stores and places with their own personality. Enjoy your stroll!

Gyoza Lou

In the narrow streets perpendicular to Omotesando Avenue lies Gyoza Lou, also known as Gyoza Ro. It’s arguably the most popular place in Tokyo to enjoy gyoza, especially among foreign visitors. Its location is perfect, and it also offers delicious gyoza at affordable prices, which is quite a plus. The restaurant’s menu, which is also written on the walls, is simple enough to keep things simple. It mainly focuses on gyoza, either fried or steamed, with or without garlic, and small side dishes such as chicken soup with white rice, cucumber with a refreshing and delicious miso sauce, boiled bean sprouts with Bolognese-style meat sauce, and pickled cabbage. Although the restaurant has a few tables, it’s more common to find a spot at the counter surrounding the kitchen. This is where all the action happens, and from there you can watch how they prepare their famous gyoza, both fried and steamed.

Omotesando Avenue

Omotesando Avenue is one of the main thoroughfares in the area. It’s a wide street that begins at the Meiji Shrine gates, lined with trees on both sides and filled with buildings with distinctive architecture. Numerous renowned architects, both Japanese and international, have left their mark on many of the buildings in this area. Despite being just a short distance from Takeshita Street, Omotesando boasts high-fashion stores, major brands, boutiques, as well as a wide selection of restaurants and cafes. Overall, it’s an area with a higher purchasing power. Among the area’s notable landmarks is the Laforet Harajuku shopping center, known as a hub for youth fashion in Harajuku. Its interior constantly changes in line with fashion trends. Also recommended is the Omotesando Hills shopping center, designed by architect Tadao Ando, which houses luxury shops, cafes, and restaurants. Another interesting spot is the mirrored entrance to the Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harajuku shopping center. Here you’ll also find a stunning outdoor terrace at a Starbucks, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the views after all that walking. Two shops in particular are worth mentioning. The first is Kiddy Land, a store dedicated to toys, stuffed animals, dolls, and various items related to popular kawaii characters. If you’re a fan of Hello Kitty, Miffy, Rilakkuma, Totoro, as well as Gundam, Japanese trains, Disney, or Lego, this store is ideal for you! The second store is Oriental Bazaar, recognizable by its unique exterior architecture. It’s a large store offering souvenirs and mementos at affordable prices. If you’re looking for secondhand kimonos, Japanese crafts, samurai-related items, traditional dolls, and much more, this is the perfect place for you!

Hachiko

Hachiko is an iconic story that symbolizes loyalty and devotion in Tokyo, Japan. Hachiko, an Akita dog, became famous in the 1920s for his unwavering loyalty to his owner, Professor Hidesaburo Ueno. Hachiko’s story began when Professor Ueno adopted him as a puppy and brought him to live in Shibuya, Tokyo. Every day, Hachiko would accompany the professor to Shibuya Station and then patiently wait for his return in the afternoon. Sadly, in 1925, Professor Ueno passed away unexpectedly while on duty. Despite his sadness and the absence of his owner, Hachiko continued to go to Shibuya Station day after day, waiting for his beloved professor’s return. Hachiko’s loyalty touched the people passing by and the station employees, who began to care for and feed him. Hachiko’s story became famous throughout Japan, becoming a symbol of loyalty and unconditional love. Hachiko’s legacy lives on today. A statue in his honor was erected at Shibuya Station, which has become a popular meeting point and an icon of Tokyo. The bronze statue of Hachiko is a popular tourist attraction and a poignant reminder of his story. Hachiko’s story has been depicted in films, books, and tributes around the world, leaving a profound mark on Japanese popular culture. His story is a powerful reminder of the special connection between humans and animals, as well as the loyalty and unconditional love that can exist between them.

Shibuya Crossing

Head to the famous Shibuya Scramble, a Tokyo landmark, where you can witness over 1,000 people crossing the multi-cornered intersection simultaneously. Despite the crush of people converging from all directions, pedestrians demonstrate skill in avoiding collisions. Immerse yourself in the action by starting from the Shibuya station end and walking across the street to Shibuya Center Gai. This location is home to hundreds of shops, bars, and restaurants. If you prefer, you can pop up to the Starbucks located just above the crossing and capture a photo of the moving pedestrian crowd.

Seibu Shibuya

A modern and luxurious department store featuring the world’s leading brands. From cosmetics, women’s and men’s clothing, to children’s clothing, we have an exciting lineup of brands.

Hands Shibuya

With its curated collection of domestic and international products regularly featured in magazines, Hands is also a showcase of Japanese design and innovation. The store sells everything from bathroom accessories to luggage, office supplies, and camping gear, in addition to a host of other products. Due to its popularity, the elevators at this Shibuya store are often packed. Work up a sweat by exploring the store’s various floors and allow yourself plenty of time to browse.

Shibuya 109

The building, located directly across from Shibuya Station, opened in April 1979. The architect was Minoru Takeyama. Tokyu, the building’s operator, designed it to be a “fashion community,” with small clothing stores targeting women under 30. Tokyu intended it to compete with Seibu Department Stores, which was just beginning to make inroads into the Shibuya area. The building’s name, 109, is a play on words in Japanese, taken from the characters that make up the number 109: t? (meaning 10) and ky? (9), making Tokyu. The building’s interior was designed with shoppers constantly moving around the building, taking elevators from floor to floor, passing various stores.

Dogenzaka Street

Dogenzaka Street is known for having a wide variety of different restaurants and izakaya (a type of Japanese bar that typically also sells a variety of food options) to choose from. You’ll find everything from independently owned family-run establishments to Japanese and international chain stores along the route, including Krispy Kreme, KFC, and Lotteria, to name just a few. The street is also a popular nightlife area, with numerous karaoke bars and clubs scattered along the main street or located a stone’s throw away on the side streets.

Love Hotel Hill

Shibuya, besides being Tokyo’s fashion center and having the most famous zebra crossing in the world, has an area commonly known as “love hotel hill” where you’ll basically find one love hotel next to another.

Ota Memorial Art Museum

The Ota Memorial Museum of Art specializes in the Japanese art genre known as ukiyo-e, which translates as “pictures of the floating world.” This art form thrived from the late 17th century through the 19th century and is often synonymous with woodblock prints. This museum was founded in 1980 after the death of ukiyo-e collector Seizo Ota, whose last wish was to make his private collection accessible to the public. The vast collection consists of 14,000 pieces, including works by Katsushika Hokusai, one of Japan’s most famous artists. Each month, 70 to 100 pieces from the collection are displayed in a small, themed exhibition. The museum also hosts occasional lectures and offers scholarships to those interested in researching ukiyo-e. There is a serene Japanese-style rock garden within the museum where visitors can rest.

Nezu Museum

The Nezu Museum, dedicated to a vast collection of over 7,400 works of Japanese and Asian art, combines traditional art forms, modern Japanese architecture, and a Japanese landscape garden into a harmonious complex. *Museum admission is required to access the garden and cafe.

Takeshita Street

Takeshita Street in Harajuku, the epicenter of Japanese street fashion and the place where many of the most popular trends emerge. This narrow alley, about 400 meters long, is full of shops dedicated to young people and their subcultures, from kawaii items to gothic styles. Here you’ll find all kinds of fashion and accessories, such as bags, wallets, and socks, as well as idol shops where you can find merchandise from your favorite groups. Takeshita Street is a very busy place, especially on weekends, so if you prefer to avoid large crowds, we recommend visiting on a weekday. Still, weekends are the ideal time to see young people showing off their best examples of subcultures and street fashion. Aside from browsing all the stores that interest you, we also recommend visiting the Harajuku Alta shopping center or the Daiso one hundred yen store, where you’re sure to find something you like. We also suggest exploring the streets perpendicular to Takeshita-dori, where you’ll find lesser-known shops and art galleries. In addition to fashion and accessories, there are also many cafes and small restaurants for all tastes and budgets. So take your time to enjoy the local cuisine. Takeshita Street is a must-visit for lovers of street fashion and Japanese youth culture.

Old Harajuku Station Building

The old Harajuku Station. This building dated back to 1906 and had a distinctive and striking European style. However, it had become too small for the volume of passengers passing through the station every day. Therefore, it was decided to build a new station right next door, which opened in March 2020. In November 2019, it was decided that the original building of the old station would be demolished for safety reasons. Instead, a structure that is essentially identical but safer (although it will no longer be the original) will be built.

Meiji Shrine

Meiji Shrine is Tokyo’s most famous Shinto shrine, dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shōken. Emperor Meiji, who was beloved by the Japanese people, moved Japan’s capital to Tokyo and played a pivotal role in modernizing the country, turning it into an international economic powerhouse. After his passing in 1912, the Japanese parliament passed a resolution to commemorate his significance by building a shrine. An iris garden was chosen, a site Emperor Meiji and his wife frequently visited. Construction of the shrine began in 1915 and was designed in a traditional nagare-zukuri style, characterized by its asymmetrical roof and the use of Japanese cypress and copper. The shrine was dedicated on November 1, 1920. However, the building that stands today is a replica built in 1958, as the original was destroyed during World War II. The shrine is located in the middle of an artificial evergreen forest made up of 120,000 trees of 365 different species, donated by people from all over Japan. The complex is divided into two main areas: the Naien, or inner compound, which houses the shrine, and a small Treasure Museum displaying artifacts and jewelry belonging to the emperor and his wife. The museum is built in the azekura-zukuri style, characterized by the exclusive use of joined logs in its structure. The Gaien, or outer compound, includes the Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery, which features a collection of 80 murals illustrating the life of the emperor and his wife. You will also find numerous sports venues in this area, including the National Stadium. To enter the complex, you must follow a series of ceremonial procedures, including bowing at the entrance, washing your hands and face, then bowing twice in front of the shrine, clapping, and bowing twice more.

Entrance Torii

The main entrance to the shrine complex is through an impressive wooden torii. This torii is in the myojin style, meaning its upper lintel has an elegant curve. If you look closely at this lintel, you’ll notice sixteen chrysanthemum-shaped coats of arms. The chrysanthemum is the emblem of the Japanese imperial family, highlighting the connection between the imperial family and the Meiji Shrine. In fact, you can find this emblem in various places throughout the shrine, such as on traditional lanterns.

Camino Minami

After passing through the imposing entrance torii, you’ll walk along a cobblestone path and through several other torii gates. At one point, to your right, you’ll notice a large number of sake and wine barrels. According to history, Emperor Meiji promoted the development of sake production as part of the country’s modernization efforts. For this reason, each year, members of the Sake Brewers Association offer beautiful traditional barrels to the shrine as a sign of respect for the souls of the Emperor and Empress. Furthermore, during Japan’s modernization period in the Meiji era, the country experienced a strong Western influence. Emperor Meiji was passionate about French wine, prompting several wineries in the famous Burgundy region of France to donate wine barrels to the shrine in 2006. Since then, annual donations have been made as a symbol of the close cultural bond between France and Japan.

Great Torii

After passing the barrels, on your left you will find an imposing torii. Once again, it is a wooden torii in the myojin style, but this is the largest torii of its kind in all of Japan. It stands 12 meters high and 17.1 meters wide. The original torii was built in 1920 using wood from a 1,200-year-old Japanese cypress tree sourced from Taiwan. Unfortunately, in 1966, the torii was completely destroyed by lightning. However, the torii we see today is a reconstruction made from wood from a 1,500-year-old cypress tree.

Temizu

Upon reaching the end of the path, you’ll come across another torii just before the inner complex. Next to it, you’ll find the temizu, an area designated for the water purification ritual that must be performed before entering the shrine. It’s important to remember that there is specific etiquette for temizu: first, you cleanse your left hand, then your right hand, and finally your mouth. Regardless of your religion, it’s considered polite to perform this ritual before entering the shrine’s inner complex.

Minami Shinmon Gate

The main entrance to the shrine’s inner complex is the Minami Shinmon Gate. This gate is clearly distinguished by its architecture, as it is the only two-story gate, unlike the rest, which are simple, single-story gates. It was built in 1920 using Japanese cypress (hinoki) wood and copper, and is one of the few structures that managed to survive the bombings of World War II. When you pass through this gate, you will notice heart-shaped patterns carved into the wood and metal ornaments. These patterns serve a purpose: they function as protective amulets against fire.

Main hall

The most sacred building in the complex is the Honden, or main shrine hall, where the shrine’s deities are worshipped. This hall is built in the nagare-zukuri style, characterized by the front of the roof being longer than the back. Japanese cypress wood was used in its construction, and the roofs are clad with copper. The Honden consists of several structures, including the prayer hall (noritoden), the inner hall (naihaiden), and the outer hall (gehaiden), where visitors can offer their prayers. Like many other structures in the complex, the main hall was completed in 1920, but was sadly destroyed during bombing during World War II. It was rebuilt in 1958, at which time the copper cladding was added.

Kaguraden

To the right of the main hall is the Kaguraden, a hall dedicated to Shinto music and dance performances, as well as various rituals, such as a newborn’s first visit to the shrine or the rituals of the Shichi-go-san festival. This hall is relatively new, having been completed in 1993. It features unique goshuin calligraphy, although it can only be visited during specific festivals or rituals. Just behind the Kaguraden is a space designated for vehicle purification rituals. People who acquire a new car or work in trucking come here to have a priest perform a ritual to protect them from bad luck and accidents.

Omotesando Avenue

Omotesando Avenue is one of the main thoroughfares in the area. It’s a wide street that begins at the Meiji Shrine gates, lined with trees on both sides and filled with buildings with distinctive architecture. Numerous renowned architects, both Japanese and international, have left their mark on many of the buildings in this area. Despite being just a short distance from Takeshita Street, Omotesando boasts high-fashion stores, major brands, boutiques, as well as a wide selection of restaurants and cafes. Overall, it’s an area with a higher purchasing power. Among the area’s notable landmarks is the Laforet Harajuku shopping center, known as a hub for youth fashion in Harajuku. Its interior constantly changes in line with fashion trends. Also recommended is the Omotesando Hills shopping center, designed by architect Tadao Ando, which houses luxury shops, cafes, and restaurants. Another interesting spot is the mirrored entrance to the Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harajuku shopping center. Here you’ll also find a stunning outdoor terrace at a Starbucks, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the views after all that walking. Two shops in particular are worth mentioning. The first is Kiddy Land, a store dedicated to toys, stuffed animals, dolls, and various items related to popular kawaii characters. If you’re a fan of Hello Kitty, Miffy, Rilakkuma, Totoro, as well as Gundam, Japanese trains, Disney, or Lego, this store is ideal for you! The second store is Oriental Bazaar, recognizable by its unique exterior architecture. It’s a large store offering souvenirs and mementos at affordable prices. If you’re looking for secondhand kimonos, Japanese crafts, samurai-related items, traditional dolls, and much more, this is the perfect place for you!

Shibachi Esplanade

Outside the shrine complex, behind the main hall, is the wide Shibachi Esplanade, a perfect place to enjoy nature in the heart of Tokyo. In this area, you can find the Treasure Museum (currently closed) and the Shiseikan Dojo, as well as the beautiful northern pond (Kita-ike), inhabited by several species of ducks. The nagashi-bina ritual is held here during the Hina Matsuri festivities, so if you are in Tokyo on March 3rd, you shouldn’t miss it. Incidentally, next to the pond is a rock called kame-ishi, which means “turtle rock” because of its shape, which resembles a turtle.

Imperial Garden

In the outer area of the shrine, south of the great torii, is a beautiful garden commissioned by Emperor Meiji for the enjoyment of his wife. This garden is famous for its beautiful irises, which are in full bloom during the month of June. You can also appreciate various varieties of azaleas in April and May, as well as the stunning maple trees that bloom in autumn. We also recommend taking in the views from the gazebo next to the south pond.

Yoyogi Park

Yoyogi-ken is the fourth largest park in Tokyo and enjoys great popularity. A road divides Yoyogi Park into two sections: the park itself and a smaller area with a track and field stadium, a soccer and hockey field, an open-air stage, and other sports facilities. If you’re interested in observing the social interaction and expression of young people in Japan, fashion trends in Tokyo, or simply want to enjoy a pleasant time surrounded by drummers, dancers, jugglers, rock musicians, and street performers, you can’t miss this lively and vibrant park, especially on Sundays. People come here to practice group martial arts, run, sunbathe in the summer, participate in various sports activities, and make friends. You can enjoy a picnic by the pond, rent a bicycle to explore the park’s green areas in search of your favorite form of entertainment, or simply take a leisurely stroll, as most visitors do. Yoyogi Park is located on the site of the first airplane flight in Japan, carried out on December 19, 1910, by Captain Yoshitoshi Tokugawa. The area later became a parade ground, and in September 1945, the Washington Heights Barracks were built, housing U.S. Army officers during the postwar occupation of Japan. In 1964, the area was used to build the Athletes’ Village for the Tokyo Olympics, and in 1967, most of the complex was transformed into Yoyogi Park. The park was completed in 1990 with the addition of a water feature and three fountains with heights between 15 and 30 meters. Let me share an interesting fact: due to the prolonged recession that has affected Japan, you can see several homeless encampments around the park; you’ll be amazed at how peaceful, orderly, and clean they remain.

Harajuku

Harajuku, one of the most vibrant and exciting neighborhoods in Tokyo! If you’re a lover of fashion and youth culture, you can’t miss Takeshita-dori Street, the epicenter of street fashion and subcultures. Here you’ll find trendy boutiques, street food stalls, idol shops, and small restaurants that reflect the diversity and energy of this neighborhood. But Harajuku isn’t just about fashion. It’s also a great place to stroll and soak up the atmosphere. You can observe youth fashions and changing trends as you walk through its streets. This neighborhood also boasts charming places like the Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park, as well as grand avenues and areas with a surprising atmosphere like Omotesando and Aoyama. In Harajuku, you’ll find a unique blend of modern and traditional aspects, cuisine, architecture, and parks. So don’t hesitate any longer and come and enjoy everything Harajuku has to offer. It’s also known as the birthplace of Kawaii culture, but what is Kawaii culture? Kawaii culture has become a global phenomenon that encompasses diverse aspects of modern life, including art, fashion, technology, and food. This trend began in the 1970s, when teenagers developed a childlike writing style featuring curved lines, hearts, stars, and cartoon characters. It is believed that this trend emerged as a response to the rigid culture of post-war Japan, allowing young people to express their individuality. Although schools prohibited this writing, it became popular among advertisers in the 1980s and led to the creation of one of the most famous kawaii characters today, Hello Kitty.

Shibuya Scramble Square

Shibuya Scramble Square rises majestically above the Shibuya cityscape at 230 meters tall, spread over 47 floors. Since its opening in November 2019, the building has symbolized Shibuya’s innovation and constant reinvention, offering a combination of retail, office, and entertainment spaces, all under one roof. Directly connected to Shibuya Station, it provides easy access to this iconic meeting point. Located on the upper floors, it offers 360-degree panoramic views over Tokyo, allowing visitors to admire everything from Mount Fuji to Tokyo Tower and beyond. It is a particularly impressive sight during sunset and at night, when the city lights up. The design of Shibuya Scramble Square was inspired by the concept of “a place where different paths meet,” reflecting the diversity and energy of the Shibuya district. Its modern, sustainable architecture incorporates eco-friendly technologies, marking a milestone in sustainable urban development. A visit to Shibuya Scramble Square is a must-do experience for any traveler who wants to capture the essence of contemporary Tokyo. In addition to the stunning views from Shibuya Sky, visitors can enjoy a wide range of trendy shops, gourmet restaurants, and cultural spaces that showcase the best of Japan and beyond. Don’t forget to explore the outdoor terraces, which offer a peaceful respite and unique views of the bustling city spread out below.

Center Gai Shopping Street

This vibrant street is the epicenter of youth fashion, packed with clothing stores, music venues, and arcades. Center Gai is more than just a shopping street; it’s a place where new trends are born and spread, a barometer of Japanese youth culture.

Mandarake

Located in an underground space, Mandarake is one of the most sought-after destinations for manga and anime fans, offering a vast collection of rare and pre-owned collectibles. Fun Fact: What began as a small used bookstore has grown into a pop culture empire, with branches all over Japan.

Koen-dori Street

Koen-dori is a shopping avenue connecting Shibuya Station with the Yoyogi area, adorned with fashion stores, art galleries, and theaters. Its name, meaning “Park Street,” derives from its route to Yoyogi Park, acting as a cultural corridor linking Shibuya with one of Tokyo’s green lungs.

Shibuya Hikarie Viewpoint

Located in the Hikarie Building, this observation deck offers spectacular views from its upper floors, especially enchanting at sunset. The Hikarie isn’t just an observation deck; it’s a multifunctional complex that houses theaters, galleries, and co-working spaces, reflecting Shibuya’s innovative spirit.

Henn na Café

This café, whose name means “Strange Coffee,” is staffed by robots who prepare and serve the coffee. It’s part of a series of “Henn na” establishments seeking to innovate in the service sector using robotic technology.

Shibuya Stream

Shibuya Stream is a relatively new addition to the Shibuya skyline, opened in 2018 as part of a broader urban regeneration project seeking to revitalize the area around Shibuya Station. This multifunctional complex includes offices, a hotel, shops, and restaurants along the Shibuya River, transforming a previously underutilized space into a vibrant hub of activity. The complex’s design promotes interaction with the water, creating a space where visitors can enjoy the tranquility of the river amidst the bustling city.

Shibuya Sky Observation Deck (in Shibuya Scramble Square)

Shibuya Sky Observation Deck, located atop Shibuya Scramble Square, offers unparalleled views of the vast metropolis of Tokyo. From its open-air observation deck, perched 229 meters above the ground, visitors can enjoy a 360-degree panorama spanning from Mount Fuji to Tokyo Tower and beyond. Opened to the public in November 2019, Shibuya Sky has quickly become a must-visit landmark for those looking to experience the magnitude of Tokyo from above, providing a spectacular backdrop for memorable photographs.

Konno Hachimangu and Toyosaka Inari Shrines

Konno Hachimangu Shrine, founded in the 11th century, is a site of deep spiritual and historical significance. Located in the heart of Shibuya, this shrine has been a focal point for the local community for centuries, offering a space for prayer and the celebration of traditional festivals. The shrine is said to have been established by Minamoto no Yoriyoshi as a gesture of gratitude for the victory in the Zenkunen War. The shrine features traditional Shinto architecture, with an impressive torii gate marking the entrance to the sacred grounds. The shrine is famous for its annual festival, where locals take part in traditional rituals and parades that fill the streets of Shibuya with color and music. Within the grounds are statues of guardian lions, believed to protect the shrine and its visitors from evil spirits. The slightly smaller but equally charming Toyosaka Inari Shrine is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto deity of rice, fertility, and success. This shrine is known for its rows of red torii gates, which create a mystical path for visitors, and the fox statues (kitsune), which are considered messengers of Inari. Inari is one of the most revered deities in Japan, and shrines dedicated to her often have distinctive features such as torii gates and fox statues. The fox statues often hold keys in their mouths, symbolizing the keys to the granary, a gesture reflecting Inari’s association with prosperity and abundance. Visitors often leave offerings of rice, sake, and other foods at the altar to attract good fortune and success in their endeavors. The shrine celebrates several festivals throughout the year, highlighting the traditions and importance of agriculture in Japanese culture. These shrines are not just places of worship; they are time capsules that offer an oasis of tranquility amidst the bustling city of Tokyo.

Miyashita Park

The renovation of Miyashita Park represents a fusion of green and commercial spaces in Shibuya. Transformed from a traditional park into a complex that includes a new park, sports facilities, and a commercial area, Miyashita Park stretches from Shibuya to Harajuku, offering visitors a variety of recreational activities and shopping options. Since its opening in 2020, the park has become a popular spot for residents and visitors looking to escape the urban bustle, promoting an active lifestyle and the enjoyment of nature in the city.

Shibuya Nonbei Yokocho

Shibuya Nonbei Yokocho, or “Drinkers’ Alley,” is a charming maze of tiny bars and restaurants that capture the essence of old-fashioned Tokyo. Located near Shibuya Station, this historic alley invites visitors to experience the intimate and cozy atmosphere of traditional Japanese izakayas. Each establishment, which seats just a few customers, offers a unique opportunity to interact with locals and sample authentic Japanese food and drinks, creating a memorable experience that contrasts sharply with the surrounding modernity of Shibuya.

Yoshinoya

Yoshinoya, one of Japan’s most famous gyudon (beef rice bowl) restaurant chains, offers fast, delicious, and affordable food. With several locations in Shibuya, including a prominent one near the famous crossing, Yoshinoya is the perfect place to experience one of Japan’s most beloved dishes.

Katsu Midori Seibu Shibuya

Katsu Midori stands out as one of the most popular and beloved katsu (breaded) restaurants in Tokyo, famous for offering high quality at reasonable prices. Located inside Seibu Shibuya, a major shopping center in the heart of Shibuya, Katsu Midori attracts both local and international diners with its promise of serving the best seafood and beef katsu in the city. The experience is enhanced by its conveyor belt ordering system, where fresh dishes parade before diners, allowing them to select their preference in a dynamic and fun environment. What sets Katsu Midori apart is its commitment to quality. From tender and juicy tonkatsu pork to more innovative variations that include seafood and vegetables, each dish is prepared using the highest quality ingredients. Additionally, the restaurant offers a variety of sauces and sides, designed to perfectly complement each bite of katsu, ensuring a memorable culinary experience that keeps diners coming back for more.

Blacows

Blacows takes the gourmet burger experience to a new level, specializing in burgers made exclusively with wagyu beef, known worldwide for its intense marbling and flavor. Located in a somewhat discreet location in Ebisu, just minutes from Shibuya, Blacows prides itself on its collaboration with renowned butcher Yazawa, ensuring that each burger delivers an exceptional culinary experience. The restaurant’s ambiance combines casual elegance with meticulous attention to detail, reflecting the quality of its dishes. Each burger at Blacows is a work of art, freshly prepared and customizable to the customer’s preferences. From the basic burger to more elaborate creations with a variety of toppings and premium cheeses, Blacows proves that the burger can be as refined and complex as any haute cuisine dish. Furthermore, its offering is complemented by a carefully selected selection of sides and desserts.

Ippudo Ramen Ebisu

Founded in Fukuoka in 1985, Ippudo has grown to become one of the most respected and recognized ramen chains worldwide, with several branches in Tokyo, including one in Ebisu, not far from Shibuya. Ippudo is famous for its tonkotsu ramen, characterized by a rich, creamy broth, crafted after hours of slow-cooking to extract the full flavor of the pork bones. Ippudo’s philosophy revolves around the idea of offering ramen that can be enjoyed by anyone, adapting the traditional taste of tonkotsu ramen to satisfy a variety of palates. The Ebisu branch of Ippudo reflects the brand’s signature modern and welcoming atmosphere, offering diners a refined dining experience. Beyond its famous ramen, Ippudo invites diners to explore a menu that includes a variety of appetizers, salads, and desserts, all designed to complement the ramen experience. Attention to detail, from ingredient selection to customer service, makes Ippudo a must-visit for ramen enthusiasts.

Sushi No Midori

Sushi No Midori is a Tokyo institution known for offering high-quality sushi at affordable prices, which often results in long lines. With several locations in Tokyo, including one in Shibuya, Sushi No Midori attracts both locals and international visitors with its extensive menu featuring the best of the sea.

Uobei Shibuya Dogenzaka

Uobei Shibuya Dogenzaka is part of the Genki Sushi Group, known for revolutionizing the sushi experience with its high-tech approach. Unlike traditional sushi delivered on conveyor belts, Uobei takes automation a step further by delivering orders to diners via express trains that arrive directly to their table. This innovation not only improves efficiency but also ensures that each piece of sushi arrives at the peak of its freshness and flavor. Uobei’s menu goes beyond conventional sushi and offers a wide range of options, including vegetarian options and dishes tailored to international tastes, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The quality of the sushi at Uobei, combined with reasonable prices and the fun, futuristic experience of ordering via touchscreens, has established the restaurant as a must-visit culinary destination in Shibuya. It is a perfect example of how technology can enhance the dining experience while maintaining the essence of Japanese sushi tradition.

Ichiran

Ichiran specializes in serving tonkotsu ramen, known for its rich, creamy broth derived from slow-cooked pork bones. This establishment, with several branches across Japan and a growing international presence, is famous for its unique approach to the ramen-eating experience. Diners sit in individual concentration booths, designed to focus all their attention on enjoying the ramen’s flavor without distractions. The idea is that, even amidst the bustle of Shibuya, one can find a moment of culinary serenity. What sets Ichiran apart is not only its unique atmosphere but also the ability to fully customize your ramen. From the firmness of the noodles to the level of richness of the broth and the amount of garlic or green onion, diners can fine-tune their bowl to their exact preferences. This customization, combined with the high-quality ingredients, makes every visit to Ichiran a singular experience. Furthermore, its ordering system, using a sheet of paper where preferences are marked before being delivered through a small window, adds a touch of intimacy and efficiency to the service.

Yoshinoya Shibuya

Yoshinoya, founded in 1899, is one of the oldest and most renowned gyudon (beef rice bowl) restaurant chains in Japan. With its Shibuya branch, Yoshinoya continues its tradition of offering quick, tasty, and affordable meals. Simplicity is key at Yoshinoya, where the menu focuses on gyudon, but quality and flavor remain constant, thanks to its secret broth recipe and commitment to fresh ingredients. The atmosphere at Yoshinoya is casual and welcoming, making it a popular spot for a wide range of diners, from students and workers to tourists looking for an authentic Japanese fast food experience. Yoshinoya’s Shibuya branch reflects the pulse of this dynamic district. Open from early morning until late at night, it offers a haven for those looking for a satisfying meal without wasting time. In addition to the classic gyudon, Yoshinoya has expanded its menu to include variations like the spicy pork bowl and healthier options like salad bowls, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Despite changes and global expansion, Yoshinoya remains true to its philosophy of providing quality food at a reasonable price, keeping a part of Japan’s culinary history alive in the heart of Shibuya.

Shibuya, Tokyo Travel Guide