Shibuya is often referred to as the beating heart of Tokyo. It is true — a district is charged with energy, diversity, and a sense of excitement. Home to bustling streets, towering skyscrapers, and a vibrant blend of cultures, Shibuya is a place like no other. Here you can truly experience the essence of Tokyo. We present you with our guide to the best things to do in Shibuya.
What to expect while visiting Shibuya?
Shibuya is a massive district in Tokyo that includes other cool areas like Harajuku or Meiji Shrine. But in this article, we’ll focus on the heart of Shibuya — the area around the central Shibuya Station.
Shibuya starkly contrasts the sleek, stylish, minimalist, and neat Tokyo vibe. Here, you'll find a bit of grit and not-always-pleasant smells. Things that would be frowned upon in other neighborhoods are just part of the scene here. It's chaotic and far from harmonious, with a mishmash of buildings that feels a bit like Thailand. Loud advertising signs, crowds, and visual chaos are the norm.
Even if you've never read anything about Shibuya and only know about Hachiko Statue (don’t cry; not yet, at least) and the Shibuya Scramble Crossing (the busiest crossing in the world), you'll sense that something's different. Something that doesn't quite click with the rest of Tokyo. You might instinctively reach for your phone, start googling (just like we did), and maybe stumble upon this article.
And you'll learn that Shibuya is Tokyo's main party and heavy drinking district. It even has its own name for the cultural phenomenon — the Shibuya Meltdown. If you look this up, you'll find quite a few not-so-friendly pics of how the Japanese let loose. You can also witness it live if you drop by Shibuya at night. But all jokes aside, Shibuya is Tokyo's vibrant and chaotic heart. And here are our Tokyo travel tips.
What to do in Shibuya?
You’ve probably guessed by now that most of Shibuya's allure comes from its nightlife. But once you dig deeper into the vibe of the district, you’ll realize that it has so much more to offer. This area should be on any Tokyo itinerary for several reasons. We’ve handpicked and explored all those reasons ourselves during our first trip to Tokyo. Dive into our ultimate bucket list of the best things to see and do in Shibuya, Tokyo.
Shibuya Sky
Shibuya Sky is part of the “big three” ranking of the observation decks in Tokyo (other two being Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree), and in our opinion, it's the best (although a bit pricier and not the tallest). It's an open-air deck that offers a breathtaking view of Shibuya and Tokyo. You’ll be able to see most of Shibuya's sights and on a particularly clear day, you might even spot Mount Fuji!
- But here's the catch — the deck is closed in bad weather; the silver lining is that your tickets will be safe and you’ll just have to reschedule.
- Another great feature is that the administration doesn't sell more tickets than the deck can handle.
It's all very organized and streamlined. The journey from the entrance to the rooftop takes a smooth 5-7 minutes (as opposed to the aforementioned Tokyo Skytree, where just queuing for the entrance can take half an hour). Finally, there's this nice, laid-back rooftop bar vibe (you can even grab a cocktail) with comfy chairs scattered around, various areas set up for photos, and plenty of space for everyone.
A little bit about the tickets (¥2200 per person): Tickets for sunset times at Shibuya Sky get snatched up weeks in advance. We snagged a ticket for the next day (nothing fancy, just a simple midday viewing experience) without any hassle, and conveniently, we could pay for it at the nearest 7/11.
Shibuya Scramble Crossing
Actually, the busiest intersection in the world can be surprisingly empty. For example, you won't spot the crowds on weekdays around lunchtime. But come evenings or weekends, trust us, you wouldn't want to find yourself in the middle of that. So, we recommend finding an observation spot to watch Shibuya's best-known street from the sidelines.
Where to get the best views of Shibuya Crossing? Here are some of the best options:
- From the metro station.
- Starbucks, where the battle for a window seat is a serious affair (this location is temporarily closed until April, 2024).
- Shibuya Sky — the tallest, most comfortable, and priciest vantage point.
- Shibuya Hikarie — there's a corner with a view of the crossing on the 11th floor.
Ever wondered why the Shibuya Crossing Area in Tokyo is so popular? Well, it seems to be a mix of 1) the incredibly busy Shibuya metro and train station and 2) the overall popularity of the neighborhood. Check out other cool things to do near Shibuya Crossing:
Hachiko Memorial Statue & Hachiko Family Mural
This is probably the sight that Shibuya is most famous for. Just to refresh your memory of the legendary story: Hachiko, an Akita dog, faithfully awaited his owner's return at Shibuya Station every day, even after his owner's passing. The statue of the dog has been installed here in memory of the pup’s devotion to the owner. The landmark is truly iconic and always ends up on the list of things to do in Shibuya.
For a unique twist, check out the Hachiko Family Mural nearby. This vibrant mural pays homage to Hachiko's legacy, depicting him alongside his modern-day descendants. It's a heartwarming celebration of loyalty and the enduring bond between humans and their four-legged companions.
Rooftop Park in Shibuya Parco
This is a hidden gem of Shibuya, Tokyo. One of the most useful things to know about Japan is that local shopping centers place considerable emphasis on developing pleasant urban spaces on the rooftops. Without a doubt, this particular spot stands out as one of the finest not just in the Shibuya district, but all throughout Tokyo.
As you step into this park (or garden), you'll be surprised to find that it is amazingly peaceful, despite its location in the heart of the city. One of the best things to do in Shibuya is to come here during sunset. The rooftop transforms into a magical setting, bathed in the warm glow of the city lights. You can enjoy the view with a cocktail in your hand — the garden also has a bar.
Spain-zaka Slope
You’ve probably heard something about Takeshita Street, a narrow pedestrian street known for its focus on kawaii culture. Well, Spain-zaka Slope is similar in its structure, but very different in its vibes.
It’s a charming cobblestone alley with Spanish-inspired architecture and authentic Spanish restaurants serving paella, tapas, and sangria. The alley contrasts sharply with the frenetic energy of the Shibuya Crossing even though it’s just steps away from here. So, it’s a nice spot for those who need to decompress a little bit from the dense and at times overwhelming vibes of Shibuya Tokyo.
Japanese essential shops in Shibuya
When visiting Tokyo, shopping becomes another essential part of your cultural experience, just like trying the local food or seeing important landmarks. Wandering through Japanese stores gives you real Alice in Wonderland vibes. Shibuya is one of those famous districts in Tokyo that are great for a little retail therapy.
Here is a handful of shops that are worth being included in a Tokyo guide:
- Hands — this department store is a haven for craft enthusiasts and DIY fans. It offers a vast selection of crafting supplies, stationery, home goods, and even food items.
- Don Quijote — also known as Donki — is a discount store. It is a treasure-trove of Japanese goods which is open 24 hours a day.
- Nintendo Center and Pokemon Center — even if you’re not a fan of Nintendo or Pokemon, you should put these locations on your things-to-do-in-Shibuya itinerary (luckily, they’re located on the same floor of Parco — a super-cool shopping mall so big you can get lost here for hours). They’re not just stores, they’re cultural landmarks.
- Village Vanguard is known for its eclectic mix of goods, from vintage toys and anime collectibles to unique clothing and accessories. It's a great place to find one-of-a-kind souvenirs.
Bunkamura
When googling what to do in Shibuya Tokyo, this complex always pops up. It is pretty well-known for its blend of art, theater, and shopping facilities and would be a must-visit for those who love concerts, performances, and art gallery openings. Bunkamura is home to a number of theatres that host world-renowned orchestras, dancers, and performers. The Orchard Hall offers more classical forms of events whereas THE THEATRE COCOON hosts contemporary dance performances and experimental theatre plays.
Bunkamura also has a number of museums, including the Bunkamura Gallery 8/, which showcases a rotating collection of exhibitions from both Japanese and international artists, and the Museum of the Oriental Theatre, which houses a collection of artifacts related to Japanese traditional theater.
Side note: All of the Bunkamura facilities (apart from the Orchard Hall) either ceased operating or moved to other locations for a temporary closure (rumored to last until 2027). Check the details online before coming here.
Shibuya Kitaya Park (or the coziest Blue Bottle Coffee)
This is a quiet and pleasant corner in the bustling Tokyo’s Shibuya. It's a small park where office workers enjoy their lunches from food trucks, and tourists sip on coffee from Blue Bottle (which is absolutely fantastic!) This place became our favorite spot in Shibuya, and we returned here several times despite a general dislike for the district.
From this park, streets lead to shops featuring local designers, providing an opportunity to find some cute unusual things. A small special treat for shopping in Tokyo — you’ll get a tax-free return right on the spot! There are three particular shops that we liked in Shibuya for shopping: Beams and Midwest offers a unique selection of stylish contemporary stuff, and the thrift shop Rinkan is a gem for vintage finds.
Harajuku district
Here is another popular tourist destination in Shibuya, Tokyo. Have you ever heard of kawaii culture? Harajuku is its home base. But the district actually offers so much more than just that type of fashion — it has earned a global reputation as a trendsetting hub, drawing in visitors with its avant-garde street styles and innovative boutiques.
One of Harajuku's most famous attractions is Takeshita Street — the epicenter of youth culture and fashion. While wandering down the street you’ll come across a kaleidoscope of styles, from gothic and Lolita fashion to the latest pop culture trends. One of the locals’ favorite things to do in Shibuya is to dress up in elaborate costumes and spend some quality time with their friends in cosplay cafes. That’s one of the best things to see in Tokyo — don’t miss out!
Yoyogi Park
This park is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Harajaku area. It offers a nice escape from Tokyo's crazy hustle and bustle. The park is perfect for leisurely picnics and long peaceful strolls. If you want to get some cultural experience as well, come here on weekends — the park transforms into a lively social hub. You've got cosplayers doing their thing, musicians jamming out, and all sorts of performers showing off their skills. It's like this laid-back mix of zen and creativity right in the middle of Tokyo, making Yoyogi Park a must-visit for the ultimate chill vibes.
Meiji Shrine
Right next to Yoyogi Park you’ll find Meiji Shrine — the temple dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. As you stroll through the massive torii gate and walk along the gravel paths, you forget you're in one of the world's busiest cities. The temple itself is situated in the middle of a quiet forest, so it will take you 10 to 15 minutes to get there. After wandering around, make sure to participate in an important Japanese ritual — write your wish on a wooden plate and then leave it at the shrine.
Eat your way through Shibuya
The district is a feast for the senses in more ways than one. While its vibrant fashion scene and iconic attractions draw crowds, its culinary landscape is equally captivating. We’ve prepared a list of the best tried-and-tested places to eat in Shibuya.
So, where to eat in Shibuya?
(1000 yen = $7 US dollars)
- Flipper's Shibuya is a perfect breakfast spot. The place is known for its fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth pancakes (¥1300–¥1800). It’s true what they say — Flipper’s pancakes are legendary.
- Bricolage Bread & Co is a tiny bakery, tucked away in a quiet alley, where we used to go for a chance to taste a wonderful oxymoron of French pastries with Japanese influences. Their signature pastry is Kuromame Anpan — a sweet red bean bun. Our humble opinion is that it’s one of the best things to buy in Tokyo.
- Uobei Shibuya Dogenzaka Store is a great sushi train restaurant.
- Kura Sushi — a chain of restaurants that offer delicious sushi for affordable prices. Here is a nice bonus: It’s one of those places where you can choose plates directly from the conveyor belt.
- Ichiran serves the best ramen in Shibuya (¥980). The spot is pretty well-known, so be ready for the crowds. It’s worth it though.
Coffee places in Shibuya
As full-time travelers ourselves, we know — nothing makes a trip better than knowing where to get good coffee in the area. So here are several coffeeshops that we think serve the best coffee in Shibuya:
- Fuglen Tokyo — a trendy cafe in Shibuya that offers not only good quality coffee (¥580) but cocktails (¥1000–¥1250) and Scandinavian baked goods. You get to enjoy all of this in a stylish, wood-paneled space with vintage decor.
- Café Kitsuné — a branch of the popular Parisian cafe chain, so high expectations are always met here. It is located in Miyashita Park and offers a variety of coffee drinks (¥650) and pastries (¥400–¥800).
- Blue Bottle Coffee is probably our favorite spot in the whole district. Located in a quiet park, the coffee shop spreads such fantastic vibes that you just want to come here again and again.
Where to stay in Shibuya?
If you feel like Shibuya’s vibes excite you, then consider finding accommodation in the area to truly immerse yourself in everything the neighborhood has to offer. Staying near Shibuya is also perfect for those interested in discovering what to do in Shibuya at night, since the district is pretty known for its nightlife.
Here are some options that you might find appealing:
- 2* The OneFive Tokyo Shibuya is a nice budget-friendly option with retro vibes. Each room in a hotel features furniture from Acme Furniture known for iconic American vintage pieces. Prices start from $150 per night for two.
- 3* APA Hotel Shibuya Dogenzakaue has simple rooms, affordable prices, and comfortable beds. What else one might need after several days of tiresome tourist activities? Prices start from $130 per night for two.
- 4* Trunk (Hotel) is something a little bit more luxurious. The design of this place is quite exquisite with meticulous attention to the aesthetics. Another nice thing about the hotel is its communal areas that are popular co-working spaces by day and a cocktail bar by night. Prices start from $300 per night for two.
- 5* Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel will offer you fantastic panoramic views of Tokyo and really spacious rooms. The hotel also has a nice jazz bar for a sleepless night in the heart of the city. Prices start from $300 per night for two.
So, is Shibuya worth going to?
Absolutely! Who wouldn’t want to see the beating heart of the city? You've got a trendy and luxury shopping district, awesome nightlife scene, and a ton of great restaurants and cafes — all nearby and ready to be discovered. It might not be one of the best places to stay in Tokyo, but it is definitely one of the must-visit spots. We’ve covered major points on what to do in Shibuya Tokyo. Here are some tips that will help you make your trip to this neighborhood smooth:
- Be prepared for crowds: Shibuya is a very crowded district, especially on weekends.
- Learn a few basic Japanese phrases: It’s always nice to show some interest in the host culture.
- Be vigilant about your belongings: Shibuya is a pickpocket hotspot, so be mindful of your surroundings.
- Have fun! Shibuya is a great place to experience the energy and excitement of Tokyo.
How to get to Shibuya?
The best way to get to Shibuya from the airport depends on which airport you arrive at and your budget.
From Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND):
- Train: This is the fastest and most affordable option. Take the Keikyu Line from Haneda Airport International Terminal Station to Shinagawa Station (15 minutes, around $3). From Shinagawa, transfer to the JR Yamanote Line and take it one stop to Shibuya Station (5 minutes, included in your Keikyu Line ticket). The total travel time is about 20 minutes.
- Bus: The Tokyo Airport Limousine Bus offers a direct route from Haneda Airport to Shibuya Station. The journey takes around 1 hour and costs $20.
- Taxis are the most convenient but also the most expensive option. The journey takes around 30 minutes and costs approximately $50.
From Tokyo Narita Airport (NRT):
- Train: The Narita Express is the fastest train option. It takes about 1 hour and 18 minutes to reach Shibuya Station and costs $22. Alternatively, take the Keisei Skyliner to Nippori Station (41 minutes, $17), then transfer to the JR Yamanote Line to Shibuya Station (18 minutes, included in your Keisei Skyliner ticket).
- Bus: The Narita Express offers a direct bus service to Shibuya Station. The journey is around 1 hour and 45 minutes and costs $20.
- Taxis are available but super expensive, costing around $140 for a one-way trip to Shibuya Station.
Things to do near Shibuya
 |
 |
By now you probably have all the answers to the questions like what is Shibuya famous for? If you're looking for a break from the hustle and bustle, there are plenty of great things to do near Shibuya.
Here are a few suggestions:
- Shimokitazawa is often called “the bohemian” neighborhood of Tokyo. It is known for its indie boutiques and lively nightlife, so it’s one of the best shopping areas in Tokyo for vintage lovers. It is also a great place to wander around and people-watch.
- Starbucks Reserve Roastery: One out of five Starbucks worldwide that roasts coffee on-site and offers unique coffee blends unavailable elsewhere. It’s also a perfect place to get souvenirs for Starbucks fans.
- Meguro Riverwalk is an insanely beautiful promenade. In spring, the riverbanks are lined with cherry and sakura blossoms. So you can imagine what’s it like. The riverwalk also leads to the trendy neighborhoods of Nameguro and Daikanyamacho, which are worth exploring.
- Kith — a popular streetwear brand that has a flagship store in Shibuya. The store is known for its stylish clothing, footwear, and accessories. It's great for picking up some unique souvenirs.
- Family Mart — a Japanese convenience store chain with a bar! Come here to enjoy a cocktail or two and take a break from all the touristic things.
Best things to do in Shibuya: in conclusion
We hope that we’ve managed to tell you the tale that is Shibuya in such a way that you’ve made this district a part of Tokyo itinerary for your next trip. Still, if you have any further questions regarding Shibuya (be it a new attraction, places to eat, sleep, party, — whatever it may be), feel free to leave them in the comments down below!
And also check out our other guides to the neighborhoods of Tokyo: