[2023 Update] Recommended for sightseeing in Shibuya! A fulfilling walk around the city, visiting classic, hidden and popular spots

*Business hours and offerings may be subject to change.

Shibuya is a city where you can enjoy both classic spots and cutting-edge attractions

If you're planning on sightseeing in Shibuya, make a list of the spots you want to visit first. There are shops and attractions of every genre scattered around, so it's a good idea to know where they are before you go to make your trip smoother. We'll introduce you to the classic spots you should visit at least once, as well as spots where you can experience Tokyo's cutting edge.

We will introduce you to some classic spots in Shibuya that have been loved for many years by people of all ages. You will be able to experience the lively atmosphere that is unique to Shibuya.

The Hachiko statue is a popular meeting spot

When you think of the most famous meeting place in Japan, the first thing that comes to mind is this bronze statue. It is located right in front of the Hachiko Exit of JR Shibuya Station and is always crowded with people.

It is modeled after Hachiko, a loyal Akita dog that lived during the Taisho era and waited every day for the return of its late master. The original Hachiko statue was lost during the wartime metal collection, but was rebuilt in 1948 (Showa 23).

Since then, it has become a beloved symbol of Shibuya and a popular spot for foreign tourists in recent years. It continues to quietly watch over the ever-changing cityscape.

Shibuya Center Street is the renowned center of youth culture.

Shibuya Center Gai is a bustling shopping district that stretches for about 350 meters from Shibuya Scramble Crossing. The area between Bunkamura-dori and Inokashira-dori is packed with a variety of stores, including apparel shops, restaurants, and karaoke bars.

Originally, the area was started by filling in the Udagawa River that runs through it and building a road underground. In the 1990s, it became a mecca for high school girls wearing loose socks. Although the area was once unsafe, it has improved in recent years. The number of new spots has increased, making it an exciting place where even just walking around is fun.

Shibuya Scramble Crossing: A symbol of energetic Tokyo

When the traffic light changes, a wave of people starts moving all at once. At its peak, more than 3,000 people cross at once at Shibuya Scramble Crossing, making it one of the busiest intersections in the world. Surrounded by giant screens and billboards, it's a scene that truly encapsulates the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. It often appears in movies and TV dramas, and is known overseas as a photogenic place.

The observation deck on the roof of a nearby building is a great spot for taking photos, overlooking the intersection from above. The neon-lit night view and the colorful umbrellas on rainy days are also beautiful.

Yoshimoto∞Hall, where talented young comedians perform

Yoshimoto∞Hall is a general entertainment theater that focuses on popular young comedians from Tokyo Yoshimoto. Every day, they hold live performances full of fresh material and hilarious events that only young comedians can have. It is also a place to discover talented comedians, so you may be the first to meet the talented comedians who will dominate the comedy world in the next generation.

The 218 seats are arranged in a semicircular bowl shape, so you can get a clear view of the stage from any seat. Check the official website for detailed performance schedules. Why not add some laughter to your travel memories?

Yoshimoto Infinity Hall

Shibuya PARCO: Experience Tokyo's cutting edge

Shibuya Parco reopened after renovation on November 22, 2019. From the basement floor to the 9th floor and part of the 10th floor, there are 193 stores with a wide variety of individuality. The unique floor layout, which is based on five themes: fashion, art & culture, entertainment, food, and technology, is what makes it so appealing.

The building has a unique design that takes into consideration the slopes and streets that are characteristic of Shibuya, allowing customers to enjoy shopping just like walking through the streets of Shibuya.

THE LITTLE BAR OF FLOWERS: A flower shop where you can also enjoy wine

The Little Shop of Flowers is a popular atelier and flower shop near Harajuku Station. It is a unique spot that attracts attention for its unusual style: a flower shop during the day and a wine stand at night.

The shop is lined with flowers and dried flowers, creating a lively yet sophisticated atmosphere. They also sell small items and sweets that are perfect for gifts. This is a recommended spot to spend a comfortable time with a glass of wine in a uniquely designed world. The shop is open from 10am to 7pm, and the wine stand is open from 7pm to midnight (irregular holidays).

THE LITTLE BAR OF FLOWERS

"Nintendo TOKYO" has a wide selection of merchandise from popular series

Nintendo TOKYO is the first official Nintendo store in Japan. It has a wide selection of limited edition goods, mainly from the four series: Super Mario, The Legend of Zelda, Animal Crossing, and Splatoon. There is also a space where you can try out the latest game software.
*Please note that some products may be out of stock.

Nintendo TOKYO

"Pokémon Center Shibuya" has a wide variety of original Pokémon goods!

The black-themed interior of "Pokemon Center Shibuya" has a cool, adult atmosphere. This official shop not only sells a wide variety of original goods such as game software and card games, but also offers many services and campaigns that will delight Pokemon fans.

Pokémon Center Shibuya

"GALLERY X" - a showcase of cutting-edge culture

Due to the reconstruction of Shibuya Parco, the directly managed gallery, which had been relocated to Spain Hill, has reopened at the new Parco. A wide range of exhibitions are held, from high culture to otaku content. The lineup pursues originality, so be sure to check it out.

GALLERY X

Shibuya Scramble Square: A skyscraper that symbolizes Shibuya

Shibuya Scramble Square is a new landmark that opened in the Shibuya redevelopment project on November 1, 2019. The tallest skyscraper in the area, standing 230 meters above ground and with 47 floors, it commands a striking presence in the city.

The commercial facility occupies the 2nd basement floor and 14th floor, and is home to 213 shops and restaurants, including 7 stores making their first appearance in Japan, 49 stores opening in the Shibuya area for the first time, and 39 stores with new business formats. We will also introduce the sweets and souvenirs that you should definitely try when you visit.

At the rooftop observation deck, SHIBUYA SKY, you can enjoy a special view. It is directly connected to Shibuya Station and has excellent access. The East Tower opened this time, and the Central Tower and West Tower are scheduled to be completed in 2027.

Shibuya Scramble Square

Become one with the sky at the observation deck "SHIBUYA SKY"

A magnificent 360-degree panorama spreads out below you. With nothing blocking your view, you can experience the sensation of floating in the sky. This is the largest rooftop observation space in Japan, located about 230 meters above ground, the highest point in Shibuya. On a clear day, you can see Mt. Fuji beyond the Tokyo cityscape.

It's luxurious to lie down in a hammock and gaze up at the sky. The fantastic evening and sparkling night views are also a must-see. The lighting and video effects in the building, which make full use of the latest technology, will further enhance your mood and you will be captivated by this extraordinary world.

SHIBUYA SKY

Foret Noire, inspired by the Black Forest

Le Chocolat Alain Ducasse is a chocolate shop where chocolatiers are in charge of all processes from crushing the cocoa beans to the finished product. Forêt Noire, available only at the Shibuya Scramble Square store, is a confectionery that originated in Alsace, France, the hometown of executive chef Julien Kinzler.

This luxurious dessert is layered with chocolate genoise, Chantilly cream, chocolate cream, and griottes (cherries preserved in syrup). (*Dessert Salon exclusive menu)

Le Chocolat Alain Ducasse

Tsutsumi (Black) is a great souvenir for someone special

Tsutsumi Black, produced by PRESS BUTTER SAND, which is also popular as a Tokyo souvenir, is a store-limited set that includes butter sandwiches made with a generous amount of fresh butter and butter sandwiches with a rich chocolate flavor wrapped in an original design furoshiki. It is a perfect gift for various occasions.

PRESS BUTTER SAND

A beautiful Mont Blanc gem

A must-try at the Parisian patisserie Mori Yoshida Paris is the Mont Blanc, with its beautiful, draped appearance. In the center is a generous amount of cream chantilly with hints of chestnuts. The texture of the pâtafilo, a type of puff pastry, adds an accent to the cake, and its deliciousness has even captivated Parisians.

MORI YOSHIDA PARIS

Related article

A detailed look at the appeal of Shibuya Scramble Square, a Tokyo tourist attraction

The area around Shibuya Station is undergoing a large-scale redevelopment that is said to be "once in a century." Every visit offers something new. The opening of "Shibuya Scramble Square Phase I (East Tower) *" (hereinafter referred to as Shibuya Scramble Square) is the midpoint of this long development, and is a hot topic just before the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. We will report in detail on the appeal of Tokyo's new tourist attraction, including the exquisite rooftop space "SHIBUYA SKY" and TSUTAYA's new business, "SHARE LOUNGE." *Phase II (Central Tower and West Tower) will be completed in 2027...

ontrip.jal.co.jp

Tokyu Plaza Shibuya: A collection of high-quality stores for adults

Tokyu Plaza Shibuya, which had its grand opening on December 5, 2019, has the concept of "Shibuya where adults can have fun." With the themes of "food," "health," "beauty," "hobbies," and "life plans," the mall has 69 stores aimed at adults who are sensitive to the beauty and health of the mind and body, including long-established brands opening in the Shibuya area for the first time and stores with never-before-seen new business formats.

The floors are designed to allow adults, who are specifically targeted, to rediscover the fun of Shibuya, and enjoy a different side to the city's image as a town for young people.

Tokyu Plaza Shibuya

"MAGNET by SHIBUYA109" - Experience diverse cultures

MAGNET by SHIBUYA109 is a commercial facility where you can enjoy a variety of exciting content, including stimulating art and music, with the concept of "Shibuya's excitement." It has attracted attention for its high level of entertainment, including bold art that covers the entire wall of the building's staircase, and a food and beverage floor where you can eat "Shibuya meals" that are unique to Shibuya.
At MAG's PARK on the rooftop, you can watch people passing by at the scramble crossing from above. There is also a cafe on the premises, so it's a great place to take a break and enjoy the view.

MAGNET by SHIBUYA109

Shibuya Stream: A waterfront space in the city

Shibuya Stream is a large-scale complex that blends in with the waterfront scenery of the Shibuya River and opened in September 2018. The innovative exterior design, with randomly arranged white panels, evokes the city's near-future image.

There are about 30 restaurants on the 1st to 3rd floors, ranging from casual cafes to restaurants and izakayas serving cuisine from around the world, offering a timeless Shibuya-style lineup. The plaza and riverside promenade along the Shibuya River are Shibuya's relaxing spots. They are spaces where you can enjoy events and strolls.

SHIBUYA STREAM

Shibuya Hikarie: The new food and drink floor is popular among women

Inheriting the DNA of Tokyu Bunka Kaikan, Shibuya Hikarie opened in the former site in April 2012. Since then, it has been popular as a place that disseminates the latest trends and culture. In January 2019, the food and beverage floors on the 6th and 7th floors were renovated. The number of healthy cafes and restaurants that women like has increased, making it even more attractive.

On the 11th floor, there is a full-scale musical theater, Tokyu Theatre Orb, where domestic and international productions are performed, allowing you to enjoy high-quality entertainment.

Free creative space "8/"

The creative space "8/" is a complex space packed with a variety of possibilities, including a multi-purpose space called "Court," a gallery whose content changes on a short notice, a lounge that can also be used as an office, and a shop. Attracted by the creations that emanate from here, many people gather here every day.

One place you should definitely stop by is the "d47 MUSEUM," which displays items collected from all over Japan according to a theme, organized by prefecture. In addition to the museum, the "d47" name, which takes its name from "d" (design) and the 47 prefectures, also operates restaurants and shops. Experience the charms of each prefecture while feeling like you're traveling.

Shibuya Hikarie

Oku-Shibuya: A town for adults with a relaxed atmosphere

The Kamiyamacho, Udagawacho, and Tomigaya neighborhoods, located a little ways from Shibuya Station, are quiet areas that are a far cry from the bustling image of Shibuya. This area is called Oku-Shibuya and has a relaxed atmosphere.

There are many sophisticated shops that adults can enjoy, such as fashionable general stores and galleries, cozy cafes, specialty coffee shops, and small, stylish dining establishments. Yoyogi Park is also nearby, making it the perfect place for a leisurely stroll. If you wander the alleys at your leisure, you may find a wonderful hideaway spot that suits your taste.

"SPBS Main Store" is the cultural hub of Oku-Shibuya

The cultural hub that supports Oku-Shibuya is the main store of SPBS, a publishing house and bookstore. Inside the store, where you can see the editorial department through the glass, there is a row of edgy books that will make you want to stay for a while and read them.

Events and workshops organized by the bookstore staff and editorial department are also held here on an irregular basis, so be sure to check the website and go out and check it out. The stationery and miscellaneous goods selected by the staff with their own unique perspective are also worth checking out.

SPBS Main Store

Order beautiful dried flowers at "EW.Pharmacy"

EW.Pharmacy is a dried flower shop with a dispensing pharmacy concept. Choose your favorite flowers from the ones lined up on the counter, and the staff will prepare them for you in a package just like you would a prescription drug.

You can also purchase pre-packaged flowers, or have the staff help you choose the flowers for you, making them a popular gift option. Despite being dried flowers, they are uniquely processed and painted to maintain their vibrant appearance, so be sure to order them.

EW.Pharmacy

The charm of Shibuya is that you can enjoy both the classic spots that have been loved for disseminating various cultures and the cutting edge spots of Tokyo. Why not experience the unique atmosphere of Shibuya, where many people come and go?

First updated: January 17, 2020
*Some content was updated on January 6, 2023.