Shibuya & Harajuku Complete Guide
How I do Shibuya + Harajuku in one day: hit the crossings at the right time, eat well, and duck into the calmer backstreets.
Shibuya
The Crossing
The world's busiest pedestrian crossing. I like it at golden hour when lights flicker on.- Best viewpoints: Starbucks 2F (window seat), Shibuya Sky (book sunset slot), Mag's Park rooftop.
- Timing: Hit Shibuya Sky around 4-5pm in winter, 6-7pm in summer for glow + crowds.
- Transit: JR Yamanote / Ginza Line to Shibuya.
Where to Eat
- Gyukatsu Motomura: Beef cutlet, seared at your table; go off-peak (3-5pm).
- Afuri: Yuzu shio ramen—refreshing; short lines mid-afternoon.
- Kaikaya: Seafood izakaya; book ahead for dinner.
- Late-night: Ichiran or Suzuran ramen after 10pm when lines thin.
Shopping
- Shibuya 109 (youth fashion), Shibuya Parco (art/fashion), Tokyu Hands (stationery), Tower Records (music still alive).
- Backstreets behind Parco for vintage shops and coffee stands.
Harajuku
Takeshita Street
The iconic teen fashion street. Expect crowds, crepes, and colorful everything. I walk it once, then slip into side alleys.- Timing: Before 11am to walk freely; after noon it becomes shoulder-to-shoulder.
Beyond Takeshita
- Cat Street: Vintage and designer mix; great coffee stops.
- Ura-Harajuku: Quiet lanes, thrift shops, indie cafes—my reset after Takeshita.
- Omotesando: Architecture stroll (Prada, Tod’s); wide sidewalks for a breather.
Must-Try Food
- Marion Crepes: Classic strawberry/cream crepe; lines move fast.
- Totti Candy Factory: Giant rainbow cotton candy; fun photo op.
- Coffee stops: The Roastery by Nozy (Cat Street), Streamer Coffee (Harajuku).
- Snacks: Taiyaki near Meiji-dori; conbini onigiri if you need a quick bite.
Pro Tip: Visit Meiji Shrine early morning, then hit Harajuku as shops open around 11am.