One of Tokyo’s buzziest districts, Shibuya has many faces. On one hand, you have world-famous sights like the Shibuya Scramble Crossing and SHIBUYA SKY; on the other, you’ll find authentic spots like the cluster of alleyways known as Hyakkendana. Also known as a hub for cutting-edge culture, Shibuya makes an essential visit on any trip to Tokyo.
With this itinerary, you can experience Shibuya’s many charms to the fullest: You’ll get to see the big-name sights, catch the latest trends while strolling the streets, and stay up all night at spots beloved by locals.
Walk through one of the world’s largest pedestrian crossings
To start out, make your way to one of Tokyo’s most popular sights. The Shibuya Scramble Crossing is one of the largest intersections in the world, through which up to 500,000 people pass on busy days. It’s also appeared in numerous movies and has become a symbol of the city as a whole. The sight of so many pedestrians navigating the crossing without bumping into each other is spectacular. Come see the magical night scene created by the interplay of shining neon lights and bustling crowds.
Admire the city at night from the heights of SHIBUYA SKY
Located within the expansive SHIBUYA SCRAMBLE SQUARE shopping complex, this popular landmark offers panoramic views of Tokyo’s nightscape from its open-air rooftop observation deck, SKY STAGE. Meanwhile, the indoor observation area, SKY GALLERY, includes a gallery space, as well as souvenir shops and bars where you can enjoy drinks and music.
Have dinner at SHIBUYA STREAM
Shibuya is packed with charming eateries. If you’re unsure where to go, the SHIBUYA STREAM complex along the Shibuya River makes for a reliable dining destination. It offers a wide variety of choices, including Japanese cuisine, Western dishes, and international flavors. If you’re not too hungry, grab a coffee to go and relax on the benches in the open-air space along the Shibuya River.
Observe the latest trends along Center-gai
To see what’s hot right now in Shibuya, head to Center-gai, a street packed with fashion boutiques, sneaker shops, and trendy restaurants. If you like analog records, know that Udagawacho, the neighborhood that Center-gai crosses through, is noted for its many vinyl-focused record stores.
Down a drink at Shibuya Hyakkendana
Shibuya Hyakkendana is a quirky cluster of alleyways where historic establishments and up-and-coming eateries coexist, creating an attractive atmosphere tinged with old-world charm. It’s a great spot for bar-hopping, boasting everything from standing bars to cozy izakayas where you can settle in and relax.
Stay up until dawn on Dogenzaka
Passing through Shibuya Hyakkendana, you’ll emerge onto Dogenzaka. Chain restaurants stand side by side with independently owned eateries along this long slope of a street that gets especially lively on weekends. Near the top of the hill, Rambling Street is dotted with clubs and live music venues, many of which stay open all night long. This is where you can enjoy the Shibuya nightlife to your heart’s content until morning.
