Things To Do
in Shibuya

Shibuya is a vibrant district in Tokyo, Japan, known for its bustling urban atmosphere and the iconic Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest pedestrian intersections in the world. It is a cultural hub, attracting both locals and tourists with its trendy fashion boutiques, diverse dining options, and vibrant nightlife. The area is home to several landmarks such as the Hachiko Statue and the Shibuya 109 shopping mall.

Shibuya seamlessly blends modernity with tradition, offering a unique glimpse into contemporary Japanese culture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Shibuya's Highlights
morning
:

Start your day at Shibuya Crossing, then head to the Hachiko Statue for a quick photo. After that, enjoy breakfast at a local café.

afternoon
:

Visit the Shibuya 109 shopping mall for fashion shopping, then take a stroll through the nearby Yoyogi Park.

evening
:

Dine at an izakaya in the area and explore the nightlife around Center Gai.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin at the Meiji Shrine, a peaceful escape from the city bustle, and enjoy the serene surroundings.

afternoon
:

Explore Harajuku's Takeshita Street for unique shops and street food, then return to Shibuya for a late lunch.

evening
:

Experience a themed café or bar for dinner followed by a visit to a karaoke room to wrap up your night.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$20
🍜Ramen Bowl$10
🍵Matcha Latte$5
🥟Dumpling Snack$3
🚌Metro Fare$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Vibrant nightlife and shopping scene.
  • Rich cultural experiences and modern attractions.
  • Excellent public transport connectivity.
  • Can be overwhelming due to the crowds.
  • Higher prices compared to other areas of Tokyo.
  • Limited English in some establishments.
  • "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
  • "おいしい" - Delicious
  • "はい" - Yes
  • "いいえ" - No

Places to Visit in Shibuya

Visit one of these nice places.

Shibuya Crossing

Capture the heart of Shibuya at this iconic intersection where hundreds cross at once.

Hachiko Statue

This statue is a symbol of loyalty and a popular meeting point, perfect for a memorable photo.

Meiji Shrine

Surrounded by a tranquil forest, this shrine offers a beautiful contrast to the urban landscape.

Culinary Guide

Food in Shibuya

Shibuya boasts a rich culinary scene that reflects the diverse tastes of Tokyo. From traditional Japanese dishes to innovative fusion cuisine, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Shibuya Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sushi

Fresh, high-quality sushi is a must-try, available in various styles from conveyor belt to fine dining.

Must-Try!

Ramen

Shibuya has numerous ramen shops offering rich broths and unique toppings.

Okonomiyaki

A savory pancake filled with various ingredients, often cooked at your table.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Shibuya Street Food

Explore the streets for delicious bites like takoyaki (octopus balls) and taiyaki (fish-shaped pastry filled with sweet fillings).

Yoyogi Park Food Stalls

During weekends, enjoy food stalls offering local snacks and drinks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Shibuya experiences four distinct seasons: spring (March to May) is mild with cherry blossoms; summer (June to August) is hot and humid; autumn (September to November) features pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage; while winter (December to February) is cool with occasional snow. The average temperature ranges from 10°C (50°F) in winter to around 30°C (86°F) in summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respecting Personal Space

Maintain a polite distance in social settings and avoid loud conversations.

Bowing as a Greeting

Bowing is a common way to greet and show respect; a slight nod is often sufficient.

Shoes Off Indoors

Always remove your shoes when entering homes and certain traditional establishments.

Safety Guide

Safety

Shibuya is generally very safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as safeguarding personal belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 110 for police and 119 for fire or ambulance.

Tipping in Shibuya

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan; excellent service is expected as standard.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is preferred in many smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Experience cherry blossoms blooming in parks, particularly in late March to early April.

Summer

Hot and humid weather; enjoy outdoor festivals, but stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage make it a picturesque time to visit.

Winter

Mild winters with occasional snow; enjoy festive illuminations around the city.

Nightlife Guide

Shibuya at Night

Shibuya's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, featuring everything from trendy bars and clubs to karaoke joints and izakayas. The area comes alive after dark, with young locals and tourists mingling in the popular Center Gai and Dogenzaka streets. Dance the night away at high-energy clubs or unwind at a themed café; there's something for everyone. The energetic atmosphere, illuminated by neon lights, ensures a memorable experience.

Hiking in Shibuya

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Takao

A scenic mountain located about an hour from Shibuya, offering various trails and beautiful views.

Inokashira Park

A peaceful park with walking paths and nature trails, ideal for leisurely hikes.

Airports

How to reach Shibuya by plane.

Haneda Airport

Located about 30 minutes from Shibuya, this airport is closer to the city center and handles both domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Shibuya is highly walkable, with most attractions, shops, and restaurants within a short distance from each other. The area is designed for pedestrians, featuring wide sidewalks and numerous crosswalks. Additionally, you can explore nearby neighborhoods such as Harajuku and Omotesando on foot, making it a great area for leisurely strolls.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Youth Culture

Shibuya is a hub for youth culture, with many young people frequenting the area for fashion, music, and trends.

Business Professionals

The area is also home to many offices and businesses, attracting professionals during weekdays.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

A widely loved sport in Japan, with local teams drawing large crowds.

Soccer

Soccer has a growing fan base, with several professional teams in the Tokyo area.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Shibuya can be heavy, especially during peak hours. However, public transportation is efficient and widely used, with buses and trains connecting the area to the rest of Tokyo. The Shibuya Station is a major transit hub, making it easy to navigate the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Shibuya.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian-friendly dishes, but it's advisable to check with staff.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are limited, particularly for traditional dishes, but some restaurants cater to dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Japan has an excellent healthcare system, with hospitals and clinics readily available in Shibuya. Emergency services can be accessed easily, and most medical facilities have English-speaking staff. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses while in Japan.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide