Shibuya

The Basics

No trip to Japan’s capital would be complete without some time spent in Shibuya, and just about every city sightseeing tour stops here. For a deeper dive into the neighborhood’s sensical experience, take a nighttime walking food tour of the district to sample local favorites like takoyaki (octopus balls), okonomiyaki (savory pancake), and Kobe beef skewers. Alternatively, take a bit of Shibuya home with you by opting for a photo shoot at the famous crossing in a traditional kimono or samurai armor.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Shibuya is a must-see neighborhood for all first-time visitors to Tokyo.

• Wear comfortable walking shoes; there’s a lot to see and do in this neighborhood.

• Don’t forget to bring your camera—the colorful neon lights, eccentric fashion, and throngs of people make it quite photogenic.

How to Get There

The easiest way to get to Shibuya is to ride the train to Shibuya Station. The famous crosswalk sits just in front of the station’s Hachiko Exit.

When to Get There

There’s always something going on in Shibuya, but the neighborhood is at its liveliest (and most photogenic) in the evenings, when the neon lights are flashing and local commuters are out en masse.

Attractions in Shibuya

Shibuya has more on offer than just excellent food and shopping. The neighborhood is home to the famous Meiji Shrine, as well other points of interest like the Toguri Museum of Art and the beloved Hachikō statue. During the spring months, the cherry blossoms of Yoyogi Park explode into beautiful bloom.

Is Shibuya good for tourists?

Yes, Shibuya is a great place for tourists and a must-visit neighborhood when visiting Tokyo. There are many fun shops to browse during the day, a good dining and nightlife scene, and it’s also where the famous Shibuya Crossing is located, an enormous pedestrian crossing channeling people in all directions.

What is the best time to visit Shibuya?

Shibuya is a shopping and nightlife destination, so it’s good to visit at any time. For shopping, visit in the morning for fewer crowds. To witness the surge of humanity tackling the Shibuya Crossing, afternoons are better as the area is more crowded. For dinner and nightlife, visit after 8pm.

Is Shibuya foreigner friendly?

Yes, like most other Tokyo neighborhoods, Shibuya is very foreigner friendly. Many tourists come here to shop, eat, drink, and experience the sights and attractions. Knowing how to speak or read Japanese will help you navigate the neighborhood, but it’s not essential and some menus are in English.

Is Shibuya walkable?

Yes, Shibuya is a walkable neighborhood. In fact, like much of the rest of central Tokyo, walking is the best way of getting around because driving is usually chaotic and slow. You can reach Shibuya from other parts of Tokyo by train and then walk around once you’re there.

What can you see on a tour of Shibuya?

Shibuya is a central Tokyo neighborhood famous for its shops and restaurants, so many tours of the area focus on dining and nightlife. Taking a food-focused tour is a good way of learning while visiting spots you might otherwise miss. Any visit to Shibuya will include the infamous Shibuya Crossing.

Is it worth visiting Shibuya?

Yes, Shibuya is definitely worth visiting and is one of central Tokyo’s must-see neighborhoods. It’s a fun place to shop, eat, drink, and take in Tokyo’s intense urban ambience. Travelers who prefer quiet, uncrowded spots might find Shibuya a bit overwhelming, but it’s worth checking out nonetheless.

Ways to explore

Shibuya is an essential neighborhood to check off when exploring Tokyo. Most city sightseeing tours come here, even just for a quick photo stop at Shibuya Crossing. For a deep dive into the area’s food scene, opt for a food–themed walking tour to taste local favorites, such as takoyaki (octopus balls), okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), and Kobe beef skewers. Book a go-kart tour for fast-paced sightseeing, or choose a private tour for a customized experience.

Accessibility

Most department stores in Shibuya have elevators and accessible bathrooms. The biggest challenge is the crowded streets.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Coins for capsule vending machines, plastic bag for trash, camera

What to wear

Comfortable footwear, as it’s easy to cover a lot of ground in Shibuya.

Not allowed

Don’t tip—the money will likely be returned to you as Japan doesn’t have a tipping culture.

Amenities

The Shibuya-San tourist information and art center has luggage storage services, a gallery, and a bar.

Address

Shibuya is a district in central Tokyo that’s convenient to get to by public transport. While you can easily navigate there independently, opting for a guided tour can simplify the experience, especially if you’re looking to check off its main attractions.

Driving

While you could drive to Shibuya, the traffic and crowds (especially if passing the Shibuya Crossing) can be challenging and finding parking spaces only adds to that stress. It’s far better to book a rideshare service or hail a cab.

Public transportation

Shibuya is easy to reach by public transport as it’s served by the Tokyo Metro, the Tokyu lines, and multiple JR lines. The JR Yamanote Line is popular, as it connects to key areas such as Shinjuku.

Best times to visit

Arrive after 7pm to avoid rush hour, but still catch Shibuya when it’s lively, with the district lit up and perfect for a photo of the famous crossing.

Best days to visit

Shibuya is busy throughout the week, so if you want to avoid the biggest crowds, it’s best to skip weekend visits and come on a Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday instead.

Best months to visit

Shibuya—and Tokyo in general—gets especially crowded during cherry blossom season (late March to early April). Come outside these months for a slightly less hectic experience.

Special events

Shibuya is Tokyo’s epicenter for Halloween celebrations. New Year’s Eve is also a highlight, with countdown timers and gatherings near the crossing. However, if you don’t like crowds, avoid both.