Frankly, Shibuya needs no introduction. Undeniably one of Tokyo’s most popular neighborhoods, it’s regarded for its trendsetting culture and zeitgeisty fashion. Plus, it’s home to the iconic Shibuya Scramble Crossing, a byproduct of serving as one of the city’s most important transportation hubs that has morphed into a widely photographed intersection and tourist attraction. But over the past few years, the bustling area has seen quite a few additions and revamps, namely in the form of high-end malls and staggering mixed-use complexes, giving it a glossier look than ever before.
That’s not to say that Shibuya is losing its edge, at least not yet. While most visitors only think of Shibuya as the immediate area surrounding its namesake station and famed crossing, the ward actually encompasses numerous neighborhoods that range from upscale Omotesando to eccentric Harajuku and has long been a story of contrasts. Here, we take a look at some of Shibuya’s most happening enclaves and highlight some of the best places to shop, eat, and stay when visiting Tokyo.
Where to Stay
Despite being a leader in design and fashion, Tokyo, and especially Shibuya, had long lacked a solid boutique hotel that matched its hip reputation. That was until Trunk entered the scene in 2017. Now one of the best hotels in Tokyo, 15-key Trunk(Hotel) Cat Street is an intimate retreat between the heart of Shibuya and Omotesando, two of the ward’s busiest neighborhoods. The property managed to capture the area’s effortlessly cool energy and instantly became a favorite, drawing locals into its lobby lounge which served as a makeshift coworking space by day and a lively bar by night. For travelers, the floors above house accommodations that range from cozy rooms to residential-style suites with a large focus on sustainability, featuring amenities locally made from upcycled materials.
For those looking to be a little more removed from all the action, the company’s latest opening is just north of all the hustle and bustle. Shining a spotlight on Tomigaya, an underrated enclave often overlooked by visitors, the more upscale Trunk(Hotel) Yoyogi Park is reflective of this affluent neighborhood. Interiors are distinctly Japandi thanks to the combined efforts of Keiji Ashizawa and Copenhagen-based Norm Architects. The 25 minimalist accommodations swathed in natural hues set the tone for an urban escape that’s meant to help travelers recharge after navigating the organized chaos that is Tokyo. To top it all off, it’s also the only hotel in the city center with a rooftop infinity pool—which overlooks the verdant Yoyogi Park—complete with an oyster bar and fire pit that’s reserved solely for overnight guests.
Where to Eat
Whether it’s your first or tenth visit to Japan, kaiseki is a must. At Den, the multi-course Japanese dinner that highlights the current season’s bounty gets a modern spin thanks to chef Zaiyu Hasegawa’s creative mind and whimsical personality with signatures like the Dentucky fried chicken, where a wing is cradled in a paper box reminiscent of a certain fast-food colonel, and a 20-vegetable salad topped off with an emoji-fied carrot. Reservations are difficult to secure, so make sure you call right away when they open up two months in advance.
Serving up some of the best pork cutlets in the city, chef Daisuke Masugi carefully selects his cuts from small farmers across the country. Whether it’s ribeye, filet, or loin, these are some of the finest around. Dredged in panko that he sources from a specialty shop then double fried to lock in moisture, each morsel is tender and juicy. For an even more elevated tonkatsu experience, opt for the omakase menu, where the chef will guide you through some of his favorite breeds and cuts in one meal.
Tucked away on the second floor of a nondescript building, Torikatsu Chicken is where you come for a comforting meal. Each set features your choice of fried goodies (whether it be chicken, pork, or seafood), rice, soup, and a heaping portion of shredded cabbage. Not only does it feel homey, but it’s easy on the wallet, too.
Searching for something that resembles home-cooked food? Uoriki is run by a fourth-generation owner who acquires fresh fish every morning for a seafood-forward menu that includes the shop’s specialty, miso-simmered mackerel. The restaurant is also beloved for its sushi sets and rice bowls, both offered at reasonable prices.
Dessert culture is huge in Japan. You’ll find a number of restaurants that specialize in specific sweets, and at Azuki to Kouri, the name of the game is kakigori. But this isn’t your run-of-the-mill Japanese shaved ice. Owned by Miho Horio, formerly the pastry chef of Michelin-starred Florilège, it’s an elevated and seasonal take on the summer staple with ingredients like pumpkin, meringue, white fig, and a rich cream that’s torched right in front of you. There’s also a red bean French toast on the menu along with a daily soup made by Florilège’s chef Hiroyasu Kawate. With just seven seats, reservations are essential—otherwise, try your luck with a walk-in and hope there’s a last-minute cancellation.
While the internet will tell you to visit Ichiran for ramen, skip the chain and make a beeline for Hayashi to slurp up an unctuous broth made from a combination of fish and pork bones. Located just outside the western end of Shibuya Station, this institution keeps things simple with just three menu options: ramen, ramen with a seasoned egg, or ramen with char siu and a seasoned egg. Pay with cash at the vending machine and grab a seat at the counter. Just be prepared to wait in line.
A yakitori staple in Shibuya since 1938, chicken (and all of its varying parts) is expertly grilled over charcoal to create a beautiful balance of charred and tender bites. While best known for its skewers, you’ll also find hot pot, eel, and stir-fried dishes on the menu. And, of course, there s plenty of sake and beer to wash it all down with.
Where to Drink
It’s no secret that Shibuya is home to some exceptional bars, and one that frequently tops the list is the Bellwood. With an innovative cocktail menu that follows kaiseki principles, it offers some of the most unique tipples around. (Think smoked vodka and wagyu fat for a twist on a Bloody Mary under the “grilled” section.) There’s also a small bites menu available if you’re in need of a late-night snack, including a wildly comforting plate of jambalaya. But if you’re looking for a unique dinner, there’s also a four-seat omakase table that serves sushi with unexpected globally inspired flavors.
Another Shibuya institution, the SG Club offers a trio of different concepts on separate floors. In the basement is Sip, a dimly lit space that serves mastermind Shingo Gokan’s signature tipple, Tomato Tree, alongside striking porthole cocktails. On the ground floor is Guzzle, a more casual setting with riffs on beloved classics. And at the top is Savor, a members’ cigar lounge that opens to the public late in the evenings.
Sangai
The latest addition from SG Group just above Savor, Sangai is an exclusive omakase cocktail experience with just eight counter spots and two seatings each night. The night kicks off with a welcome matcha followed by five creative cocktails that marry seasonal Japanese fruit with ingredients or spirits from abroad. For instance, “Akita | Athens” combines pear with tzatziki while “Aichi | Cognac” matches fig with the French region s namesake liquor. And if you somehow still have the tolerance for another drink at the end, there’s a special menu of classics that feature Japanese twists, like a matcha Negroni and Hibiki Old Fashioned.
Record Bar Analog and Studio Mule
If you’re looking for a spot to enjoy some tunes, Record Bar Analog and Studio Mule sport relaxed settings, vintage speakers, and vinyl-lined shelves. Both owned by former DJs, the former offers cocktails while the latter is known for its extensive list of natural wines.
Fuglen
For a lively neighborhood hangout, Oslo-transplant Fuglen has an omnipresent line out the door from when it serves coffee in the early morning to cocktails late at night. And if you’re staying at Trunk(Hotel) Yoyogi Park, it’s conveniently located right next door.
Where to Shop
Over in Tomigaya, you’ll find several boutiques that carry Japanese brands. Of note are Pivoine, a store that offers a varied selection of Japan-made clothing and handcrafted home goods, and Grapevine by K3, which features its own designs alongside a mix of local and international labels. For high-end streetwear, Studious stocks home-grown designers and has a couple of locations in Shibuya. And now that the secret is out that Onitsuka Tiger makes some of the most comfortable trainers in the game, its Nippon Made store in Jingumae sells the brand s premium Japan-made line that highlights Japanese craftsmanship.
When it comes to vintage, follow in the footsteps of Alexa Chung through the alleys of Harajuku to shops like BerBerJin, which boasts an impressive array of Levi’s from decades past, or peruse the behemoth thrift store known as Kinji. Shibuya is also home to famed chains like Ragtag and Kindal, along with some of Vogue’s favorite vintage stores, like Casanova and Vini Vini Vintage.
With the recent influx of lifestyle complexes near Shibuya Station, there’s no shortage of retail therapy options for those who love a good mall. Revamps to Shibuya Parco and Miyashita Park include new shops, restaurants, and green spaces for the public to enjoy, while the former also has an entire floor dedicated to gaming and manga. Shibuya Scramble Square has noticeably altered the city’s skyline and has also become a popular spot due to its sprawling observatory, while Dogenzaka Dori includes an offshoot of discount store Don Quijote along with a hotel. And the new Shibuya AXSH offers 23 floors of retail, dining, and public art.
Clothing aside, Tower Records is a trip down memory lane for music lovers, where eight floors are stocked with vinyls and CDs of varying genres, while Utsuwa Marukaku is a true gem for pottery enthusiasts.
