As dozens, sometimes hundreds, of strangers line the curbs of Shibuya Scramble Crossing, time seems to pause.
Moments before the lights turn green, tourists, students and businessmen and women are all patiently waiting for that sudden surge in motion, the iconic ocean of bodies that pass through Shibuya. Some run to take the perfect picture, others take it in and some are on their daily walk to Shibuya Station for work.
Welcome to Shibuya, one of the most iconic wards in Tokyo where day and night wear different faces.
From a small agricultural village to a bright hub of neon billboards and activity, Shibuya’s history dates to the Edo period when it was still a simple village providing water for Inokashira’s natural springs.
Named after the Shibuya clan which first resided here, its meaning is a valley of rivers, which reflected its once hilly terrain and waterways. Shibuya’s boom started with the arrival of the railway, transforming it into one of the major transportation and commercial centers in Tokyo. Its evolution went further during the post-war era, making it a symbol of Tokyo’s youth and a city of fashion, music and art.
By day, Shibuya has a calm energy that greets you with cafes, boutiques and lifestyle shops. With shopping centers galore and amazing food at every block, Shibuya makes for a great daytrip full of activity. Shibuya Station, one of the world’s busiest transportation hub, is what makes the area what it is. As workers flood into the many tech offices, the day becomes a productive corporate environment, while still finding room for nature with Miyashita Park, offering rooftop green space and skate parks where you can enjoy the environment from high above.
By late afternoon, Shibuya changes tempo. As teenagers flood in from school, it brings a new buzz from the younger generation. Department stores like Shibuya 109 and Shibuya PARCO come alive, creating a mix between retail and art. You may stumble upon art exhibits, pop-up stores and more. The backstreets are lined with thrift stores, record shops and ramen joints. Getting lost in the maze of Shibuya could be your key to finding hidden gems. Options in Shibuya are endless.
Nightlife is when the city takes its most dramatic turn and truly comes to life as LEDs and neon signs light up the sky. Music from live street performers, car meets and voices from the crowded streets echo through Shibuya. As the department stores close, night owls line the streets to find izakaya restaurants, karaoke and pubs, all of which offer great food and an even better time for one to enjoy some time out in a city that thrives at night.
Whether you prefer morning or night, Shibuya offers activities that tourists and locals can enjoy no matter what time of day or night. Shibuya Street Kart, Shibuya Sky and the statue of Hachiko, the famously loyal Akita dog who waited daily for his deceased owner, are what bring Shibuya to life in a different way.
Shibuya, day or night, offers family friendly attractions that are easily accessible and affordable while in Tokyo and well worth your while.
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