Of course, Shibuya needs no introduction. It’s one of Tokyo’s most famous districts, known for its trendsetting culture and fashion. The area is home to the iconic Shibuya Scramble Crossing, which started as a busy transport hub and has become a major photo spot and tourist attraction. In recent years, Shibuya has added new high-end malls and mixed-use complexes, giving it a sleeker look than ever.

But Shibuya hasn’t lost its unique character. While many visitors focus on the area around the station and crossing, the ward actually includes diverse neighborhoods like upscale Omotesando and quirky Harajuku, creating a blend of contrasts. Here’s a guide to some of Shibuya’s most vibrant spots and the best places to shop, eat, and stay in Tokyo.

Where to Stay

Trunk(Hotel) Cat Street
Tokyo, especially Shibuya, lacked a boutique hotel that matched its stylish reputation until Trunk opened in 2017. Now one of the city’s top hotels, the 15-room Trunk(Hotel) Cat Street offers a cozy retreat between bustling Shibuya and Omotesando. It captures the area’s cool vibe and quickly became a local favorite, with a lobby lounge that works as a daytime co-working space and a lively bar at night. The rooms range from comfortable to spacious suites, all emphasizing sustainability with locally made, upcycled amenities.

Trunk(Hotel) Yoyogi Park
For a quieter stay, Trunk’s newer location is just north of the busy center, spotlighting the often-overlooked Tomigaya area. This more upscale hotel reflects its affluent surroundings, with interiors blending Japanese and Scandinavian design by Keiji Ashizawa and Norm Architects. The 25 minimalist rooms in natural tones provide a peaceful urban escape, perfect for recharging after exploring Tokyo. It’s also the only downtown hotel with a rooftop infinity pool overlooking Yoyogi Park, complete with an oyster bar and fire pit exclusive to guests.

Where to Eat

Den
A kaiseki meal is essential in Japan, and at Den, chef Zaiyu Hasegawa gives the traditional multi-course dinner a modern twist. Signature dishes include Dentucky fried chicken, served in a box like a famous fast-food chain, and a 20-vegetable salad topped with a carrot carved into an emoji. Reservations are hard to get, so book exactly two months in advance.

Tonkatsu.jp
Chef Daisuke Masugi serves some of the city’s best pork cutlets, sourcing meat from small farms nationwide. Whether ribeye, filet, or loin, each cut is coated in specialty panko and double-fried to stay juicy. For a premium experience, try the omakase menu to sample the chef’s favorite breeds and cuts in one meal.

Torikatsu Chicken
Tucked away inTucked away on the second floor of a plain building, Torikatsu Chicken is the place for a comforting, affordable meal. Each set includes your choice of fried chicken, pork, or seafood, along with rice, soup, and a generous serving of shredded cabbage. It’s cozy and budget-friendly.

Uoriki
Craving home-style cooking? Uoriki is run by a fourth-generation owner who picks up fresh fish every morning. The menu focuses on seafood, especially their specialty miso-simmered mackerel. They’re also known for reasonably priced sushi sets and rice bowls.

Azuki to Kouri
Dessert is a big deal in Japan, and Azuki to Kouri specializes in kakigori—but this isn’t your average shaved ice. Founded by Miho Horio, former pastry chef at Michelin-starred Florilège, it offers a refined, seasonal twist on the summer treat. Flavors might include pumpkin, meringue, white fig, and cream torched right at your table. They also serve red bean French toast and a daily soup by Florilège’s chef Hiroyasu Kawate. With only seven seats, reservations are a must—or try walking in and hoping for a cancellation.

Hayashi
While many online guides point to Ichiran for ramen, skip the chain and head to Hayashi for a rich broth made from fish and pork bones. Located just outside Shibuya Station’s west exit, it keeps things simple with three choices: ramen, ramen with a seasoned egg, or ramen with char siu and egg. Pay at the vending machine and take a seat at the counter—but be prepared to wait in line.

Toritake
A Shibuya yakitori favorite since 1938, Toritake grills chicken and its various parts over charcoal for a perfect mix of char and tenderness. While skewers are the star, the menu also includes hot pot, eel, and stir-fried dishes, plus plenty of sake and beer to go with your meal.

Where to Drink

The Bellwood
Shibuya is known for its great bars, and The Bellwood is often at the top of the list. Its creative cocktails follow kaiseki principles, offering unique drinks like a Bloody Mary made with smoked vodka and wagyu fat. They also serve small bites, including a comforting jambalaya, and for a special dinner, there’s a four-seat omakase table with globally inspired sushi.

The SG Club
Another Shibuya staple, The SG Club features three different concepts across its floors. In the basement, Sip offers a moody atmosphere with signature drinks like the Tomato Tree and eye-catching porthole cocktails. The ground floor, Guzzle, is more casual with creative takes on classics. Up top, Savor is a members’ cigar lounge that opens to the public later in the evening.

Sangai
Located just above Savor, Sangai is the latest from SG Group—an exclusive omakase cocktail experience with only eight counter seats and two nightly seatings. The evening starts with a welcome matcha, followed by five inventive cocktails blending seasonal Japanese fruits with international spirits. For example, “Akita | Athens” pairs pear with tzatziki, while “Aichi | Cognac” matches fig with cognac. If you’re still up for more, they offer a special menu of classic cocktails with Japanese twists.For creative cocktail twists, try a matcha Negroni or a Hibiki Old Fashioned.

Record Bar Analog and Studio Mule
If you’re in the mood for music, Record Bar Analog and Studio Mule offer relaxed atmospheres with vintage speakers and shelves lined with vinyl. Both are owned by former DJs; the first specializes in cocktails, while the second is celebrated for its wide selection of natural wines.

Fuglen
For a vibrant local spot, check out Fuglen, which moved from Oslo and often has a line out the door from its early morning coffee service to late-night cocktails. If you’re staying at Trunk Hotel near Yoyogi Park, it’s conveniently located right next door.

### Where to Shop

Local Brands
In Tomigaya, you’ll find several boutiques featuring Japanese brands. Pivoine offers a diverse range of Japan-made clothing and handcrafted home goods, while Grapevine by K3 showcases its own designs alongside a mix of local and international labels. For high-end streetwear, Studious carries home-grown designers and has multiple locations in Shibuya. And with the word out that Onitsuka Tiger makes some of the most comfortable sneakers, their Nippon Made store in Jingumae sells premium Japan-made pairs that highlight Japanese craftsmanship.

Vintage
For vintage shopping, follow Alexa Chung’s lead through Harajuku’s alleys to spots like BerBerJin, known for its impressive collection of vintage Levi’s, or browse the massive thrift store Kinji. Shibuya is also home to well-known chains like Ragtag and Kindal, plus Vogue favorites such as Casanova and Vini Vini Vintage.

Department Stores
With new lifestyle complexes near Shibuya Station, there are plenty of retail options for mall lovers. Shibuya Parco and Miyashita Park have been revamped with new shops, restaurants, and green spaces, and Parco even has a whole floor dedicated to gaming and manga. Shibuya Scramble Square has changed the skyline and become a popular destination thanks to its large observatory, while Dogenzaka Dori features a branch of the discount store Don Quijote and a hotel. The new Shibuya AXSH offers 23 floors of shopping, dining, and public art.

Other Noteworthy Stores
Beyond clothing, Tower Records is a nostalgic trip for music lovers, with eight floors filled with vinyl and CDs across various genres. Utsuwa Marukaku is a true gem for pottery enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a helpful and clear list of FAQs about exploring Shibuya beyond the famous crossing

Beginner General Questions

Q What is there to do in Shibuya besides seeing the Scramble Crossing
A So much You can explore hidden alleyways with tiny bars discover unique fashion boutiques visit serene shrines and enjoy amazing food away from the main crowds

Q Is Shibuya just for shopping
A Not at all While its a shopping paradise its also a hub for art culture music nightlife and some of Tokyos best casual dining

Q How do I get to Shibuya
A Shibuya Station is a major hub Its easily reached via the JR Yamanote Line the Ginza and Hanzomon subway lines and several private railways

Q Is Shibuya expensive
A It can be but it doesnt have to be While there are highend stores youll also find affordable fashion chains 100yen shops and countless reasonably priced restaurants

Q Whats the best time to visit Shibuya
A Weekday afternoons are less crowded than weekends Evenings are vibrant and energetic For a unique experience visit early on a Sunday morning when the streets are nearly empty

Exploring Deeper Locations Activities

Q Where can I go to escape the crowds
A Head to the backstreets of Udagawacho and Dogenzaka Also visit Miyashita Park a rooftop park above the crowds or the peaceful Togo Shrine just a short walk away

Q I love unique fashion Where should I go
A Explore Koendori and Cat Street These areas are lined with independent boutiques vintage stores and flagship stores for trendy Japanese and international brands

Q Where can I find good food that isnt a big chain
A The small alleys known as Nonbei Yokocho and Udagawa Chika Shokudo are packed with tiny authentic restaurants and izakayas serving yakitori ramen and more