Located in Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, the “Harajuku” area stretches from around Harajuku Station to Omotesando Station. It stands as one of Japan’s premier shopping districts, attracting many young people and cutting-edge brands and items. This area is a hub for transmitting colorful, pop fashion worldwide, embodying the “kawaii” culture. On the other hand, Omotesando boasts high-end stores and serves as a celebrity-infused location within the Harajuku area. It also features natural attractions such as Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park.
Nearest station
- JR Harajuku station
- Tokyo Metro Meiji-jingumae Station
- Tokyo Metro Omotesando Station
Activities in Harajuku
Takeshita Dori
Harajuku’s main shopping street, extending from Harajuku Station to Meiji-dori Avenue, spans approximately 350 meters. It hosts a variety of reasonably priced and distinctive stores catering to young people. Many of these shops offer exclusive fashion items not found elsewhere, drawing global attention to the area as a trendsetting destination.
Most stores are open from about 11am to around 8pm.
JR Harajuku Sta.Takeshita Exit
Meiji Shrine
Located in Shibuya Ward, Tokyo, Meiji Shrine is one of Japan’s most renowned shrines, buit in 1912 to honor Emperor and Empress Meiji. Surrounded by lush natural landscapes and adorned with traditional architectural styles, it sits within the expansive grounds of Aokigahara Tree Park, offering worshippers a sanctuary for spiritual healing and rejuvenation. On New Year’s Day, crowds flock to the shrine for Hatsumode, and various events are held throughout the year, cementing its status as a vital symbol of Japanese culture and tradition.
Opening Hours : Monthly changes
JR Harajuku Sta. Omotesando Exit→ 2 min. / Tokyo Metro Meiji-jingumae Sta. Exit E2 → 4 min.
https://www.meijijingu.or.jp/en/
Yoyogi Park
Yoyogi Park is located adjacent to Meiji Jingu Shrine, spanning a vast area of 540,529 square meters. Its lush landscape of water and greenery defies its central city location, offering visitors a serene escape. Here, visitors can enjoy various activities such as cherry blossom viewing, picnicking, playing musical instruments, engaging in sports, and more, making it a versatile destination for leisure and recreation. Events are also held weekly.
Opening Hours : 24 hours
JR Harajuku Sta.Exit Omotesando Exit→ 3 min. / Tokyo Metro Yoyogi-koen Sta. Exit E4 → 3 min.
Omotesando
Omotesando is the street name for the approach to Meiji Shrine and its surrounding area in Shibuya Ward, Tokyo. It serves as one of the entrances to Meiji Shrine, extending from Aoyama-dori to the Jingu-bashi intersection (Meiji-jingu-mae) in front of Harajuku Station. Omotesando Avenue, running straight from Meiji Shrine towards Shibuya Station, is adorned with luxury brand stores, fashion boutiques, restaurants, cafes, and museums. This area presents sophisticated shopping and dining experiences.
JR Harajuku Sta.Exit Omotesando Exit / Tokyo Metro Omotesando Sta.
Eat Crepe
One of Harajuku’s specialties is crepes. It has long been a tradition to enjoy crepes while strolling around the area. Consequently, Harajuku boasts numerous crepe shops. Among the most popular crepes is the “Strawberry Banana Chocolate Ice Cream,” made with strawberries, bananas, vanilla ice cream, cream, and chocolate sauce.There are many crepe shops on Takeshita-dori.
Many menu items are reasonably priced at around 500 yen.
Cat Street
Cat Street serves as a charming promenade linking Harajuku to Shibuya. Contrasting the upscale boutiques of the main thoroughfare, it boasts an array of streetwear brands and eclectic shops, inviting visitors to explore its hidden gems. Nestled among them are quaint cafes, offering a serene respite for weary sightseers.
Tokyo Metro Meiji-jingumae Sta. Exit E4 → 4min. / JR Harajuku Sta.Exit Omotesando Exit→ 7min.
Museum
Ota Memorial Museum of Art
This museum specializes in ukiyo-e prints, a rarity in Tokyo. The museum has a collection of approximately 14,000 works. Each month there is an exhibition with a different theme.
Tokyo Metro Meiji-jingumae Sta. Exit E5 → 3min
Nezu Museum
This museum showcases Japanese and Oriental art, featuring Buddhist statues and Japanese paintings of national significance. Visitors can also enjoy a stroll through the expansive garden post-viewing.
Tokyo Metro Omotesando Sta. Exit A5→ 8min
Shopping
TOKYU PLAZA OMOTESANDO “OMOKADO”
Stylish fashion brands fill the building, with a famous mirrored escalator at the entrance. A rooftop garden offers a scenic break, providing a spectacular view of Harajuku.
Tokyo Metro Meiji-jingumae Sta. Exit 5 → 1min
Omotesando Hills
This shopping mall, designed by renowned architect Tadao Ando, boasts over 100 stores showcasing high-quality Japanese fashion brands and sophisticated items.
Tokyo Metro Omotesando Sta. Exit A3→ 3min
KIDDY LAND
A store selling goods of popular Japanese characters.
This is a recommended spot for fans of Japanese animation and visitors with children.
Tokyo Metro Meiji-jingumae Sta. Exit 4 → 6min
LaForet Harajuku
This Harajuku landmark is a hub for trendy, girly, vintage, and unisex clothing, including Lolita style, beloved by teens and young adults.
Tokyo Metro Meiji-jingumae Sta. Exit 5 → 1min
TOKYU PLAZA OMOTESANDO “HARAKADO”
This new commercial hub, Harakado, opened in April 2024, aiming to revive Harajuku’s creative spirit by attracting creators. It features a public bathhouse on the basement level.
Tokyo Metro Meiji-jingumae Sta. Exit 7 → 1min
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