Urban Pulse: Experiencing The Top Things To Do In Shibuya In Japan

A bustling Shibuya street scene with crowded sidewalks and iconic crossings, perfect for exploring things to do in Shibuya.

The things to do in Shibuya, Japan, offer an immersive exploration into one of Tokyo’s most iconic districts. Known for its cutting-edge fashion, busy streets, and impressive technology, this urban hub captivates visitors with endless discoveries. The famous Shibuya Crossing, eclectic eateries, and innovative art spaces create an environment that is energetic and forward-thinking. The following curated list captures things to see in Shibuya through ten must-do activities, each revealing a different facet of this dynamic neighborhood while providing practical details for seamless exploration.

Best Things To Do In Shibuya In Japan

These things to do in Shibuya, Japan, combine modern attractions, eclectic shopping, cuisine, intersections, art, nightlife, and urban cultural excitement.

1. Marvel At The Shibuya Scramble Crossing’s Urban Ballet

Shibuya Scramble Crossing, featuring fewer crowds, high police presence, and a lively atmosphere, showing various things to do in Shibuya.

Photo: Syced / Wikimedia Commons

Experience the famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing, an example of the best things to do in Shibuya. Watch thousands of pedestrians cross the intersection simultaneously while giant video displays project J-pop and advertisements. This organised movement creates an impressive urban display observable from popular viewpoints such as the Starbucks in Shibuya Tsutaya or Mag’s Park Rooftop. The scene transforms at night with glowing phone lights and rain‑soaked umbrellas forming a captivating mosaic.

Location: Outside Shibuya Station’s Hachiko Exit
Timings: 24*7
Best Time To Visit: March To May

2. Pay Homage At The Hachiko Statue’s Loyal Legacy

Hachiko Statue at Shibuya Square, a popular meeting spot surrounded by busy streets with various things to do in Shibuya.

Photo: Asanagi / Wikimedia Commons

Visit the iconic Hachiko Statue, one of the memorable things to do in Shibuya. This bronze sculpture commemorates the extraordinary loyalty of an Akita dog that waited nine years at Shibuya Station for his owner. The site is a popular meeting place and attracts many visitors who polish its surface with admiration. Photographs abound, especially in April when the statue is decorated with fresh flowers during the Hanami canine parade.

Location: Shibuya Station’s Hachiko Exit
Best Time To Visit: April
Nearby Attractions: Shibuya Scramble, Nonbei Yokocho

3. Ascend The Shibuya Sky’s Celestial Observation Deck

Panoramic view from Shibuya Sky observation deck, overlooking Tokyo’s skyline making it an unforgettable highlight among the top things to do in Shibuya.

Photo: Kakidai / Wikimedia Commons

Ascend the Shibuya Sky observation deck, one of the premier things to do in Shibuya. Board the ‘Sky Gate’ elevator that travels through a 14‑metre digital art tunnel to reach the highest open‑air observatory at 229 metres. Enjoy a complete 360‑degree view ranging from Mount Fuji’s snowy peak to the Toyosu fish market. At sunset, the glass‑corner becomes a striking Instagram attraction, and at night, the Scramble Crossing glows like a luminous X.

Location: Shibuya Scramble Square, 45F
Timings: 10 AM – 10:30 PM

4. Shop ‘Til You Drop At Shibuya 109’s Fashion Galaxy

The iconic Shibuya 109 building in Tokyo stands tall with vibrant advertisements, symbolizing trendy shopping and attractions in Shibuya.

Photo: Chris 73 / Wikimedia Commons

Explore Shibuya 109, one of the best things to do in Shibuya. This iconic cylindrical shopping centre hosts 120 boutiques over 10 floors, setting trends for teenage fashion. Discover a diverse range of styles from Lolita dresses to punk accessories, reflecting a focused street culture. The basement section, known as ‘109 Men’s’, offers gender-neutral apparel and exclusive sneakers, making it a must‑visit destination for fashion enthusiasts looking for modern, distinctive Japanese trends.

Location: 2-29-1 Dogenzaka
Timings: 10 AM – 9 PM
Best Time To Visit: January and July

5. Discover Quirky Finds At Tokyu Hands’ Creative Wonderland

Tokyu Hands store featuring a modern storefront, bright sign, and neatly arranged merchandise displays.

Photo: GoAheadFan95 / Wikimedia Commons

Discover Tokyu Hands, one of the intriguing things to do in Shibuya. This multi-level creative store spans eight floors and offers over 100,000 diverse items, ranging from heat-sensitive nail polish to samurai sword umbrellas. The ‘Make It Yourself’ section hosts practical craft workshops, while the travel area features exclusive Japanese luggage tags. Visitors are encouraged to review the event calendar for seasonal displays, including February’s Valentine’s chocolate mold exhibition, ensuring a unique shopping experience.

Location: 12-18 Udagawacho
Timings: 10 AM – 9 PM

6. Immerse In Culture At Bunkamura’s Artistic Oasis

Bunkamura building in Shibuya, surrounded by pedestrians and urban structures under a bright cloudy sky.

Photo: Syced / Wikimedia Commons

Experience Bunkamura, one of the standout things to do in Shibuya. This cultural complex, also known as Culture Village, offers classical concerts at Orchard Hall and hosts indie film festivals at Le Cinema. The Museum of Art features exhibitions, including a Hayao Miyazaki storyboard retrospective in 2025. Visitors should also try art‑themed parfaits at the Rose & I Café, such as the Van Gogh Sunflower dessert adorned with edible gold leaf for a treat.

Location: 2-24-1 Dogenzaka
Timings: 10 AM – 11 PM

7. Explore History At Konno Hachimangu Shrine’s Sacred Grounds

Traditional wooden entrance gate of Konno Hachiman Shrine in Shibuya, surrounded by greenery and stone pathway.

Photo: Rs1421 / Wikimedia Commons

Explore the historic Konno Hachimangu Shrine, one of the meaningful things to do in Shibuya. Established in 1092, this shrine honours the longstanding Shibuya clan. Visitors can experience the annual Reitaisai festival held on September 15-16, featuring events like horseback archery and a bustling food market with 100 stalls. A revered Power Stone positioned near the torii gate is traditionally touched three times clockwise to bring prosperous business fortune.

Location: 1-12-16 Shibuya
Timings: 6 AM – 5 PM

8. Dine Along Shibuya Stream’s Riverside Terraces

Modern buildings and a scenic canal at Shibuya Stream, displaying aesthetic architecture and urban charm.

Photo: 江戸村のとくぞう / Wikimedia Commons

Dine along Shibuya Stream, one of the most beautiful things to do in Shibuya. This revitalised 800‑metre canal hosts over 30 restaurants on floating decks, offering diverse dining experiences. Options include Sushiro’s omakase course and the Robotayaki Grill’s innovative skewer suggestions powered by AI. In December, an illumination festival casts 500,000 LED ‘fireflies’ over the water, creating a striking scene best enjoyed at the French‑Japanese fusion bistro Le Ruisseau.

Location: 3-21-3 Shibuya
Timings: 11 AM – 11 PM

9. Admire The Myth Of Tomorrow’s Atomic Allegory

Atomic Allegory" depicts a surreal fusion of scientific symbolism and abstract elements, representing the complex relationship between humanity and nuclear power.

Photo: PHGCOM / Wikimedia Commons

Admire Taro Okamoto’s atomic allegory, one of the striking things to do in Shibuya. The 30‑metre mural at Shibuya Station portrays a skeleton immersed in nuclear flames, conceived after Hiroshima and missing for four decades. An AR guide available overlays dynamic animations that clarify the mural’s symbolism. Every night at 8 PM, projection mapping converts the artwork into an expressive anti‑war display, leaving a lasting impression on all who view it.

Location: Shibuya Station In-Building Passage
Timings: 5 AM – 1 AM

10. Relax In Yoyogi Park’s Urban Oasis

People relaxing on the grass under cherry blossom trees at Yoyogi Park, enjoying a peaceful spring day in Shibuya.

Photo: Peter Van den Bossche / Wikimedia Commons

Relaxing in Yoyogi Park, one of the peaceful things to do in Shibuya. Despite its location in nearby Harajuku, this extensive 134‑acre park is a popular picnic destination. On Sundays, rockabilly dancers perform by the fountain while anime cosplayers gather along forest trails. During April, the park hosts Hanami parties where salarymen reserve blue tarps as viewing spots for cherry blossoms, creating a lively celebration of seasonal beauty in the urban landscape.

Location: 2-1 Yoyogikamizonocho
Timings: 24*7
Best Time To Visit: March to April

These things to do in Shibuya, Japan, present an electrifying mixture of futuristic cityscape and traditional charm. This district offers innovative retail, memorable dining, and creative urban art that reflect its ever-evolving spirit. Visitors can explore iconic crossings, trendy cafes, and famous observation decks, all contributing to a unique urban experience. Engage with the local culture, meet international trendsetters, and savour culinary delights while roaming busy streets. Let TripXL’s travel packages guide your journey to what to do in Shibuya for an unforgettable urban adventure with passion.

Cover Photo: Aleksandar Pasaric / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

Spring and autumn offer comfortable weather and fewer crowds in Shibuya.
Winters average around 5°C, while summer days can climb to nearly 30°C.
Shibuya operates on Japan Standard Time (UTC+9) without daylight saving adjustments.
All purchases in Shibuya are made in Japanese Yen (JPY).
Narita International Airport and Haneda Airport are the main access points.

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