Meiji-dori Shibuya
Experience Tokyo's vibrant pulse on Meiji-dori, connecting the iconic Shibuya Crossing with the serene Meiji Jingu Shrine and the quirky fashion of Ha...

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer vibe
Meiji-dori Shibuya
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer vibe

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience Tokyo's vibrant pulse on Meiji-dori, connecting the iconic Shibuya Crossing with the serene Meiji Jingu Shrine and the quirky fashion of Harajuku.
"A must-visit for experiencing Tokyo's electrifying energy and serene escapes."
🚶♀️ Embrace the Walk
Meiji-dori is best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes to navigate the bustling streets and discover hidden alleys.
📸 Capture the Moment
From the iconic Shibuya Crossing to the serene Meiji Jingu, there are endless photo opportunities. Keep your phone charged!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Shibuya Crossing
Shibuya Station
The world's busiest intersection, a mesmerizing dance of humanity. Experience the organized chaos from above or dive into the throng.

Meiji Jingu Shrine
Adjacent to Harajuku Station
A serene oasis dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Escape the city bustle amidst a lush forest.

Takeshita Street
Harajuku
Harajuku's iconic street, a kaleidoscope of quirky fashion, colorful snacks, and unique shops. Embrace the vibrant youth culture.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Shibuya's Pulse
Connecting with Culture
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Full day in Shibuya
🚶♀️ Embrace the Walk
Meiji-dori is best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes to navigate the bustling streets and discover hidden alleys.
📸 Capture the Moment
From the iconic Shibuya Crossing to the serene Meiji Jingu, there are endless photo opportunities. Keep your phone charged!
Itinerary Advice - Is this day in Tokyo overloaded?
Shinjuku and Shibuya in 1 day
⏰ Beat the Rush
For a more relaxed experience, visit popular spots like Shibuya Crossing and Takeshita Street earlier in the day.
🛍️ Shop Smart
Harajuku's Takeshita Street is famous for unique fashion. Explore side streets for less crowded, equally trendy finds.
What to do in Shibuya after the Scramble?
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Embrace the Walk
Meiji-dori is best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes to navigate the bustling streets and discover hidden alleys.
📸 Capture the Moment
From the iconic Shibuya Crossing to the serene Meiji Jingu, there are endless photo opportunities. Keep your phone charged!
⏰ Beat the Rush
For a more relaxed experience, visit popular spots like Shibuya Crossing and Takeshita Street earlier in the day.
🛍️ Shop Smart
Harajuku's Takeshita Street is famous for unique fashion. Explore side streets for less crowded, equally trendy finds.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Meiji-dori in Shibuya is a dynamic district celebrated for its iconic Shibuya Crossing and the serene Meiji Jingu Shrine. Visitors rave about the vibrant atmosphere, unique shopping in Harajuku, and the contrast between urban energy and natural tranquility. Some find the crowds overwhelming, especially on weekends.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Meiji-dori is easily accessible via public transport. The most common access point is Shibuya Station, served by numerous JR and subway lines. From Shibuya Station, you can walk directly onto Meiji-dori. For areas closer to Meiji Jingu Shrine, Harajuku Station is also a convenient option.
Meiji-dori connects Shibuya and Harajuku, which are adjacent. While walkable between these two districts, it's a significant distance from other major areas like Shinjuku or Tokyo Station. It's best to use the efficient Tokyo train system for longer distances.
Meiji-dori is a major street, and the best way to experience it is by walking. This allows you to fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere, pop into shops, and witness the vibrant street life.
Yes, Shibuya Station is the primary hub for Meiji-dori. If you're heading towards the Harajuku end or Meiji Jingu Shrine, Harajuku Station is also very close. Both stations are well-connected.
Taxis are available in Shibuya, especially around the station. However, during peak hours, traffic can be heavy, making it slower and more expensive than the train. For short distances along Meiji-dori, walking is often more efficient.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, walking along Meiji-dori itself is free and open to the public. The street is a public thoroughfare.
Meiji Jingu Shrine is generally open from sunrise to sunset. The exact times vary slightly by season, so it's good to check closer to your visit. Entry to the grounds is free.
Shibuya Crossing is a public intersection and has no entrance fee. You can experience it from street level or from various vantage points in surrounding buildings for free.
Individual shops, cafes, and restaurants along Meiji-dori and in the surrounding Shibuya and Harajuku areas do not have entry fees. You only pay for any purchases you make.
To avoid the largest crowds at Meiji Jingu Shrine, aim for weekday mornings, ideally shortly after opening. Weekends and holidays will be significantly busier.
📸 📸 Photography
The iconic Shibuya Crossing is a must-capture, especially from the Starbucks overlooking it. Meiji Jingu Shrine offers serene forest paths and the grand torii gates. Harajuku's Takeshita Street is perfect for vibrant street photography.
Yes, photography is generally allowed within the grounds of Meiji Jingu Shrine, including the main sanctuary area. However, be respectful and avoid intrusive photography, especially during ceremonies.
There are generally no specific restrictions on personal photography in public areas like Shibuya Crossing. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits. Be mindful of private property and individuals.
For dramatic shots of Shibuya Crossing, try dusk or early evening when the neon lights begin to glow. For a more serene feel at Meiji Jingu, early morning light is beautiful.
Drone usage is highly restricted in urban areas of Tokyo, including Shibuya and around Meiji Jingu Shrine, due to safety and privacy concerns. It's best to avoid bringing drones.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
Meiji-dori is a fashion hub. In Shibuya, you'll find major department stores and trendy boutiques. Harajuku's Takeshita Street is famous for quirky youth fashion, accessories, and unique souvenirs.
Shibuya offers an overwhelming array of dining options, from casual ramen shops and conveyor belt sushi to themed cafes and upscale restaurants. Harajuku is known for its street food, crepes, and colorful sweets.
Absolutely! Look for ramen shops, udon restaurants, and fast-food chains like Mos Burger or Lotteria for affordable meals. Convenience stores (konbini) also offer delicious and inexpensive bento boxes and snacks.
Don't miss the famous Harajuku crepes, rainbow cotton candy, and unique flavored popcorn. Many stalls offer visually appealing and tasty treats perfect for a quick bite.
Yes, especially in Harajuku's Takeshita Street, you can find quirky and unique souvenirs like character goods, novelty items, and fashionable accessories that reflect Japanese pop culture.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
In Harajuku, Takeshita Street is a wonderland of colorful snacks and quirky shops that kids will love. Look for the famous Harajuku crepes and unique sweets. While it can be crowded, the sheer visual stimulation is often a hit. Consider visiting earlier in the day to manage crowds.
🛍️ Shoppers & Fashionistas
Harajuku's Takeshita Street is the ultimate destination for unique, avant-garde, and kawaii fashion. Beyond Takeshita, explore the more upscale boutiques on Omotesando Avenue for designer brands. This area is a constant source of inspiration for fashion lovers.
🚶♂️ Culture & History Buffs
While Meiji-dori itself is modern, its proximity to Meiji Jingu provides a significant cultural counterpoint. Understanding the historical context of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken adds depth to the visit, offering a peaceful respite and a connection to Japan's imperial heritage.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Experiencing Shibuya Crossing
To truly appreciate the crossing, consider visiting at different times of day. Weekday mornings offer a glimpse of commuters, while evenings and weekends explode with vibrant neon lights and a palpable buzz. The Hachiko statue, a loyal dog immortalized in bronze, is a popular meeting point just outside Shibuya Station and a poignant reminder of loyalty amidst the modern hustle.
Navigating the crossing itself is an experience. Don't be afraid to join the flow; it's surprisingly efficient. Look for the pedestrian signals and follow the crowd. It's a quintessential Tokyo moment that captures the city's pulse.
The Serenity of Meiji Jingu Shrine
The shrine itself is dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, who played a crucial role in Japan's modernization. The architecture is simple yet elegant, reflecting a traditional Shinto style. Visitors can write wishes on ema (wooden plaques) or participate in purification rituals. The vastness of the grounds means you can often find quiet spots for reflection, even on busy days.
It's important to remember that Meiji Jingu is an active place of worship. While photography is permitted, visitors should maintain a respectful demeanor. The contrast between the vibrant youth culture of nearby Harajuku and the profound peace of Meiji Jingu is one of the most striking aspects of this area.
Harajuku's Takeshita Street Culture
Expect to find everything from avant-garde fashion and vintage clothing to anime merchandise and novelty accessories. The street food scene is equally iconic, with famous crepes, rainbow cotton candy, and an array of sweet and savory snacks. It's a fantastic place to people-watch and soak in the energetic, creative atmosphere.
While Takeshita Street can get incredibly crowded, especially on weekends, exploring the smaller side streets branching off it can reveal even more hidden gems and unique shops. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in Japanese pop culture, fashion, and a truly unique urban experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit