Shibuya Scramble Crossing, Tokyo - an aerial view of a city with lots of tall buildings
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Shibuya Scramble Crossing

4.5
·15k reviews·Shibuya, Japan

Experience the world's busiest intersection, a mesmerizing dance of humanity at the heart of Tokyo's vibrant Shibuya district.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday evenings

See the crossing light up

CrowdHigh
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Shibuya Scramble Crossing, Tokyo - an aerial view of a city with lots of tall buildings

Shibuya Scramble Crossing

Best Time

Weekday evenings

See the crossing light up

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience the world's busiest intersection, a mesmerizing dance of humanity at the heart of Tokyo's vibrant Shibuya district.

4.5
(15k reviews)

"It's a must-see spectacle of organized chaos, a true symbol of Tokyo's pulsating energy."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Best View: Mag's Park

Skip the Starbucks queues! Mag's Park rooftop offers great Shibuya Scramble Crossing views. Go after 11 AM.

🚶‍♀️ Walk Cat Street

Stroll down Cat Street from Shibuya towards Harajuku for unique shops and a more relaxed vibe.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Scramble

The Iconic Scramble

Shibuya Station

Witness the organized chaos as thousands cross from all directions when the lights turn green. A true Tokyo spectacle!

Hachiko Statue

Hachiko Statue

Outside Shibuya Station (Hachiko Exit)

Pay respects to the loyal dog Hachiko, a beloved meeting point and symbol of devotion.

Mag's Park Rooftop

Mag's Park Rooftop

Magnet by Shibuya 109

Get a fantastic, less crowded view of the Shibuya Scramble Crossing from this accessible rooftop.

Shibuya Sky

Shibuya Sky

Shibuya Scramble Square

Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Tokyo, including the Shibuya Scramble Crossing, from this modern observation deck.

Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Scramble

The Shibuya Scramble Crossing is an iconic Tokyo experience, but it's also incredibly busy. Plan to visit during off-peak hours if you prefer fewer crowds. Consider using the elevated walkways for a less chaotic perspective.

Best Viewing Spots

While the Starbucks in Tsutaya used to be a prime spot, it's often crowded. For unobstructed views of the Shibuya Scramble Crossing, head to Mag's Park rooftop or Shibuya Sky. Arrive early to secure a good vantage point.

Best Times

When
Weekday evenings
Why
See the crossing light up
Crowd
High
When
Weekend mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, good light
Crowd
Medium
When
Late night
Why
Quieter, vibrant atmosphere
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Instead of trying to find a window spot at Starbucks and waiting in long queues, head up to Mag’s Park for much better views of the Shibuya Crossing! . Make sure to go after 11AM as the space is close...
@sammar_h
142.3K likes • 2.8M views

🎯 Best View: Mag's Park

Skip the Starbucks queues! Mag's Park rooftop offers great Shibuya Scramble Crossing views. Go after 11 AM. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Walk Cat Street

Stroll down Cat Street from Shibuya towards Harajuku for unique shops and a more relaxed vibe. Reddit

9 MUST DO activities for first timers visiting Shinjuku and Harajuku within 1 day in Tokyo , Japan
@syafiqrapidreviews
56.7K likes • 1.2M views
The busiest pedestrian crossing in the world! 🤯 2.5 million people cross the crossing on average each day! I used to love the view of the famous Shibuya Scramble crossing from the Starbucks in Tsuta...
helenabradbury
18.1K likes • 1.3M views

💳 Get a Suica/Pasmo Card

Essential for transport and payments. Easily top up and use for trains, buses, and shopping. TikTok

📸 Respect the Crossing

Do NOT stop in the middle of the Shibuya Scramble Crossing to take photos. Be mindful of others. Reddit

Shibuya Scramble Crossing | As Seen From Magnet 9 | Shibuya | Tokyo | Japan #japan #tokyo #shibuya #sunset #timelapse
dronecapturedmoments
79 likes • 3.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Best View: Mag's Park

Skip the Starbucks queues! Mag's Park rooftop offers great Shibuya Scramble Crossing views. Go after 11 AM. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Walk Cat Street

Stroll down Cat Street from Shibuya towards Harajuku for unique shops and a more relaxed vibe. Reddit

💳 Get a Suica/Pasmo Card

Essential for transport and payments. Easily top up and use for trains, buses, and shopping. TikTok

📸 Respect the Crossing

Do NOT stop in the middle of the Shibuya Scramble Crossing to take photos. Be mindful of others. Reddit

⬆️ Elevated Views are Key

For the best Shibuya Scramble Crossing experience, view it from above. Mag's Park or Shibuya Sky are top choices. Instagram+1

📍 Hachiko Statue Meetup

The famous Hachiko statue is a classic meeting spot and photo op right outside Shibuya Station. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.5
(15k reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Shibuya Scramble Crossing is an electrifying, must-see Tokyo icon, celebrated for its sheer scale and organized chaos. Visitors rave about the unique energy and the thrill of experiencing it firsthand, especially from elevated viewpoints. However, some find the crowds overwhelming and advise caution when navigating the intersection.

"Stopped by the scramble at night. It’s exactly what you would expect. Lots of lights and jam packed with people. You can feel the excitement in the air! It’s definitely worth a stop if you are looking for some iconic photos and fun."

Hungry Robb

"Shibuya Scramble Crossing is a must-see in Tokyo. It's a fascinating, chaotic spectacle of people crossing from all directions. The sheer scale and coordinated movement are mesmerizing. It's the perfect spot to feel the city's pulse and get a great photo."

P

"Overall, it's a pretty cool place to experience. It's not as big as it looks online, but there are plenty of people to keep the area busy. Plenty to see and good. It is a great area to spend the day exploring if you're looking for something to do."

Travis Yeary

What People Like

Iconic Tokyo spectacle
Vibrant energy
Great photo opportunities

What People Dislike

Overwhelming crowds
Can be chaotic

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Shibuya Scramble Crossing is directly outside the Hachiko Exit of Shibuya Station. You can't miss it! For access to Shibuya Scramble Square from ground level, you'll be walking under the station, not entering it directly. Reddit

Yes, Shibuya Station is a major hub served by multiple train lines, including JR, Keio, Odakyu, and Tokyo Metro lines. It's very easy to reach from most parts of Tokyo. TikTok

From Narita Airport (NRT), take the Narita Express to Shibuya Station. The journey takes about 1.5 hours. Alternatively, the Limousine Bus is a convenient option. TikTok

The Japan Rail Pass is valid on JR lines, including the JR Yamanote Line which stops at Shibuya Station. However, it's not valid on private railway lines or subways. TikTok

Take the JR Yamanote Line from Shinjuku Station directly to Shibuya Station. The ride is short, about 7 minutes. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Shibuya Scramble Crossing itself is a public street and is free to experience. Viewing platforms like Shibuya Sky require tickets. Instagram

The crossing is a public street and is open 24/7. However, the surrounding shops and observation decks have their own operating hours. Instagram

Yes, Shibuya Sky is an observation deck and requires a ticket for entry. It's recommended to book tickets in advance, especially for sunset times. Instagram

Tickets for Shibuya Sky can be purchased online through their official website or at the ticket counter on the 14th floor of Shibuya Scramble Square. Booking online is often cheaper and guarantees entry. Instagram

Yes, Mag's Park rooftop on the Magnet by Shibuya 109 building offers free views. Some cafes, like the Starbucks in Tsutaya, also provide views, though they can be crowded. TikTokReddit

📸 📸 Photography & Views

Mag's Park rooftop at Magnet by Shibuya 109 offers excellent, accessible views. Shibuya Sky provides a more expansive, panoramic vista of the crossing and the city. Instagram+1

The Starbucks on the second floor of the Tsutaya building used to be a popular spot, but it's often very crowded. While you can get a view, Mag's Park or Shibuya Sky are generally better options now. Reddit

Sunset and evening are popular times to photograph the Shibuya Scramble Crossing as the city lights come alive. Weekday evenings offer a vibrant atmosphere. Instagram

Use a wide-angle lens to capture the scale. Consider a tripod for low-light shots. Most importantly, be patient and wait for the perfect moment when the lights change. Instagram

It is strongly advised against stopping or taking photos in the middle of the Shibuya Scramble Crossing. It's dangerous and inconsiderate to pedestrians. Reddit

🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining

Shibuya 109 is famous for its trendy fashion. Don Quijote is a massive discount store open late. Explore the backstreets for unique boutiques and vintage shops. Reddit

You won't find many street food carts directly at the crossing. Instead, explore the numerous restaurants and food stalls within the surrounding shopping complexes and streets. Reddit

Miyashita Park offers a food street with many restaurants and outdoor seating. Shibuya Hikarie also has diverse dining options. Explore the backstreets for hidden gems. Reddit+1

Shibuya 109 is a landmark department store renowned for its cutting-edge youth fashion, particularly for women. Reddit

While not directly at the crossing, Tokyo Camii mosque in Shibuya offers a halal supermarket. You can also find halal-certified restaurants in Tokyo, though they may require some searching. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Shibuya Scramble Crossing can be an exciting spectacle for children, but keep a close eye on them due to the crowds. The Hachiko statue is a friendly landmark that kids often enjoy. TikTok For a more engaging experience, consider visiting Miyashita Park, which has open spaces and diverse food options that can appeal to younger palates. Reddit+1 Viewing the crossing from Mag's Park or Shibuya Sky offers a safe, elevated perspective that can be less overwhelming than being in the thick of the crowd. TikTokInstagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Shibuya Scramble Crossing is a photographer's dream, especially at dusk and night when the neon lights illuminate the scene. For the best vantage points, head to Mag's Park or the Shibuya Sky observation deck. Instagram+1 Experiment with different angles and try to capture the movement of the crowds. Remember to be patient and wait for the perfect moment when the lights change. Avoid stopping in the middle of the crossing, as it's dangerous and disruptive. Reddit

🛍️ Shoppers & Foodies

Shibuya is a paradise for shoppers and food lovers. Explore the iconic Shibuya 109 for the latest fashion trends, or dive into the multi-story Don Quijote for a unique discount shopping adventure. Reddit For a culinary journey, Miyashita Park offers a wide array of dining choices, from casual eateries to more upscale restaurants. Reddit+1 Don't shy away from exploring the smaller streets, as they often hide local eateries and specialty shops.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Experiencing the Shibuya Scramble

The Shibuya Scramble Crossing is more than just an intersection; it's a pulsating symbol of Tokyo's energy. When the traffic lights turn red for vehicles, a wave of pedestrians surges from all directions, creating a mesmerizing, organized chaos. It's a must-see for any visitor to Tokyo, offering a unique glimpse into the city's dynamic pace. Instagram

To truly appreciate the spectacle, consider viewing it from above. While the Starbucks in the Tsutaya building was once a popular vantage point, it's often packed. Mag's Park rooftop on the Magnet by Shibuya 109 building provides a fantastic, accessible, and often less crowded alternative. For an even more breathtaking panorama, the Shibuya Sky observation deck atop Shibuya Scramble Square offers unparalleled 360-degree views of the crossing and the sprawling metropolis. TikTokInstagram+1

When crossing yourself, remember to be mindful of others. As Reddit users point out, stopping in the middle of the scramble for photos is dangerous and inconsiderate. Embrace the flow, take it all in, and enjoy this iconic Tokyo experience. Reddit

Beyond the Crossing: Exploring Shibuya

While the Shibuya Scramble Crossing is the main draw, the surrounding area offers a wealth of attractions. The Hachiko statue, a beloved meeting point, is a must-visit for a touch of local history and sentiment. TikTok For shoppers, Shibuya 109 is a fashion mecca, while the massive Don Quijote store provides a unique discount shopping experience. Reddit

For a more relaxed exploration, wander down Cat Street, a charming lane connecting Shibuya to Harajuku, lined with independent boutiques and cafes. Reddit If you're looking for diverse dining options, Miyashita Park boasts a vibrant food street with plenty of choices and outdoor seating, making it a great spot to refuel after sightseeing. Reddit+1

For those seeking spiritual solace, Tokyo Camii, Japan's largest mosque, is located in Shibuya and offers a peaceful retreat, complete with a halal supermarket. TikTok Whether you're interested in shopping, dining, or simply soaking in the local atmosphere, Shibuya has much more to offer than just its famous intersection.

Getting Around Shibuya with Ease

Navigating Tokyo, especially busy hubs like Shibuya, is made significantly easier with an IC card like Suica or Pasmo. These rechargeable cards can be used for all public transport, including trains and buses, and can also be used for payments at many convenience stores, vending machines, and shops. TikTok You can even add them to your Apple Pay to avoid the initial deposit. TikTok

Shibuya Station itself is a complex hub, and understanding its layout is key. As Reddit users have noted, the ground-level access to Shibuya Scramble Square involves walking under the station, not directly into it. Reddit This can be confusing at first, but once you understand the underpass system, it becomes clear. Reddit

For longer distances, the JR Yamanote Line is a convenient loop line that connects Shibuya to other major Tokyo districts like Shinjuku and Tokyo Station. TikTok If you're planning extensive travel within Tokyo, consider purchasing a Suica or Pasmo card upon arrival to streamline your journeys and payments.

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