Shibuya Hotels

Shibuya is one of the biggest wards in Tokyo. People flock here all the time because it’s your one-stop-shop for everything related to shopping, dining, and entertainment. It comes as no surprise that this part of the city comes alive in the morning and it only dies down hours before the next day starts. Neon lights will greet you here especially at night, making your stay in Japan all the more amazing.

How to Go

Like any other visitors heading to Japan, people that want to go to Shibuya will land in either Narita International Airport or Haneda International Airport. From there, you may opt to take a cab, the bus loop, or the train heading into this part of the city.

Getting Around

Tokyo is a big city, but its intricate and efficient transport system makes it easier for tourists to get around. A cab around the city is also available, but most people opt for the bus and more so the subway to get to and from. To get to things faster, Japan has JR apps that are available in English. This generates the ideal route, its estimated fare, and your arrival time to help you maximize your stay.

Once you’re in Shibuya, the train would connect certain parts of it. However, most of the time, going around on foot would be the best way to see more of this part of the city. Especially if you’re interested in finding hidden shops and bars, this would be your best option.

Top Things to Do

The energy of Shibuya is something else. It never sleeps and even during hours where you would think there won’t be a couple of people, it surprises you. Shibuya is also considered as Japan’s center of youth culture. If you want to see the upcoming trends in fashion and music, this is where you should be. Shopping would be one of the biggest activities in Shibuya because department stores are everywhere here. Not only this, but independent shops are also around and they cater to all sorts of people.

If you want to see how busy this place is, go to the ever-popular Shibuya crossing where hundreds of people pass by every day. It’s a huge intersection dotted with neon signs and the biggest video screens. Near it would be the beloved Hachiko Statue that’s dedicated to Japan’s favorite furry hero.

For a good view of the city, go to the newly opened Shibuya Scramble Square that has an observatory. It also has about 200 shops and restaurants. If you want to shop for the latest trendy clothing, Shibuya 109 is the best place to go. It has over 100 boutiques for men and women. The forever standout store of Don Quixote (DONKI) is everywhere but Shibuya has the biggest branch. You’ll find everything you need here from food to tea to even gadgets. For the gamers, Shibuya PARCO has the first Nintendo store in Japan as well as the Pokemon Center.

What to Eat

Malls are everywhere in Shibuya with each one competing to have the best dining experience for its customers. Niku Yokocho is made up of 26 restaurants that serve purely meat dishes. If you want a taste of great yakiniku or Japanese steak, make sure you head on over here. Shibuya Stream is one of the new complexes that recently opened. It has the most popular restaurants and cafes in the city.

Nightlife

There is something Shibuya is most known for its nightlife. Once the neon lights open in the city, the people come out for drinks no matter what day it is. Right off the crossing is Center Gai Street that’s dotted with bars, izakayas, and clubs. It’s the ideal place to have a quick bite of ramen and beer after. Nonbei Yakucho, also known as “drunker’s alley'' in Japanese, is off the beaten path of Shibuya. It’s loaded with bars and you’ll see the common sight of a drunk local lying somewhere. If you want to get drunk like the locals, this is definitely the place to be.

Karaoke parlors are also everywhere in Shibuya and most locals love doing this with friends. For a unique experience, the Ganguro Cafe in Shibuya would be the best place. It’s a subculture in Shibuya that’s known for women with tanned skin, colorful makeup, and colored hair. They can also give you a complete makeover to top off your night.

Where to Stay

Shibuya is a big place so finding the right place to stay in may seem complicated. There’s no need to worry though because there are many hotels in Shibuya that you can book. If you want to be at the center of things, a hotel near the Shibuya crossing is the best place to stay in. Once you’re down there, you’re already walking distance from shops, restaurants, and bars. Places by Yoyogi Park would be quieter so this is best for families.

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