Shibuya & the Famous Crossing

Shibuya Crossing is the image most associate with Tokyo — the world's most famous pedestrian crossing. At each light change, up to 3,000 people simultaneously flow from all sides across the street, surrounded by giant LED screens and neon signs. It is organized chaos in perfection, and despite the crowds, no one collides.

The best view of the crossing is from the Shibuya Sky — the observation deck on the Shibuya Scramble Square (230 m high, ¥2,000/€12.50). Alternatively free: the Starbucks at the crossing (2nd floor Tsutaya Building) or the Mag's Park rooftop of the Shibuya 109 building.

In front of the station stands the bronze statue of Hachikō — the loyal Akita dog who waited daily at the station for his deceased owner for nine years (1925–1935). The story became a film and a symbol of Japanese loyalty. The statue is Tokyo's most popular meeting point.

Behind the crossing stretches a labyrinth of alleys with boutiques, izakayas, karaoke bars, and restaurants. The Shibuya Center-gai is the busiest shopping street, Nonbei Yokocho (Drunkard's Alley) a narrow alley with tiny bars for six guests each — perfect for an evening with sake and yakitori.