Ultimate Shibuya Guide for First-Timers: What to Eat, Do, and Buy

If you’re going to Tokyo, you’ve definitely heard of Shibuya. It’s the city’s buzzing centre of youth culture, nightlife, and fashion. Where else can you cross the world’s busiest intersection, catch a rooftop sunset, and eat sushi from a bullet train…all before dinner?

What used to be just a transport hub has turned into one of Tokyo’s most iconic districts. Whether it’s your first trip or you’ve been before, this guide will help you explore Shibuya without getting overwhelmed.

Also read: 21 Cheap and Free Things to Do in Tokyo: A 2025 Budget Travel Guide

Must-visit attractions

Start with the Shibuya Crossing

It’s the moment that makes you go, “I’m really in Tokyo.” Shibuya Crossing is one of the busiest pedestrian intersections in the world, with hundreds of people moving in all directions every time the light changes. It might look chaotic, but watching everyone flow around each other so seamlessly is strangely calming.

Walk across once to feel the buzz, then head somewhere with a view. Starbucks Tsutaya has large windows overlooking the crossing, though it gets crowded. If you want something quieter and more scenic, Shibuya Sky offers a full aerial view from far above.

Go up to Shibuya Sky

At the top of Shibuya Scramble Square, Shibuya Sky gives you a full 360-degree view of Tokyo. The open-air rooftop makes everything feel close yet endless. On a clear day, you can even spot Mount Fuji rising above the skyline.

The space itself is designed for lingering. There are reflective art installations, wide wooden decks, and grassy areas where you can sit and take it all in. Sunset is a popular time, so book tickets in advance if you want that golden hour glow.

Snap photos at the Hachiko Statue

Just outside the Hachiko Exit of Shibuya Station, you’ll find the statue of Hachiko, the famously loyal dog who waited for his owner every day for nearly ten years. It’s small and usually surrounded by people, but still worth a quick visit.

If you’re lucky enough to be there in spring, you might catch cherry blossoms blooming just above the statue. That quiet contrast, nestled in the middle of Shibuya’s noise, is what makes it special.

What to eat in Shibuya

Uobei Sushi

Location: 2 Chome-29-11 Dogenzaka
This futuristic sushi spot is a favourite among both tourists and locals. Instead of traditional conveyor belts, your food arrives on high-speed mini trains that glide directly to your seat. You place your order on a touchscreen with clear photos and English support. The sushi is simple but fresh, and the experience is fast, affordable, and fun. It’s especially good for solo diners or anyone looking for a quick stop between shops.

Ichiran Ramen Shibuya

Location: 1 Chome-22-7 Jinnan
Ichiran is known for its rich tonkotsu broth and private dining booths that let you focus entirely on your meal. You can customise everything, from the strength of the soup to the texture of the noodles and the level of spice. After choosing from a vending machine menu, you’re seated in a quiet cubicle where staff serve you through a small curtain. There’s usually a queue, especially in the evenings, but it moves steadily. If you’re eating alone or just want a no-fuss ramen experience, this is the place to go.

Hoshino Coffee Shibuya

Location: Shibuya Modi, 1 Chome-21-3 Jinnan
When you need a break from the crowd, this retro-style café is a peaceful spot for a slow meal. Their signature is the thick, fluffy soufflé pancake, often served with syrup, butter, or seasonal fruit. The coffee is hand-dripped and smooth, and the cosy booths make it easy to lose track of time. It’s a good place to recharge, especially on weekday mornings when it’s less busy.

Shibuya Yokocho at Miyashita Park

Location: 6-20-10 Jingumae
Inside the Miyashita Park complex, Shibuya Yokocho feels like a throwback to old-school Tokyo nightlife. Dozens of small food stalls serve regional Japanese dishes, from kushikatsu skewers to spicy miso ramen and grilled seafood. It’s lively in the evenings, with a mix of locals and visitors crowding around shared tables. If you want to try a bit of everything in one place, this is a fun and easy way to do it.

This retro-style food alley has small stalls selling regional Japanese dishes and drinks. It gets lively in the evenings and is great for sampling lots of food in one go.

Also read: What to Eat in Tokyo: 10 Must-Try Foods and Where to Find Them

Malls & Shopping in Shibuya

Shibuya PARCO

Location: 15-1 Udagawacho
This stylish shopping mall is home to Japanese fashion brands, concept stores, and even an official Nintendo Tokyo and Pokémon Center. If you’re into design and streetwear, PARCO is worth a stop.

@Cosme Tokyo

Location: 1 Chome-14-27 Jingumae (near Harajuku, but walkable from Shibuya)
This huge beauty store is a go-to if you’re into skincare or makeup. Products are ranked by popularity and reviews, and staff are happy to help if you’re not sure where to start.

Shibuya Loft

Location: 21-1 Udagawacho
A lifestyle mega-store filled with stationery, skincare, kitchen gadgets, and random but very giftable things. Perfect if you need souvenirs that are more unique than touristy.

Shibuya 109

Location: 2 Chome-29-1 Dogenzaka
This fashion mall is iconic, especially among younger women. Even if you’re not planning to shop, walking through its many levels of trending styles is like stepping into Tokyo pop culture.

Don Quijote (Mega Donki)

Location: 28-6 Udagawacho
A maze of everything from snacks and souvenirs to electronics and cosplay gear. Open 24 hours. It’s easy to get lost here, but that’s part of the fun.

Shibuya Center-Gai

Location: Across from the Scramble
This narrow street is packed with arcades, food stalls, cafés, and clothing shops. It’s always lively, especially in the evenings, and gives you that unmistakable Tokyo energy.

Tokyu Hands Shibuya

Location: 12-18 Udagawacho
This multi-storey department store has DIY goods, home items, travel gear, and more. Great for browsing or picking up that thing you didn’t realise you needed.

Also read: Souvenirs to Buy in Tokyo: Sweet Snacks Worth Bringing Home From Japan

Getting around Shibuya

Shibuya Station is huge, so take your time finding your way. The JR Yamanote Line, Tokyo Metro lines, and Tokyu lines all run through here.

The Hachiko Exit takes you straight to the Scramble Crossing and Center-Gai. If you’re heading to Shibuya Sky, look for signs pointing to Shibuya Scramble Square. For Miyashita Park, the Miyamasuzaka Exit is a better choice.

Google Maps is helpful for finding exits, but signs in the station are also pretty clear in English.

Also read: The Ultimate Shinjuku Guide: What to See, Eat and Do in Tokyo’s Busiest District

Final thoughts

Shibuya can feel like a lot, but that’s what makes it fun. You don’t need a strict plan — just start walking, and you’ll find something interesting on almost every corner. Whether it’s a rooftop view, a surprise capsule toy store, or a late-night bowl of ramen, it’s a place where you can be part of the crowd and still make it your own.