Shibuya is an energetic city that is constantly evolving. Since my younger days, I've frequently visited Shibuya and found new discoveries every time, always getting inspired and energized. Shibuya is the center of youth culture in Japan, where diverse cultures such as fashion, music, and art intersect. It's well-equipped with art museums, live music venues, and clubs.
The famous symbols of Shibuya are the scramble crossing featured in movies and the bronze statue of the loyal dog Hachiko. These symbols and the streets of Shibuya often appear as settings in anime, attracting fans from Japan and around the world. There are also numerous izakaya pubs and bars where you can enjoy the lively nightlife.
I will introduce photogenic spots in the attraction-packed Shibuya area.
Scramble Crossing
Shibuya's scramble crossing is known as "the busiest pedestrian crossing in the world." Located right in front of Shibuya Station where 10 routes intersect, the crossing has pedestrian crosswalks extending in four directions. When the light turns green, over 3,000 people cross at once, creating an impressive scene like a human wave. Frequently featured in movies and TV, this dynamic spectacle draws visitors from around the world eager to capture it.
Shooting from the Ground
To photograph the scramble crossing from the ground, it's best to time it when the light is red. Stand right at the front during the red light and shoot together with the waiting pedestrians. This way, you can capture both the full atmosphere of the crossing and the waiting crowd.
However, it's not ideal to shoot when the light is green as people are crossing intensely. Also, avoid shooting from the center of the crossing as it's dangerous. The recommended spot is on the side opposite the station. The station side gets extremely crowded, making it difficult to get to the front row. From the opposite side, you can avoid the crowds while capturing the full view of the crossing.
SHIBUYA SKY
Source: Official website
Shooting from SHIBUYA SKY is a perfect spot to capture the scramble crossing merging into the city scenery. It's an observation deck spanning from the 46th floor to the rooftop, offering panoramic views of Shibuya and Tokyo. The scramble crossing can be photographed from the northwest side.
The crossing seen from above looks straight out of a movie scene, guaranteed to make for a stylish shot. While the 2,000 yen admission fee applies, there are light and sound installations and hammocks for resting, making it an ideal respite from the crowded Shibuya streets.
<Store Information>
- Address: 2-24-12 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
- Closed: None
- Phone: 03-4221-0229
- Hours: 10:00 - 22:30
- Website: https://www.shibuya-scramble-square.com/sky/
Sky Lobby
Source: TripAdvisor
The Sky Lobby observation deck at Shibuya Hikarie is also popular for viewing the scramble crossing. Since this free observation deck is open to all, it's recommended if you can't get reservations for SHIBUYA SKY.
From the 11th floor observation area, you can also see the Shibuya landmark SHIBUYA109, capturing a quintessential Shibuya view. Operating from 7am to midnight, it's also great for night views of Shibuya's neon lights. Shibuya Hikarie is well-equipped with restaurants and shops, perfect for shopping breaks too.
<Store Information>
- Address: 11F, 2-21-1 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
- Closed: None
- Phone: 03-5468-5892
- Hours: 7:00 - 24:00
- Website: https://www.hikarie.jp/floorguide/floormap/?floor=11f
Crossing View & Rooftop Lounge Mag8
Source: TripAdvisor
Crossing View & Rooftop Lounge Mag8 atop MAGNET by SHIBUYA109 is a cafe lounge overlooking the scramble crossing up close. You can photograph the incredible crossing view from an intimate distance.
Particularly recommended is the "CROSSING PHOTO" service, where you operate an overhead camera with your smartphone to take a self-portrait including the scramble crossing. While lounge entry requires 1,800 yen including one drink, you can avoid crowds and take photos at ease.
<Store Information>
- Address: 1-23-10 Jinnan, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
- Closed: None
- Phone: 03-3477-5111
- Hours: 10:00 - 22:00
- Website: https://magnetbyshibuya109.jp/
Hachiko Statue
Source: TripAdvisor
In front of Shibuya Station stands the bronze statue of "Hachiko," a dog who has become a symbol of Shibuya loved by people worldwide, just like the scramble crossing. Known for faithfully waiting for its owner, Hachiko is a common meeting spot in Shibuya.
While often crowded with photographers and those meeting up, it's a must-see photo op when visiting Shibuya. To avoid crowds, try shooting before the morning rush hour when there are relatively fewer people around. Evenings tend to be extremely crowded, making it difficult to get a clear shot.
Nonbei Yokocho
Source: Official website
Nonbei Yokocho is a street of izakaya pubs about 100 meters long located near the station, exuding a retro atmosphere amidst the modern cityscape. Surrounded by office buildings and crowds from the scramble crossing, it offers a glimpse into old-town Japan scenery, perfect for photography.
The pub alley is most photogenic from evening to night when lantern lights illuminate the area. The warm lighting on the narrow path and patrons chatting at the izakayas create a cinematic, atmospheric shot.
Shibuya Center Gai
Shibuya Center Gai is a lively shopping street extending from the scramble crossing. The colorful shop signs and fashionable young people exude an energetic vibe, making it an ideal spot to capture Shibuya's urban energy.
During the day, you'll find not just youths but also office workers and foreign tourists, showcasing the area's diversity. At night, the illuminated signs give it a neon town atmosphere. It's the perfect time to photograph the "sleepless city" vibe of Shibuya. The street offers contrasting day and night impressions, both recommended for photography.
MIYASHITA PARK
Source: Official website
MIYASHITA PARK is a modern urban park created through redevelopment. Lawns spread over the rooftops of a shopping mall and sports facilities, offering a refined contemporary Shibuya atmosphere blending high-rises with open green spaces and sky.
My favorite time is the evening when buildings are tinted red by the sunset, exuding a serene vibe. Night photography when the park's illuminations and building lights come on is also recommended. The park is free to enter and open until 11pm.
<Park Information>
- Address: 6-20-10 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
- Closed: None
- Phone: 03-6712-5630
- Hours: 8:00 - 23:00
- Website: https://www.miyashita-park.tokyo/
Pokemon Center ShibuyaPokemon Center Shibuya
Source: Official website
Pokemon Center Shibuya is a must-visit for Pokemon fans. It offers the latest Pokemon merchandise, countless plush toys, and original design T-shirts. The interior's futuristic black design makes you feel like you're in the Pokemon world.
Life-size Pokemon figures and exhibits are a photo op highlight for fans. Particularly eye-catching are the coolly posed Mewtwo and graffiti-decorated Pikachu - characters you'll definitely want in your shots!
<Store Information>
- Address: Shibuya PARCO 6F, 15-1 Udagawacho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
- Closed: None
- Phone: 03-5422-3522
- Hours: 10:00 - 21:00
- Website: https://www.pokemon.co.jp/shop/pokecen/shibuya/
One Piece Mugiwara Store
Source: Official website
The One Piece Mugiwara Store inside MAGNET by SHIBUYA109 is a holy place for fans of the popular manga series. The interior impressively recreates the One Piece world, exciting fans from the moment they enter.
Life-size figures of the main characters let you feel like part of the Straw Hat Crew when you pose together for photos. The store also periodically hosts limited events and seasonal fairs, offering chances for unique photo opportunities depending on when you visit.
<Store Information>
- Address: MAGNET by SHIBUYA109 6F, 1-23-10 Jinnan, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
- Closed: None
- Phone: 03-6416-9222
- Hours: 10:00 - 21:00
- Website: https://www.mugiwara-store.com/
Shibuya offers completely different atmospheres day and night. Even the same locations can give contrasting impressions depending on the time. It's a unique city with distinct energetic daytime, lively nighttime, and serene early morning faces.
For a lively night experience, joining a bar-hopping tour of local izakayas is recommended. For example, on the "Shibuya Bar Hopping Night Tour in Tokyo," you can make the rounds with an English-speaking guide while immersing in Shibuya's nightlife.