Bursting with shopping boutiques and innovative restaurants, Shibuya is known as the most youthful of Tokyo’s districts. Its located next to both Shinjuku and Harajuku, making it a great base for exploring other iconic districts. Within Shibuya, you’ll find diverse neighborhoods with peaceful parks and bustling nightlife.
Since it’s such a varied district, it’s super important to get an idea of everything on offer before you arrive. Navigating Tokyo can be difficult; it’s a sprawling city where neighborhoods tend to merge into one another. Shibuya might be just one district, but it has several neighborhoods in this regard.
Which is where we come in! We’ve built this guide to the three best neighborhoods in Shibuya to help demystify the district. Combining our own experience with advice from locals and travel experts, we’ve found the best neighborhoods in Shibuya for any travel style and budget.
So let’s dive right in!
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Bright Duplex in Shibuya – Ebisu Station
This cute little apartment is located right next to Ebisu Station, one of the best connected metro stations in the area. It’s bright, spacious and modern, and sleeps up to 7 guests. You’ll get to enjoy mesmerising views across Shibuya, which reach as far as Central Tokyo on a clear day.
Affordable Accommodation in Shibuya – The Millennials
Japan is notoriously expensive, and staying in hostels is a great way to get around this. The Millennials is both a hostel and a hotel combined, offering affordable private rooms at comforting rates. If you opt to stay in the hostel section, you’ll get your very own sleeping pod giving you extra privacy.
Luxury Hotel in Shibuya – Odakyu Hotel Century Southern Tower
This towering 4-star hotel in the iconic Yoyogi neighborhood is close to Shinjuku and Harajuku. Rooms are super spacious (a rarity in Tokyo) and come equipped with cutting edge technology and modern Japanese design. Shinjuku Garden is within walking distance, and Yoyogi Park is right on the doorstep.
Dogenzaka
Right in the heart of Shibuya, Dogenzaka is your starting point for uncovering this vibrant district. This is the heart of local nightlife, shopping, and dining. For first time visitors, Dogenzaka presents an authentic view of everything that’s on offer in the area.
Daikanyama
Whilst Dogenzaka is undoubtedly the main shopping neighborhood in Shibuya, Daikanyama is a must-visit for hardcore shoppers. Why? Well, Daikanyama is home to a wealth of locally owned boutiques. Here you can source some truly unique pieces that you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
Yoyogi
Yoyogi is a real contradiction. It’s right next to the busiest district of Shinjuku but is also considered the most peaceful district of Shibuya. This is a mostly residential area, making it a great choice for families looking for some peace and serenity in an otherwise bustling area.
Top 3 Neighborhoods to Stay In Shibuya
Shibuya is a relatively small district which packs a mighty punch in terms of entertainment, dining, and shopping. The areas within Shibuya are super diverse, but the extensive metro and JR networks mean you’ll be connected to the other areas regardless of where you choose to stay.
Dogenzaka is the most central district, and right next to the JR Station, making it a great spot for first time visitors to gather their bearings. The main street is home to popular fashion brands, quirky cafés, and innovative dining options. You’re truly spoiled for choice in Dogenzaka.
Speaking of shopping, Daikanyama is a must-visit for a spot of retail therapy and has an endless array of locally run boutiques for you to explore. This is where you will discover some great items that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. Additionally, it’s a great district for those who enjoy visiting hip cafés and bars.
Yoyogi is our top pick for families visiting Shibuya. This mostly residential neighborhood offers a peaceful atmosphere, and laid-back attractions for the whole family.
Still not sure? Read on for more extensive guides to each neighborhood, where we’ve included our top accommodation picks and best things to do in each area.
Right in the heart of Shibuya, Dogenzaka is your starting point for uncovering this vibrant district. It’s the center of local nightlife, shopping, and dining, and presents an authentic view of everything that’s on offer in the area. It’s quite small too, making it very easy to navigate.
The centre of Dogenzaka is home to the busiest intersection in the world, and has enough giant screens to make Times Square blush. It sits on the edge of the train station, meaning you’ll only be moments from some of Tokyo’s other iconic neighborhoods.
Trendy Hostel in Dogenzaka – The Millennials
If you’re sticking to a budget, The Millennials is a fantastic option. Their hostel takes the form of sleeping pods where you get to enjoy your own private capsule separate from other guests. There are common areas where you can socialise with other guests, and shared workstations perfect for digital nomads.
Lavish Hotel in Dogenzaka – Cerulean Tower
This gorgeous 5-star hotel towers over the centre of Shibuya. You’ll only be a five minute walk from Shibuya Station, keeping you well connected to Tokyo’s coolest areas. The hotel itself will cater to your every whim with eight restaurants, a beauty salon, and a rooftop bar. Rooms are kitted out with the latest tech for maximising your time in the city.
Panoramic Views in Dogenzaka – Shibuya Station
With a sunny balcony, this apartment enjoys stunning views over Shibuya. The flat sleeps up to 4 guests and Shibuya Station is right outside the front door, making it ideal for groups traveling in Tokyo. The main nightlife district is within five minutes’ walk.
Shibuya Station is one of our favourites in Shibuya but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Things to See and Do in Dogenzaka
- Demystify the shopping process in Dogenzaka with this world-class experience by a local fashion expert guiding you through the best stores
- Gather at the busiest intersection in the world to head off on this epic nightlife experience that showcases the diversity of Dogenzaka’s bars and clubs
- Dogenzaka is truly bursting with excellent experiences – head off on this excursion to discover some of the best street food in the area
- Take the trip up Shibuya Sky – a towering observation deck offering truly jaw-dropping views across the district’s skyline
- Bunjamara is a huge cultural centre offering regular exhibits of Japanese and international art
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Learn More Now!2. Daikanyama – Where to Stay in Shibuya for Shopping
Daikanyama is a must-visit for hardcore shoppers, and is home to a wealth of locally owned boutiques. Here, you can source some truly unique pieces that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. Daikanyama stores are a truly unique experience.
Daikanyama is also known for its trendy cafés and bars. These tend to be a little more laid-back, and offer a calm respite for busy shoppers. The upmarket Ebisu neighborhood is also right next-door, and is well-worth the visit.
Affordable Flat in Daikanyama – Nakame Station
Daikanyama can get a little pricey, however this apartment will let you live comfortably without breaking the bank. This hotel near Nakame Station means you are well connected to central Shibuya. The flat sleeps up to 4 guests and contains basic amenities.
Modern Duplex in Daikanyama – Ebisu Station
Marvel at the stunning city views from this central Daikanyama Apartment. This duplex is spacious with enough room for up to seven guests – making it a great choice for families and large groups.
Budget Hotel near Daikanyama – Mustard Hotel
The Mustard Hotel is one of the highest-rated hotels in Daikanyama, offering complimentary breakfast and rooms at super affordable rates. The stunning sun terrace provides panoramic views across Shibuya, and the main shopping district is only a stone’s throw away. This is a great option if you’re backpacking Japan on a budget.
Things to See and Do in Daikanyama
- As one of the trend setting districts in Japan, Daikanyama is a major hub for denim clothing production – make your own pair of jeans in this unique experience
- Take a trip to Ebisu, an upscale neighborhood home to some of the wealthiest residents of Shibuya and upscale retail destination.
- There are so many cafés in Daikanyama; we love Kashiyama Daikanyama in particular for its small art gallery.
- For a quick bite, head to Tempura Motoyoshi – a fast food joint 10 minutes’ walk from Ebisu station
3. Yoyogi – Best Area in Shibuya for Families
Yoyogi may sit next to the busier area of Shinjuku, but it’s still considered the most peaceful district of Shibuya. It’s mostly a residential area, making it a great choice for families looking for some peace and serenity in the city. Yoyogi Park is a must-see during cherry blossom season, which usually occurs between March and May.
Yoyogi’s location within walking distance of Shinjuku makes it a great location for experiencing both districts. Plus, Harajuku is just a stone’s throw away.
Stylish Loft in Yoyogi – Near Shinjuku
Straddling the boundaries between Shibuya, Shinjuku and Harajuku, this cute little loft is well placed for exploring some of Tokyo’s most iconic neighborhoods. The loft has two bedrooms and sleeps up to 5 guests, and free Wifi is included.
Splurge-Worthy Hotel in Yoyogi – Odakyu Hotel Century Southern Tower
This hotel sits right next to Yoyogi Park and just a few minutes from Shinjuku National Garden and Shinjuku Station. Inside, you’ll find wide-open spaces and inspirational interior design. They also offer complimentary breakfast, where you can enjoy a choice of Continental, American and Asian food.
Luxury Home in Yoyogi – Yoyogi Park
If you’re willing to splurge on a stunning apartment, you can’t go wrong with this super modern house. Built in the style of Tadao Ando, one of Japan’s most iconic architects, you’ll get to experience the cutting edge in Japanese design. Yoyogi Park is right outside your front door, and there are some great local food stores nearby if you want to self-cater in style.
Yoyogi Park is one of our favourites in Shibuya but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Things to See and Do in Yoyogi
- Only got a limited amount of time in the city? This one day excursion aims to take you around the 15 most popular attractions in the city
- For something a little more chilled, check out this peaceful guided stroll through Meiji Shrine – complete with brunch!
- Yoyogi Park is the perfect spot for a relaxing picnic and is home to multiple traditional gardens.
- Kids behaved well all day? Reward them with a treat from FLOTO, a modern ice cream store that has quickly become a local institution
- Take a trip over to vibrant Shinjuku
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Final Thoughts on Where To Stay in Shibuya
Shibuya is unmistakably one of Tokyo’s coolest areas. The streets are packed with quirky boutiques, easy-going cafés and cool bars. It’s no wonder this is the most popular district with young Tokyoites.
If we had to pick a favorite neighborhood, we would definitely go with Daikanyama! It’s the perfect blend between bustling streets and laid-back vibes, making it a perfect base for anyone traveling in Tokyo. The shops and cafés here are more unique, and epitomise everything that makes Shibuya such a great destination.
That being said, all of the neighborhoods in this district are worthy competitors. The great thing about Tokyo is that it has an extensive metro network, meaning you can easily build a travel itinerary that lets you visit all of the best areas. We hope this guide has helped you narrow down your options for your upcoming adventures in Japan.
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