Harajuku runs on sugar and hormones. It’s home to many of Japan’s youth sub-cultures and is a magnet for Tokyo’s many underground fashion scenes and merchants of cool.
It’s also forever the source of Tokyo’s best crepes — more about that below. But if you want traditional Japanese food, head to Sakura Tei – a massive, artsy restaurant that’s been delighting travelers for 30 years. They can accommodate groups, and they have vegetarian, vegan, and Muslim-friendly menu options.
Run by the team behind the adjacent Design Festa Gallery, Sakura Tei has mural-covered walls, a relaxed vibe, and an inexpensive menu, including all-you-can-eat and all–you–can–drink packages.
Planning your first visit to one of the world’s style capitals? Check out our dedicated First-Time Harajuku Itinerary.
Pro tip: Traveling with kids? Drop them off at Harajuku Kids Club for some peace and quiet. They’ll get to experience Japanese culture and make local friends.
What to see and do in Harajuku
Harajuku Station is adjacent to the mega sightseeing spot of Meiji Shrine and a stone’s throw away from Yoyogi Park.
Just a block over, you’ll find Omotesandō, one of the poshest shopping streets in Japan. Near here, two shopping malls battle it out at the intersection: the Tokyu Plaza Omotesando on the “posh” side and the newer Harakado on the Harajuku side. Harakado is the more impressive — see all the things you can do inside and on the expansive rooftop garden.
If you’re interested in architecture, then try this little walking tour we’ve put together.
To gain deeper insight or see the area from a different perspective, consider joining one of the many tours available, including:
- Learn more in-depth about the area’s architecture on this dedicated walking tour.
- drive through the streets of Omotesando and Shibuya Crossing while dressed up as popular characters on this go-karting tour.
- Prefer the pop culture side of things? Join this fun half-day tour where you’ll shop, dine at a cute café, and snap some adorable purikura photos.
Shopping in Harajuku
Harajuku is defined by Takeshita Dori, a narrow alley that is filled with sweet scents, pink, bubblegum, and whatever’s cute, cheap, and now for the under-16 set. There are plenty of vintage and used clothing places like Kinji, and the general fashion is aimed at the young and eclectic, so prices are a bit more reasonable than neighboring Omotesandō.
Cat Street (which runs parallel to Meiji Dori and cuts across Omotesandō) is a short stroll away and well worth a peek while you’re in the area. It’s lined with quirky shops and features one of the most popular takoyaki places around. Also, fancy donuts and good coffee at The Roastery by Nozy.
You can also check out our list of 10 free things to do in Harajuku.
Where and what to eat in Harajuku
As mentioned, Harajuku’s specialty is crepes. There are crepes on every corner — chocolate ones, cream-filled ones, gluten-free ones, and even savory ones.
Browse our Harajuku crepe guide to see what you might fancy. More on Harajuku sweets here.
Away from Harajuku, there are also dining options on the Omotesandō side. The streets are packed with eateries of all descriptions and budgets.
There is everything from gourmet popcorn (yeah, we think that’s a bit of a contradiction in terms) to burgers and noodles, and a bunch of convenience stores too.
Is Harajuku a good place to stay?
Harajuku is a day-trip destination, not really a place where people stay. Cheapos tend to go for neighboring Shibuya — where you can snag rooms at any of a few dozen budget hotels, or one of Tokyo’s other, less manic areas. Have a look at our cheap hotel guide for some ideas.
