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Updated: October 11, 2019

Explore Harajuku

An ever-changing kaleidoscope of cute trends

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An ever-changing kaleidoscope of cute trends

Harajuku practically pulses with energy, drawing teens and college students from all over Tokyo. They dress in their trendiest gear, fill up on sugary treats and shop with abandon. a dizzying array of trends starts here; with an emphasis on "kawaii" or cute. Slip down the side streets when you need a break from the colorful crowds.

General Tips

  • It's a ritual for many locals to snack on Harajuku's famous crepes, filled with cream and fruit: Try Angel's Heart, Santa Monica Crepes or Marion Crepes
  • Stroll down Cat Street towards Shibuya, for secondhand shops and outdoor gear
  • Escape the crowds of Takeshita-dori Street with a visit to the Ota Memorial Museum of Art, dedicated to classical woodblock prints

Map Legend

  • Walking
  • Taxi
  • Bus
  • Train
  • Water Bus

Harajuku Station

1

A retro station full of charm

Harajuku Station

Served by the Yamanote Line, Harajuku Station was built in 1906 in mock Tudor style. While it may look out of place in Tokyo, the building is a popular symbol of the area. However, the station has become too small for the crowds that flock to the area, and is slated for redevelopment before the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Take the South Exit for Meiji Jingu.

Walking2 mins

Meiji Jingu

2

Green therapy in a sacred forest

Meiji Jingu

You'll feel a million miles away from the bustling city as you stroll beneath the giant wooden torii gate and through the forest. Dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his wife, the shrine boasts grand wooden structures and tranquil gardens. It becomes incredibly crowded at New Year when people come to wish for good fortune.

Walking4 mins

Takeshita-dori Street

3

Super cute culture

Takeshita-dori Street

The entrance to this popular teen shopping street is marked by a colorful metal archway; though the throngs of colorfully dressed teens also give it away. Cheap and cheerful is the motto here, though some of the cosplay and Lolita fashion shops can get expensive.

Walking7 mins

Laforet Harajuku

4

A maze of new trends

Laforet Harajuku

This shopping mall is a colorful mix-up of new designers, pop-ups and cool restaurants. The boutiques change often, so there's always something new, and the layout, which spirals up from the basement, will make you dizzy.

Walking2 mins

Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harajuku

5

A hall of mirrors and a secret garden

Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harajuku

Billing itself as a fashion theme park, the dramatic mirrored entrance is perfect for "selfies." There's a mix of American and local brands, homewares and craft shops, which draw a slightly older clientele. Escape to the top floor for a break at bills or the Omohara Forest roof garden on the sixth floor.

Reference Link

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