Japanese College Girls Tell All! The Most Useful Hidden Spots in Shibuya
We asked real-life school girls from Japanese universities to tell us their favorite useful spots in the Shibuya area. The places introduced below range from the prominent to hidden secrets and you find ways to avoid common sources of trouble! Look over this list before you go and you won't regret it!
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What are the useful spots you need to know in the Shibuya area?
Shibuya is surely one of the first neighborhoods that comes to mind when you think of Tokyo and for most tourists, the first place they visit upon reaching the area is the famous scramble crossing.
Here we will focus on several shops and facilities, including cafes and stores in the area that will take you beyond the crossing and help you make the most of your Shibuya experience.
Table of contents
Places with adequate IT/Electrical Outlets
1. High speed internet and free electronic books!
Rakuten Café, Shibuya Koen Doori
The Rakuten café is a useful spot to know when you need a place with a full-functioning IT environment. Rakuten is a Japanese IT company known for its Internet service. Given that history, the café has the free Wi-Fi facilities you would expect, along with speeds of 1 Gbps -- that's ten times the speed of your average free Wi-Fi network.
In addition, they also have plenty of electrical outlets and even cell-phone (iPhone/Android) chargers that can be borrowed. As if that weren't enough, their seated counters on the second floor are fit with electronic devices for reading books. You can read as much as you want and it's all free!
The menu at the Rakuten café features more than just sweets. You can also order beer, wine, and snacks that go good with both. All items are specially selected from the most popular goods on the Rakuten online market, so you're sure to be satisfied. Stop by here for some tea or coffee at lunch, or come by at night for a drink. This is one place that offers many way to enjoy your time.
[About Rakuten Café, Shibuya Koen Doori]
Opening Hours: 10:00AM~11:00PM
Closed: New Year's Day
Access: Five minute walk from the Hachiko exit of Shibuya Station, accessible via major JR lines, private rail lines, and subway lines
Address: Maison Shibuya Koen Doori Building 1F/2F/3F, Jinnan 1-20-6, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo（Google Map）
HP: https://cafe.rakuten.co.jp (Japanese only）
2. A popular izakaya with electrical outlets at every seat!
Torikizoku, Shibuya Koen Doori
While this may look like a typical yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) izakaya, the aspect that separates it from the rest is the availability of electric outlets at every seat! A full day of checking maps and taking pictures can really drain your phone's power and anyone who's traveled has experienced the worry of not having enough battery to check your map and make it back to your hotel. Why not address your concerns while also having a beer and some tasty yakitori.
The above points aren't all that Torikizoku has going for it. In fact, all dishes are priced at an astonishingly low 280 yen (before tax)!! If you're someone who likes to save money, this izakaya is one that won't stretch your wallet. That affordability has made it very popular and the crowds inside never seem to die down. It's also worth noting that half the staff is composed of non-Japanese people so it's a place where you can rely on communication in English. Doors are open until 5 a.m. so be sure to stop by any time you're hungry or need to charge your phone.
[About Torikizoku, Shibuya Koen Doori]
Opening Hours: 5:00PM~5:00AM
Closed: No holidays
Access: Three minute walk from Hachiko Exit of Shibuya Station, accessible via major JR, private rail, and subway lines
Address: Minagawa Building 6F, Jinan 1-22-10, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo (Google Map）
HP: https://www.torikizoku.co.jp(Japanese only)
3. A unique cafe with free-for-use computers
Hands Cafe, Shibuya
Hands Cafe is a coffee spot on the 7th floor of Tokyu Hands. Its interior is lined with succulent plants and fossils, transforming the space into a makeshift science laboratory. Its low-lit atmosphere has a pleasantly casual feel.
While the cafe of course offers free Wi-Fi, they also have four desktop computer terminals that are free for use. If your cell phone is dead or you just need to look something up, these are very helpful. Not only that, but the many decorative items on sale will ensure you a fun time while you charge!
The menu at Hands Cafe takes a hint from the many unique materials available at the Tokyu Hands store below. If you see something you like, you can probably find it downstairs so be sure to take a walk around the store. There are many items that you can only find in Japan!
[About Hands Cafe, Shibuya]
Opening Hours: 10:00AM~9:00PM
Closed: Irregular Holidays
Access: Seven minute walk from Hachiko Exit of Shibuya Station, accessible via major JR, private rail, and subway lines
Address: Tokyu Hands Shibuya 7F, 12-18 Utagawacho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo (Google Map)
HP: https://www.handscafe.jp/aboutus.html(Japanese only)
Lodging and Rest
1. A ladies-only capsule hotel for women looking for a true Japanese experience
NADESHIKO HOTEL SHIBUYA
NADESHIKO HOTEL SHIBUYA is a ladies-only capsule hotel that caters to female tourists from abroad. The interior is decorated Japanese style, allowing you to experience the country's rich tradition and history. Though it is a capsule hotel, the service is on the level of a ryokan (traditional japanese inn) and upon arrival, you'll be greeted by kimono-clad josho (the female owner of a ryokan). At present, their guests are 80 percent non-Japanese people and the staff all speak English so you should have no problems!
The second floor of the hotel features a large bathhouse. There are three types of bathtubs to try, including one made of hinoki cypress. They also have original yukata and tabi socks which can be worn for free inside the hotel. Choose the yukata that fits your taste and you too can transform into a nadeshiko (a variety of flower that is often used as a metaphor for Japanese feminine beauty)!
In addition to the bathhouse, you'll also find the izakaya Oishi Komachi Shinsen on the first floor. They are open for lunch and dinner and serve all comers, regardless of whether you are a man or woman or have a room at the hotel. Like the lodging facilities, all staff speak English. The menu features dishes made from carefully selected ingredients and the staff will happily recommend the best sake or craft beer to match your meal. They also offer a 3-cup set where you can try different varieties of sake, so give it a try and experience the depth of flavor of Japanese wine.
[About NADESHIKO HOTEL SHIBUYA]
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
Closed: No holidays
Access: Ten minute walk from Shibuya Station, accessible via major JR, private rail, and subway lines; Three minute walk from Shinsen Station, accessible via the Keio Inokashira line
Address: 10-5 Shinsencho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo（Google Map）
HP: http://nadeshiko-hotel.jp/en/(English）
HP: http://nadeshiko-hotel.jp(Japanese)
2. An Internet cafe with private and theater booths
GRAN CYBER CAFE BAGUS, Shibuya Bunkamura Doori
This comic and internet cafe is geared toward adults and blessed with a high-class atmosphere. Inside, you'll find manga and magazines, internet terminals, and TVs, all available to use as you like. Drinks and ice cream, too, are available for all you can eat and included in the hourly rate! There are even theater rooms you can use to watch movies and take a long rest.
The best part about this particular Internet cafe is its completely private theater rooms. You'll have access to a 42-inch monitor with 5.1 surround sound! Rates are reasonable too, at 575 yen for the first hour and an additional 100 yen for every ten minutes after. That's less than you'd pay to watch a two-hour movie in a movie theater! Not only that, but you can enjoy a full theatrical experience while also sipping an alcoholic drink of your choice. Talk about luxury!
The cafe also has special ladies-only seating for traveling women who want to relax in a safe and secure area. The booths even have hair curlers, makeup and massage cushions that can be used for free so you can get by without all your normal belongings! Ladies are guaranteed to love these services and either way, it's a great choice to experience Japan's unique net cafe culture.
[About GRAN CYBER CAFE BAGUS, Shibuya Bunkamura Doori]
Opening Hours:2 Open 24 hours
Closed: No holidays
Access: Six minute walk from Hachiko Exit of Shibuya Station, accessible via major JR, private rail, and subway lines; Seven minute walk from Chuo Exit of Keio Shibuya station, accessible via the Inokashira Line
Address: Fontis building 4F, Dogenzaka 2-23-12, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo （Google Map）
HP: http://www.bagus-99.com/shops/gcc_shibuya_bunkamura/ (Japanese only）
Shopping
1. Matsumoto Kiyoshi (MatsuKiyo) - your one-stop shop for makeup, medicine, and more!
Matsumoto Kiyoshi Part 1 /Part2
Matsumoto Kiyoshi is one of Japan's major chain drug stores. Offering health and beauty care (HBC), the store places a particular focus on over the counter pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. Their selection is truly tremendous! Japanese medicine and cosmetics are respected around the world for their use of safe materials and at Matsumoto Kiyoshi, you can buy many products that would only otherwise be found at specialty stores, and for low prices as well. The store has even become a popular tourist spot and in 2014, they installed free Wi-Fi, so you can even contact your friends and family from inside and consult on what to buy!
The Shibuya Matsumoto Kiyoshi is divided into Part 1 and Part 2, both on the same street, and the selection of cosmetics and medicines inside is second to none. Part 1 is open 24-hours so if you experience sudden injury or sickness while you're in Japan, this is a convenient place to go. While it's natural to experience a bit of discomfort reading medicine and cosmetics labels in Japanese, don't worry - both stores have Chinese-speaking and English-speaking staff! This is your chance to take the plunge into the world of Japanese cosmetics!
[About Matsumoto Kiyoshi Shibuya Part 1/Part 2]
Opening Hours: Part 1/ open 24 hours, Part 2/ 10:00AM~10:00PM
Closed: No regular holidays
Access: Two to three minute walk from Hachiko Exit of Shibuya Station, accessible via major JR, private rail, and subway stations
Address: Part 1/ 22-3 Utagawacho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo（Google Map); Part 2／23-4 Utagawa-cho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo (Google Map)
HP: http://www.matsukiyo.co.jp (Japanese only）
2. A store that has everything, from food and ingredients to electrical appliances -- all at a low price!
Mega Don Quijote, Shibuya Main Location
Mega Don Quijote's Shibuya headquarters opened recently on May 12, 2017. It is Japan's largest discount goods store, open 24 hours and offering everything from raw fish to alcohol, daily consumables, household goods, clothing, electrical appliances, and more. Everything is dirt cheap!!! You can even buy cosplay outfits at a low price. At night, you'll often see non-Japanese customers buying alcohol in large volumes and the prices may be even better than drinking at an izakaya.
Kit Kats are popular the world over. They began in England as a chocolate snack but in recent years, Kit Kats local to Japan have become quite a talking point. The reason is the astonishing variety of flavors. In this photo alone, you can see strawberry cheese cake (left) and Japanese sake (right), both with unique packaging! You won't need to travel all over Japan to find the variety you're looking for, as all of them can be found right here at Don Quijote. There also varieties exclusive to the store as well, so a visit is always worth your time.
[Mega Don Quijote, Shibuya Main Location]
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
Closed: No regular holidays
Access: Five minute walk from Hachiko Exit of Shibuya Station, accessible via major JR, private rail, and subway lines
Address: 28-6 Utagawacho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo (Google Map)
HP: www.donki.com/en/?pre=le (English）
HP: www.donki-global.com/zhtw/?pre=le (繁体字)
HP: www.donki.com/?pre=le (Japanese)
3. Bring your souvenirs home safe! A home center that offers a substitute delivery service
Tokyu Hands, Shibuya
Tokyu Hands is a home center that sells countless items that will improve your lifestyle. Their goods are imbued with ingenuity, technology, convenience, and high quality, all with typical Japanese flair for detail. From stationery to cameras and bicycles, there's virtually nothing you won't find inside! It's also worth noting that since 2015, Tokyu Hands has instituted the "Buy Smart Japan" policy, in which customers can obtain items sold at the store by choosing a substitute retail outlet in their home country. With no worries about items breaking on the flight home, there's no limit to what you can buy!!
Tokyu Hands also offers a wide variety of order-made gifts. For example. if you buy a pen that is eligible for the program, they will engrave the name of the recipient on the item for free. There are also original goods like wooden sculptures and custom-made inkan (Japanese stamp-seals engraved with the name of the owner). They have same day service too, so why not get an order-made seal with your name spelled in Japanese characters? The results will be a one-of-a-kind item.
[About Tokyu Hands, Shibuya]
Opening Hours: 10:00AM~9:00PM
Closed: No regular holidays
Access: Seven minute walk from Hachiko Exit of Shibuya Station, accessible via major JR, private rail, and subway lines
Address: 12-18 Utagawacho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo（Google Map）
HP: www.tokyu-hands.co.jp/foreign.html
HP: www.tokyu-hands.co.jp/ch2/index.html (繁体字)
HP: www.tokyu-hands.co.jp/index.php (Japanese)
4. A large multi-use Facility connected to Shibuya Station that specializes in everything "Made in Japan"
Shibuya Hikarie
If you're looking to buy high-quality Japanese goods, try visiting Shibuya Hikarie. The multi-use facility was renovated in 2014 and now, more than ever, features boutiques that have "Made in Japan" as their selling point. This feature has made it all the more popular with international tourists. In particular, the store ShinQs, which was renovated in 2015, offers everything from fashion to Japanese-made cosmetics to traditional crafts and original artwork. It's a great place to buy a unique souvenir.
Shibuya Hikarie also sports an impressive observation deck. Although it is only 11 stories tall, it's view is unobstructed by nearby tall buildings and gives you a great panoramic look at the Shibuya and Shinjuku areas. Watch the sunset from the glass or come at night to see the nearby sea of neon signs for an experience that you can only get in the big city.
[About Shibuya Hikarie ]
Opening Hours: ShinQs/10:00 AM〜9:00 PM; Cafe Restaurant 6, 7 Floor/11:00 AM〜11:00 PM
Closed: No regular holidays
Access: Connected to Exit 15 and the second floor passage way of Shibuya Station, accessible via major JR, private rail, and subway lines
Address: 2-21-1 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo (Google Map)
HP: http://www.hikarie.jp.e.ui.hp.transer.com (Japanese only; automatic translation available)
5. Everything for 100 yen?! This discount shop is a popular place for super-affordable souvenirs
DAISO Shibuya, Center Gai Location
DAISO's most prominent feature is that everything in the store can be bought for 100 yen (approx one dollar). In recent years, they have expanded abroad as well, starting what can only be called a world-wide dollar store boom.
The Shibuya Center Gai DAISO is marketed more to tourists than most, with uniquely Japanese goods and souvenirs on sale. Here you can get common Japanese items like chopsticks or tea bowls for only 100 yen! Even at that price, you'll be astonished at just how many of the goods are of considerably high quality. If you're really in a pinch for souvenirs, this shop has everything you need.
[About DAISO, Shibuya Center Gai Location]
Opening Hours: 10:00AM~9:00PM
Closed: No regular holidays
Access: Six minute walk from Hachiko Exit of Shibuya Station, accessible via major JR, private rail, and subway lines
Address: 35-2 Utagawacho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Google Map）
HP: www.daiso-sangyo.co.jp/ (Japanese only）
Japanese Masters
1. Get your hands on original Disney goods and tickets!!
Disney Store, Shibuya Koen Doori Location
This cute castle that appears suddenly on the Shibuya horizon is actually a Disney Store! They offer many original Disney goods that can only be purchased here. The store itself is built like a real Disney castle, complete with fantastical spiral staircase and many other magical items! The cuteness factor alone has made it a popular place for photos.
The Japanese Disney Store has developed a popular series unique to the store named UniBEARsity. With over 2.8 million items sold, Disney has now released a princess variety called "Disney Princess BEAR by UniBEARsity"! The first release of this new item is based on Cinderella. It's only available in Japan so why not buy one as a present, for a loved one or for yourself?
The fun doesn't stop there. On the third floor of this store, you'll find a ticket counter selling advance tickets to Disney theme parks and movies. Now you won't have to wait in line of the day of your visit! Stop by the Disney Store and make your dreams come true!
Product name: Disney Princess BEAR by UniBEARsity
Character name: (From left of photo) Charmant/Blue Rose/Potimarron
Price: (From left of photo) 3,200 yen/3,600 yen/5,000 yen（all prices before tax)
[About Disney Store, Shibuya Koen Doori]
Opening Hours: 10:00AM~9:30PM (*3rd floor ticket counter open until 9:00 PM)
Closed: No regular holidays
Access: Three minute walk from Hachiko Exit of Shibuya Station, accessible via major JR, private rail, and subway lines
Address: Humax Pavilion Shibuya Koen Doori, 20-15 Utagawacho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo (Google Map)
HP: http://www.disney.co.jp/store/storeinfo_en.html
HP: http://www.disney.co.jp/store/storeinfo_ch.html (中文）
HP: www.disney.co.jp/store/storeinfo.html (Japanese)
2. A professional photo for a single coin -- A dedicated purikura photo booth arcade that lets you shoot in costume
Calla Lily, Shibuya
Calla Lilly is Shibuya's largest dedicated purikura arcade. Purikura are special Japanese photo booths where you can use the latest technology to make stickers with cute, high quality photos in a matter of seconds. With a purikura booth, you can draw on top of the photos, add makeup, and do a number of other special modifications that make the photo more like a game than anything else. You can even send the photos to your cell phone to post later on your social networking feed! In all, purikura photos have become one of the most popular variety of Japanese souvenirs. They only cost 400-500 yen, so why not take one yourself?
This particular purikura arcade has an extra special feature - a real-life photo studio known as "Shiro-Puri"!! The studio features fitting rooms with make-up stands and over 3o varieties of costumes that you can try on for a mere 400 yen. If you have an extra ten minutes on your hand, you too can take a photo at the Shiro Puri studio.
There are also decorative items like balloons and headbands that change with the season. No matter what your intent, purikura offers a chance to take a photo that is like no other. Use it to experience Japan's cosplay culture as well.
[About Calla Lily, Shibuya]
Opening Hours: 10:00AM~9:30PM
Closed: No regular holidays
Access: Four minute walk from Hachiko Exit of Shibuya Station, accessible via major JR, private rail, and subway lines
Address: Shibuya Chitose Kaikan 1F, 13-8 Utagawacho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo (Google Map）
HP: http://www.adores.jp/callalily/ (Japanese only)
Did you find anything that caught your interest? Shibuya has become one of Japan's most prominent neighborhoods in recent years and is visited by many international tourists. For that reason, it has begun developing a solid IT infrastructure and there are many areas that will be useful to travelers. Make full use of the spots introduced above and enjoy your time in Shibuya to its fullest!
Title Image : voyata / Shutterstock
The information in this article is accurate at the time of publication.
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