11 Must-Do Activities In Harajuku

Harajuku, the vibrant and colorful fashion district in Tokyo, is a hub of eclectic culture and innovative art, drawing millions of visitors each year. For those seeking an unforgettable experience, there's no shortage of exciting activities to indulge in. From indulging in cotton candy the size of your head to retro gaming in a neon-lit arcade, we have rounded up 11 must-do activities in Harajuku that are guaranteed to make your trip truly memorable. Get ready to immerse yourself in a world of vibrant colors, unique fashion, and unparalleled entertainment. Here are the top things to do in Harajuku, Japan.

Visit Meiji Shrine

Harajuku is one of the most popular fashion districts in Tokyo, Japan. And while the area is famously known for its vibrant fashion and street-wear, there are also many other attractions that are worth seeing. One of them is the Meiji Shrine, a beautiful and tranquil oasis located just a few minutes’ walk from the Harajuku Station.

The Meiji Shrine is dedicated to the Emperor Meiji who died in 1912 and his wife, Empress Shoken. It was established back in 1920, and in 1958 was rebuilt entirely after being destroyed during World War 2. The Shrine is surrounded by a vast forest of about 100,000 trees that were donated from all over Japan and overseas. This makes it a perfect destination for anyone seeking a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of Harajuku.

The entrance of the Meiji Shrine is marked by two towering torii gates made from cypress trees, and a wide gravel avenue leads visitors to the main building. After passing through the torii gates and walking down the avenue, visitors will find themselves in a lush green forest with several paths winding through it. The atmosphere of the area is calm and serene, making it a perfect setting for a relaxing stroll, meditation, or a picnic.

The Shrine’s main building is an elegant structure with a traditional Japanese design and a natural wood finish. The building is comprised of two sections: the Naien (inner complex) and the Gaien (outer complex). Visitors can explore both areas and take a glimpse into Japan’s profound cultural heritage.

The Naien area of the Shrine is home to the main hall where visitors can pay their respects to the Emperor and Empress by offering prayers. Visitors can also purchase amulets and charms that are believed to bring good luck. In the Gaien area, visitors can find the treasure house, which houses around 80,000 items donated by the public over the years. The collection includes paintings, ceramics, swords, and even royal garments of the Emperor and Empress.

In conclusion, visiting Meiji Shrine is a must-do activity for anyone who visits Harajuku. It provides a fascinating glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural history and is an excellent spot to relax and unwind. Not only is the scenery breathtaking, but the atmosphere is peaceful and serene, perfect for anyone looking for a soothing escape from the chaos of city life.

Try crepes at Marion crepes

Characteristic	Description
Name	Marion Crêpes Takeshitadori
Type	Creperie
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	3.9 / 860
Address	Japan, 〒150-0001 Tokyo, Shibuya City, Jingumae, 1 Chome−6−15 ジュネスビル 1F
Phone	+81 3-3401-7297
Hours	Monday - opens at 10:30 AM and closes at 8 PM Tuesday - opens at 10:30 AM and closes at 8 PM Wednesday - opens at 10:30 AM and closes at 8 PM Thursday - opens at 10:30 AM and closes at 8 PM Friday - opens at 10:30 AM and closes at 8 PM Saturday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 8 PM Sunday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 8 PM
Profiles

Harajuku is a lively neighborhood in Tokyo that is known for its quirky fashion and street culture. It is a popular destination for young people and fashion enthusiasts. When visiting Harajuku, one must-try food item is the crepes from Marion crepes.

Marion crepes is a well-known and established crepe stand that has been serving delicious crepes since 1976. Located in the heart of Harajuku, it is a popular spot among locals and tourists alike. The stand serves both sweet and savory crepes that are made fresh to order.

The sweet crepes are a must-try when visiting Marion crepes. These crepes come in a variety of flavors such as chocolate banana, strawberry custard, and caramel banana. The crepe is first made fresh, then filled with a generous amount of whipped cream before the toppings are added. The crepes are then rolled up and served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the top. These crepes are not only visually appealing, but they also taste heavenly.

The savory crepes are equally delicious and come in a variety of flavors such as tuna salad, ham and cheese, and Japanese-style omelet. These crepes are filled with a generous amount of filling, making them a filling meal on their own. The crepes are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them a perfect snack while exploring Harajuku.

The popularity of Marion crepes can be seen from the long lines that form outside the stand. However, the wait is worth it as the crepes are made fresh and to perfection. The staff at Marion crepes are friendly and efficient, which makes the experience even more enjoyable.

In conclusion, when visiting Harajuku, one must-try food item is the crepes from Marion crepes. These crepes are not only delicious but also a visual treat. The popularity of Marion crepes is a testament to the quality of the food and service provided by the stand. So, grab yourself a crepe from Marion crepes and indulge in the sweet and savory goodness that Harajuku has to offer.

Shop at Takeshita Street

Harajuku is an area in Tokyo, Japan that is renowned for its unique fashion styles and vibrant street culture. One of the most famous places to experience Harajuku's fashion scene is Takeshita Street.

Located in the heart of Harajuku, Takeshita Street is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in street fashion. The street is lined with an array of stores selling clothing, accessories, makeup, and snacks. The shops cater to different styles, ranging from Lolita fashion to punk rock and everything in between.

For those who are into kawaii fashion, there are stores like 6%DOKIDOKI and TUTUHA. Both of these shops sell cute and colorful clothing that is perfect for a fun and playful look. If you prefer punk rock fashion, then you must check out stores like Dog and Listen Flavor. Both shops offer edgy clothing and accessories that are perfect for those who want to stand out from the crowd.

Apart from clothing, Takeshita Street also offers a variety of snacks and desserts. You can try out the famous Harajuku crepes, which are stuffed with an array of delicious fillings like fresh strawberries, whipped cream, and chocolate sauce. Another local favorite is the rainbow cotton candy, a massive stick of cotton candy that is dyed in different colors.

In conclusion, if you're visiting Tokyo, make sure to put Takeshita Street on your list of must-visit destinations. The street is a hub of creative fashion and design, and you'll be amazed by the range of stores and unique styles you can find there. Come and shop, snack, and take in the amazing atmosphere of Harajuku's epicenter!

Enjoy unique desserts at Kawaii Monster Cafe

Harajuku may be known for its avant-garde fashion and unique style, but it's also home to one of the most unique dessert spots you'll ever visit - Kawaii Monster Cafe.

Located in the heart of Harajuku, Kawaii Monster Cafe is an explosion of color, cute creatures, and, of course, delicious desserts. This whimsical cafe is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth and a love for all things kawaii (meaning "cute" in Japanese).

Stepping inside Kawaii Monster Cafe is like entering a fantasy world. You're greeted with neon lights, flashy decorations, and an energetic vibe that's infectious. The interior boasts a unique mix of pop art, psychedelic decor, and cartoonish sculptures – all designed to transport you to a world of monsters and magic.

But what sets Kawaii Monster Cafe apart from other dessert spots in Harajuku is its menu. You can indulge in a range of creative desserts that look almost too good to eat. From rainbow cakes to monster-themed sundaes, you'll find a sweet treat that matches your taste buds and Instagram feed.

One of their most popular items is their Monster Burger. It's a towering dessert with layers of vanilla and chocolate cake, cream, fruit, and marshmallows – all of which are expertly crafted to resemble a delicious burger. Other dessert items include rainbow pasta, sweet potato fries, and cotton candy cocktails.

Aside from the desserts, the cafe also serves a variety of main dishes, drinks, and cocktails. And if you're lucky, you may even get to watch a live performance from the colorful monster mascots that roam the cafe.

The Kawaii Monster Cafe is a memorable and delightful experience that truly captures the essence of Harajuku's fun and quirky culture. So, whether you're a local or visiting tourist, be sure to add this spot to your bucket list. It's definitely worth the trip to Harajuku for a taste of their monster-filled, kawaii-inspired creations!

Explore Harajuku Gyozaro for delicious gyoza

Harajuku, the famous fashion district in Tokyo, is home to not only trendy clothing stores and unique fashion items but also delicious food spots. One of the must-visit restaurants in Harajuku is Gyozaro, where you can enjoy mouth-watering, authentic gyoza.

Located just a few minutes away from the Harajuku Station, Gyozaro has been serving gyoza since 1955 and has become a popular spot for both locals and tourists. The restaurant's atmosphere is cozy, with Japanese-style decorations and seating.

Gyozaro serves only one item: gyoza, which comes in three variations: pork, shrimp, and vegetable. Each gyoza is handmade and cooked to perfection, giving the perfect crispiness and juiciness. The menu also offers a wide range of toppings and sauces to accompany your gyoza, from the classic soy sauce to spicy garlic.

Besides being a delicious and satisfying meal, gyoza is also a fun and interactive dish to eat. Each gyoza is perfectly bite-sized and can be picked up with chopsticks or your fingers. You can even watch the chefs wrapping and cooking the gyoza with precision while sitting at the counter.

The prices at Gyozaro are reasonable, with six pieces of gyoza costing around 400 to 500 yen. The restaurant is open every day from 11 am to 10 pm, making it perfect for a quick lunch or a late-night snack after exploring the streets of Harajuku.

In conclusion, Gyozaro is a must-visit restaurant in Harajuku for anyone who loves authentic Japanese cuisine, specifically gyoza. With its cozy atmosphere, delicious food, and reasonable prices, this hidden gem is definitely worth checking out on your next visit to Tokyo.

Head to Shichigosan House for traditional Japanese clothing rental

Looking to experience traditional Japanese style in the heart of Harajuku? Look no further than Shichigosan House, where you can rent authentic Japanese clothing for your next outing or event.

Shichigosan House is a charming little shop located in the heart of Harajuku, just steps away from the famous Takeshita Street. It offers a wide variety of traditional Japanese clothing for rent, including kimonos, hakamas, and yukatas.

Popular among tourists and locals alike, Shichigosan House offers a unique way to experience Japanese culture and fashion. With its wide selection of sizes and styles, there is something for everyone at this cozy little shop.

The process of renting a traditional Japanese outfit is simple at Shichigosan House. Simply choose your preferred outfit from the selection available, and let the staff assist you in getting dressed. Once you have everything on, you are free to explore the streets of Harajuku and capture stunning pictures in your new outfit.

For those looking to add a touch of Japanese tradition to their wedding or other special event, Shichigosan House can also provide rental services for a larger group. The staff always strive to make sure every customer walks out happy and satisfied, and their attention to detail and love of traditional Japanese fashion is evident in every piece of clothing they have for rent.

In conclusion, head over to Shichigosan House in Harajuku to indulge in traditional Japanese fashion. Renting an outfit from this shop is an excellent way to experience and celebrate Japanese culture while enjoying a fun day out in one of Tokyo's most exciting neighborhoods. So, don't wait any longer, and make your way to Shichigosan House today!

Check out Purikura machines at Totti Candy Factory

Harajuku, one of Tokyo's most vibrant neighborhoods, is known for its trendy fashion, pop culture, and mouth-watering treats. When in Harajuku, a must-visit is the Totti Candy Factory, where you can indulge in all things sweet and colorful.

But there's more to Totti Candy Factory than just candy. If you step inside, you'll find a corner dedicated to Purikura machines, which are photo booths where you can snap pictures of yourself and customize them with stickers, stamps, and text.

Purikura, short for "purinto kurabu" or print club, have been around in Japan since the mid-1990s. They have evolved over time, with the latest machines producing high-quality prints with vibrant colors. What makes Purikura special is the ability to decorate your photos with various designs, making them look like cute, personalized stickers.

At Totti Candy Factory, you can choose from several Purikura machines, each with its own set of themes and designs. Some machines even allow you to add makeup or change the background of your photos. The photo booth experience is perfect for groups of friends or couples looking for a fun activity to do together.

Once you're done taking photos, you can print them out as stickers or small prints, or even send them to your phone via a QR code. You can also choose to upload your photos to social media directly from the Purikura machine.

Overall, visiting Totti Candy Factory and trying out their Purikura machines is a sweet and enjoyable experience. It's a great way to capture your memories in Harajuku and make them even more memorable with fun and cute decorations. So, be sure to stop by and snap some photos next time you're in the area.

Visit the Owl Cafe and meet some feathered friends at Owl Village

Characteristic	Description
Name	Owl Village Cafe Harajuku
Type	Cafe
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.8 / 1,910
Address	Japan, 〒150-0001 Tokyo, Shibuya City, Jingumae, 1 Chome−21−15 原宿ATMビル4F
Phone	+81 3-6455-5081
Hours	Monday - opens at 12 and closes at 6 PM Tuesday - opens at 12 and closes at 6 PM Wednesday - opens at 12 and closes at 6 PM Thursday - opens at 12 and closes at 6 PM Friday - opens at 12 and closes at 6 PM Saturday - opens at 12 and closes at 6 PM Sunday - opens at 12 and closes at 6 PM
Profiles

Harajuku, a neighborhood in Tokyo, Japan, has become synonymous with fashion-forward trends and unique experiences. One such experience that is gaining popularity among visitors is visiting the Owl Village, located in the heart of Harajuku.

Owl Village is a café that features a variety of owls that visitors can interact with. The café offers two unique experiences - a 30-minute self-service visit and an hour-long guided visit. During the self-service visit, visitors are free to take photos of and interact with the owls while sipping on complimentary drinks. The guided visit, on the other hand, provides visitors with a more in-depth experience, showcasing the various species of owls and providing educational information about their habitat and behaviors.

One of the most fascinating experiences at Owl Village is being able to hold and pet the owls. These birds are trained to be comfortable with human interaction, making it a unique opportunity for visitors to get up close and personal with them. The café also provides visitors with the chance to purchase owl-themed souvenirs, and for an additional fee, it is possible to purchase a professional photo session with the owls.

The experience at Owl Village is not only entertaining, but it also encourages visitors to learn about conservation and the important role that owls play in our ecosystem. The café provides visitors with information about the threats facing owls in the wild and how they can help to protect them.

Visiting Owl Village is a unique opportunity that is not to be missed when in Harajuku. The experience of interacting with these magnificent creatures provides visitors with a once-in-a-lifetime experience that they will never forget.

Get a picture taken in front of the iconic Harajuku Station

Harajuku is a vibrant district in Tokyo that is famous for its unique fashion and youthful culture. Among the numerous attractions in Harajuku, the Harajuku Station stands out as a must-visit spot for any tourist looking to capture the essence of this lively district.

Located between the Shibuya and Shinjuku stations, Harajuku Station is known for its iconic architecture and vibrant energy that reflects the vibrant youth culture of the district. The station's exterior, with its striking white facade, is a popular spot for photography enthusiasts to take pictures and capture the essence of Harajuku's culture.

The station is particularly famous for its role in the fashion culture of Harajuku. The area around the station is an epicenter of street fashion featuring unique clothing styles and an eclectic mix of accessories. This has made the station a popular destination for tourists and fashion enthusiasts alike who come to take pictures and observe the fashion trendsetters.

When visiting Harajuku Station, be sure to arrive in the morning or early afternoon to avoid heavy crowd congestion from tourists. The courtyard outside the station is spacious, and getting a picture in front of the station is much easier without the much crowd.

In conclusion, Harajuku Station is an iconic spot in Tokyo, Japan, that offers tourists and fashion enthusiasts an opportunity to capture the essence of Harajuku's unique culture. Get your camera ready to snap a picture in front of the iconic Harajuku Station and take home a souvenir that will forever remind you of the vibrant spirit of this fascinating district.

Try Harajuku-style street fashion

Harajuku is a famous neighborhood in Tokyo, Japan, known for its unique and bold street fashion. The fashion scene in Harajuku is constantly evolving, with new trends and styles emerging every year. If you're a fashion enthusiast, a visit to Harajuku is a must on your next trip to Tokyo. Here are some tips on how to try Harajuku-style street fashion.

First, research the different subcultures and styles within Harajuku fashion. Harajuku fashion is a mix of Japanese and Western styles, with influences from anime, punk, goth, cosplay, and more. You can find inspiration from fashion magazines, websites, and social media accounts that showcase Harajuku fashion. Some popular Harajuku styles include Lolita, Decora, and Gyaru.

Next, plan your outfit. Harajuku fashion is all about expressing your individuality, so don't be afraid to mix and match different styles and colors. If you're into the Lolita style, you can opt for a frilly dress, petticoat, and Mary Jane shoes. For a Decora look, you can layer colorful accessories like hair clips, bracelets, and necklaces. If you're more into the Gyaru style, you can wear a mini skirt, high heels, and fake lashes.

Don't forget to accessorize. Harajuku fashion is all about the details, so accessories are a must. You can add a statement piece like a bag or hat that matches your outfit. Additionally, you can add some interesting pieces like a colorful wig or some funky contact lenses.

Finally, incorporate Harajuku-style makeup. Harajuku-style makeup is all about bright colors and a dewy finish. You can use bright eye shadow, colorful lipstick, and glitter to create a unique look that complements your outfit.

In conclusion, trying Harajuku-style street fashion is all about embracing your individuality and having fun with fashion. Don't be afraid to make a bold statement and experiment with different styles, accessories, and makeup. A visit to Harajuku can be a truly memorable experience, and trying Harajuku fashion is a great way to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Tokyo.

Have a relaxing time at a cat cafe such as Mocha Cat Cafe

Characteristic	Description
Name	Cat Cafe MOCHA Harajuku
Type	Cafe
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4 / 673
Address	Japan, 〒150-0001 Tokyo, Shibuya City, Jingumae, 1 Chome−14−25 クロスアベニュー原宿 4F
Phone	+81 3-6447-2665
Hours	Monday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 8 PM Tuesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 8 PM Wednesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 8 PM Thursday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 8 PM Friday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 8 PM Saturday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 8 PM Sunday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 8 PM
Profiles

Harajuku has so much to offer visitors to Japan, from funky fashion to delectable sweets and treats. But for those looking for a truly unique experience, a trip to one of Harajuku's cat cafes should definitely be on the itinerary.

One of the best cat cafes in the area is Mocha Cat Cafe, located just a few minutes' walk from Harajuku Station. As the name suggests, this cafe is all about feline friends - visitors are welcomed by a playful crowd of cats, both big and small.

As soon as you step inside Mocha Cat Cafe, the cozy and inviting atmosphere is immediately apparent. The interior is decorated with warm lighting, plush sofas and plenty of cat-friendly toys and structures for the feline inhabitants to explore.

One of the most popular activities at the cafe is, of course, interacting with the cats. Guests are encouraged to pet and play with the kitties, helping to keep them active and entertained during their stay. Whether you're partial to long-haired Persians or sleek Siamese, there's sure to be a cat at Mocha Cat Cafe who will capture your heart.

But it's not all about the cats - the cafe also has a great selection of drinks and snacks to choose from. The menu is filled with coffee, tea, and various sweet treats such as cakes and cookies. Relaxing with a hot drink and a purring cat on your lap is the ultimate recipe for a peaceful afternoon in Harajuku.

One thing to keep in mind is that Mocha Cat Cafe can be quite busy, especially on weekends and holidays. It's always a good idea to make a reservation in advance, especially if you're traveling with a larger group.

Overall, Mocha Cat Cafe is the perfect place to unwind and pass some time with adorable animals in a cozy and welcoming setting. If you're looking for a relaxing and fun activity in Harajuku, look no further than this top-notch cat cafe!

Frequently asked questions