Shibuya is famous worldwide for its Scramble Crossing and its concentration of cutting-edge culture, fashion, tech companies, and entertainment.
From Harajuku and Omotesando to Ebisu, Daikanyama, Hiroo, and Jingumae, each neighborhood offers its own atmosphere.
The district also embraces large green spaces like Meiji Jingu Shrine and Yoyogi Park, creating a beautiful contrast between modern trends and deep-rooted tradition.

Recent redevelopment projects such as Shibuya Hikarie, Shibuya Stream, Shibuya Scramble Square, and MIYASHITA PARK add new layers to a district where old and new coexist in a dynamic, three-dimensional cityscape.

📛 Origin of the Name
There are several theories regarding the name “Shibuya.”
Some attribute it to the Shibuya River, others to a historical samurai clan called the Shibuya family, and another theory links it to the valley-like lowlands (yachi) of the area.
Local museums and archives introduce these multiple coexisting theories.

📜 Formation and Historical Highlights
・1932: Former Shibuya Town, Sendagaya Town, and Yoyohata Town merged to form Shibuya Ward
・1947: Became one of Tokyo’s Special Wards
・Post-war: Grew into Japan’s youth-culture capital
・2000s to present: Major station-area redevelopments continue to transform the district

🦮 Hachiko & Shibuya Scramble Crossing
The first Hachiko statue was built in 1934, removed during the war, and rebuilt in 1948 as a symbol of recovery.
Today it remains the most iconic meeting spot in Japan.
The Scramble Crossing is often called the world’s busiest crossing, with over 1,000 people crossing at once during a single green light.

🏙 Landmarks & Urban Icons

🌇 Shibuya Hikarie (2012)
A major complex combining shopping, offices, and the Tokyu Theatre Orb.

🌉 Shibuya Stream (2018)
Redeveloped along the former Toyoko Line platforms and Shibuya River, creating a lively riverside walkway.

🏙 Shibuya Scramble Square (2019)
At about 230 meters tall, its rooftop observatory SHIBUYA SKY offers breathtaking panoramic views.

🌿 MIYASHITA PARK (2020)
A next-generation mixed-use project featuring a rooftop park, shops, and a hotel.

⛩ Meiji Jingu Shrine (1920) & Yoyogi Park (1967)
A vast forested area near Harajuku, known for its serene atmosphere and year-round events.

📺 NHK Broadcasting Center
Japan’s national broadcasting hub, currently undergoing phased reconstruction.

🚆 Transportation
Shibuya Station is one of Tokyo’s largest transit hubs, served by JR (Yamanote, Saikyo, Shonan-Shinjuku lines), Tokyo Metro (Ginza, Hanzomon, Fukutoshin lines), Tokyu (Toyoko, Den-en-toshi lines), and Keio Inokashira Line.
With multiple rail operators and through-services, it offers direct access to Yokohama, Saitama, and more.
Its multilayered station layout is known to be challenging for transfers—but extremely well-connected.

🚗 Major Roads
Route 246, Meiji-dori, Yamate-dori, Inokashira-dori, Roppongi-dori, Gaien Nishi-dori, Komazawa-dori.
Each major street defines the character of its surrounding neighborhood.

🏠 Neighborhood Guide & Real-Estate Perspective

🌆 Shibuya, Jinnan, Udagawacho
Core redevelopment zones with high-rise residences, towers, and hotel-like amenities. Ideal for those prioritizing city views and convenience.

👗 Harajuku & Omotesando
Home to global fashion brands and unique boutique streets like Cat Street and Ura-Hara. Highly walkable with strong cultural appeal.

🍷 Ebisu
Origin of Yebisu Beer. Ebisu Garden Place symbolizes the blend of residential comfort, business, and culture.

📚 Daikanyama
Known for refined low-rise living, including T-SITE and Hillside Terrace. Popular among those seeking calm, stylish urban life.

🏡 Shoto, Kamiyamacho, Yoyogi-Uehara
Some of Shibuya’s most prestigious residential districts. Quiet streets, greenery, and excellent school environments.

📈 Real-estate tendencies
・Properties near station redevelopments command premium rents and prices
・Omotesando, Daikanyama, and Ebisu value low-rise design and cohesive streetscapes
・Shoto and Uehara emphasize land scarcity, quiet environment, and greenery

🌎 Culture & Diversity
Shibuya launched Japan’s first Partnership Certificate System in 2015, supporting diversity and inclusion.
Its open, progressive spirit is part of the district’s identity.

🎯 Recommended For…

👨‍👩‍👧 Visitors
A perfect one-day route:
SHIBUYA SKY → Hachiko → Scramble Crossing → Shibuya Riverside Walk → Meiji Jingu Shrine → Yoyogi Park
Experience both the urban buzz and the calm of Tokyo’s forests.

🏙 Home Seekers
・City views × direct station access → around Scramble Square & Hikarie side
・Quiet atmosphere × unique shops → Daikanyama, Hiroo, backstreets of Omotesando
・Prestigious homes × family-friendly → Shoto, Yoyogi-Uehara

📝 In One Sentence
Shibuya City is a vibrant district where global energy, historical roots, natural spaces, and refined residential neighborhoods all connect within walking distance.
Whether visiting or living, the area reveals a new face every time—one of Tokyo’s most dynamic and endlessly fascinating urban landscapes.