Back to All Events

Day 3 - Shinjuku, Harajuku, Shibuya

SHINJUKU

35 minutes by train (direct on the Ginza line) - ¥210 - directions

Shinjuku is a bustling district in Tokyo. Renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse offerings, it encompasses entertainment, business, and shopping districts.

Shinjuku Gyoen National Gardens - Take a stroll and get a bite to eat

600m / 9 minutes on foot from Shinjuku Station - directions
Open: 9:00am ~ 4:00pm
Closed: Mondays

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, featured heavily in the movie ‘Garden of Words’ is a serene oasis in the heart of Tokyo, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city. Originally a residence for feudal lords during the Edo period, the garden blends traditional Japanese, English, and French landscaping styles.

Cost: Adult  ¥500 - Child (0-15) Free
You can book ahead of time - booking link (must be booked in advance during cherry blossom season)

  • 🍴 SASAYAIORI+

    directions
    Open: 9:00am ~ 4:00pm
    Closed: Mondays

    Known for its serene ambiance and modern Japanese aesthetic, SASAYAIORI+ offers a variety of seasonal dishes, desserts, and drinks that highlight traditional Japanese flavors with a contemporary twist.

  • 🍴 Starbucks Coffee

    directions
    Open: 9:00am ~ 6:30pm
    Closed: Mondays

    Starbucks Japan is a beloved coffee chain known for its unique blend of Japanese aesthetics and the global Starbucks experience.

  • 🍴Rakuu-tei Tea House

    directions
    Open: 9:00am ~ 4:00pm
    Closed: Mondays

    Surrounded by the beauty of nature, including ponds, seasonal flowers, and lush greenery, Rakuu-tei provides a peaceful escape from the bustling city of Tokyo while giving visitors a taste of Japan's elegant tea ceremony traditions.

Hanazono Shrine - Take a break from the hustle and bustle

650m / 10 minutes on foot from Shinjuku Gyoen - directions
Open: 24 Hours
Closed: No Closures

Hanazono Shrine, located in the bustling Shinjuku district of Tokyo, is a historic Shinto shrine steeped in tradition and spirituality. Dating back to the early 17th century, Hanazono Shrine is dedicated to the deity Inari Okami, known as the god of prosperity and business. Visitors to the shrine can explore its serene grounds, adorned with lush greenery and vibrant torii gates, and participate in traditional rituals such as prayer and fortune-telling.

Walk Kabukicho

550m / 7 minutes on foot from Hanazono Shrine - directions

Shinjuku Kabukicho is a vibrant entertainment district in Tokyo, renowned for its bustling nightlife, diverse dining options, and vibrant atmosphere. It's home to numerous restaurants, bars, clubs, and shops, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.

  • Hotel Gracery - Kabukicho’s Godzilla Head

directions
Perched atop Hotel Gracery in Shinjuku, the Godzilla Head is an iconic and imposing statue that pays homage to Japan's legendary kaiju. This massive structure, complete with glowing eyes and smoke-breathing effects, is a must-see for fans of the genre and offers a unique blend of pop culture and urban landscape.

  • Show Times: Typically every hour from noon to 8:00pm

    • Godzilla World - 8th Floor

      The 8th Floor of Hotel Gracery is lovingly referred to as Godzilla World. Within the Hotel Gracery Lobby, (accessed by these elevators here) you’ll find a large Godzilla vs Mothra scene, a wall of Godzilla movie posters, a small Godzilla shop, the Hotel Gracery Cafe with Godzilla themed eats, and you can view the Godzilla Head on the terrace up close.

      *Please note you cannot venture out onto the terrace, however you can see him up close through the lobby windows. & Access is limited to hotel guests and customers of the hotel's cafe

  • 🍴Shinjuku Ale - Craft Beer Factory

    45m / 1 minute on foot from Hotel Gracery - directions
    Open: 11:00am ~ 4:00pm
    Closed: No Closures

    CRAFT BEER FACTORY SHINJUKU ALE is a notable craft beer bar situated in Tokyo's vibrant Kabukicho district. This establishment stands out by brewing its own beers on-site, offering patrons a selection of seven distinct varieties, including classics like pilsner and IPA, as well as unique options such as a fruity mikan ale and a CBD-infused beer.

    Make a reservation

🍴 Kibori - Hokkaido Cuisine

350m / 5 minutes on foot from Tokyu Kabukicho Tower - directions
Open: 11:30am ~ 3:00pm / 5:00pm ~ 11:00pm
Closed: No Closures

Kibori is a renowned restaurant in Shinjuku that specializes in Hokkaido cuisine, offering a delightful array of dishes showcasing the flavors and ingredients of Japan's northernmost island. From fresh seafood sourced from Hokkaido's pristine waters to hearty dishes featuring locally grown vegetables and succulent meats, Kibori provides a culinary journey through Hokkaido's rich gastronomic heritage.

Check our their menu
Make a reservation


HARAJUKU

16 minutes by train (direct on the Yamanote Line) - ¥150 - directions

Harajuku is a trendy neighborhood in Tokyo, Japan, renowned for its fashion-forward and eccentric street style. It's a vibrant hub for youth culture and creativity, where you'll find quirky boutiques, pop-up shops, and the iconic Takeshita Street, Yoyogi Park and the Meiji Shrine.

Ota Memorial Museum of Art

400m / 15 minutes on foot from Yoyogi Park - directions

The Ota Memorial Museum of Art, located in the Shibuya district of Tokyo, is renowned for its extensive collection of Japanese ukiyo-e woodblock prints. Founded in 1980, the museum houses over 12,000 pieces, primarily from the Edo period (1603-1868). It was established to honor the collection of Seizo Ota V, a passionate collector who amassed a significant number of these prints.

Cost: Adult ¥1,000

Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harajuku

250m / 2 minutes on foot from Ota Memorial Museum of Art - directions
Open: 11:00am ~ 8:00pm
Closed: No Closures

Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harajuku is a stylish shopping complex in Tokyo, located at the intersection of Omotesando and Harajuku. Designed by the renowned architect Hiroshi Nakamura, the building is known for its striking mirrored entrance. It offers a mix of trendy fashion boutiques, lifestyle stores, and cafes.

  • Omohara Forest

    6th Floor

    Omohara Forest is the rooftop garden located at Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harajuku. Designed as an urban oasis, it blends greenery with modern architecture, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustling streets below. The space is filled with trees, plants, and seating areas, creating a park-like atmosphere where visitors can relax and unwind and enjoy the views of Harajuku and Omotesando from above.

Walk Takeshita-Street - Walk the Quirky Fashion Capitol of Japan

500m / 7 minutes on foot from Tokyu Plaza - directions

Takeshita Street is a bustling and iconic shopping street located in the heart of Harajuku, Tokyo. Renowned for its eclectic fashion boutiques, trendy cafes, and vibrant atmosphere, it's a haven for youth culture and street fashion enthusiasts. Visitors can explore a myriad of clothing stores, accessories shops, and enjoy quirky snacks like crepes and cotton candy. Takeshita Street offers a lively and memorable Tokyo shopping experience.

SHIBUYA

1.2km / 17 minutes on foot from Takeshita Street - directions

A vibrant district in Tokyo encapsulating Japan’s modern culture. Shibuya, best known for the iconic Shibuya Crossing, is a bustling hub of fashion, entertainment, and nightlife. 

Go via Shibuya Center Gai

directions
Shibuya Center Gai is a bustling street in Tokyo known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse range of shops, cafes, and entertainment options. One of the most iconic attractions is the 3D billboard located at the entrance of the street, which captivates visitors with its dynamic displays and colorful visuals. Additionally, visitors can explore a variety of trendy boutiques, restaurants serving delicious local cuisine, and quirky souvenir shops.

  • Iyoshi Cola - Craft Cola

directions
Open: 1:00pm ~ 7:00pm
Closed: No Closures

Iyoshi Cola is a craft cola specialty shop located in Shibuya, Tokyo, known for its unique take on the classic soda. Unlike mass-produced colas, Iyoshi Cola is handmade in small batches using natural ingredients such as spices, citrus, and herbs.

  • #C-Pla Shibuya - Gatchapon Arcade

directions
Open: 10:00am ~ 11:00pm
Closed: No Closures

A must-visit destination for fans of Japanese pop culture and collectors of unique souvenirs. C-Pla offers an extensive collection of Gatchapon machines, each filled with a variety of capsule toys ranging from popular anime characters and cute animals to quirky and unexpected items.

  • 3D Billboard - Look up

    directions

    The Shibuya Center Gai 3D billboard is a cutting-edge digital screen located in the heart of Shibuya, Tokyo, known for its striking and realistic 3D advertisements with have featured everything from giant animals to animated characters, drawing crowds and adding to Shibuya’s vibrant and futuristic atmosphere.

✦ Iconic Shibuya Crossing - Cross the world's busiest pedestrian crossing

39m / 1 minute on foot from Shibuya Station - directions

Shibuya Crossing is one of the world's busiest and most iconic pedestrian intersections, with over 2.4 million people crossing every day, and roughly 2,500 pedestrians at every crossing.

“a great example of what Tokyo does best when it's not trying." ~ Professor Shane Flynn

  • Hachiko Memorial Statue - A symbol of enduring loyalty

    160m / 2 minutes on foot from Shibuya Station - directions

The Hachiko Memorial Statue in Tokyo's Shibuya Station honors the legendary loyal Akita dog, Hachiko. A symbol of unwavering devotion, it's a heartwarming tribute to a remarkable bond.

The Story: Hachiko, an Akita dog born in 1923, belonged to Professor Hidesaburo Ueno, a professor at the University of Tokyo. The two developed a deep bond and became inseparable companions. Every day, Hachiko accompanied the professor to Shibuya Station and waited for him to return from work.

Tragically, in May 1925, Professor Ueno passed away unexpectedly while at work, never returning to the station. Despite this, Hachiko continued to faithfully wait for his owner every day at the station, regardless of weather or time. His loyalty touched the hearts of station-goers and passersby, and he became a symbol of fidelity and devotion.


Banksy GMO Digital Art Museum - From the collection of Masatoshi Kumagai

300m / 5 minutes on foot from Shibuya Scramble - directions
Open: 11:00am ~ 8:00pm
Closed: No closing date listed

This museum showcases digital artworks inspired by the renowned street artist Banksy. Utilizing innovative technology, the museum offers immersive and thought-provoking digital installations that pay homage to Banksy's impactful and often controversial artistic legacy, merging technology and art in a captivating experience.

Performances: Every 20 minutes
Cost: Adult ¥300 / Child Free
You can book ahead of time - booking link

Accessibility Notes: English translators available

Shibuya Sky Observatory

200m / 4 minutes on foot from Banksy GMO Digital Art Museum - directions
Open: 10:00am ~ 10:30pm
Closed:

The Shibuya Sky Observatory, located atop the Shibuya Scramble Square skyscraper, offers breathtaking panoramic views of Tokyo. Rising 229 meters above ground, it provides visitors with a stunning vantage point to admire Tokyo's iconic skyline, including landmarks like the Shibuya Crossing and Tokyo Tower.

Cost: Adult ¥2,500 / Child ¥700
You can book ahead of time - booking link (recommended)
Note: Children are not allowed to be picked up while on the open rooftop for their safety, all children venturing out onto the open rooftop must be able to walk on their own.

Travel Tip: Shibuya Scramble Back Up Views

The tickets for Shibuya Sky can be competitive. If you happen to miss out, there’s a couple more great places to see the scramble from above. Head to the open air rooftop in the nearby Magnet building, grab a drink, and watch the people scramble! Or, head to Estation Café Lounge and take in the birdseye views while grabbing a bite to eat.


🍴 KINKA Sushi Bar Izakaya

450m / 6 minutes on foot from Shibuya Sky - directions
Open: Lunch 11:30am ~ 2:30 / Dinner 5:00pm ~ 11:00pm
Closed: No Closures

We are proud to serve our famous blowtorched sushi, lobster dishes, and nigiri sushi, as well as our gorgeous sashimi platters and modernized tapas dishes, all made from the freshest ingredients.

Our selections from the bar strongly focus on “wa” (Japanese) flavours, with a range of sake, shochu and cocktails to enjoy.

Check out their menu
Make a reservation

Previous
Previous
21 August

Day 2 - Ueno, Ginza & Toyosu

Next
Next
23 August

Day 4 - Kanazawa