Shibuya, one of Tokyo’s most iconic neighborhoods, is known for its bustling streets, vibrant nightlife, and cutting-edge fashion scene. Famous for the Shibuya Crossing, the world’s busiest pedestrian intersection, this district offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition.
Whether you’re here for shopping, dining, or exploring cultural landmarks, Shibuya has a neighborhood to suit every traveler’s needs. Here’s a guide to the best places to stay in Shibuya, ensuring you have the perfect base for your Tokyo adventures.
Shibuya Station Area
Ideal for first-time visitors, business travelers, and those who value convenience.The area around Shibuya Station is the heart of the district, providing easy access to all of Tokyo. Shibuya Station is one of the city’s main transportation hubs, connecting you to various train lines, including the Yamanote Line, which circles central Tokyo.
The surrounding area is a bustling hub of activity, home to numerous shopping centers like Shibuya Hikarie, Shibuya Mark City, and the iconic Shibuya Sky. The district also boasts an array of dining options, from trendy cafes to upscale restaurants. Staying here places you right in the middle of Shibuya’s vibrant energy, making it easy to explore both the immediate area and the wider city.
- Luxury: SHIBUYA STREAM HOTEL is a modern hotel located within the Shibuya Stream shopping and dining complex, offering stylish accommodations with excellent city views and direct access to the station.
- Luxury: Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel offers spacious rooms with stunning views of the city skyline. It’s a luxury hotel that combines comfort and convenience, located just a short walk from Shibuya Station.
- Mid-range: Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu provides comfortable accommodations with direct access to Shibuya Mark City, offering convenience and modern amenities.
- Mid-range: Hyatt House Tokyo Shibuya is a stylish and contemporary hotel offering spacious rooms with kitchenettes, ideal for longer stays and located within walking distance of Shibuya Station.
- Budget: The Millennials Shibuya is a stylish, budget-friendly option featuring compact, high-tech pods and a social atmosphere, perfect for solo travelers or those on a budget.
- Budget: Shibuya Hotel En provides affordable, modern rooms in a central location, ideal for budget-conscious travelers looking to explore Shibuya.
Harajuku Area
Ideal for trendsetters, fashion enthusiasts, and culture seekers. Harajuku, located just a short walk from Shibuya, is the epicenter of Tokyo’s youth culture and fashion scene. Known for its colorful street art, quirky shops, and vibrant atmosphere, Harajuku attracts trendsetters from all over the world. Takeshita Street, the heart of Harajuku, is packed with boutique stores, vintage shops, and trendy cafes, offering a shopping experience like no other.
Beyond fashion, the area is also home to the serene Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park, providing a tranquil escape from the bustling city streets. Staying in Harajuku offers a unique blend of fashion-forward energy and cultural depth.
Harajuku is conveniently served by Harajuku Station on the JR Yamanote Line and Meiji-Jingumae Station on the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda and Fukutoshin Lines. This makes it easy to explore both Harajuku and the surrounding neighborhoods like Shibuya and Omotesando.
- Luxury: TRUNK (HOTEL) is a boutique hotel that blends luxury with a hip, eco-conscious vibe, offering stylish rooms and a trendy rooftop bar.
- Mid-range: Dormy Inn Premium Shibuya Jingumae offers modern, comfortable rooms with easy access to both Shibuya and Harajuku, plus an onsen for relaxation.
- Mid-range: Sequence MIYASHITA PARK is a contemporary hotel offering sleek accommodations with direct access to MIYASHITA PARK complex, blending modern design with convenience in the heart of the city.
- Budget: Tabist Hotel New Washington Shibuya offers simple, budget-friendly accommodations in a convenient location, perfect for travelers who want to explore both Harajuku and Shibuya without breaking the bank.
Aoyama Area
Ideal for art lovers, design enthusiasts, and those seeking a quieter stay. Aoyama is one of Tokyo’s most stylish and upscale neighborhoods, known for its high-end boutiques, art galleries, and sophisticated dining scene. The area exudes a calm and refined atmosphere, making it a perfect retreat from the busier parts of Shibuya.
Aoyama is also home to some of Tokyo’s most important cultural sites, including the Nezu Museum and the National Art Center. For those who appreciate design and art, staying in Aoyama offers a serene yet culturally rich experience.
Aoyama is accessible via Aoyama-itchome Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza, Hanzomon, and Oedo Lines, providing easy access to both central Tokyo and other cultural districts. The area is also a short walk or quick train ride from Shibuya and Harajuku.
- Luxury: The Aoyama Grand Hotel provides luxurious accommodations with elegant design and top-notch amenities, located in the heart of Aoyama.
- Luxury: Hotel Allamanda Aoyama offers stylish rooms with a focus on comfort and aesthetics, situated near Aoyama’s top attractions.
- Mid-range: Tokyu Stay Aoyama Premier offers modern, comfortable accommodations with stunning views, perfect for longer stays in Aoyama.
Daikanyama and Ebisu Area
Daikanyama and Ebisu are trendy, upscale neighborhoods known for their boutique shopping, chic cafes, and laid-back vibe. Often compared to New York’s Soho, these areas are favorites among locals and expats who appreciate their unique blend of urban sophistication and relaxed atmosphere.
Daikanyama is perfect for exploring Tokyo’s hidden gems, with plenty of boutique stores, cozy bookstores, and artisanal bakeries, while Ebisu is renowned for its vibrant dining scene and stylish bars. Staying in these neighborhoods offers a taste of Tokyo’s refined side with a touch of local charm.
Daikanyama is served by Daikanyama Station on the Tokyu Toyoko Line, offering quick connections to Shibuya and central Tokyo. Ebisu is accessible via Ebisu Station on the JR Yamanote Line and Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line, providing convenient access to all of Tokyo.
- Luxury: The Westin Tokyo in Ebisu offers luxurious accommodations with classic European-style decor, perfect for those seeking comfort and elegance.
- Mid-range: Prince Smart Inn Ebisu offers modern accommodations with smart technology features, located close to Ebisu Station for easy access to both Daikanyama and Ebisu’s dining and shopping spots.
- Budget: NADESHIKO HOTEL SHIBUYA is a women-only capsule hotel offering a safe and stylish stay at an affordable price, located just a short distance from Daikanyama.
Shibuya’s diverse neighborhoods each offer a unique experience, catering to different types of travelers. Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant energy of Shibuya Station, the fashion-forward streets of Harajuku, the artistic charm of Aoyama, or the boutique allure of Daikanyama, you’ll find the perfect place to stay. With excellent transportation links and a wide range of accommodation options, Shibuya is the ideal base for exploring Tokyo’s endless wonders. Enjoy your stay in this dynamic and unforgettable district!
Visiting Shinjuku or Yokohama?
Are you planning to visit Shinjuku or Yokohama as well? We compiled comprehensive guides on where to stay in both cities. Please visit Where to Stay in Shinjuku and Where to Stay in Yokohama.
Article by Maria Fukuda. Photos by Melpomene/pixta (1), Ryuji/pixta (2), Caito/pixta (3), mandegan/pixta (4), IDEA/pixta (5). All rights reserved.
