Harajuku is intense, in the best possible way. Delicious smells waft in the air, a messenger of the treats you will soon try. Colors abound with kawaii (the culture of cuteness in Japan) found on signs, fashion, and even food. Harajuku is full of entertainment and below we break down some of the most fun things to do in this lively neighborhood. The crowds are something to work through, but just knowing this ahead of time is enough to prepare you for the closeness of the space.
Tokyo is one of the largest city in the world, so it is no wonder that it’s broken into different areas. Tokyo’s neighborhoods are as varied as if they were each a different city. The neighborhoods vary from the bright lights and electronic mecca of Akihabara to the elite shopping area of Ginza to the old-world charm of Asakusa. Harajuku is the fun little sister to Tokyo’s more grown-up neighborhoods. Known for its trendy teenager fashion, the stores and food options are equally colorful and fun to see.
Just around the corner from the Omotesando neighborhood (and the Dominique Ansel Bakery), is Harajuku. Kawaii is on display in all its various forms in Harajuku. From fashion to food, kawaii is found everywhere you look in Harajuku.
Tip: This area of Tokyo is very crowded, especially on the weekend. If you want to avoid the crowds, try a weekday morning.
Takeshita Dori is the main street of Harajuku and along this street, you will find most of the things on our list. The last three are a very short walk once you reach the bottom of Takeshita Dori.
Here are 7 fun things to do in Harajuku:
1. Eat a Huge Cotton Candy
This could be the sole reason you go to Harajuku. Can you believe the size of this thing? Totti Candy Factory is the candy store that makes these wonderful creations. The massively huge cotton candy clouds are so popular that there are timed entrances. Look for a girl with a clipboard at the base of the stairway, she will give you a timed entrance tag. Simply return at that time and give the tag to the girl on the stairway and work your way through the line. Yes, there is still a line even with the timed entrance, but the line is short and it moves quickly.
2. Enjoy ZakuZaku and Crepes
The snacks along Takeshita Dori (Takeshita Street) are good reasons to go to Harajuku. There are numerous crepe stands that sell a huge variety of crepes with a wide range of tasty fillings.
Another delicious snack is the croquant chou zakuzaku. I love these! The outside is a crispy chou pastry (think crispy puff pastry) with cream inside. Yum, yum, yum. They bake these fresh each day at the store and you can see the process as you are waiting in line to order. Besides being delicious, it’s fun to say… “zakuzaku.”
3. Stop into the Unique Stores and Cafes
Unique is an understatement in Harajuku. Fun and funky clothing stores line the streets next to shops perfect for your next souvenir. Paris Kids is a popular store where you can find cute, weird or practical jewelry and accessories. For cheap souvenirs to bring home, check out the three-story ¥100 shop, Daiso. Shop at Kinji Used Clothing to find cheap, modern and vintage Japanese clothing-this place is a favorite stop for Gwen Stefani and Lady Gaga.
On Takeshita Dori, you can find a Cat cafe, but don’t forget the other cafes off the main street. Fancy holding a hedgehog? Then head over to the hedgehog cafe Harry. Be sure to reserve your spot ahead of time for any of the animal cafes…these are very popular places.
4. Entertain Yourself by People Watching
The fashion here is entertaining to see. This is why most people have heard of Harajuku (remember Gwen Stefani’s Harajuku girls?). Although it’s hard to find Cosplayers these days, there are still lots of fashionable people walking around. And you might even see a stroller for dogs.
5. Visit the Moshi Moshi Box
This information box is located at the bottom of the hill of Takeshita Dori. Here you can find maps and shopping information along with free wifi, luggage storage, a currency exchange and even a selection of souvenirs.
What drew us to the Moshi Moshi Box was the colorful clock on the front, designed by the kawaii leader, Sabastian Masuda.
6. Drink an Artful Latte
If you are heading to Harajuku, then you MUST stop into this awe-inspiring café. The owner creates works of art with the foam of your latte, cappuccino, or hot chocolate. See more pictures of his creations and read about the café in our article here.
7. Don’t Forget the Stores off Takeshita Dori
For a less crowded shopping experience, check out the stores on the side streets away from Takeshita Dori. Even though they are off the main street, you can still find unique and quirky shops. At Stay 246, they sell popular athletic shoes and clothing. Some of the shoes here cost more than $2,000. Just window-shopping for us!
Check out 6% Doki Doki. The king of kawaii, Sebastian Masuda, created this store and it is kawaii overload. Remember that clock in number 5 above? That was his creation. Check out the store’s Instagram feed to see kawaii in all its glory.
Even though Harajuku is extremely crowded, it is worth it to experience the scene. And if for no other reason, to enjoy the cotton candy!
Have you visited Harajuku? Tell us about your experience in the comments below.
Comments
4 CommentsAnna
Jun 8, 2018Wow so colourful! I visited this street last year and I cannot believe I missed the huge colourful clock! Also I wish I had tried one of the huge cotton candies, but I agree one of the best things to do is just people watch 🙂
Amanda
Jun 11, 2018Thanks, Anna. The clock was down the hill of Takeshita Street across the street. You’ll have to try the cotton candy on your next trip to Tokyo 😉
Lydia
Jul 2, 2018Harajuku seems like a very picturesque district which abounds in colorful street art and fashion scene, Amanda! Plus, the street food seems mouth-watering. When’s the best time of the day to beat the crowd?
Amanda
Jul 2, 2018Thanks, Lydia! The food was very yummy…I’d go back again just for the food. I would suggest early in the morning on a weekday (weekends are crazy busy). Thanks for your comment!