Harajuku’s Takeshita-dori Shopping Street in Shibuya Ward, is a popular shopping street for young people with a total length of about 350 meters from the Takeshita exit of JR Harajuku Station to Meiji-dori Avenue.
It is a popular spot for international tourists and students on school excursions and is crowded with many young people.
The street is lined with an eclectic mix of stores selling everything from trendy clothing and accessories to quirky and kawaii (cute) items. Many of the shops feature eye-catching displays and decorations that add to the street’s lively atmosphere. Visitors can also indulge in a variety of delicious snacks and treats, such as crepes, cotton candy, and bubble tea.
Harajuku Takeshita Street has become a hub for Japanese youth culture and fashion, with many of the latest trends and styles originating from the area. The street is particularly famous for its Harajuku fashion, which is characterized by bold colors, eccentric patterns, and a mix-and-match aesthetic. Visitors to the street can witness firsthand the unique fashion sense of Japan’s younger generation.
History of Harajuku Takeshita Street
The history of Harajuku Takeshita Street dates back to the 1970s when it was a small, narrow street lined with traditional Japanese houses. It wasn’t until the 1990s that the street began to gain popularity among young people, thanks to its affordable and trendy fashion shops.
Today, Harajuku Takeshita Street is a hub for youth culture and fashion, with a wide variety of shops selling everything from vintage clothing to the latest fashion trends. The street is also home to many cafes and restaurants, making it a popular destination for both shopping and dining.
In recent years, the street has faced some challenges due to overcrowding and safety concerns. However, efforts are being made to address these issues while still preserving the unique character and charm of Harajuku Takeshita Street.
Culture and Fashion
The street is a hub for Japanese youth fashion and attracts tourists from all over the world. The fashion styles found on Takeshita Street are often inspired by anime, manga, and other pop culture trends.
One of the most popular fashion styles found on Takeshita Street is Lolita fashion. This style is inspired by Victorian-era clothing and features frilly dresses, petticoats, and lace. Another popular style is Decora, which involves layering colorful accessories and clothing to create a playful and whimsical look.
Aside from fashion, Takeshita Street is also a hub for Japanese pop culture. Many shops sell anime and manga merchandise, as well as cosplay costumes and accessories. Visitors can also find unique souvenirs and snacks, such as Harajuku-style crepes and cotton candy.
Overall, Takeshita Street is a vibrant and lively destination that offers a glimpse into Japan’s youth culture and fashion trends.
Food and Drink
The Street is not only a fashion hub but also a food and drink paradise. The street is lined with numerous cafes, restaurants, and food stalls that offer a wide range of Japanese and international cuisine. Here are some of the must-try food and drink options:
- Crepe stands: Harajuku Takeshita Street is famous for its crepe stands. These stands offer a variety of sweet and savory crepes that are perfect for a quick snack or meal. Some popular flavors include strawberry, banana, chocolate, and Nutella.
- Takoyaki: Takoyaki is a popular Japanese street food that consists of small balls of batter filled with diced octopus, tempura scraps, and green onion. They are cooked in a special takoyaki pan and served with a savory sauce, mayo, and bonito flakes.
- Ramen: Ramen is a Japanese noodle dish that is popular all over the world. There are several ramen shops on Harajuku Takeshita Street that offer different types of ramen, including tonkotsu, miso, and shoyu.
- Bubble tea: Bubble tea is a Taiwanese tea-based drink that has become popular in Japan. There are several bubble tea shops on Harajuku Takeshita Street that offer a variety of flavors, including classic milk tea, fruit tea, and matcha.
In addition to these options, several cafes offer coffee, tea, and desserts. Some popular cafes include Starbucks, Totti Candy Factory, and Kawaii Monster Cafe.
Shopping
Harajuku Takeshita Street is a shopper’s paradise, with a wide variety of stores offering everything from trendy fashion to unique souvenirs. The street is particularly popular among young people, who come here to find the latest fashion trends and accessories.
Some of the most popular stores on Takeshita Street include:
- WEGO: This trendy fashion store offers a wide range of clothing and accessories for both men and women. The store is particularly popular for its affordable prices and unique designs.
- LINE Friends: This store features a wide range of products featuring the popular LINE characters. Visitors can find everything from plush toys to phone cases and other accessories.
- Daiso: This popular Japanese chain store offers a wide range of products at affordable prices. Visitors can find everything from snacks to household items to souvenirs.
In addition to these stores, there are also many street vendors selling unique souvenirs and snacks. Visitors can find everything from crepes to cotton candy to takoyaki (octopus balls).
Overall, shopping on Takeshita Street is a unique and exciting experience that should not be missed.
How To Get To Takeshita Street
- A short walk from the Takeshita exit of Harajuku station on the Yamanote line.
- Or on the Chiyoda line, about 2 minutes walk from Meiji-Jingu Mae station.
Nearby Spots
- 0.1km >>
Nico Nico Honsha - 0.2km >>
Togo Shrine: A Shrine dedicated to Heihachiro Togo - 0.2km >>
Ukiyo-e Ota Memorial Museum: Ukiyoe from the Meiji and Taisho eras
Harajuku Takeshita Street Information
| Name | Takeshita Street 竹下通り |
|---|---|
| Fee | free |
| Address | 1 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo |
| Telephone | 03-3403-2525(Harajuku Takeshita-dori Shopping Center Office) |
