10 Things To Do in Harajuku
If you’re planning a trip to Japan, then you probably already know of some iconic tourist destinations: Akihabara for anime, Asakusa Shrine for culture, Tsukiji Fish Market for fresh food… but have you added Harajuku to the list?
You might have heard about Harajuku for its iconic fashion, but Harajuku is actually an amazing tourist destination for every visitor – not just trendy teens! You may have even seen some of these unique tourist spots in your favorite anime.
Crepes
Crepes are the ultimate iconic Harajuku treat! They’re easy to eat while standing, making them popular with passing-by tourists for their taste and convenience. There are all kinds of sweet and savory flavors to choose from, so you’re bound to find the perfect crepe for you!
Giant Cotton Candy
While crepes were the original iconic Harajuku snack, these mega cotton candy clouds may be the crepe’s new-era successor! With its dreamy color scheme and extreme size, this cotton candy is perfect for sharing with your friends and on Instagram!
If you’re feeling intimidated by the sheer size of this sweet, don’t panic – the store also stocks smaller cup-candy to boost your sugar levels.
Bubble Tea
What better way to wash down the crepes and pancakes than this trendy drink!
Bubble tea has become extremely popular in Japan and is available nationwide, but especially in Harajuku, where you can find unique stores on every corner – a temporary “Tapioca Theme Park” was even opened in 2019 to celebrate the unique tea. Don’t be afraid to shop around to try a mixture of traditional and original blends.
Fluffy Pancakes
If you aren’t into thin crepes or sugary cotton candy, then why not try some super fluffy Japanese-style pancakes? These cloud-like pancakes appear regularly in anime and they’re available in cafes throughout Harajuku and Omotesando. They taste just as amazing as they look, with a variety of serving options ranging from savoury to sweet.
Kawaii-themed Cafes
If you don’t want your stomach to stop you from experiencing Harajuku, then make sure to stop by a kawaii-themed cafe! The KAWAII MONSTER CAFE was designed by Sebastian Masuda, the creator of the iconic Harajuku store 6%DOKIDOKI. With kawaii monster-themed food and elaborate dance performances from the monster staff, it’ll be a meal you’ll never forget.
You can also find character cafes, dessert buffets, and Japanese restaurants if you’d prefer something a little more traditional.
Harajuku Fashion
You can’t talk about Harajuku without mentioning the iconic Harajuku fashion! While you may not see many lolitas or punks hanging around anymore, you’ll still be able to find some amazing alternative stores. Try leaving the main street into “Urahara” (the backstreets) to find unique and unisex indie brands with goth, punk, rainbow, and uniquely Japanese designs within a variety of price ranges. Don’t forget the Laforet mall, a huge shopping mall in Harajuku that is packed full of stylish brands, including an entire floor dedicated to gothic & lolita fashion.
Thrifting
If you prefer to reduce your environmental footprint (or budget) by shopping secondhand, then Harajuku is the place for you! From gothic lolita to vintage, pop colors to kimonos, you’ll be able to create a one-of-a-kind Harajuku style coord to take home with you without breaking the bank. You can find high-end brands and even indie Harajuku brand pieces tucked away in the corners of these stylish thrift stores.
Themed Ice Cream
Japanese summer is extremely hot. Even if you’re used to warm summers, the humidity of Tokyo will wear you out. Cool down with a kawaii, instagramable ice cream! You can find all kinds of ice creams, from animal and mermaid designs to black sesame and matcha flavors. With so much variety, you’ll easily find the perfect icy treat!
K-pop
You may be in Japan, but don’t let that stop your inner K-pop fan from having a great time! K-pop has become hugely popular in Japan, and as a trend center, Harajuku is no exception.
You’ll be able to find Korean cosmetics, fashion, food and idol goods scattered across the area, alongside K-pop inspired fashion, cafes, purikura booths and photo spots.
Meiji Shrine
If the hustle and bustle of Harajuku has worn you out, you can escape to the tranquillity of Yoyogi Park which is located just across the road from the famous Takeshita Doori shopping street. Within the park is the incredible Meiji Jingu shrine, a 100 year old Shinto shrine dedicated to the Emperor Meiji and Empress Shōken. As you approach the shrine, you can stop by the food stalls and pick up a few souvenirs to take home with you.
How to get to Harajuku
For Takeshita Doori, use the JR Yamanote Line and alight at Harajuku Station. For easy access to Meiji Shrine, use the Tokyo Metro’s Chiyoda and Fukutoshin lines and alight at Jingumae Station.
About Manga Planet: Read manga, support artists
In 2012, Manga Planet started as a joint project between Dai Nippon Printing Co., Ltd. and FANTASISTA, INC. to research and explore the ways manga is read throughout the world. Aiming to bring new manga to fans from all over the world and support artists and the industry, Manga Planet pushes for affordability and access to manga through a subscription-based service.
Readers who subscribe to Manga Planet and pay a flat monthly fee of $6.99 will have access to our expanding library of English-language manga. To subscribe, please go to read.mangaplanet.com and create an account. More information is in our Guide.
