10 Best Things to do in Shibuya, Tokyo

Planning a trip to Shibuya? You’re in the right place!

Shibuya is one of the city’s most electric neighborhoods, where flashing neon screens light up the night and the famous crossing buzzes with energy. The moment we arrived, we felt like we’d stepped straight into the beating heart of modern Tokyo!

What makes Shibuya even better is how much variety you’ll find here. One minute you’re slurping ramen in a cozy alley, the next you’re learning a centuries-old craft, and the next you’re off on a day trip to see Mount Fuji. It’s exciting, a little chaotic, and completely unforgettable!

Here are our top tours and experiences to help you dive right in. Your adventure starts here!

Things to do in Shibuya

1. See Tokyo your way with a local by your side

Tokyo can feel overwhelming at first; the subway map looks like spaghetti, the neighborhoods are huge, and there’s so much to see that it’s hard to know where to start. That’s why this popular private tour is such a lifesaver. You get a local guide who picks you up from your hotel in Shibuya and steers you through the city, shows you the highlights, and shares stories that make everything click.

We picked the 4-hour option and were amazed at how much we experienced in half a day. Our guide, Yuriko, was fantastic; she zipped us through the outer Tsukiji Fish Market, where we snacked on sizzling skewers, then led us to Asakusa to wander the grounds of Senso-ji Temple. Between the smell of incense and the bustle of the shopping street, it was one of those “yes, this is Tokyo!” moments.

Later, Yuriko took us into Harajuku, where Takeshita Street exploded with color and energy. Between rainbow cotton candy, quirky fashion shops, and Yuriko’s fun stories about pop culture, it felt like exploring the city with a friend who knew all the best spots.

If you want to hit Tokyo’s must-sees without the stress of planning, this customizable tour is the way to go. You’ll see so much, learn even more, and actually enjoy the journey from one spot to the next.

2. Zip through the streets in a go-kart

If you’ve ever wanted to feel like the star of Tokyo for a day, this go-kart tour is it. The second you slip into your costume, climb into your kart, and roll onto the streets, people stop, wave, and snap photos. It’s one of those “only in Tokyo” experiences that’s equal parts silly and unforgettable!

We had an absolute blast zipping through Shibuya and Harajuku, with our guide leading the way and making sure we felt safe the whole time. Driving straight through the famous Shibuya Crossing was surreal, with thousands of people streaming across the intersection while cheering us on. 

In Harajuku, we cruised past Takeshita Street and Harajuku Station, catching glimpses of wild street fashion and candy-colored shops. Then it was onto Omotesando, where sleek designer boutiques and tree-lined boulevards made us feel like we’d just shifted scenes in a movie.

The best part? Every time we stopped at a light, people smiled, waved, and took photos. For 90 minutes, it honestly felt like being a mini-celebrity. The costumes added a playful twist, and the karts themselves were easy to handle, even if you’ve never driven one before.

This tour is pure fun from start to finish. If you’re looking for a quirky way to see Tokyo and collect some hilarious stories (and photos!) along the way, you really can’t miss it.

3. Slow down with Kintsugi, Japan’s golden art of repair

Beyond the buzz of Shibuya, there’s a chance to experience something truly calming and creative, the art of kintsugi. This centuries-old practice is all about repairing broken pottery with gold, turning cracks into something beautiful rather than flaws to be hidden. It’s a hands-on way to connect with Japanese aesthetics and philosophy, and you’ll walk away with a truly unique souvenir.

Master Taku will lead you on this 1-hour experience in his Minami-Aoyama studio, and the experience is worlds away from the bustle of Tokyo. Dressed in a traditional samurai jacket, you will spend an hour carefully piecing together a ceramic plate, brushing lacquer mixed with powdered gold into its seams.

We love that it’s more than just an art class; there’s a lot of meaning to this craft! Kintsugi isn’t just about fixing an object; it’s about honoring its history and imperfections and finding beauty in the repair. By the end of the class, you’ll have a plate that is part artwork, part philosophy lesson, and all yours to keep.

If you’re looking for an experience that’s slower, meaningful, and far from the usual tourist trail, this workshop is perfect. It’s the kind of memory you’ll treasure long after your trip ends.

4. Taste your way through Shibuya’s hidden foodie spots

There’s no better way to experience Shibuya than by eating your way through it, and this small-group food tour makes that possible in the tastiest way! Over the course of three hours, you’ll squeeze down alleyways, duck into hidden izakayas, and sample 13 different Japanese dishes across four eateries. It’s the kind of night where every stop feels like a discovery.

Our guide Kei was fantastic, friendly, funny, and clearly passionate about food. He led us away from the tourist-heavy streets to spots we never would have found on our own. At one cozy izakaya, we grilled slices of juicy yakiniku right at the table, while at another we slurped up bowls of steaming udon that hit the spot on a cool evening. 

We also tried crispy karaage (Japanese fried chicken), fresh sushi, and a few dishes we might not have ordered without Kei’s encouragement, and they ended up being some of our favorites.

Along the way, we paused at Shibuya Crossing to soak up the chaos of the city lights, stopped at the Hachiko statue to hear the story of Japan’s most loyal dog, and wandered through Center Gai’s buzzing streets. By the end, we were happily full and felt like we’d gotten a real insider’s look at Shibuya nightlife.

If you’re a foodie (or just love the idea of tasting your way through Shibuya), this tour is a must. With Kei leading the way, you’ll leave with both a full stomach and some great new stories.

5. Visit Mt. Fuji and Hakone

Visiting Mt Fuji is a must while you’re in Tokyo! This day trip to Mt Fuji with pickup from Shibuya was one of the best things that we’ve done in the whole of Japan. Yup, it really was THAT incredible! 

The itinerary was absolutely first-class. We rode on a comfy coach out to Mt Fuji, and our first stop of the day was the 5th line station for views of the snow-capped summit. We also had lunch here, which was a delicious all-you-can-eat buffet that exceeded our expectations.

Things got even better in the afternoon, when we headed to Hakone for a ride on the scenic ropeway. We had the most incredible views of Mt Fuji, as well as the sulfur vents and hot springs in the Owakudani Valley. 

We then headed to Lake Ashinoko for a relaxing cruise on a huge replica pirate ship, with gorgeous views of Mt Fuji. Finally, we caught the bullet train back to Tokyo, which was an adventure in itself because these bullet trains are iconic! They’re aptly named, because we were back in the city within an hour!

We honestly loved everything about this tour; it’s really no wonder that it has over 25,000 5-star reviews! Booking it meant we didn’t have to plan anything, and we really couldn’t have done it any cheaper on our own.

6. Go on a private e-bike tour to discover Tokyo

Sometimes walking just doesn’t cut it in a city as sprawling as Tokyo, and squeezing onto a packed subway isn’t exactly relaxing either. That’s where this private e-bike tour comes in. With hotel pickup from Shibuya, a guide to plan your route, and an easy-to-ride e-bike, it’s the perfect way to cover more ground without breaking a sweat.

We love how flexible this tour is. Your guide will map out a route that fits exactly what you wanted to see, from cycling past the glowing Tokyo Tower to pedaling through the quiet greenery of Yoyogi Park and Zōjō-ji. 

Riding along the moat of the Imperial Palace is such a highlight—how surreal it is to glide past centuries of history while skyscrapers loomed in the distance. And of course, rolling up to Shibuya Crossing on two wheels is one of those pinch-me moments! Instead of being swallowed by the crowd, you can watch it unfold from the saddle, right in the middle of the action!

The e-bikes make everything effortless. Hills and longer stretches are a breeze, and you’ll still have plenty of energy left by the end. What really makes it special, though, is the personal touch; the local guide shared hidden corners, history, and stories you’d never find on your own.

If you want a mix of sightseeing and fresh air, with zero transport stress, this e-bike tour is a fantastic choice. You’ll see more, learn more, and actually enjoy getting from A to B.

Related Read: Need help planning your trip? Check out our one-day Shibuya itinerary to fit as many of these top activities in as possible!

7. Slurp your way through Shibuya’s best ramen spots

Tokyo is heaven for ramen lovers, but with thousands of shops across the city, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s exactly why this ramen tasting tour is such a treat. In just three hours, you’ll explore three different neighborhoods and try six mini-bowls of ramen, each one showcasing a different style and flavor. It’s the ultimate crash course in Japan’s most comforting dish!

You’ll have so much fun slurping your way through this tour. Each stop is hand-picked and award-winning, so there isn’t a single dud in the lineup. One bowl can be rich and creamy tonkotsu (pork bone broth) that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, while another might have a spicy seafood kick that will leave you sweating.

Between tastings, the guide will explain the history of ramen, why broths and toppings vary so much across Japan, and even show the “right” way to slurp without making a mess.

What we love most is how approachable this tour is. Ramen can seem intimidating, with long lines, secret menus, and ticket machines in Japanese, but with a local guide, all the stress disappears. You can just focus on the fun part: eating! By the end, you’ll be happily stuffed but not uncomfortably full, thanks to the mini-bowl sizes.

If ramen is on your Tokyo bucket list (and it should be), this tour is the tastiest way to dive in. You’ll leave with a full belly, a new appreciation for ramen culture, and probably a craving to do it all again.

8. Experience Tokyo’s nightlife like a local

Navigating Tokyo’s nightlife can feel intimidating, especially when the best bars are hidden behind kanji signs or tucked away in back alleys. That’s why this Shibuya bar-hopping tour is such a gem. With a local guide leading the way, you’ll skip the tourist traps and dive straight into the izakaya scene, the cozy, buzzing Japanese bars where drinks and small plates flow freely.

We had such a good time wandering through Shibuya with our guide. The night started with a beer and a big “kanpai!” before heading into the yokocho, a narrow indoor alley crammed with more than 30 tiny bars. 

We’d never have found it on our own, and that was the magic of this tour; each stop felt like being let in on a secret. From sizzling wagyu beef skewers to savory izakaya classics, the food was plentiful, and the drinks kept coming (with an all-you-can-drink stop halfway through, we couldn’t resist trying a few new favorites).

Between bites, our guide shared stories about Tokyo nightlife, pointed out landmarks like the neon glow of Shibuya Crossing and the Hachiko statue, and led us through alleys buzzing with laughter and clinking glasses. It felt like being out with a group of local friends rather than a tour. By the end of the night, we were full, happy, and already planning which izakaya we’d revisit.

If you want to experience Shibuya the way Tokyoites do, this tour is the perfect night out, with good food, great drinks, and plenty of atmosphere.

9. Step into the spotlight with Tokyo as your backdrop

Sometimes the best souvenir isn’t something you buy, it’s a photo that perfectly captures your trip. This portrait tour does exactly that, pairing you with a professional photographer who knows all of Tokyo’s most photogenic backdrops. Over 90 minutes, you’ll explore Shibuya and Shinjuku while posing for vibrant shots that will be edited and sent to you afterward. It’s ideal for couples, solo travelers, or anyone who wants memories they’ll actually want to frame.

We love how this tour blended sightseeing with photography. You’ll start off in Shibuya, taking creative shots among the neon lights near Miyashita Park before heading up to a rooftop with sweeping city views. Then explore the iconic Shibuya Crossing, while the photographer captures you perfectly in the sea of people.

Next, you’ll take a quick train to Shinjuku, where the vibe is totally different. At Omoide Yokocho, glowing lanterns gave the photos a warm, traditional feel, while Kabukicho lights up the frame with neon signs and energy. The night ends in Golden Gai, where narrow alleys lined with 300 tiny bars create one of the most atmospheric photo backdrops you’ve ever seen.

What’s great is you don’t need to be “good at photos”, the photographer guides you on where to stand, how to pose, and even when to just act natural. The result? Stunning images that tell the story of your night in Tokyo.

10. Live your Tokyo Drift dreams in a legendary RX-7

If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into Fast & Furious: Tokyo Drift, this is your chance. This JDM experience takes you for a ride in an iconic RX-7 (plus other legendary Japanese cars) with a local driver who lives and breathes car culture. It’s not just about the drive, it’s about getting an insider’s look at Tokyo’s underground automotive scene.

You’ll kick off the tour right at Shibuya Crossing, where rolling up in a roaring RX-7 turned heads immediately. From there, hit the expressway, cruising past Tokyo Tower and flying over Rainbow Bridge with the skyline glowing around. The adrenaline is real, but the vibe is just as much about sightseeing as it is about speed.

The highlight of the experience has to be Daikoku Parking Area, a legendary meeting spot for car enthusiasts. Rows of tuned machines lined the lot, engines rumbling, and neon lights reflecting off polished hoods. You can learn about the culture behind these meetups, from the pride in custom builds to the unspoken rules of the scene. You can also make a pit stop at A-PIT Super Autobacs, where you can browse everything from performance parts to quirky JDM souvenirs.

Even if you’re not a hardcore gearhead, this tour is ridiculously fun. Between the rides, the photo ops, and the chance to chat with locals who love their cars, it feels like stepping into Tokyo’s coolest subculture.

If you’re exploring more than just Shibuya, take a look at our five-day Tokyo itinerary here for the perfect mix of top sights and local gems.

Where to Stay in Shibuya

After all that exploring, you’ll want a comfortable base right in the heart of the action. Shibuya is one of the best places to stay in Tokyo, with easy access to nightlife, shopping, and transport links that make sightseeing a breeze. From stylish hotels overlooking the scramble to cozy stays tucked into quieter corners, here are some of our favorite picks.

Shibuya Stream Hotel – $$$

Shibuya Stream Hotel is a plush hotel just a 3-minute walk from Shibuya Station, so Tokyo is your oyster! It’s also within easy reach of the city’s must-see attractions, including the Shibuya Scramble Crossing and the energetic Harajuku area. 

Oh, and there’s a rooftop bar and an onsen for guests to use so you can enjoy a drink with a view or a soothing soak after a long day of exploring. What could be better? Prices here go for around $230–$800 USD (34,000–118,000 JPY) per night.

Check availability and book your stay at Booking.com!

JR-East Hotel Mets Shibuya – $$

JR-East Hotel Mets Shibuya offers a prime base for exploring Tokyo, sitting just steps from Shibuya Station’s New South Gate. You can be at the famous Shibuya Scramble in minutes, yet the hotel’s tucked-away position keeps things surprisingly calm. 

Plus, the unbeatable transport links make it easy. Prices typically range from about $130–$600 USD (19,000–88,000 JPY) per night. Book early, this one’s not only our top pick, but also a favorite for travelers who love both convenience and comfort. 

Reserve your stay at our top choice for Shibuya here!

Shibuya Tokyu REI Hotel – $

Just 328 feet (100 meters) from JR Shibuya Station and a short stroll to the famous Scramble Crossing, Shibuya Tokyu REI Hotel puts you right in the thick of Shibuya’s action. The location couldn’t be more convenient for exploring the city on foot, with Shibuya 109, Hachiko Square, and even Yoyogi Park all within walking distance. 

If you want a clean, affordable spot where everything is right outside your door, this hotel is a solid pick. Rates usually fall around $120–$300 USD (17,500–44,000 JPN) per night, depending on the season. 

Browse room options and secure this stay here!

Related Read: Looking for more hotel options? See our full guide on the best areas and hotels in Shibuya for all of the top options!

Thanks for reading!

Shibuya is one of the most iconic pockets of Tokyo, and I must say a bit choatic (in a super fun way)! From the big neon signs to the famous Scramble Crossing, you can navigate Shibuya like a pro if you stick to our list of top activities.

If you need help planning the rest of your travels, see all of our Japan blogs! Whether you’re exploring more of Tokyo or the country as a whole, we have lots of resources to help you plan a memorable trip. Here are a few related blogs to get you started:

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How to Spend THREE DAYS in Tokyo: 3-Day Itinerary

10 Fun & Exciting Things to do in Tokyo, Japan

Where to Stay in Ginza, Tokyo: 5 Best Areas & Hotels