Harajuku is not only about the youth culture and fashion of the infamous Takeshita Street. In fact, you experience the real side of Harajuku when you step outside Takeshita Street. From serene shrines, parks, trendy cafés, and a mix of quirky and Kawaii boutiques – Harajuku has an unlimited list of things to do.
When I stepped into Harajuku, it was a whirlwind of emotions! The colours, the sounds, and irresistible aromas straightaway connect you to the locals. Although tourism has done its part to commercialise this neighbourhood of Tokyo, it is still worth your time in Tokyo to explore as a solo traveller.
So, to make your experience streamlined, in this guide, I have hand-picked the top 10 things to do in Harajuku for a fulfilling solo journey to Japan. Without further ado, let’s dive into your ultimate guide to Harajuku.
1. Eat, Shop, and Stroll Down Takeshita Street
Are you wondering, “Why is Takeshita Street so popular?” Because this 400-metre street is the birthplace of the world-known Harajuku Street fashion. You will find elements of punk, goth, cosplay, and rainbow fairy princess dominating the fashion scenes of Harajuku.
The vibrancy of this pedestrian street is something else. Besides, to name a few – you have an array of the coolest boutiques, street vendors, photo booths, and arcades to explore.
Here are some of my favourite things to do in the bustling Takeshita Street of Harajuku:
- Pick up souvenirs like the Doruma doll, shrine, and torii gate key chains for ¥110 from the Daiso Harajuku – the dollar store. The price here starts from ¥100 to ¥1000.
- Stop at WC if you are looking to get your hands on some really cute stuff in Takeshita Street (I love the sweatshirts – they are AMAZING!!!).
- Crepes are a must-try in Harajuku, and Marion Crepes, located along Takeshita Street, serves the best in the neighbourhood.
- Grab a cone of the most adorable and kawaii (cute) ice-creams at Eiswelt Gelato.
- If you love getting clicked like me – get inside a Japanese photo booth to make a core memory.
2. Get a Lucky Charm from Togo Shrine
Just mere meters away from the busy Takeshita Street – Togo Shrine is a quiet spot to catch a quick breath. You can even visit the shrine at night.
During my visit, I got a sneak peek at a wedding in the adjacent garden filled with cherry blossoms. It has to be the most beautiful wedding I have ever seen. So, keep your eyes open – you might be lucky to witness this, too.
Talking about luck, don’t miss out on the lucky charms – the Kawaii amulets. It comes in a Sanrio theme and includes characters like Hello Kitty, Keroppi, Pompompurin, etc.
3. Take a Therapeutic Walk at Meiji Shrine
A 10-minute walk from the Harajuku Station, you will find yourself in one of the most sacred shrines of Tokyo – the Meiji Shrine. I was in awe looking at the architecture of a traditional shrine. You have plenty to explore – the Shinto gates, wall of sake barrels, main buildings, and scenic gardens.
Plus, if you want to learn their culture – engage in their daily ceremonies. You can also treat your eyes to Tameshigiri – a Japanese art of target test cutting.
4. Go Green at Yoyogi Park
Next to Meiji Shrine and 5 minutes away from Harajuku Station – Yoyogi Park is just not a serene green space. From Pinterest-inspired picnics to watching the street performers on a Sunday – a hive of activity waits for you at the park.
By the way, if you are visiting during the cherry blossom season, GIRL – be ready to be swept off your feet. It stole my heart, and I am sure it will steal yours!
5. Tour the Ota Memorial Museum of Art
Does the museum sound boring to you? If YES (and NO) – explore the Ota Memorial Museum of Art to change that notion. And if you are an art enthusiast – it is the best place in Tokyo to see Ukiyo-e – Japanese old woodblock prints. The exhibitions here are rotational and easy to follow.
It is about 400 meters away from Yoyogi Park and will take you a 5-minute walk to reach.
6. Strike Your Stride in Fashion Walk
Your Harajuku solo adventure is incomplete without striking your stride in a Harajuku fashion walk. After all, you are in the fashion neighbourhood of Tokyo. All streets are your runways.
Moreover, such events bring people together – all with a distinct sense of style. And, if you are of the creative sort – you will love playing with fashion and being all kawaii.
7. Relax and Unwind at Kosugiyu Harajuku
Kosugiyu Harajuku is a public bathhouse at Tokyo Plaza Harajuku. The bathhouse maintains the Koenji style and combines the past with the present culture effortlessly.
It’s a fresh space to freshen up in the middle of the busy Harajuku. There’s a ‘hot water’ bath followed by a ‘milk water’ bath and a ‘cold water’ bath, which gives you the ultimate relaxation. Plus, there’s a mural of Mt. Fuji to give an authentic touch to the public bath.
8. Go Thrifting in Hidden Shops
Harajuku is a lot about vintage. While purchasing vintage items can hurt your pocket, thrift shopping is your saviour. There are several hidden spots in the back streets of Harajuku, so do not miss out on shopping for your heart’s desire!
Of all, Flamingo Harajuku is my top pick. It is a go-to store for vintage lovers. They have an epic collection with a bohemian and fairy-tale décor.
9. Check Out the Best Harajuku Festival
If you are in Japan in August, match your dates to attend the best of all Harajuku festival – Harajuku Omotesando Super Yosakoi. The energy of this festival is something you should not miss.
It is a 2-day dance festival, where teams from all over Japan participate. With high spirits, the festival is equally bold and beguiling!
10. Hop on Trendy Cafes
Harajuku boasts a range of cute cafés, and you can sample their food. It’s delicious! Savour fluffy pancakes from Micasadeco & Cafe Jingumae on Cat Street, try the combination of coffee and doughnuts at The Roastery by Nozy Coffee, or slurp on a hot bowl of ramen at Kyushu Jangara – these are all my favourite recommendations; I hope you enjoy them as much as I did.
Are You Ready to Witness the Magic of Harajuku?
Harajuku is the neighbourhood of curiosity. Everywhere you go, you will see something unique. On your next solo trip to Japan, do not forget to allocate time to Harajuku in Tokyo.
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