Youthful, trendy, and vibrant – Shibuya is the contemporary hub of Tokyo. Whether it is the unmissable nightlife, iconic scramble, or fine dining experience to cheap eats, Shibuya is the most power-packed city in the capital of Japan. 

But do you know the best part of being a solo female traveller in Japan? It’s spontaneity. And, of all, Shibuya is the best spontaneous place to be on your toes. At least, that’s what Shibuya did to me. 

Although I had a basic itinerary of what I wanted to do on my solo trip to Japan, the decisions in Shibuya were made on the spot – from how to explore Shibuya to where to eat, stay, etc. 

Having said that, I get that spontaneity brings in a lot of anxiety. So, to help you get rid of your pre-solo trip anxiety, in this blog post, I have formed the ultimate one-day itinerary on how to explore Shibuya on your solo trip to Japan. So, let’s straightaway dive into it to make the most of your solo adventure!

How to Get Around Shibuya? 

With Tokyo’s efficient and punctual railway network, getting to Shibuya is a no-task. Once you reach Shibuya Station, getting around will get easier. Shibuya is highly walkable. Just follow the sign and Google map. 

To give you a head start – upon arriving at Shibuya Station, walk towards the Hachiko exit. It is the closest to the famous Shibuya Crossing. 

Pro-Tip: To get around Shibuya more conveniently, purchase a SUICA or Pasmo IC Card.

Best Way to Explore Shibuya on Your Solo Trip to Japan

1. Morning: Kick-start Your Day with a Shibuya Breakfast

5 Crossties Coffee

If you reach Shibuya early – how about grabbing a cup of coffee and a quick bite at 5 Crossties Coffee on the 17th floor of Shibuya Scramble Square first?  That too, with a view of the busiest crossing ever – Shibuya Crossing! Can there be a better start to your Shibuya exploration than this? 

On weekdays, this café opens up by 8 am and is near Shibuya Station. Plus, if you are a digital nomad, this place is great for getting some work done with access to free Wi-Fi. 

Apart from 5 Crossties Coffee, there are quite a few cafés in the area with the Shibuya Crossing view, like Starbucks Coffee – Shibuya Tsutaya 2F, Hoshino Coffee (their fluffy soufflé pancakes are yum) and Lounge Estacion Café. 

My Recommendation: Post breakfast, head to the observation deck atop – Shibuya Sky for unforgettable cityscapes. On a clear day, you can also see Mount Fuji and Tokyo Tower from the deck. In Japan’s peak seasons, do buy your tickets ahead of time.

2. Late Morning: Time to Explore the Iconic Landmarks and Shopping

Shibuya Crossing

Enough of people watching from a distance. Now it’s time to be a part of the crowd and sync in with the daily rhythm of what you must have witnessed in Tokyo Drift – the Shibuya Crossing. 

What surprises me to date is how many people walk without bumping into each other, even after being the busiest intersection in the world. 

And if you are wondering – “Is Shibuya Crossing worth visiting?” Period. It comes in every list of must-do activities in Shibuya for a reason! Do not overthink. A place like Shibuya Crossing is 100% worth the hype and your time.

Hachiko Statue

Another must-see attraction in Shibuya is the Hachiko Statue – a symbol of loyalty and devotion. It is just outside the Shibuya Station and is now a popular meeting spot. 

However, what lures travellers in is the emotional story attached to the statue of Hachiko – an Akita dog, who waited for his dead owner every day at the station. So, one quick picture with pawsome Hachiko is mandatory for your venture in Shibuya. 

Shibuya 109

Next, if you are in the mood to pick some of the latest fashion collections – head to Shibuya 109. It is a cylindrical building with the latest Japanese street fashion and accessories shops. Perfect for solo female travellers!

You can also get your hands on some unique souvenirs here. I bet you’ll have the best of time here. At the same, don’t forget to keep track of the time.

3. Lunch: Refuel Yourself with Japanese Cuisine

Uobei Sushi

With all the shopping, I am sure your tummy is growling. So, go for an authentic Japanese sushi experience at Uobei Joint. It is a technological marvel. From the conveyor belt sushi to ordering via tablet – everything is quick here. The prices are unbelievable, too – it doesn’t burn a hole in your pocket. 

Local Food Edition in Shibuya

Apart from that, I have another recommendation for you! A local hidden eatery I stumbled upon on my solo travel in Shibuya – Aogaki Shibuya. It is the best place to have lunch near Shibuya Crossing. And the best part is that you can wrap up your lunch for $10 (a sukiyaki course) while sitting on a tatami mat here. 

Quite cheap and ideal for solo travellers on a budget in Japan. The only downside is that the staff only speaks Japanese. However, that shouldn’t be a problem – their hospitality is top-notch!

4. Afternoon: Explore the Shibuya Culture

Meiji Shrine

Post lunch, get ready for the second league of your Shibuya exploration and take a short walk (15-20 minutes) to Meiji Shrine to escape the urban chaos of Tokyo. Set amid a lush forest, the shrine’s historical architecture and serene ground exude a secluded environment. You must visit it if you wish to take a moment to yourself and reflect.

Yoyogi Park

Next to Meiji Shrine is Yoyogi Park, which is a massive park where you can soak in nature. And, if you are visiting Japan during the cherry blossom season or autumn foliage – do not skip this location.

5.Evening: Dine and Unwind 

Nonbei Yokocho

As the sun sets, make your way to “Drunkard’s Alley” – Nonbei Yokocho to taste the traditional slice of nightlife. In its intimate setting, you can enjoy a nostalgic atmosphere of the city’s after-hours scenarios. With numerous tiny bars and eateries, you have ample opportunities to sample local delicacies and dine here.

6. Night: Experience the Much-talked Shibuya’s Nightlife

Shibuya Club Quattro

If you’re up for some live music, Shibuya Club Quattro is a great place to experience it at night. However, this place only remains open on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. 

Magnet by Shibuya 109 Rooftop

I think the best way to call it a day in Shibuya is the way you started it – with the view of Shibuya Crossing. It’s a whole different beauty to witness in the nighttime. Head to the top floor of the shopping mall, Magnet by Shibuya 109 Rooftop, grab some dessert, and seize the moment! 

Are You Ready to Feel Shibuya’s Electric Energy?

By this time, you must have had an idea of what Shibuya is best known for. It’s not one but a bunch of things! No matter how you choose to explore Shibuya on your solo trip to Japan, you will thrive with its youthful charm and make endless discoveries while exploring the iconic sights, scrumptious cuisine, and high-spirited nightlife.