Shibuya
The Iconic Base
Shibuya is where most people stay - the transport options are unbeatable and you're a short walk or train from Nakameguro, Daikanyama, Shinsen, and Tomigaya. The neighborhood itself is more commercial than charming, but the energy of Shibuya Crossing at night is worth seeing. It’s also home to some of the most fun bars in the city.
Stay here or in an adjacent neighborhood at most a subway stop or two from Shibuya station. In a very unserious way we are Shinjuku / Ginza haters. We love the west side of Tokyo the most.
Stay here if
You want the postcard Tokyo experience and central access to all the west-side neighborhoods.
Skip It If
You want a quiet, local neighborhood to base in - Shinsen or Tomigaya are better for that.
Top Picks
Explore all places in Shibuya →All Places in Shibuya
Analog Record Bar
BarFun record bar that makes the perfect first-stop of the evening. No reservations. A bit hidden on the 3rd floor.
Don't MissGreat place to bring visitors. Pick out a record and trade your pin to play a song from it. Truffle chips great as well.
Skip It IfYou want a quiet bar. Analog gets loud with the music and there can sometimes be a line.
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Jomon Yakitori
RestaurantOur favorite yakitori in Tokyo - try to make a res if you can.
Don't MissSit upstairs in the sunken tables (shoes off). Order everything. The atmosphere is as good as the food.
Skip It IfYou can't get a reservation and don't want to risk a walk-in wait.
Verified by Jeremy (lived in Tokyo 6 years)
NUIR Vintage Shibuya
Shop / RetailOver 5,000 vintage items across multiple floors.
Don't MissThe sheer volume. You’ll need more time here than you think.
Skip It IfYou prefer smaller, more curated vintage stores.
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
S Spiral
RestaurantLife-changing shrimp toast and excellent seafood. Mostly locals, great natural wine, no pretension.
Don't MissThe shrimp toast. Non-negotiable.
Skip It IfYou want a lively upbeat restaurant. This is a cozier spot.
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
SG Club
BarSerious cocktail bar in Shibuya that Sip and Guzzle in NYC is the follow up to. One of the best in the city, needs a reservation.
Don't MissWhatever the bartender recommends. The space is beautiful.
Skip It IfYou didn't book ahead. It will fill up quickly.
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
SG Low
RestaurantHidden-entrance spot with excellent food and energy. Getting more tourist attention but still very good.
Don't MissThe entrance and overall vibe. Its such a fun place.
Skip It IfYou hate the idea of an 'Instagram-discovered' spot.
Verified by Karalena (lived in Tokyo 6 months)
Shibuya Oiran
BarDive bar in central Shibuya with a DJ upstairs. Great place to people watch, kill time before the club and hang with friends.
Don't MissGood lemon sours and people watching.
Skip It IfYou want a fancier cocktail bar or an upbeat bar to dance.
Verified by Max (lived in Tokyo 6 months)