Harajuku Travel Guide: 7 Coolest Things to Do in Harajuku, Tokyo

Harajuku is one of the most interesting areas in Tokyo. If you are wondering what to do in Harajuku, we have listed some of the best activities around.

If you don’t know yet, Harajuku is known as Tokyo’s center of Japanese youth culture. It has become synonymous with the concept of kawaii (cuteness).

This is most visible on Takeshita Street, a densely packed strip that serves as a canvas for eccentric, colorful, and often over-the-top styles, ranging from Lolita fashion to Decora. But there’s so much more interesting to find here.

In this guide, we highlighted the coolest things to do in Harajuku. Here are some of them:

1. Go Shopping on Cat Street

This refined, laid-back pedestrian street connects Harajuku and Shibuya. It is known for independent fashion boutiques, cool concept stores, trendy cafes, and excellent vintage/thrift shops, perfect for stylish people-watching and a less chaotic atmosphere.

2. Walk Down Takeshita Street

As the center of Harajuku's kawaii culture, you should not miss Takeshita Street. It’s known for its colorful and chaotic atmosphere. It's the place to see unique fashion, grab over-the-top snacks like giant rainbow cotton candy and crepes, and shop for affordable, quirky souvenirs.

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3. Eat a Classic Harajuku Crepe

Crepes are an iconic Harajuku street food tradition. They are typically folded into a cone and filled with a variety of sweet or savory ingredients, making them an essential, delicious, and easy-to-eat snack while exploring.

4. Stroll Along Omotesando Avenue

Often called Tokyo's "Champs-Élysées," this tree-lined boulevard is a stark contrast to Takeshita Street. It's the spot for high-end, designer brand shopping and admiring modern architectural marvels.

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5. Check out Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harajuku (Omokado)

This shopping complex is famous for its visually stunning entrance, a kaleidoscopic tunnel of mirrors that is a hugely popular photo spot. It also offers shops and a pleasant rooftop terrace for a coffee break with a view.

6. Experience Purikura

Jump into one of Japan's iconic photo booths ("print club"). These booths allow you to take photos with friends and edit them with elaborate stickers, sparkles, and filters, creating a highly personalized and "kawaii" keepsake.

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7. Go Thrift Shopping

Harajuku is a goldmine for second-hand and vintage fashion. Shops on Cat Street offer a curated selection of designer, streetwear, and retro finds, allowing you to discover unique pieces.

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