Known for
Takeshita-dori, the forest of Meiji Jingu, and the Omotesando avenue of design shops.
Fashion beside the Meiji forest
Harajuku
Harajuku · 原宿
Takeshita-dori, Omotesando, the way to Meiji Jingu
Harajuku splits three ways from the station. Takeshita is the narrow youth-fashion street, packed on Sundays. The other way is the forest and the gravel approach of Meiji Jingu. Omotesando runs southeast, a tree avenue of design windows. Three moods, ten minutes apart.
Why go
By day. Morning is for the shrine, while Takeshita is still walkable. Sunday afternoon on Takeshita is its own spectacle, if a crowd is welcome. In the evening the neighbourhood quiets earlier than Shibuya.
Where to stay
Useful if you want the park in the morning and Shibuya on foot at night. Harajuku itself is quieter after dark than on a shopping day. The late bars and clubs are the next station.
Local guide
Fedor Samorodov · guide
Takeshita and Meiji Jingu use different station exits. The forest and the great gate face Yoyogi Park. Omotesando starts further south, at the Meiji-dori crossing, and runs to Omotesando station.