Shibuya Food Tour: Street Eats, Hachiko & Local Nightlife

Summary

Shibuya’s flavors from Hachiko to neon alleys with real locals

You’ll wander Shibuya’s energetic streets with a local guide, taste five different Japanese street foods (with one drink included), hear stories behind famous spots like Hachiko, and finish with dessert under neon lights. Expect laughter, new flavors, and small surprises you’ll remember long after you leave Tokyo.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered if Shibuya is really more than that wild crossing you see in every Tokyo video? I did too — until we met up by the Hachiko mural (the dog statue is smaller than I pictured, by the way) and our guide Yuka waved us over. She started telling us about the area’s history while a group of teenagers practiced dance moves behind her. It was humid but not sticky, and there was this smell — sweet soy sauce mixed with something fried — drifting from somewhere I couldn’t quite spot yet.

The Shibuya food tour took us down little side streets I’d never have found alone. At the first stop, Yuka handed me a skewer (yakitori, she said), and I tried to copy her dipping it in tare sauce. The chicken was smoky and soft; apparently kids get these instead of beef, which made my daughter happy. There was a moment where we all stood quietly chewing, listening to the buzz of scooters and someone shouting orders inside a ramen shop. Not awkward silence — just everyone sort of taking it in. We tried five different foods in total; honestly, I lost track after the third because I was so focused on figuring out how to eat takoyaki without burning my mouth (pro tip: wait longer than you think).

I didn’t expect to laugh so much. Yuka joked about how even Tokyoites get lost in Mega Don Quijote (“It’s like a maze but with snacks”), and she showed us how to order a drink at Nonbeiyokocho — this tiny alley full of lanterns and old men chatting over sake. My son tried saying “arigatou” and got a round of applause from an older couple nearby. Dessert came last — something matcha-flavored that tasted earthy and cold at the same time. We ended near Shibuya 109 as people poured out for karaoke night; honestly, I still think about that view of neon signs flickering against the dusk sky.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Shibuya and taste local foods

• Meet at Hachiko Wall Mural
• Learn about Shibuya and customs
• Enjoy family-friendly tour
• Discover authentic eateries and tastes
• Experience Japanese street food tour
• Pass by Shibuya 109
• Visit Mega Don Quijote-Shibuya
• Pass by Nonbeiyokocho
• End tour at designated point

Top questions

Where does the Shibuya food tour start?

The meeting point is in front of the Wall Mural of Hachiko outside Shibuya Station at the Hachiko Exit.

How long is the Shibuya food tour?

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours.

Are children allowed on this food tour?

Yes, it’s family-friendly and kids are welcome; they receive chicken skewers instead of beef.

Is there vegetarian or vegan food available?

The tour is vegetarian- and vegan-friendly with flexible options for dietary restrictions.

What is included in the price?

The price includes five food stops, one drink, dessert, and a local guide.

Does the tour include pickup?

No hotel pickup is included; you meet at Shibuya Station’s Hachiko Exit.

Is there an age limit for drinking alcohol on this tour?

The minimum drinking age is 21 years old.

Can infants join the tour?

Infants can join; they may ride in a pram or stroller but must sit on an adult’s lap if needed.

What’s included

Your evening includes five street food stops across Shibuya with one drink (alcoholic or not), dessert at the final stop, plus stories from your local guide along every alleyway. Family-friendly menus are available for kids (like chicken skewers), dietary needs are handled flexibly, and you’ll finish right in central Shibuya near nightlife hotspots—no need to worry about finding your way back.