Tokyo Shibuya Walking Tour: Crossing, Izakaya & Secret Streets

Summary

Shibuya’s wild crossing, secret backstreets and glowing izakaya lights

You’ll feel Tokyo’s energy as you cross Shibuya Crossing with your guide, slip into lantern-lit alleys for drinks in old izakaya, and take in city views from above. Expect laughter, new friends, and maybe even a story or two you’ll want to retell long after you’ve left those neon streets behind.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I was nervous about getting swallowed up by Tokyo’s Shibuya crowds—there’s a kind of electricity in the air before you even step onto that famous crossing. Our local guide, Yuto, met us right at the Hachiko statue (which is smaller than I pictured—everyone says that). He started telling this story about the dog and honestly, it got me a little choked up. You could hear music from somewhere nearby and smell sweet things from a food cart. We waited for the light to change together—Yuto grinned and said “Ready?” like it was a dare.

Crossing Shibuya Crossing feels like stepping into a movie scene. The lights blinked everywhere, people poured from every direction—somehow nobody bumped into each other. I kept glancing up at those giant screens flashing ads and news; it’s so much all at once. After that rush, we ducked down these narrow lanes behind the main streets where suddenly everything went quiet except for laughter drifting out of tiny bars. Yuto led us into Nonbei Yokocho (“Drunkard’s Alley,” he called it), all wooden doors and paper lanterns glowing red. I tried saying something in Japanese to order sake—Li, another traveler, laughed so hard she almost spilled hers. The smell of grilled fish floated out from one of the izakaya; my jacket still smells a bit smoky.

Later we climbed up to an observation deck—my legs were tired but worth it for that view over Shibuya’s neon maze. The city feels endless from up there; I just stood quietly for a while watching taxis crawl below like little toys. There was this moment where everything felt both huge and strangely personal—you know? It started drizzling as we left but nobody seemed to care; umbrellas popped open like flowers everywhere.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Shibuya's iconic landmarks and streets

• Start at Hachiko statue
• Walk across Shibuya Crossing
• Explore main streets of Shibuya
• Visit traditional izakaya at Nonbei Yokocho
• Enjoy park illuminations popular with youth
• Take panoramic view from observation deck

Top questions

How long does the Shibuya walking tour last?

The exact duration isn’t listed, but expect several hours including stops at landmarks and backstreets.

Is this Shibuya tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation options are wheelchair accessible and suitable for all fitness levels.

Where does the tour start in Shibuya?

The meeting point is at the Hachiko statue near Shibuya Station.

Does this tour include entrance fees?

Yes, entrance fees and experience fees are included in your booking.

Are photos included during the tour?

Yes, photos will be taken during your walk through Shibuya.

What if it rains during my day trip in Shibuya?

The tour runs rain or shine; bring an umbrella or raincoat if rain is forecasted.

Can infants or small children join this walking tour?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller during the tour.

What’s included

Your walk through Shibuya includes photos along the way, entry to featured spots like observation decks or izakaya alleys, plus stories shared by an English-speaking local guide—all experience fees covered so you can just focus on exploring (and maybe ordering sake without blushing).