Useful information about Tokyo Shibuya
Information about Shibuya Ward in Tokyo
Shibuya Ward (also known as Shibuya City) is one of the 23 Special Wards of Tokyo. It has a population of around 240,000 people and an area of around 15 km², making it a very densely populated area. Along with Chiyoda Ward, Minato Ward, Chuo Ward, and Shinjuku Ward, it is one of the five central wards of Tokyo, which is known for having some of the highest land prices in Japan. Shibuya is also considered as one of the three major urban centers of Tokyo, alongside Shinjuku and Ikebukuro. It is a popular shopping, dining, and entertainment district.
One of the most famous landmarks in Shibuya is the Shibuya Scramble Crossing. In recent years, it has become a popular spot for many young Japanese to gather during Halloween, or to celebrate big wins in international sporting events.
Some famous districts in Shibuya Ward include Yoyogi, Sendagaya, and Hatsudai, as well as the trendy districts of Harajuku, Omotesando, Ebisu, and Daikanyama. Shibuya is also home to places of rich greenery, such as the Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park.
The main station in Shibuya is Shibuya Station, a major terminal that is served by many train and bus services.
Though it has an image of being a city for young people, everyone can find something fun and interesting in Shibuya.
Foreign Residents in Shibuya Ward
As of January 2021, there were 10,577 foreign residents living in Shibuya Ward, with 5,795 males and 4,782 females. In terms of nationality, Chinese nationals are the most in number, with a population of 2,189. Next come Koreans with 1,652 residents, followed by Americans, Taiwanese, Filipinos, Vietnamese, Nepalese, and so forth. While Chinese and Koreans topping the list is quite common everywhere in Japan, Americans coming in third is a rarity.
Source: Tokyo Metropolitan Government, Foreign Resident Population by Nationality per Municipality (data as of 21 January 2021)
Popular Residential Areas in Shibuya Ward
Being a center for fashion and shopping in Tokyo, Shibuya is a highly popular place to live. One of the most popular residential areas in Shibuya for foreigners is the Hiroo district. This place is home to several foreign embassies, as well as many stylish cafes and restaurants, most of which offer English services due to the high number of foreign customers. Hiroo also has areas of rich greenery that offer a calm, quiet atmosphere.
One place that has recently become a much sought-after area to live is Ebisu. Ebisu Station is served by several JR lines and the Hibiya subway line, making transportation convenient. Ebisu has a commercial area with a high concentration of bars and restaurants, but it also has a more refined and stylish side.
A popular district in Shibuya that has been considered an oasis in the city is Yoyogi. Yoyogi is home to the rich greenery of Yoyogi Park, and it also has quiet residential areas located near the Meiji Shrine. Yoyogi Station is served by both JR and subway lines, so transportation is also quite convenient.
Transportation in Shibuya Ward
Shibuya Ward has an extensive railway network covering many stations across different districts, but its biggest and most important station is Shibuya Station. Shibuya Station is served by major JR lines such as the Yamanote Line and Saikyo Line, as well as the Ginza, Hanzomon, and Fukutoshin subway lines. There are also the private railway operators Tokyu and Keio. Other major stations in Shibuya Ward include Yoyogi Station and Ebisu Station.
Shibuya Ward also has a network of buses that supports the transportation needs of its residents. The main bus operators are Toei Bus, Tokyu Bus, and Keio Bus. They operate several local routes as well as long-distance express buses that interconnect the ward with other area
Expressways also play an important part in the transportation of Shibuya Ward. The most important expressway in the ward is the Shuto Expressway Route 3 (also known as the Shibuya Route), which connects at the western end to the Tomei Expressway.
Recommended Spots in Shibuya Ward
Shibuya Station is the heart of Shibuya Ward, and is the second busiest train station in the world in terms of passenger traffic. Around Shibuya Station, there are countless commercial centers and entertainment spots for everyone to enjoy.
One popular spot near the station is Shibuya Scramble Square. This mixed-use 45-storey skyscraper was opened in 2019 as part of a redevelopment of the station area. This place offers plenty of shopping and dining opportunities in a stylish atmosphere. Other popular commercial centers near Shibuya Station include Shibuya Parco and Shibuya Stream.
One of the most famous spots in Shibuya Station is the statue of the dog Hachiko, located just outside the aptly-named Hachiko Exit. It is a highly popular meeting spot, especially in the evening. If you want to take a photo with the statue, it is a good idea to visit in the morning, before the crowds come in.