Shibuya (渋谷区) is one of Tokyo’s busiest districts, where neon billboards and modern plazas meet pockets of quiet green space. Families often wonder what things to do will work best when exploring Shibuya with kids, and the answer is a mix of playful shops, rooftop parks, and easy dining stops. The variety of attractions across Shibuya makes the area surprisingly family-friendly, offering both high-energy sights and restful corners in one walkable hub. This guide will help with planning Tokyo travel as a family in Shibuya, including advice on the best time to visit with kids so the experience feels exciting rather than overwhelming.
As you plan your trip to Tokyo with kids, this guide is a great place to start! For comprehensive information on where to stay, how to get around, and what to eat with kids, begin with our Tokyo Family Travel Guide. You can then visit the Tokyo with Kids Hub to find all our guides, adventure stories, and age-specific tips conveniently in one easy place. If you’re considering sightseeing passes, our Tokyo Passes Guide breaks down the best options for families. Want more ideas? See our full Ultimate Guide to Family Attractions in Japan with Kids for the best castles, shrines, theme parks, and more.
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Why Shibuya is Great for Families with Kids
- The Shibuya district excites kids with its giant screens, neon lights, and lively streets.
- Families will find attractions in Shibuya beyond the crossing, including rooftop gardens and open plazas that are surprisingly family-friendly.
- Children love the Hachiko dog statue, character shops, and safe viewpoints for watching the famous crossing.
- Shibuya connects easily to nearby parks and transit, making it a simple part of Tokyo family travel.
- Even in crowds, there are places to rest, eat, and recharge with kids.
Parent Insight: Busy districts like Shibuya can seem overwhelming at first glance, but for kids they’re a chance to practice navigating safely, making decisions, and feeling part of the excitement. Turning moments like crossing the street into small challenges helps children build confidence while traveling in big cities.
Best Things to Do in Shibuya with Kids
- Shibuya Scramble Crossing: Walking across with the crowd feels like joining a living performance, and kids love the thrill of being part of it.
- Hachiko Statue: A quick stop at this famous dog statue is both educational and a fun family photo spot.
- Shibuya Sky: The rooftop observation deck offers sweeping Tokyo views, where kids can spot Tokyo Tower and even Mt. Fuji on clear days.
- Shibuya Hikarie: A modern complex with kid-friendly dining, free observation areas, and seasonal exhibits, stroller-friendly and a good indoor break.
- Character Shops: Visit the Pokémon Center Shibuya or Nintendo Tokyo for exclusive souvenirs and interactive displays.
- Miyashita Park: A modern rooftop park with green spaces, play areas, and family-friendly dining, perfect for a break from the crowds.
- Street Snacks: Kids can try trendy treats like crepes, bubble tea, or taiyaki, turning snack time into part of the adventure.
Best Time to Visit Shibuya with Kids
The best time to visit Shibuya with kids is late morning or early afternoon, when the energy is lively but crowds are still manageable. Evenings are the busiest, with the streets around the crossing at their most packed.
Seasonally, spring and autumn are the most comfortable, with mild weather perfect for rooftop views and outdoor plazas. Summer can be hot and crowded, but shaded parks like Miyashita make it easier to cool down. Winter is calmer, with festive lights adding extra sparkle to the crossing and shopping streets.
How Long to Spend in Shibuya with Kids
Plan to spend about 2–4 hours in Shibuya with kids, enough time to enjoy the crossing, explore shops, and relax in rooftop plazas. This timeframe works well for a half-day stop combined with nearby Harajuku or Yoyogi Park.
For toddlers and younger kids, a shorter visit of 1–2 hours may be plenty before nap time. School-age children often enjoy exploring longer, especially if shopping or snacks are part of the adventure. Teens may want extra time for character stores, cafés, and Shibuya Sky.
How to Get to Shibuya with Kids
- By Train: Shibuya Station is one of Tokyo’s largest hubs, served by the JR Yamanote Line, Tokyo Metro Ginza, Hanzomon, and Fukutoshin Lines. The Hachiko Exit leads directly to the crossing and statue, while Shibuya Scramble Square connects to the Shibuya Sky observation deck.
- By Bus: Local buses stop around Shibuya Station, including the Hachiko Bus Loop, which is simple and family-friendly.
- Special Note: Station exits can feel confusing. Follow signs for Hachiko or Shibuya Scramble Square for the most direct routes with children and strollers.
Luca & Nico’s Tip: When you cross the famous Shibuya Scramble, stop in the middle and strike a silly family pose! Later, head up to a café window or the Shibuya Sky deck and try to spot where you walked, it feels like watching a real-life game from above.
Family-Friendly Hotels Near Shibuya
- Luxury
- Trunk Hotel Tokyo Cat Street – Stylish boutique hotel with a trendy Harajuku location.
- Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel – High-rise comfort in Shibuya with panoramic views and family-sized rooms.
- Hyatt House Tokyo Shibuya – Modern extended-stay option with kitchenettes, perfect for longer family trips.
- Mid-Range
- Tokyu Stay Shibuya – Spacious rooms with kitchenettes, great for families who want flexibility.
- Hotel Indigo Tokyo Shibuya – Stylish, modern interiors with a playful design and family-friendly amenities.
- Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu – Conveniently located above Shibuya Station, offering city views and direct transport links.
- Dormy Inn Premium Shibuya Jingumae – Relaxing stay with public baths and family rooms close to Harajuku.
- Budget
- Shibuya Tobu Hotel – Simple and reliable, close to Shibuya Station and family dining options.
- APA Hotel Shibuya Dogenzakaue – Compact but reliable, within walking distance of Harajuku and Shibuya.
As you finalize your Tokyo plans, you might be considering your accommodation options. Our Tokyo Hotel Guide features top-rated family options across every budget, whether you’re planning to stay near Shibuya, Asakusa, Tokyo Skytree, or Disneyland. After securing your stay, explore our Best Things to Do in Tokyo with Kids guide for epic museums and neighborhood gems, from the vibrant streets of Harajuku and the historic Senso-ji Temple to DisneySea, Ueno Zoo, and the bay area of Odaiba; don’t miss our Tokyo Indoor Activities Guide for rainy or hot weather adventures, or our Best Museums in Tokyo Guide for deeper cultural fun. Families planning a longer stay will love our Tokyo 3-Day Itinerary, which balances iconic landmarks with kid-friendly hidden gems. For a full overview of family-friendly hotels across Japan, don’t miss our Ultimate Guide to Family Hotels in Japan.
Family-Friendly Attractions Near Shibuya
- Yoyogi Park – Wide open lawns and shady trees make it perfect for picnics, stroller walks, or letting kids run free.
- Meiji Shrine – A calm forest path leading to one of Tokyo’s most iconic shrines, offering a quiet contrast to busy Shibuya.
- Harajuku Takeshita Street – Colorful shops and sweet treats like crepes and rainbow cotton candy that kids love to explore.
- Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden – A stroller-friendly garden with ponds, cherry blossoms, and wide spaces for kids to enjoy.
- Ninja Trick House in Tokyo – Hands-on ninja experiences where kids can learn tricks, try blow darts, and explore a fun indoor obstacle setting.
FAQs: Visiting Shibuya with Kids
Planning a visit to Shibuya with kids? These family-focused FAQs cover the most common questions parents ask, from the best time to visit to family-friendly attractions and travel tips for navigating Tokyo’s busiest district.
A: Shibuya is best known for its Scramble Crossing, one of the busiest intersections in the world, along with neon billboards, shopping, and youth culture. It’s also home to the Hachiko statue and modern landmarks like Shibuya Sky.
A: Yes, Shibuya is very safe for families, with clean streets, reliable transit, and plenty of public facilities. The main concern is crowds, so it helps to hold hands with younger children and avoid peak rush hours.
A: Popular family-friendly attractions in Shibuya include the Hachiko statue, Shibuya Sky, Miyashita Park, and character shops like the Pokémon Center. Families also enjoy exploring rooftop gardens, trying local snacks, and watching the crossing from above.
A: The best time to visit Shibuya with kids is late morning or early afternoon, when the energy is high but the crowds are easier to manage. Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable weather, while evenings are the busiest.
A: Most families spend about 2–4 hours in Shibuya with kids, enough to enjoy the crossing, shops, and a rooftop stop. Younger children may need just 1–2 hours, while older kids and teens often enjoy staying longer.
A: Shibuya is partially stroller-friendly. Station exits and main plazas are accessible, but sidewalks and crossings can get very crowded. A baby carrier is often easier during peak times.
A: Shibuya is a central district in Tokyo, just west of Shinjuku and south of Harajuku. It’s easily reached by the JR Yamanote Line and several Tokyo Metro subway lines.
A: Nearby family-friendly attractions include Yoyogi Park, Meiji Shrine, and Harajuku’s Takeshita Street. Families can also reach Shinjuku Gyoen or the Ninja Trick House within a short train ride.
A: Yes, Shibuya has plenty of kid-friendly restaurants, from casual ramen and curry shops to international chains. Food courts in malls like Shibuya Hikarie and Shibuya Scramble Square offer easy, family-friendly dining options.
A: The easiest way is by train to Shibuya Station, a major hub on the JR Yamanote Line and Tokyo Metro lines. Families can also use local bus routes, with the Hachiko Bus Loop being simple and stroller-friendly.
A: Yes, Shibuya at night is safe with kids, but expect bigger crowds and brighter lights. Families often enjoy the evening atmosphere from indoor viewpoints like Shibuya Sky or from a café window overlooking the crossing.
A: Many of the best activities are free, including crossing Shibuya Scramble, visiting the Hachiko statue, and exploring rooftop parks like Miyashita. Window-shopping and people-watching also make Shibuya fun without spending money.
Until Next Time…
Shibuya isn’t just about flashing lights and busy crossings, it’s a neighborhood where families can balance energy with ease. From statues and rooftop parks to hidden cafés and open plazas, it shows how Tokyo’s busiest district can still feel welcoming for children. Whether your kids remember the thrill of the crossing or the calm of a rooftop view, Shibuya leaves behind family memories as bright as its neon skyline.
Stay curious, stay adventurous, and keep dreaming!
~ The LuNi Travels Family ~
