Shibuya

Shibuya (渋谷) is a neighborhood of Tokyo, Japan. Along with Harajuku, Shibuya is recognized as the center of youth culture and youth fashion in Japan. Shibuya is located on the Yamanote Line between Harajuku and Ebisu in the Shibuya-ku Ward of Tokyo.

As of 2003 there was an approximate population of 197,223 people with about 11,000 of these foreign residents, an incredible percentage for this area of Japan. The total estimated area of Shibuya is 15.11km.

Serving as a trendy city of Tokyo, Shibuya is a popular district for fashion fans and many designers. Fashion and entertainment are the most important industries of the city at this time. Locals and foreign tourists are typically present to shop the many boutiques looking for the latest and most popular fashion trends.

Aside from the shopping and entertainment the city also features many parks, museums, art galleries, and special event halls. Keeping the city modern, green, and environmentally satisfying has been a big job but also ranks as top priority to its citizens.

History of Shibuya

The Great Kanto Earthquake caused great damage to the city of Shibuya in 1923. To show their support, many surrounding cities, and even global ones, donated money to have a shelter called the Doujunkai Apartments built. These apartments still stand in the city and are currently undergoing restoration.

Shibuya City was officially founded and developmentally established in 1932. At this time a stable government was put into place including the election of a devoted Shibuya mayor. The first mayor had great plans for the area and knew that it would one day be what it has become – a thriving contributing city to the greater metropolis of Tokyo.

Shibuya was officially deemed a ward of Tokyo in 1947. This followed the devastation and repair of damages caused by Word War II. Many government officials came together to enact a plan for improving the cities foundation and moving forward in a peaceful direction.

The 1964 Winter Olympics were presented from a small area in the ward. While this was the primary location there were other Japanese cities playing a part in the worldwide championships.

Points of Interest

• National Yoyogi Stadium: Host to the world-famous swimming Olympics; the National Yoyogi Stadium is a large sports arena which features volleyball courts, an ice skating arena, and also presents an area for grand events. The stadium was first opened in 1964. The stadium is located between Shibuya and Harajuku.

• Hachiko Statue: Just outside of the Hachiko exit of Shibuya Station, this is the central meeting point for people who gather in Shibuya. Ths statue represents a story that is known by all that live in the city. It portrays a dog named Hachiko that was so loyal to its owner he waited every evening for him to exit the Shibuya Station. As the story goes, the dog still waited for his master after he had passed away due to illness. Since the story touched many, the statue was placed to remind everyone how important the love of all creatures is. The Hachiko Statue meeting place has been featured in many films and anime.

• Shoto Museum of Art: The Shoto Museum of Art displays art dating back to over 200 years ago. Each piece represents a great piece of the many events and cultures in the history of Japan. Tourists have been known to travel to Japan in order to view this museum in particular based on its overwhelming amount of art.

• Shibuya Crossing: Shibuya Crossing is just outside of Shibuya Station and is possibly the most photographed street crossing in the world. At peak hours, the crossing is extremely crowded and has been featured in many television shows and movies, as well as being extremely popular with tourists visiting Tokyo.

• Shibuya Center Street: Shibuya Center Street is the street that runs down the middle of the most popular shopping area in Shibuya, directly across from the Hachiko exit of Shibuya Station..

Shibuya Map

• (need Shibuya map)

External Links

• Shibuya Official Website (English)
• Shibuya Official Website (Japanese)