Third Stop: Shibuya

Shibuya, or “She-boo-yah!” as D likes to say, was the highlight of Tokyo for me. Funny to think that I lived there 33 years ago! There is so much energy, people are dressed up, and it definitely has the feel of New York.

When we exited the station, we had to look for the famed Hachiko statue. We actually missed it the first time, and had to go back.

While we were walking, I happened upon a fabric store and bought a couple of meters. One of D’s co-workers said we should check out Shibuya 109, a high rise dedicated to outfitting the 25 and under set. Almost as soon as I walked in, I wanted to walk back out, it was like Forever 21 on steroids. However, I did pose for this picture because I thought this trend that we saw all over Harajuku is so funny…huge glasses!

(Without the tag, of course).

Next, we went to Starbucks for its prime viewing spot of Shibuya Crossing (also a tip from D’s co-worker). This tip was spot-on, and it was really crowded.


D tried to order the Sakura (cherry blossom) latte, but it was sold out. We settled for the matcha (green tea) frappucino instead. It seemed less sweet than over here, which was good.

D managed to squeeze his way next to the window and captured this shot:

Here is D in the middle of Shibuya Crossing. Next, we hit up UNIQLO, Muji and The Loft, which turned out to be my favorite store in Japan. They have a wide selection of stationery, as well as home and kitchen items.

For dinner, D wanted an izakaya experience, so we went to Za Watami. We took our time perusing the menu. Even though you take off your shoes, and there is tatami seating, it feels oddly Americanized. I think it has some sort of connection to TGI Friday’s, which was right next door. On the other hand, I don’t think you would find this on the menu at TGI Friday’s:

Tasty Horse Sashimi, anyone?

We decided what to order, and waited a good while for a waiter to come by to take our order. Ususally, service seemed so prompt it Japan, what was going on? Finally, D noticed the unassuming bell located at the edge of the table. Once pressed, a waiter appeared at our table in no less than five seconds!

We weren’t feeling too adventurous: tuna roll, chicken karage, and gyoza.

We did, however, try Osaka-style Okonomiyaki.

Not sure how authentic this was, but it was basically an omelet with ham. They topped it with mayo and mustard (something I have never seen before).

After dinner, we headed back towards the station. Due to the energy crisis, not all of the signs were lit up:

Underneath the station is something called Tokyu Food Show. Much like all of the big department stores have, it is a large food hall consisting of endless displays of fancy, interesting foods that the Japanese seem to buy on an ordinary basis. It is a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach.

This cute Lego chef greeted us at the entrance.

I mostly took pictures of the desserts/bakery, but there are plenty of savory foods, as well, including sashimi, bentos, and yakitori.


After all our eating that day, we didn’t actually buy anything. Our feet and backs were aching from our first full day and we anxiously headed back to the hotel for some rest.