How to walk from Meiji Shrine to Shibuya Crossing, seeing both Omotesandō Street and Cat Street

Written By Irene Daria

Step 1: Start at Meiji Shrine

  • Omotesandō Street begins across the street from the Harajuku entrance to Meiji Shrine.

Step 2: Walk Along Omotesandō Street

  • Begin your walk southeast along Omotesandō Street, which is bustling with flagship stores and impressive architecture.

Key Landmarks:

  1. Tokyu Plaza Omotesandō Harajuku:

    • Don’t Miss: The mirrored kaleidoscope entrance! Take the escalator to the rooftop terrace for views of Omotesandō and Harajuku.

  2. Omotesandō Hills:

    • Designed by Tadao Ando, this upscale shopping center blends modern architecture with natural design elements. The interior spiral walkway is worth seeing, even if you don’t shop.

  3. Architecture Gems:

    • Marvel at stunning flagship buildings like Prada Aoyama (sleek glass exterior) and Dior Omotesandō(minimalist design).

Reach the Meiji-dori Intersection: This is a large, bustling intersection with GAP Harajuku and Ralph Lauren as landmarks. Look to your right—you’ll see the entrance to Cat Street.

Step 3: Turn Onto Cat Street

  • Turn right (south) at Meiji-dori Avenue onto Cat Street, a quieter, artsy route filled with unique boutiques, cafes, and vintage stores.

Key Stops Along Cat Street:

  1. The Roastery by Nozy Coffee:

    • A trendy coffee spot with a minimalist vibe. Try their signature latte or a seasonal brew.

  2. Ragtag:

    • A popular secondhand boutique offering luxury and streetwear brands.

  3. WeGo Vintage Harajuku:

    • Affordable and trendy vintage clothing with a distinctly youthful Harajuku style.

  4. 2nd Street Tokyo Harajuku:

    • Another secondhand shop with carefully curated clothing and accessories.

  5. Street Art & Creative Displays:

    • Look out for quirky murals, pop-up stores, and independent boutiques with vibrant window art.

TIP:

  • If you're craving something sweet, stop by Cookie Time Harajuku for fresh cookies or Eddy's Ice Cream for Instagram-worthy desserts.

Step 4: Walk Along Cat Street Toward Shibuya

  • As you walk, enjoy the relaxed vibe of Cat Street. It’s less crowded than Omotesandō, and you’ll pass hidden gems like Blue Bottle Coffee Shibuya near the end of the street.

Step 5: Reconnect to Shibuya

  • Cat Street eventually merges into the Shibuya area near Meiji-dori Avenue.

  • Follow signs for Shibuya or Shibuya Scramble Square (look for the towering skyscrapers ahead).

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