If you’re looking to embrace the vibrant energy of Tokyo, Shibuya is the place to be! While Shinjuku has its own charm, I find Shibuya to be the heart of the action—perfectly blending urban excitement with family-friendly options. Imagine the thrill of exploring bustling streets, yet having quaint alleyways to wander through. It’s a dream for any family that loves adventure!
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Shibuya is not just about the iconic Shibuya Crossing; the area is teeming with child-friendly restaurants, food halls with high chairs, and a plethora of tourist-friendly options that cater to families. Plus, the large department stores boast incredible food halls and delis in their basements, making it easy to grab an array of delicious bites to enjoy “at home.” This is a fantastic way to keep costs down while ensuring everyone gets to bed at a reasonable hour. And did I mention? You can easily stroll over to Harajuku from here in no time!
Getting Around Shibuya
The central hub for transportation is Shibuya Station, which connects you to various train lines including JR, Tokyu Toyoko, Tokyu Denentoshi, and more. This makes hopping on and off trains a breeze, whether you’re heading to the next tourist hotspot or exploring lesser-known gems. If you love walking (like I do), you can easily explore:
- Harajuku – Just 14 minutes on foot! If you prefer, a taxi ride will set you back about 900 yen.
- Daikanyama – Also 14 minutes on foot or a quick taxi ride for around 1,200 yen.
- Ebisu – Another short 14-minute walk, or 1,100 yen for a taxi.
- Naka-Meguro – A more leisurely 31-minute walk, or you can take a taxi for about 1,900 yen.
- Roppongi – A 40-minute stroll or a taxi ride for around 2,000 yen.
With the Yamanote Line at your disposal, you can zip between these neighborhoods in mere minutes. It’s perfect for families who want to maximize their time exploring the city!
Family Adventures Await!
For those wondering about activities suitable for kids, Shibuya is a treasure trove of family-friendly options. If you’re planning a date night sans kiddos, I’ve got you covered with some fabulous recommendations for that too! And for the parents seeking babysitting options in Tokyo, there are numerous reliable services available.
Arriving in Shibuya
Traveling to Shibuya from Narita or Haneda airports is a cinch! The airport limousine buses conveniently stop at popular hotels like the Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu and the Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel. Even if you’re not staying at these hotels, you can hop on the bus and then take a short taxi ride to your final destination. Plus, the Narita Express train also has a stop in Shibuya, making it even more accessible!
Is Shibuya Too Crazy for Kids?
Now, you might be thinking, “Isn’t Shibuya too chaotic for families?” Not at all! While the famous Shibuya Crossing can be a bit overwhelming in photos, in reality, it’s manageable, and the streets are quite stroller-friendly. Sure, it can get busy on weekends, but the energy is part of the fun! If you have a baby in a carrier, or if your child is content sharing a bed, then I wholeheartedly recommend Shibuya as your base.
Where to Stay in Shibuya
Now, let’s talk about accommodations. Many families dream of staying in Shibuya but get shocked by the prices. Staying right on or near Shibuya Crossing is akin to booking a hotel in Times Square—it’s not budget-friendly. If keeping costs down is your top priority, be sure to check out my comprehensive list of recommended hotels throughout Tokyo. But don’t fret; here are a few fantastic options for families:
- Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel, Shibuya – Just a 7-minute walk from Shibuya Crossing, this hotel features connecting rooms for families. They also offer a 20-meter indoor swimming pool (for ages 18 and older), although access isn’t included in the room rate—expect to pay an additional 2,200 yen per adult per day.
- Shibuya Excel Tokyu & Shibuya Stream Excel Hotel Tokyu – Located about 10 minutes apart, these two hotels are modern and reputable. If you find a good rate, jump on it because they fill up fast! The rooms are spacious for Tokyo standards, and their top-floor breakfast restaurant offers breathtaking views of the city—on a clear day, you might even spot Mt. Fuji!
- Shibuya Tokyu Rei Hotel – This is a more modest and affordable option, located just 2 minutes from Shibuya Station. The rooms are simple yet clean and can accommodate 1-3 guests. The hotel features a breakfast restaurant where children under 6 eat free. Be sure to try the curry bread at the breakfast buffet—it’s a hit!
- Submarine House – Although I haven’t stayed here personally, many families rave about this guest house run by Tokyo Family Stays. With its fantastic location, it’s worth considering for a more homey atmosphere.
Remember, if you’re exploring Tokyo and the weather turns too hot or rainy, don’t miss out on my kid-friendly one-day itinerary that will keep your little ones entertained indoors. Happy travels!
