When you visit Tokyo, what are the places to visit that spring to mind? You may think of the temples of Asakusa, Tokyo tower, or Kyoto’s shrines. However, perhaps you would also like to experience Japan’s “kawaii” culture. If this is something that interests you, this article will introduce the most famous places in the “kawaii” Mecca of Harajuku.
Harajuku can be accessed by JR Yamanote Line (stop JY19) or by the Chiyoda Line (stop C03) or the Fukutoshin Line (F15) at “Meiji Jingu Mae”station. It’s easy to access, being only 20 minutes away from Tokyo station, and is the home to the distinctive young fashion of Japan.
The main street in Harajuku full of kawaii places – Takeshita Street
Takeshita Street is Harajuku’s main road, with much of Harajuku’s pop culture packed into this small area. There are many colourful shops and displays with various goods, fashion stores and other shops, making it an ideal street for shopping.
KAWAII MONSTER CAFE HARAJUKU - A colourful and cute new attraction
「KAWAII MONSTER CAFE HARAJUKU」opened recently, in 2015. It is the café of Sebastian Masuda who directed and produced the video of Kyari Pamyu Pamyu, one of the most famous Kawaii idols of Japan. Inside has four areas, each with their distinct colourful design and crazy cuteness.
Even the cake and pasta on offer is as colourful as the décor, ensuring you will have the ultimate “kawaii” experience.
KAWAII MONSTER CAFE HARAJUKU Address: YM Square 4F, 4-31-10, Meiji Jingu Mae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Prefecture 150-0001 |
Pom-Pom Purin Café - A lunch surrounded by Pom Pom Purin
You may know famous characters from Sanrio, such as Hello Kitty and Kiki Lara. Amongst these characters comes the popular “Pom Pom Purin” themed café. In the shop, there are many varieties of “Pom Pom Purin”, which is similar to a crème brulee “pudding” dessert. It’s a calming space where there are many great photo opportunities. The entire menu is made up of “Purin”, with almost too many varieties!
Pom Pom Purin Cafe Address: CUTE CUBE HARAJUKU 3F, 1-7-1, Meiji Jingu Mae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Prefecture 150-0001 |
Moshi Moshi Kimono Salon - Harajuku Kimono photo salon
Moshi Moshi Kimono Salon is located on the second floor of the tourist attraction building “Moshi Moshi Box” in Harajuku. The concept of the place is to combine the tradition of Kimono in times past with the Harajuku kawaii culture. It’s possible to wear the kawaii kimono for photo shoots or even rent them to walk around the local area in the Kimono.
Moshi Moshi Kimono Salon Address: 3-23- 5, Meiji Jingu Mae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0001 |
TOTTI CANDY FACTORY - Colorful and huge candy floss
TOTTI CANDY FACTORY, the home of the hugest candyfloss you may have ever seen. Once you make an order, the staff will make a large candyfloss using a special machine. Taking a photo with such colourful and fluffy candyfloss is sure to stand out in your photo album! The shop also sells a large variety of lollipop candies and a pick and mix section.
TOTTI CANDY FACTORY Address: RYU Aparutoman 2F, 1-16-5, Meiji Jingu Mae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0001 |
Did one of the places above take your fancy?
We’ve taken our five favourite kawaii places, and there are many more to discover. We’d definitely recommend giving some a try!
