Harajuku Highlights: Where Tradition Meets Tokyo Pop

Tokyo , Japan

Harajuku Highlights: Where Tradition Meets Tokyo Pop

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About this experience

Join the “Blend of Tradition & Pop Culture for Family Tour.” Start with a quiet visit to Meiji Shrine. Stroll through tall torii gates and a peaceful forest. Learn about Japan’s spiritual heritage in a calm setting. Next, explore Takeshita Street with the whole family. Enjoy colorful shops and sweet treats that kids will love. Finally, unwind at Mipig Café. Sip a warm drink while miniature pigs roam nearby. This tour is perfect for families who want a balanced mix of tradition and modern fun. Book now to create cherished memories in Tokyo.

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Harajuku Highlights: Where Tradition Meets Tokyo Pop

What's included

Tour of Takeshita Street

Visit to an Animal Café (mipig, samoyed, otter, or cat)

Visit to Meiji Shrine

2-hour guided tour of Harajuku

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Step into a tranquil oasis in the heart of Tokyo at Meiji Shrine. Begin by walking beneath immense torii gates, symbolizing the transition from the bustling city to a sacred realm. Surrounded by a serene forest of over 100,000 trees, you’ll learn about Shinto traditions as you explore the shrine’s pristine grounds. Pause to admire the main hall, where visitors offer prayers for good fortune. Marvel at the centuries-old sake barrels, an homage to Japan’s vibrant cultural customs. Capture the essence of spiritual harmony as you stroll the peaceful pathways, and take a moment to write personal wishes on wooden ema plaques. This immersive experience offers a deeper appreciation for Japanese history, architecture, and the enduring reverence of nature—creating a memorable journey of cultural discovery.

Stop 2

Takeshita Street in Harajuku is a lively, colorful place full of fun shops, quirky fashion, and sweet treats. As you walk down this famous pedestrian street, you’ll find unique clothing and accessories that highlight Tokyo’s youth culture. Stop by the popular crepe stands or try some fluffy pancakes—perfect for a quick snack. Many shops also feature anime and “kawaii” (cute) items, making it a great spot for fans of Japanese pop culture. Don’t forget to snap a picture in one of the photobooths along the way! With its energetic crowd and playful vibe, Takeshita Street shows off the bold creativity that makes Harajuku a must-see destination.

Mipig Café in Harajuku is a cozy spot where you can enjoy coffee or tea while meeting adorable miniature pigs. These tiny, friendly pigs wander around the café, welcoming gentle pats and playful interaction with visitors. The staff ensures the pigs are safe, comfortable, and well cared for, making the experience fun for everyone. Each seating area is arranged to let you watch or pet these curious animals without disturbing them. Mipig Café is popular, so reserving a spot is a good idea if you want to enjoy Tokyo’s unique animal café culture in a comfortable, welcoming environment.

What's not included

Lunch

Entrance Fee for an Animal Cafe

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

If you take a JR Yamanote Green line, Meeting points will be JR Harajuku Station: East Exit. If you take a metro, Meeting points will be Meiji-Jingumae Station: Exit 2

About Tokyo

Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is a bustling metropolis that beautifully blends traditional culture with cutting-edge technology. Known for its neon-lit streets, historic temples, and world-class cuisine, Tokyo offers a unique experience that caters to every type of traveler.

Top Attractions

Senso-ji Temple

Senso-ji is Tokyo's oldest temple and one of its most significant. The temple's massive lantern and five-story pagoda are iconic landmarks.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours Free (small fee for some areas)

Meiji Shrine

Meiji Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken. It is surrounded by a beautiful forest.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours Free

Shibuya Crossing

Shibuya Crossing is the world's busiest pedestrian crossing and a symbol of Tokyo's bustling urban life. It's a must-see for its chaotic yet orderly nature.

Cultural 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (¥2,200 for Shibuya Sky)

Tokyo Skytree

Tokyo Skytree is the tallest tower in Japan and the second tallest freestanding structure in the world. It offers breathtaking views of the city.

Architecture 2-3 hours ¥2,100 to ¥3,100 (USD $15 to $22)

Odaiba

Odaiba is a man-made island in Tokyo Bay known for its shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It's a great place for families and tech enthusiasts.

Entertainment Half day to full day Varies by attraction

Must-Try Local Dishes

Sushi

Fresh raw fish served on vinegared rice, a staple of Japanese cuisine.

Dinner Contains fish, can be vegetarian with substitutes.

Ramen

Noodle soup with various broths and toppings, a popular comfort food.

Lunch/Dinner Vegan and vegetarian options available.

Tempura

Deep-fried seafood and vegetables, known for its crispy texture.

Lunch/Dinner Contains seafood and deep-fried ingredients.

Okonomiyaki

Savory pancake with various ingredients, often topped with sauce and bonito flakes.

Lunch/Dinner Contains seafood and can be made vegetarian.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the nearby mountains Parasailing at Odaiba Onsen (hot spring) visits Tea ceremonies Traditional tea ceremonies Kimono rentals and photo shoots Boat tours on the Sumida River Beach activities at Odaiba

Best Time to Visit

March to May (Spring) and September to November (Autumn)

These seasons offer comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery, with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. However, these are also the busiest times for tourism.

10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F) 50°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English, Chinese, Korean
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Tokyo is generally very safe, with low crime rates and a strong emphasis on public order. However, petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas.
• Use licensed taxis and check fares before getting in.
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

Getting there

By air

Narita International Airport • 60 km (37 miles) from city center
Haneda Airport • 15 km (9 miles) from city center

By train

Tokyo Station, Shinjuku Station

By bus

Tokyo Station Bus Terminal, Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Tokyo's subway system is efficient, clean, and punctual. It consists of multiple lines operated by Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Shibuya Shinjuku Asakusa Ginza Akihabara

Day trips

Nikko

120 km (75 miles) from Tokyo • Full day

Nikko is a city known for its beautiful shrines, temples, and natural scenery. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.

Kamakura

50 km (31 miles) from Tokyo • Half day to full day

Kamakura is a coastal town known for its historic temples, shrines, and the Great Buddha statue. It's a great place to experience traditional Japanese culture.

Hakone

90 km (56 miles) from Tokyo • Full day or overnight

Hakone is a hot spring resort town known for its onsen (hot springs), scenic views of Mount Fuji, and the Open-Air Museum. It's a popular destination for relaxation and nature.

Festivals

Sannō Matsuri • Mid-June (every 2 years) Kanda Matsuri • Mid-May (every 2 years) Sumida River Fireworks Festival • Last Saturday of July

Pro tips

Use IC cards like Suica or Pasmo for convenient and discounted public transport.
Download useful apps like Google Maps, Japan Transit Planner, and Japan Travel by Navitime.
Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture.
Carry cash, as some smaller shops and restaurants may not accept credit cards.
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.