Shibuya Scramble Crossing
The world's busiest crossing, where up to 3,000 people pour in from every direction on a single light. An endlessly filmed symbol of Tokyo, just crossing it is an experience in itself — and from above, the sheer scale comes into view all at once.
Overview
The intersection in front of Shibuya Station is the world's busiest pedestrian crossing — up to 3,000 people cross on a single green light (about 50 seconds). Some 260,000 pass through on weekdays and over 390,000 on weekends. Laid out in its current form in 1973, it has become a symbol of Tokyo through countless film and TV appearances.
Getting there
Right outside the Hachiko exit of Shibuya Station (JR, Tokyo Metro, Tokyu lines). For a view from above, the rooftop deck "Shibuya Sky" on the 47th floor of Shibuya Scramble Square is popular — booking ahead is best.
Tips
- ·Free, 24h. Most dramatic after dark, when the neon comes on
- ·For a view from above, book Shibuya Sky (47F, Scramble Square) ahead
- ·The 2nd-floor window of Starbucks Tsutaya is a free vantage point
