Takeshita Street Tokyo: Ultimate Harajuku Guide for International Visitors

Welcome to Takeshita Street (原宿竹下通り), Tokyo’s iconic pedestrian alley in Harajuku. Famous for its vibrant atmosphere, kawaii fashion shops, and mouth-watering street food, this is a must-see spot for American tourists and international travelers. In this guide, you’ll find top attractions, budgeting tips, access information, and cultural dos and don’ts to make your visit unforgettable.

Overview: Why Visit Takeshita Street

We selected these highlights based on:

1. Popularity & Instagram-worthy appeal
2. Unique Harajuku culture & street fashion
3. Budget-friendly eats & shopping
4. Ease of access from central Tokyo

Top 5 Must-Visit Spots on Takeshita Street

Marion Crepes

Marion Crepes is the pioneer of Harajuku’s sweet crepes, offering classics like strawberry-banana and matcha-red-bean in a thin, crisp shell.

• Key features: Open late, English menu, Instagram-worthy toppings
• Atmosphere: Casual take-away stand
• Dress code: Casual

Entry Fee	Free (street access)
Average Spend	¥500–¥900 (US$4–$7)
Opening Hours	10:00–20:00 daily
Nearest Station	JR Harajuku Station, Exit Takeshita Street

Totti Candy Factory

Home to the towering cotton-candy cones in rainbow hues. A must-try for sweet lovers and photo enthusiasts.

• Key features: Huge cotton-candy cones, take-away only
• Atmosphere: Fun, youthful
• Language support: Staff speaks basic English

Entry Fee	Free
Average Spend	¥600–¥1,200 (US$5–$9)
Opening Hours	11:00–19:00 daily
Nearest Station	JR Harajuku Station, Exit Takeshita Street

6%DOKIDOKI (Kawaii Fashion Boutique)

Step into a living rainbow at 6%DOKIDOKI, the birthplace of Harajuku’s colorful “decora” style. Perfect for bold fashion finds.

• Key features: Neon accessories, costume makeup
• Atmosphere: Playful, artistic
• Dress code: Kawaii / decora encouraged

Entry Fee	Free
Average Spend	¥1,500–¥5,000 (US$12–$40)
Opening Hours	12:00–18:00 (closed Wed)
Nearest Station	JR Harajuku Station, Exit Takeshita Street

Chicago Vintage & Secondhand Shop

Discover retro Americana and Japanese streetwear at Chicago, a popular secondhand store for unique fashion bargains.

• Key features: Branded denim, graphic tees
• Atmosphere: Nostalgic, treasure-hunt vibe
• Language support: Basic English signage

Entry Fee	Free
Average Spend	¥800–¥3,000 (US$6–$25)
Opening Hours	11:00–20:00 daily
Nearest Station	JR Harajuku Station, Exit Takeshita Street

Harajuku Cat Street & Character Cafés

Just off Takeshita Street, enjoy themed cafés such as Pompompurin Café and Kawaii Monster Cafe for food and photo ops.

• Key features: Character-themed menus, reservations recommended
• Atmosphere: Theatrical, immersive
• Dress code: Casual; some cafés encourage costumes

Entry Fee	Free (reservation fee applies for some cafés)
Average Spend	¥1,500–¥3,500 (US$12–$28)
Opening Hours	11:00–21:00 (varies by café)
Nearest Station	JR Harajuku Station or Meiji-Jingumae Station

Comparison Table of Highlights

Spot	Type	Avg. Spend (¥)	Must-Try
Marion Crepes	Sweet Crepes	500–900	Straw-Banana Crepe
Totti Candy Factory	Cotton Candy	600–1,200	Rainbow Cone
6%DOKIDOKI	Fashion Boutique	1,500–5,000	Decora Accessories
Chicago Shop	Vintage Clothes	800–3,000	Graphic Tees
Character Cafés	Themed Dining	1,500–3,500	Character Parfait

Planning Your Visit

• Best Time to Go: Weekdays before 11 AM to beat the crowds.
• How to Get There: JR Yamanote Line to Harajuku Station (Exit Takeshita Street) or Tokyo Metro Chiyoda/Fukutoshin Line to Meiji-Jingumae.
• Budget Tip: Street snacks & crepes keep costs under US$10 per meal.
• Cultural Tip: Keep left when walking, avoid eating on the move in busy areas, and please queue politely.

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