Where are the best viewing spots for Shibuya Scramble Crossing?

Hey there! Great question—Shibuya Crossing is a must-see for anyone visiting Tokyo for the first time! Everyone wants that perfect photo spot or spot to soak in the crowds. Whenever friends ask, I break it down by categories since everyone's different: some prioritize budget, others want a comfy seat with drinks, and some aim for that "epic" shot.

Here are my top picks, ranging from premium to budget-friendly. See which suits you best!

👑 Premium Pick: Pay for the Best View

1. SHIBUYA SKY

Location: Rooftop of "Shibuya Scramble Square" right above Shibuya Station.
Pros: By far the No.1 choice! A 360° glass deck with a jaw-dropping "god's-eye view" of the crossing. You can also see the entire Tokyo skyline, including Tokyo Tower and Skytree. The glass-corner is super Insta-famous!
Cons: Paid entry (¥2,500 on-site, ¥2,200 online). Extremely crowded—book tickets online in advance to avoid long lines or sellouts.
Pro tip: Go just before sunset! See daytime, golden hour, and night views in one go—totally worth it. It’s windy up there, so hold onto hats/scarves!

(Concept visual: Aerial view of the crossing)

👍 Budget Picks: Free or Low-Cost

2. Starbucks Shibuya Tsutaya (2F)

Location: 2nd floor of the iconic Tsutaya building facing the crossing.
Pros: The most classic/famous viewpoint! Sip coffee while watching the scramble below. Perfect height and angle for iconic shots.
Cons: Always packed! Window seats are scarce—landing one requires patience and luck.
Pro tip: Don’t queue for coffee first. Send a friend ahead to scout for soon-to-leave seats. Visit on weekday mornings for thinner crowds.

3. Shibuya Station–Mark City Walkway

Location: Glass bridge connecting JR Shibuya Station (Tamagawa Exit) and Mark City.
Pros: Totally free! Fewer tourists know this spot. Offers a slightly higher/angled perspective with massive windows—great for clear photos.
Cons: It’s a walkway—can’t linger long. Photos must be snapped quickly. Glass glare might require angled shots.
Pro tip: Perfect for a quick, free photo op. No queues, max efficiency!

☕ Hidden Gem: Relaxed Vibes

4. L’Occitane Café

Location: On the corner of the crossing, diagonally opposite Starbucks.
Pros: Nicer ambiance than Starbucks—more like a proper café. Window seats have crossing views with fewer crowds. Ideal for chilling with tea/desserts.
Cons: Pricier than Starbucks. Not dead-center facing.
Pro tip: Book a window seat or visit off-peak (e.g., mid-afternoon) to enjoy the view leisurely.

Quick Comparison Guide:

Spot	Rating	Cost	Pros	Cons
SHIBUYA SKY	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	Pricey (¥2,200~)	God’s-eye view, 360° panorama, stunning	Expensive, crowded, needs booking
Starbucks	⭐⭐⭐⭐	Low (price of a coffee)	Classic angle, iconic atmosphere	Very crowded, seats hard to come by
Mark City Walkway	⭐⭐⭐⭐	Free	Free, quieter, efficient	Transit-only, no lingering, glare issues
L’Occitane Café	⭐⭐⭐	Moderate	Upscale vibe, more relaxed	Costlier, slightly off-center view

Your Final Playbook:

Splurge-worthy/Best experience? → SHIBUYA SKY (no regrets!).
Budget-friendly/Classic vibe? → Starbucks (if lucky) or the Walkway (free + fast!).
Chill session with views? → L’Occitane Café.

Hope this helps—have a blast exploring Shibuya! 🗼