Shibuya Crossing: Best Photo Spots
Where to take the best photo of Shibuya Crossing: comparing Starbucks, Mag's Park, and the Shibuya Sky observation deck.
It is the image that defines modern Tokyo: hundreds of people surging forward from all directions simultaneously under the glow of gigantic video screens. Shibuya Crossing is the world’s busiest pedestrian scramble, and witnessing it is a rite of passage for any tourist. However, standing in the middle of the crowd is entirely different from capturing its scale on camera. If you are wondering where to take the best photo of Shibuya Crossing, here are the top vantage points.
For a classic, accessible view, head to the second floor of the Shibuya Station Wave Front building, which houses a famous Starbucks. The floor-to-ceiling windows look directly over the main intersection. While getting a window seat requires immense patience and the purchase of a drink, it offers a fantastic, eye-level time-lapse opportunity.
If you want to go higher, Mag's Park on the rooftop of the Shibuya 109-2 building features an outdoor viewing deck. It charges a small entry fee (which often includes a drink), but it allows you to look straight down at the crossing without glass reflections interfering with your camera lens. It is rarely overcrowded, making it ideal for taking clean, high-angle shots.
For the ultimate, unobstructed panoramic view, book a ticket to Shibuya Sky. Located on the roof of the Shibuya Scramble Square tower, this open-air observation deck sits 229 meters above the city. While it provides a birds-eye view of the crossing itself, it also gives you a breathtaking 360-degree look at the Tokyo skyline, including Tokyo Tower and, on clear days, Mount Fuji. Be sure to book your sunset tickets weeks in advance, as this spot is incredibly popular with travel photographers.