Harajuku in Tokyo is an interesting blend of culture. When you exit Harajuku Station from the JR Yamanote line, you will find Takeshita Street in front of you and Meiji Jingu behind you. The two could not be more different from each other, and both are definitely worth a visit.
Takeshita Street and the area surrounding it is full of fashion, fun, and delicious food! It features a 3-story Daiso (a famous 100 yen store) where you can find lots of fun trinkets both touristy and non-touristy. It also has many fun and interesting boutiques where you can find various trendy clothing styles. However our favorite thing was all the tasty treats! We tried and thoroughly enjoyed the infamous crepes as well as the rainbow cotton candy from Totti Candy Factory.
On the opposite side of the street is Yoyogi Park, where you will find the beautiful and tranquil Meiji Jingu. The entrance to the Shinto shrine is marked by a massive torii gate and is followed by a peaceful 5-10 walk to the shrine. When we were there it was in the process of being restored in preparation for the shrines 100th anniversary in 2020. Because of this, the copper roofs were brand new and absolutely beautiful. The shrine is free to visit, but some specific buildings cost.
Overall, out of all the places we visited in Tokyo Takeshita Street was the most touristy, but we still enjoyed the experience and loved trying the yummy food. And Meiji Jingu is a great place to stop by if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of one of the biggest cities in the world.
