Opened on April 17, 2024, Tokyu Plaza Harajuku Harakado is a shopping facility based on the concept of “creating and sharing new culture.” It’s located right in the heart of the Harajuku/Jingumae area, a known hub for cultural experiences, dining, and shopping.

The Harajuku/Jingumae area is a central spot that has seen the birth of many new cultural movement of the times. To this day, it holds a unique presence in Tokyo, which has spawned so many diverse, original cultural trends, like street fashion, Harajuku kawaii culture, punk, and Lolita. As such, it has become a particularly popular destination, especially amongst the youth.

Located in the heart of Harajuku and directly connected to Tokyo Metro Meiji-jingumae Station, Harakado was conceived with the purpose of becoming a “Mecca of creativity” at the crossroads of Meiji-dori and Omotesando.

Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harajuku, situated diagonally across the intersection from Harakado, has been rebranded as Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harajuku Omokado. Now, these two facilities are working in collaboration to further amplify the area’s appeal.

The name “Harakado” reflects the idea that the “kado,” or corners, merge to form a crossroads where people can connect, fostering the emergence of new cultures.

Harakado is more than just a commercial facility; it’s a creative hub. With the Harajuku/Jingumae area as its core, Harakado aspires to provide food, shopping, hands-on workshops, and communication, as well as a place where creators can connect.

The building spans from B1F to the rooftop terrace on 7F. And on the B1F is none other than a public bathhouse! Kosugiyu Harajuku was established by a long-standing public bathhouse from Koenji bearing the same name.

The entire floor, known as Chikaichi (literally “first basement floor”), is designed in the image of a town centered around the public bathhouse.

There’s a corner where you can sample Sapporo Beer, an Under Armour area for jogging and stretching, and a rest area.

Even if you don’t plan on using the bath, this floor offers plenty to do! It’s an area that allows visitors to experience the feel of everyday Japanese life, with the public bathhouse as its main attraction.

The ground, first, and second floors primarily offer retail services, including fashion and miscellaneous goods, groceries, cosmetics, and more. The third floor is a place for companies and creative individuals to interact, with concept shops, a photography studio, and a members' lounge.

The fourth floor, known as “Harappa,” is themed around “chilling out in nature” in Harajuku. It features artwork and video content that reflect nature and sustainability throughout the floor. You can also use this floor as an eat-in area for Harakado Cafe, which is located on the same floor.

On floors 5 and 6, visitors can explore a range of dining options. Known as “Harajuku’s Town Cafeteria,” these floors house a total of 22 eateries serving Japanese, Western, and Chinese cuisine, each infused with a distinctly Japanese touch.

The sixth floor also includes an eating space with artificial grass and a rooftop terrace.

In the realm of apparel, accessories, and other goods, there are several unique merchants that embody the essence of Harakado and Japan, including some first permanent stores and other innovative new concepts.

Healthy Tokyo CBD Shop & Labo is a leader in Japan’s CBD market. CBD is an ingredient derived from the cannabis plant* that has garnered attention for its benefits in daily life, health, and beauty, including relaxation, sleep, and improved concentration.

(*Note: This ingredient does not fall under the classification of “marijuana” under the Cannabis Control Law.)

The company manufactures and sells original products such as oils, cosmetics, and vegan sweets using hemp-derived CBD, all made in Japan.

The sweets, including the vegan chocolates, are so incredibly tasty, you won’t even realize they’re vegan! Each product is of exceptional quality and, as CBD items unique to Japan, make excellent souvenirs.

HINEMOS is a sake brand owned by a brewery in Odawara. With a vision to make sake more accessible to people around the world, HINEMOS seeks to redefine the appreciation of sake through the perspective of “time,” a concept that resonates universally amongst all people.

The store offers a diverse range of sake selections inspired by different times of the day when one might enjoy a drink. All products are available for free tasting.

SHICHIJI (7 o'clock) is light in alcohol, slightly effervescent, and fruity, making it an excellent choice for a pre-dinner drink. In contrast, ICHIJI (1 AM) features a higher alcohol content and a deeper flavor, perfect for late-night dinners and long conversations. Each sake has its own distinct taste, so take your time sampling them and discover the one that best suits your preferences.

Tenga is a Japanese company dedicated to promoting its distinct sexual culture globally, envisioning a world where everyone can embrace and enjoy their own sexuality openly. Tenga Land, managed by Tenga, is a concept store themed as a “Wonderland of Love and Freedom.” It features products from all Tenga brands and is the largest permanent Tenga outlet.

Compared to other countries, Japan’s approach to sexuality, self-pleasure, and FemTech remains relatively conservative. However, this is precisely why it offers an opportunity to develop products that are both sensitive and consumer-oriented, while also reflecting Japan’s own unique perspective.

In addition to self-pleasure items, the store also has apparel, free games, and more, creating an inviting atmosphere for anyone to explore. Visitors can even get Gotochi Tenga from a vending machine, decorated with Harajuku-themed designs. The vending machine is also rumored to dispense a special gold-colored Lucky Tenga, with the odds of approximately 1 in 100!

Yubune offers a selection of cosmetics infused with Japanese-sourced ingredients such as hot spring water, mud, and more, all under the concept of “cleansing your life.” As Japan’s first brand of meditation cosmetics, Yubune sells a collection of cosmetics, bath essentials, fragrances, and other self-care items designed for modern-day individuals to wash away daily stress and rejuvenate their body and mind.

All aspects of Yubune, from its ingredients and brand philosophy to its product range, are distinctly Japanese. There’s also the Hotaru fragrance, exclusive to Yubune Omotesando. Customers also have the option to engrave famous quotes on their selected fragrances and hair oils (in Japanese or English), making them ideal souvenirs, as well.

Teras is a brand that specializes in Sashiko, a traditional Japanese handicraft dating back about 500 years to the Edo Period. Sashiko originated in the daily lives of the Japanese people. Each product is completely original, from design to production, and all sales proceeds benefit the creators, who are all individuals with disabilities.

The rarity and exceptional quality of Japanese handcraftsmanship mean that no two pieces are alike, making each one a gem that people from all over the would want to get their hands on!

Visitors will find a range of restaurants available, catering to various moods and occasions. Whether you're seeking a hearty meal, light takeout, finger foods, or sweets to enjoy on your stroll, there's something to satisfy every craving!

The TAG, by Seikado fruitsparlor, was designed to highlight Japan's four seasons, domestic fruit and vegetable expertise, and traditional Japanese confectioneries. It was created by Seikado, a fruit store established to showcase the beauty of the seasons and Japanese craftsmanship.

Its name, “The TAG,” signifies something “special and marked by a tag.” Their menu includes seasonal fruit parfaits, drinks, and plates of curry and omelette rice made with carefully selected special ingredients. Seasonal fruit timing is crucial, ensuring a distinct Japanese flavor experience that’s rare to find anywhere else! The vibrant colors of the dishes also make them visually appealing and perfect for photography.

Izakaya culture provides a uniquely Japanese dining experience, offering a variety of food options from light snacks to full meals, all of which can be enjoyed with sake. The concept of the izakaya is simple: “anything goes as long as it’s fun and delicious!”

Alongside the standard izakaya offerings of yakitori and motsu-nabe, their menu is diverse, with options like tempura, ice cream sodas, and home-roasted coffee. Its unconventional blend of cultural influences truly captures the essence of Harajuku's izakaya scene. For those seeking the relaxed ambiance of izakaya culture, this is the perfect place to visit!

Tokyo Meat Sakaba is a restaurant that aims to create a new genre of “Tokyo Italian,” blending Italian cuisine with the cutting-edge technology of Tokyo. While evenings provide guests with drinks and dinner, lunchtime is just as delicious, with offerings like pasta featuring “Japan’s finest meat sauce” and more.

The menu includes dishes such as “Seared Sushi with Herb Oil” and “Italian Dumplings with Minced Lamb,” all dishes unlike any you have ever seen before! Tokyo Meat Sakaba offers all kinds of original gourmet creations exclusive to this location. The welcoming Japanese bar ambiance, paired with its chic atmosphere, ensures an enjoyable dining experience suitable for patrons of all ages and genders.

There are several other restaurants with standout concepts and menus. For example, there’s Ippudo, a popular ramen shop, and Maguro Wholesale Emi, a sushi restaurant known for its impeccable freshness as a tuna wholesaler. The Mor World Burger offers crispy patties in croissant-like buns combined with premium ingredients like salmon roe. And Talking Gorilla is a standing izakaya designed by world-renowned architect Kengo Kuma.

There are also plenty of spots with benches and chairs offering visitors a place to stop by to take a rest, or simply to soak in the artistic atmosphere. Whether unwinding from your travels or simply in need of a quick break, they’re perfect for recharging during a busy sightseeing trip.

On the second floor is Cover, a library space boasting a collection of around 3,000 magazines, generously donated by both publishers and the general public. Spanning a multitude of genres, these magazines are rare and valuable treasures offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the passage of time as they explore materials not easily found anywhere else.

The fourth floor houses “Harappa,” an artwork space inspired by nature, campfires, and sustainability. This area features benches and tables scattered throughout, inviting everyone to use the space freely.

Visitors can also unwind with a drink at Harakado Cafe on the same floor. Owned by Shimogamo Saryo, a famous Kyoto ryotei (Japanese-style restaurant), this cafe offers guests a picturesque view of Meiji Street below and a side view of Omokado.

On the sixth floor is a dining space where you can enjoy any food purchased from the shops along the sides. And be sure not to miss the paintings by Taro Okamoto displayed in the lawn zone!

The sixth floor also leads to the rooftop terrace, which is freely accessible as long as no events are scheduled. Omokado also offers an expansive, panoramic view of the entire Harajuku area.

Weary from your travels? Take a rest at the public bathhouse on the basement floor. Amidst the hustle and bustle of the city, guests can immerse themselves in the traditional downtown sento culture while rejuvenating themselves, body and soul.

In the public bathhouse, Fuji paintings grace the walls, adding to the traditional bathhouse atmosphere. Guests can enjoy three types of hot baths, along with amenities like shampoo and body soap. Face and bath towels are also available for rent.

Additionally, Under Armour offers a matted area for stretching and light exercises, lockers doubling as running stations, and items available for rent or purchase. Should you spontaneously decide you want to go for a jog while in Harajuku, you can do so here!

There's also a designated area where visitors can try out MYTREX facial equipment and massage machines at no cost. There's even a beer stand, where you can treat yourself to a refreshing beer after working up a sweat.

Tokyu Plaza Harajuku Harakado offers more than just shopping and dining. It’s a place for visitors from overseas to encounter a fresh perspective on Japanese culture that may diverge from their preconceived notions of the traditional.

Harakado promises new discoveries and experiences with every visit, including daily-changing collaborations with companies and creators. And coming summer 2024, guests can also anticipate the opening of the new One Piece Mugiwara Store Harajuku, adding just one more reason to why Harakado is undoubtedly a must-visit spot in Harajuku!

English translation by: Krys Suzuki