First Time in Harajuku? A Local Tokyo Mom’s Guide to Exploring Takeshita Street with Kids
Looking for a fun and vibrant Tokyo neighborhood to explore with your kids?
Join a local Tokyo Bayside mom on her weekend adventure to Harajuku — one of Japan’s most iconic and colorful districts.
What Is Harajuku?
Harajuku, located between Shibuya and Shinjuku, is Tokyo’s hub of youth fashion, quirky trends, and sweet treats. It’s especially famous for Takeshita Street, a bustling narrow lane filled with candy-colored shops, crepes, purikura (Japanese photo booths), and cute fashion boutiques.
A Brief History of Harajuku
Harajuku may be known today as a youth fashion paradise, but its roots go much deeper.
The name “Harajuku” dates back to the Edo period, when the area was a small post town. After World War II, it became popular with American military families, and later transformed into a cultural hotspot during the 1970s and 80s — especially with the rise of “Harajuku fashion.”
Today, Harajuku is a blend of traditional and modern Tokyo — where you’ll find both historic shrines like Meiji Jingu and futuristic street fashion just steps apart.
Our Day in Harajuku
As a local mom from the calm Tokyo Bayside area, I usually enjoy quieter outings — but on this sunny Saturday, we ventured to Harajuku, and wow — the crowd was amazing. Takeshita Street was packed with excited teenagers, families, tourists, and more.
We explored:
- Fancy accessories and character goods
- Trendy teen clothing stores
- Purikura photo booths (a must-try!)
- Crepe stands
My child was overjoyed — literally pointing to everything: “I want this! And that! And that too!”
Must-Try Sweet: Harajuku Dorayaki from YURINAN
If you’re looking for a unique and stylish treat, skip the crepes just this once and head to YURINAN Harajuku Dorayaki — a modern take on the classic Japanese sweet.
These petite dorayaki pancakes come in various flavors and look almost too pretty to eat. I tried the anko (sweet red bean) + rock salt butter flavor — and it was absolutely heavenly.
The rich butter’s saltiness perfectly balances the sweetness of the anko. Highly recommended if you want a “Japanese flavor with a modern twist.”
More Must-Try Flavors at YURINAN Harajuku
YURINAN isn’t your typical wagashi (traditional sweets) shop — it fuses classic dorayaki with trendy, Instagram-worthy flavors that delight tourists and locals alike.
Besides the amazing Anko + Rock Salt Butter, here are some fan favorites:
- Matcha 🍵
A Kyoto-style twist with bittersweet matcha pancake and creamy filling. - Custard 🍮
Sweet and smooth — great for those who want something more Western. - Strawberry 🍓
A fruity-sweet combo that’s light yet rich.
Each dorayaki is small and easy to try, so feel free to grab a few flavors and share them with your travel buddies.
Tips for Visiting Harajuku with Kids
- Go early — Takeshita Street gets super crowded on weekends.
- Plan for breaks — There are few benches, so find a café or snack spot like YURINAN to rest.
- Budget-friendly shopping — Many shops offer affordable accessories perfect for kids and teens.
How to Get to Harajuku
Take the JR Yamanote Line to Harajuku Station, just one stop from Shibuya. The moment you exit, Takeshita Street is right across the street.
Final Thoughts
Harajuku is a must-visit for families and first-time visitors to Tokyo. Even as a local, I found myself swept up in the fun and energy of the area. Whether you’re chasing kawaii fashion or delicious sweets, Harajuku is a colorful slice of Tokyo life.
So grab your camera, bring your appetite, and enjoy a fun-filled day in one of Tokyo’s most vibrant neighborhoods!
