Miyashita Park: Tokyo's Urban Oasis with a View
- japansophy
- Aug 15
- 5 min read
Welcome to Miyashita Park (宮下公園), Shibuya's incredibly cool and unique urban oasis! The park is a multi-layered, modern marvel built on top of a three-story shopping complex, offering a fantastic blend of green space, trendy cafes, and recreational activities. Stretching along the former Shibuya River, Miyashita Park is a brilliant example of Tokyo's innovative use of urban space, transforming a former parking lot into a vibrant social hub.
The park is separated into distinct levels that cater to every kind of visitor. The rooftop is where you'll find the main attractions: a spacious lawn perfect for relaxing and picnicking, a sleek skate park, and a bouldering wall that draws a crowd. Downstairs, the "RAYARD MIYASHITA PARK" complex features a curated selection of shops, from international fashion brands and local boutiques to gourmet restaurants and cozy cafes. It’s the perfect spot to find a stylish souvenir or enjoy a delicious meal. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing escape from the bustling streets below or a fun place to people-watch, Miyashita Park keeps you right in the heart of the action while providing a welcome slice of calm.
Getting There
Miyashita Park is super easy to find, conveniently located right in the heart of Shibuya.
Nearest station: Miyashita Park is situated just a short stroll from Shibuya Station (渋谷駅). It's easily accessible from the Hachiko Exit. You can literally see parts of the park complex from the station area. Shibuya Station is a major hub, serving multiple JR lines (Yamanote Line, Saikyo Line, Shonan-Shinjuku Line) and various Tokyo Metro and private subway lines.
By taxi: Given its central Shibuya location, a taxi will drop you right at the base of the complex.
Accessibility: As a modern complex, Miyashita Park is generally very accessible. There are elevators and escalators to reach the different levels of the park, making it relatively wheelchair and stroller friendly. The park itself has wide, flat pathways.
Opening hours & best time to visit
Miyashita Park is a public space with varying hours for different facilities.
Opening hours: The park itself is generally open from 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM, though some shops and restaurants within the complex (known as Miyashita Park RAYARD) will have different hours, often starting later in the morning (around 11:00 AM) and closing earlier in the evening (around 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM). Check individual shop/restaurant hours if you have a specific destination in mind.
Best time to visit:
Afternoon: This is a great time to visit, as all shops and cafes are open, and you can enjoy the park's atmosphere.
Sunset/Evening: The park offers lovely views of the Shibuya skyline as the lights come on, creating a relaxed, urban ambiance. Downstairs, the Shibuya Yokocho eateries come to life with lanterns and a vibrant atmosphere.
Spring/Autumn: The weather is most comfortable for lounging outdoors.
Weather: It's an outdoor park, so a clear day is best to fully enjoy the green spaces and seating. However, many shops and covered areas, within the complex offer shelter on rainy days.
Time to avoid: Weekends and national holidays can get quite busy, especially in the afternoon. If you prefer a quieter experience, aim for a weekday morning.
Reservations & admission
Just walk on in!
Reservations: No reservations are needed to enter Miyashita Park itself. It's a public space you can freely access. Individual restaurants or specific sports facilities (like the bouldering wall or skate park) might require reservations or have separate fees.
Admission price: Entry to Miyashita Park is free! You only pay for any purchases you make at shops, cafes, or for using specific facilities.
Payment method: Shops, cafes, and restaurants within the complex will accept a variety of payment methods, including cash, credit cards, and IC cards (Suica/Pasmo).
What to see & do at Miyashita Park
Miyashita Park is a dynamic hub of activity and relaxation.
Green spaces & rooftop lounging: Spread across three levels, the complex offers grassy areas for relaxing, plenty of benches, and even some deck chairs where you can simply chill out and watch the Shibuya world go by. It’s amazing to find such a calming spot right in the urban bustle.
Skate park & bouldering wall: For the active crowd (or just those who enjoy watching impressive feats!), there's a dedicated skate park and a bouldering wall. It's a fantastic place to let the kids blow off some energy, while you get to rest your feet.
Shops & cafes (RAYARD Miyashita Park): The lower levels of the park are integrated with "RAYARD Miyashita Park," a vibrant shopping and dining complex. You'll find trendy boutiques, unique concept stores, and a wide array of cafes and restaurants catering to all tastes, from casual snacks to sit-down meals.
Starbucks park store: Located on the upper level, this Starbucks offers a great spot to grab a coffee and enjoy the park's atmosphere and the Shibuya views.
Events: Keep an eye out for interesting public art installations and modern design elements scattered throughout the park. The complex also hosts music and pop culture events on a regular basis. Check out the schedule on the official website.
Japansophy’s top tips!
Grab a coffee & chill: Pick up a drink from one of the cafes (like Starbucks) and find a comfy spot on one of the benches or grassy areas. It’s perfect for people-watching.
Sunset views: Head to the upper levels around sunset. You might not get the panoramic height of Shibuya Sky, but you'll enjoy lovely golden hour light on the city, especially looking towards the Shibuya Stream complex.
Explore the shops: Don't just stick to the park's top level! Venture down to the lower levels of RAYARD Miyashita Park to discover its unique shops and dining options.
Picnic potential: Grab some delicious takeout from a konbini or a deli in Shibuya Scramble Square and enjoy an urban picnic in the park.
Miyashita park at night: Enjoy dishes from all over Japan at Shibuya Yokocho
Facilities
Miyashita Park is well-equipped with modern facilities.
Eating & drinking: Absolutely! The RAYARD Miyashita Park complex below and around the park is packed with restaurants and cafes for everything from quick bites to sit-down meals. At street level, you'll find "Shibuya Yokocho", a very colourful street of eateries with outdoor seating: great on summer evenings. You're welcome to bring your own food and drinks to enjoy in the park's open spaces.
Toilets: Yes, modern and clean public restrooms are readily available within the park complex.
Baby-changing facilities: Yes, baby-changing facilities are available within the Miyashita Park RAYARD complex.
Other attractions nearby
Shibuya Sky is situated in the heart of one of Tokyo's most vibrant districts, so you're spoilt for choice once you descend.
Shibuya Scramble Crossing & Hachiko Statue: You're just steps away from these iconic Shibuya landmarks.
Shibuya Center-Gai: Dive into the heart of Shibuya's bustling entertainment and shopping district.
Shibuya Sky: If you're looking for an even higher vantage point, Shibuya Sky is just across the road at Shibuya Scramble Square.
Ready to experience Shibuya's vibrant energy and serene escapes? Our 3-Day Tokyo Itinerary includes a fantastic visit to Miyashita Park, ensuring you make the most of your time in this incredible district!
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