Tokyu Plaza Omotesando: Harajuku's Stylish Oasis (with a Secret Garden!)
- japansophy
- Aug 15
- 4 min read
Get ready to discover a true architectural and retail delight at Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harajuku (東急プラザ表参道原宿)! Also known as "Omokado", this isn't just another shopping mall; it's an iconic landmark at the bustling intersection of Omotesando and Meiji-dori, known for its dazzling, kaleidoscope-like entrance and a truly stunning rooftop garden. It's the perfect spot to immerse yourself in Tokyo's cutting-edge fashion, find unique Japanese brands, and then escape the city buzz for a peaceful break amidst lush greenery and fantastic views. If you love stylish shopping and unexpected urban oases, this place is calling your name!
Getting There: Where is Tokyu Plaza Omotesando?
Tokyu Plaza is incredibly easy to find, sitting right at a major crossroads in the Harajuku/Omotesando area, right across from its newer cousin Harakado.
Nearest station: The most direct access is from Meiji-jingumae 'Harajuku' Station (明治神宮前駅) on the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line and Fukutoshin Line; there's even a direct exit. Harajuku Station (原宿駅) on the JR Yamanote Line is also just a very short walk away.
By taxi: A taxi will drop you off right at the main entrance on Omotesando or Meiji-dori.
Accessibility: As a modern shopping complex, Tokyu Plaza is very accessible. It's equipped with plenty of elevators and escalators, making it easy to navigate with wheelchairs, strollers, or shopping bags!
Opening hours & best time to visit
Tokyu Plaza keeps pace with Tokyo's energetic shopping scene, offering ample time to explore.
Opening hours: The shops within Tokyu Plaza typically operate from around 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Restaurants and cafes might have slightly different hours, sometimes opening earlier or closing later. The famous rooftop garden, "Omohara no Mori," often has its own specific hours, sometimes closing a bit earlier than the shops (check the official website for exact times).
Best time to visit:
Anytime during shop hours: It's generally a pleasant place to visit whenever shops are open.
Late afternoon/sunset: The rooftop garden offers lovely views as the city lights begin to twinkle, making it a nice spot for a pre-dinner relax.
Time to avoid: Weekends and national holidays, especially mid-afternoon, can see more crowds, but it's usually less overwhelmingly busy than nearby Takeshita Dori.
Reservations & admission
Your stylish shopping spree requires no advance bookings!
Reservations: No reservations are needed to enter Tokyu Plaza Omotesando or to access its shops and the rooftop garden.
Admission price: Entry to the shopping complex and the "Omohara no Mori" rooftop garden is free! You only pay for what you buy from the stores or cafes.
Payment method: Shops, cafes, and restaurants within Tokyu Plaza will accept a wide range of payment methods, including cash, major credit cards, and IC cards (Suica/Pasmo).
What to see & do in Tokyu Plaza Omotesando
Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harajuku offers more than just retail therapy; it's an experience for the senses!
The iconic mirrored entrance: Your visit truly begins from the moment you step onto the escalator. The entrance to Tokyu Plaza is a famous architectural feature, with a tunnel-like escalator surrounded by a dazzling, kaleidoscopic array of angled mirrors. It's an instant photo op and a wonderfully disorienting (in a fun way!) start to your shopping adventure.
"Omohara no Mori" (Omotesando Harajuku Forest) Rooftop Garden: This is the absolute highlight! Head straight to the 6th floor, and you'll emerge into a lush, green oasis – a beautifully landscaped rooftop garden filled with trees, plants, and plenty of seating. It's an incredible spot to take a break from the urban bustle, enjoy a coffee, or simply relax amidst nature. You get some lovely city views here too, especially looking down onto Omotesando Avenue.
Curated shopping: The stores within Tokyu Plaza are generally more stylish and design-focused than the quirky shops on Takeshita Dori. You'll find a mix of Japanese and international fashion brands, unique lifestyle stores, and interesting concept shops, often showcasing cutting-edge trends.
Cafes & restaurants: There's a good selection of cafés within the plaza, including a popular Starbucks located on the rooftop garden, offering a perfect spot to grab a drink with a view.
Japansophy’s top tips!
Strike a pose at the entrance: That mirrored escalator tunnel is famous for a reason! Get your camera ready for some unique, kaleidoscopic photos.
Head straight for the rooftop: Whether you're shopping or not, make a beeline for "Omohara no Mori." It's a fantastic spot for a quiet break, a coffee, or just to enjoy the fresh air and green space in the middle of the city.
Combine with Omotesando: Tokyu Plaza is perfectly situated at the start of Omotesando Avenue. Combine your visit here with a stroll down this elegant, tree-lined boulevard for more upscale shopping and architecture.
Recharge with a view: Grab a coffee from the Starbucks on the rooftop garden and find a comfortable bench to people-watch or simply soak in the unique atmosphere.
Facilities
Tokyu Plaza is a modern complex well-equipped with visitor amenities, including ATMs and money-changing facilities.
Eating & drinking: There are several cafes located throughout the shopping complex, including the popular Starbucks on the rooftop garden. You can easily find options for a snack or a coffee. You are not allowed to bring your own food and drinks into the "Omohara no Mori".
Toilets: Modern, clean restrooms are readily available on multiple floors throughout the plaza.
Baby-Changing Facilities: Baby-changing facilities and nursing rooms are available on the 6th floor.
Other attractions nearby
Tokyu Plaza's prime location means you're perfectly positioned to explore the diverse facets of Harajuku and Omotesando.
Omotesando Avenue: You're literally on it! This elegant, tree-lined street is known for its high-end boutiques, flagship stores of international luxury brands, and impressive modern architecture.
Takeshita Dori: The vibrant, quirky, and youth-focused Takeshita Street is just 3 minutes' walk away.
Meiji Jingu: The serene forest and shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji is also just a pleasant walk away from the Omotesando/Harajuku intersection.
Tokyu Plaza Harakado: Omokado's cool, younger cousin also offers an array of fashion and cafés, and also comes with its own rooftop garden.
Cat Street: Explore this trendy, pedestrian-friendly lane famous for its cool fashion, vintage shops, and cafes, connecting Harajuku and Shibuya.
Ready for a mix of stylish shopping and tranquil urban escapes in Tokyo? Our 3-Day Tokyo Itinerary guides you through the best of Omotesando and Harajuku, including a visit to the iconic Tokyu Plaza!
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