Hey, guys, it’s Blaze! For anyone who’s ever visited the Shibuya area of Tokyo, you might be really surprised the next time you visit because wow! It’s really undergoing some major changes! I almost didn’t even recognize the place! Here’ll I’ll touch a little bit on the extent of the construction and what’s in store for the city!

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As a normal part of the human condition, it’s often difficult to let go of the past and accept change, and that is no different with the recent changes that the city of Shibuya have been undergoing. Although some of your favorite cityscapes might be gone for good, the future ahead is finally beginning to take shape and blossom. Let’s take a look at the four major developments currently underway in Shibuya!

While you’re being nostalgic, here are some photos of what the station looked like before several of the train lines, in this case the Toyoko Live, were moved in 2013. As you’ll see below, this area was repurposed for the Shibuya Station South Area.

▶︎ Overall Roadmap

① Hikarie

Located on the east side of Shibuya Station, the first of the major changes to hit Shibuya came in the form of this 43-story, 183-meter-tall skyscraper that connects to the station both above and below ground. Completed in 2012, it stands as a one of the area’s prominent shipping, business, and entertainment hubs.

② Shibuya Station South Area

▲ The Shibuya Stream was completed in 2018 and is located just south of Shibuya Station. The building hosts the head office for Google Japan.

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▲ The Shibuya Scramble Square East Tower (Phase 1) was completed in 2019. The rest of the complex is scheduled for completion by 2027.

③ Dogenzaka

This a stretch of town that includes the Hachiko statue just outside Shibuya Station, Shibuya 109 across the street at the famous Shibuya Crossing, as well as further up the hill that curves off to the left the further you get from Shibuya Station.

The last time I walked this area was sometime late last year, and construction had already progressed to the point of removing complete buildings. It will be very interesting to see what gets built instead.

④ Sakuragaoka

Several new skyscrapers are currently being erected south of the station and west of the Yamanote Line to completely alter the area, making it nearly unrecognizable. One of these is a 180-meter tall, 36-story office tower while the other will be a 150-meter tall, 32-story condo. Among many other companies relocating, one of these buildings will serve as the new Square Enix headquarters, moving from the the Shinjuku Eastside Square. It will be interesting to see if the Square Enix cafe ARTNIA will also be relocating or will stay at its current location just outside the East Shinjuku Station.

▶︎ Construction Information

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It will be quite exciting to see what new things will pop up around town.
Be sure to stay tuned for further updates!