Easy and Fun Shibuya Day Adventure: While Pregnant and with a Toddler
Shibuya is one of the busiest areas in Tokyo, and traveling with a toddler and while pregnant means we had to take our time. Here's a simple and enjoyable itinerary for a day in Shibuya. We managed to experience the famous scramble crossing, visit the Pokémon Center, explore a beautiful park, and indulge in some incredible food along the way. Let’s go!
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Travel Tips
- For flights, Skyscanner is excellent for comparing the best airline deals.
- For accommodations, our family trusts Booking.com for reasonable prices.
- Organize your trips easily with a Travel Planner.
- For tried-and-true travel and hiking gear, check out our Amazon Storefront.
For Families: APA Hotel Ueno
- Check-in: APA Hotel Ueno Ekiminami Hotel
- Address: 6 Chome-7-21 Ueno, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0005, Japan
- 3 days 2 nights
- Price: 260 USD/37,000 JPY
Pros
- Suitable for Families
- Clean and contemporary design
- Offers a universal outlet for tourists
- Just a 5-minute walk from Ueno Station
- Complimentary slippers
- Complimentary pajamas
- Complimentary toiletries and more
- Only a 3-minute walk to Ueno Station
- Only a 2-minute walk to Ueno Ameyoko Shopping Street
- Easy Access to the Skyliner Train to the Airport
- Things To Do: Ueno Station and Nearby the APA Hotel Ueno
We stayed at the APA Hotel, which was clean, modern, and the bed was very comfortable. The complimentary toiletries added a nice touch, and the pajamas meant we had fewer dirty clothes to take home. Despite the room's limited space, we enjoyed our stay - this is just a common aspect of budget accommodations in Tokyo.
Other Three Accommodation Options
For Budget Travelers: Green Hotel Ideal for a One-Night Stay
- Check-in: Green Hotel
- Address: 6 Chome-4-4 Higashiueno, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0015, Japan
- Price: 2 days 1 night: 85 USD (12,440 JPY)
- Just a 10-minute walk from Ueno Station
- Easy Access to the Skyliner Train to the Airport
Quiet Side of Tokyo and Near the Pokémon Center TOKYO DX
- Check-in: Hotel Yaenomidori Tokyo
- Address: 2 Chome-13-1 Hatchobori, Chuo City, Tokyo 104- 0032, Japan
- Price: 3 days 2 nights 34,916 JPY or 231 USD (with breakfast)
- 10-minute walk to the Pokémon Center
- 12-minute walk to Tokyo Station
- Check-in: Tokyo Ueno Youth Hostel
- Address: 4階 1 Chome-13-6 Ueno, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0005, Japan
- Price: 3 days and 2 nights 13,221.79 PHP / 34,400 JPY
- Only 3 stops away from Tokyo Station
- A 10-minute stroll from Keisei Ueno Station
- A 5-minute walk from Okachimachi Station on the JR Yamanote Line (one stop from Ueno Station)
This option is perfect for solo travelers and couples looking for budget-friendly accommodations in Tokyo. My brothers had a great stay at the Tokyo Ueno Youth Hostel, where they enjoyed a private room with their own bathroom and complimentary slippers. While the rooms are compact, which is typical for Tokyo, they are very affordable and conveniently located!
Things To Do in Shibuya for a Day
We roamed around the Shibuya district and had such a blast. It's such a vibrant and lively part of Tokyo; no wonder people come here to have a great time. There's a nice park, amazing food options, and the famous Pokémon Center.
You might also like: Mount Omuro Tour
Both my brothers flew first, a day early compared to us, so we thought we might be able to do a Mount Omuro Tour with Klook, but it was fully booked. Hope to get to do this next visit. Let me know in the comments below if it's worth the hype.
- Tour: Mount Omuro or Izu Panorama Park, both include the Kinosaki Coast & Hakone Route
- Time: 8:00 am to 6:30 pm
- Price: 79 USD
Oct 25: City Tour: Yoyogi Park and Shibuya Must-See Places
How to Reach Yoyogi Park
- Nearest Station: Yoyogi-koen Station
- Take Exit 4 from the station,
- There are restrooms inside—definitely use them, especially if you have small children or are pregnant.
- Walk for about three minutes toward the South Gate entrance.
Restroom Stop
Entrance to Yoyogi Park
How to Reach Meiji Shrine
The Meiji Shrine is located near JR Harajuku Station; simply cross the street, turn left, and walk downhill.
How to Reach Takeshita Street
Located just a six-minute walk from Yoyogi Park, Takeshita Street is a vibrant 350-meter-long corridor filled with food and fashion. It stretches from Harajuku Station to Meiji Dori Avenue, with Harajuku Station only three minutes away on foot.
- Dessert at Harajuku for 12 USD
- Lunch at Hita Yakisoba for 18 USD
Dessert at Harajuku
Lunch at Hita Yakisoba
Hita Yakisoba stands out because the raw noodles are gently immersed in hot water and then slowly cooked on an iron plate. This process results in perfectly crispy “Paripali” noodles, generously topped with “Shakishaki” crunchy bean sprouts.
Next Stop: Takeshita Street to Shibuya Station
- From this point, you can either take the bus to Shibuya Station or enjoy a leisurely 20-minute walk.
We chose to walk, taking our time since I was pregnant and we had a toddler with us. However, I wouldn’t recommend this option, as it can be quite demanding. I was in my second trimester, and the humidity, along with the bustling environment, was quite exhausting.
If you’re heading back to JR Harajuku Station to go to Shibuya Station:
3. Hachiko Memorial Statue: Symbol of Loyalty and Devotion in Japan
How to Reach the Hachiko Statue
Since we were already nearby, we decided to visit, especially since we were familiar with the movie "Hachiko." For first-time visitors, catching a glimpse of the Hachiko Memorial Statue and experiencing the Shibuya Crossing is quite enjoyable. However, it's best not to linger too long, as the area can get quite crowded, particularly for families with young children.
You might also like: Two Nearby Popular Must-Eats
If you’re heading back to JR Harajuku Station to go to Shibuya Station:
- From Harajuku Station, board the Yamanote Line (Green).
- It's just one stop to Shibuya Station, a quick trip of approximately 3 minutes.
The futuristic design of Shibuya Station!
How to Reach the Hachiko Statue
- From Shibuya Station, take Exit 8 (Hachiko Exit).
- The statue is located right in the station plaza.
You might also like: Two Nearby Popular Must-Eats
- Pepper Parlor: Waffles Served by Robots
- Located on the 5th floor of the Tokyu Plaza Shibuya, just a 2-minute walk from the West Exit of JR Shibuya Station.
I really wanted to visit the Pepper Parlor; however, we couldn't make it there, either because it was closed or completely booked. Let me know in the comments below if they’re still worth checking out for our next visit.
- Uogashi Nihon-Ichi Shibuya Dogenzaka: Standing Sushi Bar
- Located four minutes away from the Hachiko statue
4. Shibuya Crossing: World's Busiest Pedestrian Intersection
From the Hachiko statue, the scramble crossing was already visible, so we decided to cross it for a bit of fun. It was thrilling the first time; the second time, however, you really notice the chaos and the large crowd of people. I observed that most locals were dressed in black, absorbed in their phones, and the crossing was the busiest I've ever encountered, creating an overwhelming urge to flee the crowd.
- For Amazing View
We were advised to head to Starbucks for an excellent photo of Shibuya Crossing. Located inside the Shibuya Tsutaya/QFRONT building, right across from the scramble crossing, the café on the second floor offers an amazing view of the crossing.
- For Anime Fans
If you're an anime enthusiast, be sure to check out the nearby Village Vanguard, a quirky store filled with anime merchandise and souvenirs.
5. Pokémon Center Shibuya & Nintendo Tokyo at Shibuya Parco
How To Reach the Pokémon Center Shibuya
6. Explore Shibuya Mark City: For Desserts and Pastry
Foods We Bought:
How To Reach the Pokémon Center Shibuya
- Pokémon Center Shibuya & Nintendo Tokyo at Shibuya Parco
- Address: 15-1 Udagawacho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, 150-8377
- From Shibuya Station, it’s just a short 7-minute walk to the Shibuya Parco shopping complex. You’ll find the Pokémon Center located on the sixth floor in the Cyberspace Shibuya area.
- For Souvenir: Pokémon Merchandise for 26 USD for a Tote Bag, Passport cover, and an Eco-Bag
Shibuya Parco Shopping Complex
Nintendo Tokyo
Next stop: Find Japanese Cheesecake! My pregnancy cravings were in full throttle when we were in Japan!
- Shibuya Mark City
- Address: Shibuya Mark City, 1 Chome-12-1 Dogenzaka, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0043, Japan
Japanese Cheesecake for 3 USD
Fruits at the Grocery Store for 9 USD
Gyoza 6 pcs for 4 USD
We discovered a wide variety of food options at Shibuya Mark City, conveniently located within walking distance from Shibuya Station.
How to Get Back to APA Hotel Ueno
From Shibuya Station, take the Ginza Line (Orange) to Ueno Station, which is 15 stops away and takes approximately 27 minutes. After that, it's a 7-minute walk to the APA Hotel. Having a hotel close to the station is incredibly helpful, especially when traveling with a tired toddler. Plus, being pregnant at the end of the day, I could really feel my legs.
7. Dinner at Kurauzo
This was one of the most incredible meals we experienced in Tokyo. Kurauzo is a highly rated Japanese western-style restaurant located in Ueno. I highly recommend giving it a try; you won't be disappointed. After our meal, we simply walked back to the hotel.
8. Last-Minute Souvenir Shopping at Daikoku
We stopped at Daikoku, where we couldn't resist picking up some adorable and affordable souvenirs. Our treasures included Ninja pens and a pair of pens featuring charming male and female characters dressed in traditional Japanese attire, as well as wooden chopsticks and more. Afterwards, we headed back to the hotel, feeling a bit sad about our flight the next day. However, our time in Japan was absolutely amazing. For our next adventure, we're looking forward to discovering the beautiful island of Hokkaido. I can't wait for this trip!
Fruits at the Grocery Store for 9 USD
Gyoza 6 pcs for 4 USD
We discovered a wide variety of food options at Shibuya Mark City, conveniently located within walking distance from Shibuya Station.
How to Get Back to APA Hotel Ueno
From Shibuya Station, take the Ginza Line (Orange) to Ueno Station, which is 15 stops away and takes approximately 27 minutes. After that, it's a 7-minute walk to the APA Hotel. Having a hotel close to the station is incredibly helpful, especially when traveling with a tired toddler. Plus, being pregnant at the end of the day, I could really feel my legs.
- Kurauzo
- Address: Ueno Suzuya Building, B1F 4 Chome-6-10 Ueno, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0005, Japan
- Cost: 35 USD
This was one of the most incredible meals we experienced in Tokyo. Kurauzo is a highly rated Japanese western-style restaurant located in Ueno. I highly recommend giving it a try; you won't be disappointed. After our meal, we simply walked back to the hotel.
We stopped at Daikoku, where we couldn't resist picking up some adorable and affordable souvenirs. Our treasures included Ninja pens and a pair of pens featuring charming male and female characters dressed in traditional Japanese attire, as well as wooden chopsticks and more. Afterwards, we headed back to the hotel, feeling a bit sad about our flight the next day. However, our time in Japan was absolutely amazing. For our next adventure, we're looking forward to discovering the beautiful island of Hokkaido. I can't wait for this trip!
Our flight from Narita to Los Angeles was scheduled at 2:40 PM, so we had time and made sure to enjoy some extra snacking in the morning.
We stopped by Family Mart and spent 10 USD on breakfast.
- Andersen Bakery
- 2 Hitaru for 9 USD
After that, we headed to Andersen to pick up my favorite pastry. I treated myself to two hitaru for 9 USD. Andersen Bakery and Café offers Danish-style bread infused with Japanese flavors, offering a diverse selection of baked treats.
Be Early for the Skyliner Train
Be Early for the Skyliner Train
Two Tips for Taking the Skyliner Train to the Airport:
Secure Carry-on Luggage: Pikachu Umbrella Saved!
Airlines or airports may classify umbrellas as potential security threats. Generally, umbrellas should not exceed a length of 50-55 cm, although this can vary by airline. However, we were able to bring our little one’s Pikachu umbrella in our carry-on luggage. The clerk was correct; we didn’t need to be concerned since it was a kid-sized umbrella, small and compact compared to standard umbrellas.
Last-Minute Sushi
While inside the airport, Saul decided to try some sushi. Although it may not be the first place that comes to mind for sushi, he was pleasantly surprised. The chef prepared a special dish, and as recommended, he paired it with beer, which he absolutely enjoyed. Discover more: What To Do Inside Narita Airport
Last-Minute Snack/Souvenir Shopping
While waiting by the boarding gate, I couldn't resist grabbing some snacks for my long flight. I chose Matcha Mochi Daifuku and a Pocky Medley Box. The variety of Pocky flavors was delightful to sample, and I have no regrets! If you didn’t get a chance to purchase souvenirs, the goodies at the Gateway shop are quite good; at least you don't go home empty-handed.
If you need sleep, there's a Mini-hotel right inside the airport
Pick-up Car in Los Angeles
We parked our car close to LAX because it’s much more convenient than having someone pick us up and navigating through the traffic, parking, and all the chaos that comes with LAX. It can get incredibly hectic and crowded there; I wish no one were allowed to linger on the roads, as it complicates exiting the airport area. We could all take a lesson from Singapore's Changi Airport—it's so efficient! Read more: Car Parking at LAX for Two Weeks
See you soon, Japan! Our next adventure awaits on the Beautiful Island of Hokkaido. I can barely hold back my excitement for this journey!
Bonus Tip: Use a Travel Packing Checklist
Do you want more adventure in Japan?
Travel Visa for Filipinos
- Plan Ahead: Ensure you head to the Skyliner Station at least three hours before your flight.
- Choose Your Boarding Location Wisely: It's best to board at Ueno, as the large luggage space tends to fill up by the second station, Nippori.
Secure Carry-on Luggage: Pikachu Umbrella Saved!
Airlines or airports may classify umbrellas as potential security threats. Generally, umbrellas should not exceed a length of 50-55 cm, although this can vary by airline. However, we were able to bring our little one’s Pikachu umbrella in our carry-on luggage. The clerk was correct; we didn’t need to be concerned since it was a kid-sized umbrella, small and compact compared to standard umbrellas.
- Sushi Kyotatsu
- Location: Narita Terminal 1, next to Doutor
- Cost: $28 USD
While inside the airport, Saul decided to try some sushi. Although it may not be the first place that comes to mind for sushi, he was pleasantly surprised. The chef prepared a special dish, and as recommended, he paired it with beer, which he absolutely enjoyed. Discover more: What To Do Inside Narita Airport
Last-Minute Snack/Souvenir Shopping
- Gateway
- Location: Near Gate 18
- Cost: 15 USD
While waiting by the boarding gate, I couldn't resist grabbing some snacks for my long flight. I chose Matcha Mochi Daifuku and a Pocky Medley Box. The variety of Pocky flavors was delightful to sample, and I have no regrets! If you didn’t get a chance to purchase souvenirs, the goodies at the Gateway shop are quite good; at least you don't go home empty-handed.
If you need sleep, there's a Mini-hotel right inside the airport
- Check-in: 9H Nine Hours Narita Airport
- Location: Narita Airport Terminal 2, B1
- Price: 1 night 61 USD/8,800 JPY
- Perfect for Early Flights
- Complimentary Pajama
There are sleeping pods at Narita Airport. Nine Hours Hotel is ideal for solo travelers or couples open to sharing accommodations with others. Perfect for catching an early flight in Narita or for a quick stay, including a shower and a few hours of rest before your flight. The pods are located in Terminal 2 with a 24-hour front desk, complimentary WiFi and come with spacious lockers inside.
We parked our car close to LAX because it’s much more convenient than having someone pick us up and navigating through the traffic, parking, and all the chaos that comes with LAX. It can get incredibly hectic and crowded there; I wish no one were allowed to linger on the roads, as it complicates exiting the airport area. We could all take a lesson from Singapore's Changi Airport—it's so efficient! Read more: Car Parking at LAX for Two Weeks
See you soon, Japan! Our next adventure awaits on the Beautiful Island of Hokkaido. I can barely hold back my excitement for this journey!
This is my ultimate secret to making travel hassle-free: I use a Travel Packing Checklist. This ensures I don’t forget essential items and prevents those frantic last-minute shopping trips for things I already own but left behind. I didn’t realize how much I needed this notebook; it truly keeps my journeys organized and stress-free. Check out Flying Starfish Studios for unique journals, notebooks, and planners.
Here's another special Packing checklist designed for families. It includes packing lists for babies and kids to ensure nothing is overlooked!
Have fun and be safe ^__^
Do you want more adventure in Japan?
Explore Tokyo
- Where to Stay in Tokyo: Budget-Friendly
- Visit The Famous Pokémon Center Tokyo DX
- Tokyo Station: Must-visit for Amazing Ramen, Anime, & Manga Stores
- Shibuya: Easy Itinerary, World's Busiest Pedestrian Crossing & Pokémon Centre
- Ueno: Simple Itinerary, Things To-Do and Delicious Eats at Ameyoko Market
- How to Reach Narita Airport from Tokyo Station
- What To Do Inside Narita Airport: Waiting for Flight/Bus
Explore Kawaguchiko "Best Mt. Fuji Views"
Where am I going next?
- For my next adventure, we're heading to Kyoto, Japan, one of the oldest cities and the cultural heart of Japan. Picture this: mouth-watering matcha treats and wandering through endless green bamboo forests.
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