Shibuya, a vibrant district in central Tokyo, is a must-visit for any traveler seeking a unique blend of fashion, culture, and entertainment. Known for its iconic scramble crossing and the statue of Hachiko, the loyal dog, Shibuya is a bustling hub where youth culture thrives.
A Shopper’s Delight in Shibuya
Shibuya is a shopper’s paradise with an eclectic mix of stores catering to diverse tastes. From mainstream brands to vintage treasures and quirky boutiques, you’re sure to find something that sparks your interest.
Basketball Street: A Hub for Basketball Enthusiasts
Did you know that the street formerly known as Shibuya Center-gai was renamed “Basketball Street” in 2011? This nod to basketball culture is fitting, considering its proximity to the Yoyogi National Gymnasium, a venue that hosted basketball events during the 1964 Tokyo Olympics.
Jordan World of Flight Shibuya: A Basketball Mecca
Just a short walk from the Yoyogi National Gymnasium lies the Jordan World of Flight Shibuya store, a haven for basketball fans. Opened in March 2023, it’s the second store of its kind globally and the only one in Japan. This unique store celebrates the legacy and future of basketball culture, serving as a gathering place for the community.
A World of Jordan: More Than Just a Store
Jordan World of Flight Shibuya offers a full range of services and experiences, including the latest product releases, shoe and apparel customization, exclusive SNKRS pick-up, and a dedicated studio for content creation.
Stepping into the store, you’ll be greeted by a “Portal”, a mirrored corridor with projected images, leading to the main display showcasing the latest apparel and footwear. The store’s walls are adorned with eye-catching artwork depicting Jordan-related motifs and basketball athletes, creating an immersive atmosphere.
A Community Hub for Basketball Enthusiasts
The store goes beyond retail, functioning as a destination for the Jordan fans and basketball community. It offers a Lounge where visitors can relax and view memorabilia, a Content Studio for creating videos and photos, and a SNKRS Pick Up counter for shoes ordered through the SNKRS app.
Customization and Personalized Touches
At the Workshop, you can personalize selected footwear and apparel with patches, shoelaces, and exclusive designs. I opted for a customized hoodie, guided by the professional staff, who provided expert advice on placement and design. The store’s bilingual staff ensures seamless communication with customers.
Beyond Basketball: A Stroll Through Miyashita Park
Leaving the Jordan store, I headed to Miyashita Park, a revitalized urban space combining a rooftop park, a shopping mall, and a lifestyle hotel. The 330-meter long mall boasts a diverse mix of high fashion and street fashion brands, alongside a selection of restaurants.
A Breath of Fresh Air: The Rooftop Park
The rooftop Miyashita Park offers a welcome respite from the urban bustle. With ample lawn space, a skateboard park, a bouldering wall, and a multi-purpose sand court, it provides a place to relax, enjoy the sun, and soak in the greenery.
Shibuya Parco: A Modern Retail Hub
Next on my itinerary was Shibuya Parco, a next-generation retail hub known for its sleek, modern facade. Here, you’ll find brands representing art, design, and niche products, reflecting the individuality of its visitors.
Gaming and Anime Culture: A Highlight for Travelers
Of particular interest to many travelers are the Nintendo and Pokemon stores located within Shibuya Parco. These stores attract considerable crowds, showcasing the immense popularity of anime and gaming culture in Japan.
Shibuya Loft: A Treasure Trove of Lifestyle Products
My final stop was Shibuya Loft, the original and largest Loft store in Japan. This seven-story department store houses a vast array of lifestyle products for the home, office, and travel, making it a great place to find quirky souvenirs.
Household Items, Stationery, and Kawaii Delights
From temporary exhibitions on the top floor to household items, cosmetics, beauty products, and stationery on the lower levels, there’s something for everyone at Shibuya Loft.
I found myself drawn to the household item floors, where I discovered a plethora of cute kitchen and household items, perfect for souvenirs or gifts. And, of course, no visit to Shibuya Loft would be complete without exploring the stationery floor, a haven for all things kawaii and new.
A Day Well-Spent: Exploring Shibuya’s Cultural Gems
Despite not being a big shopper, I thoroughly enjoyed my day exploring Shibuya’s distinct shopping destinations, each offering a unique cultural experience. From the basketball legacy of Jordan World of Flight Shibuya to the urban oasis of Miyashita Park, from the niche brands and anime culture of Shibuya Parco to the lifestyle treasures of Shibuya Loft, Shibuya truly embodies the vibrant spirit of Tokyo.
Location Details
Jordan World of Flight Shibuya is located within a 10-minute walk from Shibuya Station. For precise directions, refer to Map Link.
- Jordan World of Flight Shibuya to Miyashita Park: approximately 5 minutes
