Introduction
When strolling through Japan, you may find yourself overwhelmed with the sheer number of stores you could visit. In addition, the crowds can seem long and unending so you are left asking yourself what I should I actually do first? This is my list of what you should do while in Shibuya. I didn’t bother adding a paragraph for Shibuya crossing. It is pretty self explanatory and at this point is becoming a Paris Syndrome.
Hachiko Statue
Man’s best friend is something we all can relate to. Japanese people feel the same way too, so much so that the very essence of what the heart of animals feel for their human has been enshrined. This Photo Op can’t be overlooked as The Hachiko statue represents the patience of a dog who waited patiently for his owner to return, but one day he never returned, but yet the dog remained loyal to the end. Nowadays, if you go to the bathroom your relationship is over, so this speaks so much about the character of animals.
Pokemon Center, Shibuya
I still remember Brock from the “Pokemon show,” when he used to flirt with Nurse Joy and Officer Jenny. These were the days when your anxiety didn’t spike because you knew it was only 151 Pokemon. Well, you can relive those glory days by visiting the Pokemon Center in Shibuya. The Parco building, 9th Floor has a Pokemon store that sells Pokemon merchandise including the cards and toys. You can get some of the best photo ops while there.
Godzilla Shop
If Godzilla isn’t a photo op then I don’t know what is. Gojira, Yes the #1 Kaiju of them all. For any Godzilla enthusiast the Godzilla shop is sure to amaze. They have souvenirs and paraphernalia ranging from mugs to collectible cards. Make sure to take a pic with the life-sized Godzilla figurine.
Nintendo Store
For any Nintendo fans out there, the Nintendo store in The Parco Building on the 9th Floor is sure to dazzle. The photo ops this store has will give you memories you can cherish forever. This store has your favorite Nintendo characters such as Link, Donkey Kong, and Mario. Whether if you are young or old this shop is sure to jumpstart your nostalgia and trigger some impulse shopping.
The Sega Store, Shibuya
If Nintendo wasn’t enough to trigger your guilty pleasure of childhood nostalgia, then the Sega Store will definitely trigger frivolous spending. I didn’t spend anything in the Nintendo Store solely because they didn’t have this Zelda heart Keychain, but the Sega store did have one of the most memorable characters ever created; SHADOW. Yes, Shadow The Hedgehog was on full display and the only thing he was missing was his gun and motorcycle. To be honest, I usually leaned more towards Sonic versus Mario but that’s neither here or there. This store has everything related to Sega so you can buy your toys, book bags, and much more while you’re in this store. Did I mention I bought a Shadow plush toy? OMG I’m such a tourist I can’t do this again.
