Don’t worry, Harajuku’s “teen fashion” just means you’re more likely to get vibrant outfits here that are cool, trendy, and for all ages!
Despite the name of this article, I’ll be exploring more than just the fashion side of Harajuku; after all, it’s also a hub for street food, restaurants, cafes, and pop-culture stores! Of course, there’s no denying the unique fashion stores you’ll find at the famous Takeshita Street; in fact, you may be lucky enough to see a fashion show for Miss Asia while you’re there! I’ll never forget the foreign photographer man in those bright red high heels!
Japanese Teen Fashion
This is what you can expect at a typical fashion store on Harajuku’s Takeshita Street. Jam-packed with bold shirts, jackets, and hats, these clothes aren’t designed to blend in, but to make a statement. I definitely get something of a “rebelious teenager” vibe when I see this kind of fashion, though I can’t deny some of the fits are pretty cool (and affordable too!).
Home of the Harajuku Crepe
Crepes may have originated in France, but the Japanese have their own spin on the famous dessert. Originating in Harajuku (where you’ll find a ton of crepe shops), the Japanese variation uses a thicker and more elastic batter that makes it more ideal for wrapping in a cone shape and eating on the go. With so many fillings to choose from, whether it’s the classic strawberries and cream or a more niche savory tuna, there is a crepe in Harajuku for everyone!
Gacha Galore!
I recently wrote a post about the phenomenon of gachapon or “capsule toys” in Japan. Well, Harajuku has entire stores dedicated to these wonderful little plastic sensations, with exclusive gets too! It can be worth popping into one of these gachapon stores just to see the unique style and flashy way it’s presented. The photo above shows a rather colorful aesthetic that stands out from typical gachapon machines, which are usually a plain white color.
To learn more about life in Japan, check out my book: The Japanese Pursuit of Perfection. This book features my most profound observations of Japanese culture and society as a foreign resident. Available in e-book, paperback, and hardcover. Grab your copy today!