Shibuya Crossing

In April while in Tokyo I had to checked out the world’s busiest and most famous pedestrian crossing: Shibuya Crossing. It is located in front of the Shibuya Metro (Subway) Station and stops vehicles in all directions to allow pedestrians to inundate the entire intersection. It is one of Tokyo’s most recognizable sights, pictured in countless films, magazines and blogs (like this one). The phenomenon gave rise to its nickname “scramble,” as up to 3000 pedestrians cross from all directions every 2 minutes. Shibuya Crossing walks the line between manic chaos and perfect synchronization.

The Crossing on a rainy day

The metro station that feeds the intersection handles 2.4 million commuters per day (and it’s just the 3rd busiest station in Tokyo). The crossing has 2 other interesting attractions close by: 1) Hachiko Statue – Japan’s most famous dog, renowned for his exceptional loyalty 2) Starbucks – I have been to one maybe 10 times in my life but I would buy a “Venti iced americano 5 shots decaf with almond milk, double blended & double cupped” just to view the Crossing from the store’s 2nd floor perch above the Crossing. I visited the Crossing on Day 2 and Day 16 of my Japan adventure.

Here’s the video I made of the crossing. Part 1 is the sunny day and part 2 is the rainy day.

Here is a good travel documentary on Shibuya Crossing

Hachiko

Hachiko’s story is one of unwavering loyalty and devotion. Hachiko, a real Akita dog, was a devoted companion to Professor Hidesaburō Ueno. After Professor Ueno’s sudden death, Hachiko continued to wait for his return at their usual meeting spot, Shibuya Station, for nearly nine years. This story, celebrated in Japan and beyond, became a symbol of loyalty and companionship. 

Here’s a more detailed (Wiki) look at the story of Hachiko

  • The Friendship: Hachiko, an Akita dog, became the cherished companion of Professor Hidesaburō Ueno, a professor of agricultural engineering at Tokyo University. 
  • Daily Routine: They would walk together to Shibuya Station every morning, where the professor would take the train to work. Hachiko would then wait for the professor’s return in the evening, marking a daily ritual of companionship. 
  • A Sudden Loss: Professor Ueno tragically died of a cerebral hemorrhage while teaching at the university in 1925, just two years after acquiring Hachiko. 
  • Unwavering Loyalty: Despite his master’s death, Hachiko continued to return to Shibuya Station every day, patiently waiting for the professor’s return. 
  • A Nation’s Hero: Hachiko’s story quickly gained national recognition in Japan, with newspaper articles highlighting his remarkable loyalty. 
  • Legacy of Loyalty: Hachiko’s memory continues to be honored through statues, movies, and books, solidifying his legacy as a symbol of loyalty and devotion. 
  • A Final Farewell:Hachiko eventually passed away in 1935, at the age of 13, and his remains were interred alongside his beloved master in Aoyama Cemetery.