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Shibuya (渋谷区; -ku) is a
special ward located in
Tokyo,
Japan.
The ward was founded on
March 15,
1947. As of
2003, the ward has an estimated
population of 201,524 and a
density of 13,337.13 persons per
km². The total area is 15.11 km².
Largely a commercial and entertainment district, Shibuya has achieved
great popularity among young people in the last 30 years. There are
several famous
fashion department stores in Shibuya, but the most famous one is
called "Shibuya 109" (ichimarukyuu)." This department store is
very popular among young people, especially teens, and it is famous as the
origin of the
kogal subculture. The fashion scene extends northwards to
Harajuku, and Shibuya is increasingly becoming a fashion trendsetter
for all
Asia.
Shibuya is also famous for its intersection crossing, reportedly the
world's busiest, which is located in front of
Shibuya Station and regularly undergoes a four-way stop to allow
pedestrians to inundate the entire intersection. Furthermore, the crossing
is famous for three large TV screens, which are on the buildings facing
the crossing. The plaza in front of the station is known as Hachiko
(ハチ公) Square, after a loyal dog who waited here for its master for years
on end and is now commemorated with a diminutive statue.
To the north of Shibuya station is Dogenzaka (道玄坂), offering
entertainment for an more mature audience with many
nightclubs and
love hotels.
The main train stations in the ward are
Shibuya Station itself,
Yoyogi,
Harajuku and
Ebisu.
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