Shibuya has entered the third and final stage of an ambitious urban development plan that aims to transform the bustling Tokyo district into a thriving, modern centre for business and entertainment by 2027.
Led by East Japan Railway, Tokyo Metro and developer Tokyu Land Corporation with support from the local government, the extensive enhancements centre around Shibuya Station and its surrounds.
In 2019, the second phase of the project was completed with the opening of three new complexes: Shibuya Scramble Square, Shibuya Fukuras and Shibuya Parco.
At 230m tall, Shibuya Scramble Square is the tallest building in Shibuya and houses Japan’s largest rooftop observatory called Shibuya Sky, which overlooks Shibuya’s famous scramble crossing. The skyscraper also has more than 200 outlets, including extensive F&B options.
Shibuya Fukuras, designed as a one-stop-shop for international visitors, comprises a bus terminal serving Haneda and Narita airports, a tourist information centre, luggage storage and delivery, and foreign currency exchange.
For entertainment, Shibuya Fukuras has an art centre while Shibuya Parco boasts a wide range of shops and a 636-pax theatre.
The facilities add to other recent developments that have increased Shibuya’s appeal as a location for business events.
Shibuya Stream, which is connected to the south side of Shibuya Station, is one example. Opened in 2018, its 250m2 multipurpose hall caters for seminars, exhibitions and concerts, hosting 700 pax standing and 294 pax theatre-style. Floors 9-13 are housed by the Excel Hotel Tokyu.
Two leafy outdoor spaces on the first floor beside the newly redirected Shibuya River offer sophisticated spaces for small-scale events or functions.
Still to come, in 2023, is the Shibuya Station Sakuragaoka East District Redevelopment covering 2.6ha. The Central and West Buildings of Shibuya Station are scheduled for completion in 2027, to coincide with the opening of the maglev service that will connect Tokyo and Nagoya in 40 minutes, reducing travelling time by 50 minutes.
Shibuya Station, which serves 2.8 million passengers daily, is also to get a boost, with some platforms and lines being consolidated or moved to improve service and connections.
