Arguably Tokyo’s hippest and most dynamic district, Shibuya is undergoing a transformation that will preserve that reputation.
Shibuya Station opened as a suburban halt in 1885. Today, an estimated 3 million passengers transit the station every working day, while the “scramble crossing” and statue of loyal dog Hachiko immediately outside the west exit are landmarks known around the world.
The 43-story Shibuya Hikarie complex dominates the east side of the station, which is itself the focus of an extensive redevelopment program that will not be completed until 2027 but already features a gleaming tower with a 3,000-square-meter observation deck 230 meters above street level.
These projects, in concert with others throughout the district, are all elements of the Shibuya City Urban Development Master Plan, unveiled by the city authority in 2019 and now proceeding apace.
Drawn up in consultation with local residents, the plan calls for the creation of dynamic public areas and green spaces that also double as safe havens in the event of a natural disaster. The scheme also aims to create an area that nurtures diverse lifestyles and cultures at the same time as encouraging new businesses to put down roots.
City authorities say they are committed to meeting the needs of local residents by optimizing land use and transportation as well as promoting environment-friendly initiatives in tandem with tourism, industry and culture.
Private sector developers have been wooed by the project and are actively seeking out opportunities.
One of the most recent announcements is for the Shibuya 2-Chome Project, which will see the redevelopment of 2.9 hectares of land directly to the east of the station. The focus of the project will be a 41-story tower bringing together hotel, retail and office space, while an additional two blocks will transform an area that is presently occupied by buildings dating primarily from the 1970s.
Sources: Shibuya City Office, Japan Station Network, Tokyu Land Corp.
Image Source: Shibuya City Urban Development Master Plan 2019, Tokyo Tatemono 2022, Tokyu Fudosan Holdings: New Medium- and Long-Term Management Plan Value Frontier 2020
Useful Links: Shibuya City Urban Development Master Plan
Tokyu Land Corporation: Greater Shibuya Area Concept
+Fun Shibuya Project
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