Should you go to Harajuku Street?

So you’re planning a trip to Japan, and you are wondering whether or not to add Harajuku Street to your list of places to see. Well here are my thoughts about quite possibly the most famous street in Japan.

Before even entering japan I knew I wanted to go to Harajuku street. The vibes, the fashion, the food all intrigued me. So I added it to my “must see” list. My third day in Japan, and I haven’t done or even seen a ton yet, so I knew I wanted to venture out and make a day of seeing some of the big things.  I actually sort of came upon Harajuku on accident, I was wandering Shibuya and Omandosando Hills, and that’s when I came upon Harajuku. 

My first impression was “wow, it’s packed” however I did happen upon it on a Sunday afternoon, so I’m not sure if that’s normal everyday or just the time I was there. I was literally shoulder to shoulder moving only an inch at a time.

My second impression, besides the crowds, was sadly a little underwhelming. I was expecting the high fashion wearers on the streets roaming about, but really I saw maybe 3 shops that had the quintessential Harajuku apparel, and maybe only two people dressed in the fashion. The street itself is not that large, it isn’t very wide. If cars were allowed, it could probably fit only two small cars maybe one large car.

There were more pinky and purple lights and signs on the street and it did have a more kawaii feel to it more so than the next street over, but in truly wasn’t excited about, and quite frankly because of the crowds I was eager to leave. 

Which means I didn’t stop by any of the cutesy food stalls either.  And there were plenty! I saw rainbow cotton candy bigger than my head, I saw multiple crepe stands in the shape of ice cream cones stuffed with creams and chocolates and their were other savory food stalls as well.

All in all my experience wasn’t a bad one just an average one. I was slightly underwhelmed. With that said I am still happy I stumbled upon it, and am glad I got the chance to say that I’ve been. With that said, I would probably try and go again, maybe during the week at a different time of day.

I want to know, do you have any interest in seeing Harajuku street?