Pedestrians sitting down or walking along Cat Street
Although nearby Takeshita Street is probably more well-known, Cat Street in Tokyo’s Harajuku district is the preferred choice for people who want to escape the nearby crowds. You’re also not likely to find the frilly Lolita dresses and bows that the district is synonymous with here. Read on for a guide to what to do, eat, buy and see in Cat Street!
Shopping
Well-known sports brands such as Colombia, Burton, and Puma all have locations in Cat Street. There are also smaller clothing stores and second-hand shops that mostly sell sports-themed street fashion – after all, Harajuku is famous for street fashion of all kinds!
The store logo for Puma in Cat Street
There is, of course, more high-end options as well. Designer brands such as Tiffany & Co (complete with a Cat logo!) also have stores here.
The entrance to the Tiffany & Co shop in Cat Street, with a cat on the logo
If all that shopping has made you a bit peckish, you can choose from a variety of snack shops and restaurants. Candy Show Time is a great handmade candy store for those with a sweet tooth. Well-known seafood roll purveyors Luke’s Lobster also have a branch here. (The lobster grilled cheese is particularly delicious).
The Luke’s Lobster Cat Street location
If meat is more your thing, you can visit Smokehouse. Here, you can enjoy ribs, steak, burgers, and a variety of beers on their outside terrace.
A Note to Cat Lovers
Surprisingly enough, you will not find any cats on Cat Street! Instead, you will find a laid-back pedestrian street which isn’t so crowded. Unfortunately, some shops have closed permanently due to the pandemic.
However, Cat Street’s back-alley atmosphere still lends it a charm that’s worth a visit. For those who enjoy exploring the city on foot, taking a walk from Harajuku to Shibuya through Cat street is highly recommended.
Where is Cat Street Tokyo?
Access: Cat Street runs from Omotesando-dori avenue in Harajuku through to Miyashita Park in Shibuya
Closest stations: Tokyo Metro Meiji-Jingumae “Harajuku” Station (Fukutoshin and Chiyoda Lines) or JR Harajuku Station (Yamanote Line)
