The Vibrant Tapestry of Harajuku: Tokyo’s Trendsetting Hub

• Helloこんにちは
  [Konnichiwa]
• Goodbyeさようなら
  [Sayonara]
• Yesはい
  [Hai]
• Noいいえ
  [Iie]
• Please/You're welcomeどうぞ
  [Douzo]
• Thank youありがとう
  [Arigatou]
• Excuse me/Sorryすみません
  [Sumimasen]
• How are you?お元気ですか？
  [Ogenki desu ka?]
• Fine. And you?元気です。あなたは？
  [Genki desu. Anata wa?]
• Do you speak English?英語を話せますか？
  [Eigo o hanasemasu ka?]
• I don't understandわかりません
  [Wakarimasen]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseメニューを見せていただきたいです
  [Menyuu o misete itadakitai desu]
• I don't eat meat肉は食べません
  [Niku wa tabemasen]
• Cheers!乾杯！
  [Kanpai!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseお会計をお願いします
  [Okaikei o onegaishimasu]

• Help!助けて！
  [Tasukete!]
• Go away!去ってください！
  [Satte kudasai!]
• Call the Police!警察を呼んで！
  [Keisatsu o yonde!]
• Call a doctor!医者を呼んで！
  [Isha o yonde!]
• I'm lost道に迷っています
  [Michi ni mayotte imasu]
• I'm ill具合が悪いです
  [Guai ga warui desu]

• I'd like to buy...買いたいです
  [Kaitai desu]
• I'm just looking見ているだけです
  [Mite iru dake desu]
• How much is it?いくらですか？
  [Ikura desu ka?]
• That's too expensiveそれは高すぎます
  [Sore wa takasugimasu]
• Can you lower the price?値段を下げてもらえますか？
  [Nedan o sagete moraemasu ka?]

• What time is it?今何時ですか？
  [Ima nanji desu ka?]
• It's one o'clock一時です
  [Ichiji desu]
• Half past (10)十時半
  [Juuji han]
• Morning朝
  [Asa]
• Afternoon午後
  [Gogo]
• Evening夕方
  [Yuugata]
• Yesterday昨日
  [Kinou]
• Today今日
  [Kyou]
• Tomorrow明日
  [Ashita]
• 1一
  [Ichi]
• 2二
  [Ni]
• 3三
  [San]
• 4四
  [Yon]
• 5五
  [Go]
• 6六
  [Roku]
• 7七
  [Nana]
• 8八
  [Hachi]
• 9九
  [Kyuu]
• 10十
  [Juu]

• Where's a/the...?…はどこですか？
  [... wa doko desu ka?]
• What's the address?住所は何ですか？
  [Juusho wa nan desu ka?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?(地図で)見せてもらえますか？
  [(Chizu de) misete moraemasu ka?]
• When's the next (bus)?次の(バス)はいつですか？
  [Tsugi no (basu) wa itsu desu ka?]
• A ticket (to ....)(…への)チケットをください
  [(...e no) chiketto o kudasai]

Harajuku's history can be traced back to the Edo period (1603-1868), when it was a rural area on the outskirts of Edo, now known as Tokyo. The name 'Harajuku' originates from the word 'harajuku' (原宿), which means 'next to the fields.' It was primarily agricultural during this time, serving as a resting point for travelers on the famous 'Kōbu Highway' that connected Edo to the surrounding regions.

The Meiji Restoration in 1868 marked a turning point for Harajuku as Japan opened up to the West. The area began to modernize, and the establishment of the Meiji Shrine in 1920 further solidified Harajuku's cultural significance. This shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, became a focal point for Shinto practices and a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

Following World War II, Harajuku emerged as a hub for youth culture and fashion. The 1960s and 70s saw the rise of subcultures, including the 'Gyaru' and 'Lolita' styles, which transformed Harajuku into a vibrant space for self-expression. The iconic Takeshita Street, lined with trendy shops and boutiques, became synonymous with youth fashion trends and continues to attract fashion enthusiasts from around the world.

By the 1990s, Harajuku gained international recognition as a center for youth culture, largely due to the influence of street fashion that began to spread globally. The area became a symbol of Japan's unique blend of traditional and contemporary culture, characterized by its eclectic styles and creative expressions. Events like Harajuku's fashion shows and the prominence of Kawaii culture elevated the neighborhood's status on the world stage.

Currently, Harajuku serves as a cultural melting pot, attracting diverse visitors interested in fashion, art, and music. While it retains its roots in youth subculture, the neighborhood has also embraced contemporary trends, with a mix of traditional shops, modern cafes, and international brands. The juxtaposition of old and new continues to make Harajuku a unique and dynamic part of Tokyo, reflecting the city's ongoing evolution.

Harajuku is easily accessible from various neighborhoods in Tokyo. The most convenient way to reach Harajuku is via the JR Yamanote Line, which stops at Harajuku Station. From Shibuya, it takes only about 3 minutes by train. If you're coming from Shinjuku, take the JR Chuo Line to Yoyogi Station, then transfer to the Yamanote Line to Harajuku Station. Additionally, the Tokyo Metro's Fukutoshin Line and Chiyoda Line also connect to nearby stations, such as Meiji-Jingumae Station.

Harajuku is a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood, and many attractions are within walking distance. For local transport, you can use the Tokyo Metro or buses. The Harajuku area is also bike-friendly; rental bikes are available at various locations. Taxis are another option, although they can be more expensive. The main streets, like Takeshita Street, are best explored on foot to fully appreciate the vibrant atmosphere and unique shops.

Harajuku is generally a safe neighborhood for tourists. However, as with any urban area, it is wise to stay vigilant, especially in crowded places. Pickpocketing can occur in busy areas like Takeshita Street. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and be cautious of your belongings. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but maintaining awareness is always advisable.

In case of an emergency, dial 110 for police assistance or 119 for fire and medical emergencies. The local hospitals and clinics are equipped to handle various health issues. It is advisable to have travel insurance covering medical emergencies. Pharmacies are readily available for minor health concerns, and English-speaking staff can sometimes assist.

Fashion: Do embrace Harajuku's eclectic fashion scene but avoid overly revealing clothing when visiting temples or shrines. Religion: Do respect local customs; when visiting Meiji Shrine, maintain a quiet demeanor. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer your seat to the elderly; don't eat or drink on trains. Greetings: Do greet with a bow or a polite nod; don't engage in loud conversations in public spaces. Eating & Drinking: Do try local street food and unique cafes; don't waste food or engage in public displays of eating.

To experience Harajuku like a local, visit on a Sunday when the streets are filled with vibrant fashion and cultural showcases. Explore hidden back alleys for unique shops and cafes that aren't in the main tourist spots. Engage with local artists and performers, as Harajuku is known for its creative community. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the nearby Yoyogi Park for a leisurely stroll or a picnic amidst nature.