harajuku

Harajuku is a district in Shibuya Ward, Tokyo, Japan. Harajuku has a long history, which is outlined below

History & Culture

Origin: The origin of the name Harajuku dates back to the Heian Period (794-1185). It is said that this area was originally the domain of a warrior named Taira no Masakado. Later, a warlord named Minamoto no Yoshie ruled the area, and the name Harajuku is said to have originated from his name, Haramashakado.
Shrines: Harajuku is famous for the Jingu Gaien, which was established during the Meiji period (1868-1912). Jingu Gaien is the site of Meiji Jingu Shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Emperor Showa, and is an important place where Japanese festivals and Shinto rituals are held. Harajuku is located near this Jingu Gaien and is visited by many tourists and worshippers.
Development of Youth Culture: Harajuku became the center of Tokyo’s youth culture after World War II. In particular, the area around Harajuku Station is known as a hub of the youth culture scene, with stores and events related to fashion, music, and art.
Harajuku Fashion: Harajuku is known as a center of fashion for young people, especially “Harajuku fashion”. Young people enjoy finding and styling unique fashion items in the stores around Harajuku.
Harajuku Takeshita Street: Takeshita Street is one of Harajuku’s most famous streets, lined with fashion, accessories, and cafes catering to young people. Tourists and young people alike enjoy shopping and browsing the cafes along this street.
Harajuku’s unique and colorful culture and historical background have made it one of Tokyo’s most popular tourist attractions. Young people’s fashion and street style developed in Harajuku, and the area is famous worldwide as part of Japanese pop culture.

Foreigners and Harajuku

Fashion Diversity: Harajuku is known as the center of Japanese youth culture and fashion, and foreign visitors are often surprised by the diversity of fashion styles. Gothic Lolita, Herbie Japan, street fashion, and many other styles coexist here.
Cute Characters: Harajuku is one of the birthplaces of kawaii (cute) culture, and kawaii characters can be seen everywhere. Foreigners will be charmed by Hello Kitty, Rilakkuma, Kitty-chan Café, and other adorable characters.
The hustle and bustle of the city: Harajuku’s Takeshita Street is always bustling with foreign tourists. Visitors can enjoy shopping and watching street performances.
Cafe culture: Harajuku has many cafes, and foreigners will enjoy the cute latte art and stylish atmosphere of the cafes.
Music and Entertainment: Foreigners will enjoy Harajuku’s entertainment-rich environment, including music events and street performances.
Shopping Spree: Harajuku is a shopping paradise, where foreigners visit many stores to pick up unique Japanese goods and fashion items.
Gastronomy: Harajuku is home to a variety of restaurants and food stalls where foreigners can enjoy Japanese and Asian cuisine. Street food such as takoyaki and crepes are also popular.
Happening Street Fashion: Young people in Harajuku experiment with street fashion to enjoy their own unique style. Foreigners may see eccentric fashion styles on the streets and may be intrigued by them.
These are some of the attractive elements for foreign visitors to enjoy Harajuku. Harajuku is a place where the diversity of Japanese culture and fashion intersect, making it an attractive tourist destination for many.

conclusion

The name of Harajuku was derived from Harano Masakado (Hara Masakado)
Harajuku fashion is, for example…
Gothic Lolita
Herbie Japan
Street fashion, etc.
Kawaii (cute) culture is symbolic
Street food is also popular