Between the hotspots of Harajuku and Shibuya in Tokyo, you can find a street known as “Cat Street.” This area has gained fame as a fashion street in Tokyo, hosting various clothing stores and editorial shops. Located geographically close to Harajuku and Shibuya, it attracts a lot of young people.
Originally named “Kyushibuya-gawa Yuhodo-ro (旧渋谷川遊歩道路),” it is now commonly referred to as “Cat Street.” This place is a street that covers the Shibuya River, which used to flow between Shibuya and Harajuku, turning it into an asphalt-covered walkway. The format, where the entire river is covered, gives a feeling similar to the Cheonggyecheon Stream in South Korea. Of course, the current Cheonggyecheon has returned after undergoing an urban renewal project.
“How did it get the name Cat Street?”
This place is affectionately called Cat Street, and there is no precise reason for this nickname. There are a few hypotheses, but none of them are certain:
- Because there are many cats in the area.
- It is where the band Black Cat was formed.
- Because the street is very narrow, so you have to walk like a cat.
“Cat Street emerged as a fashion street with the 1964 Tokyo Olympics”
Cat Street gained significant attention as a fashion street from the time of the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. With the hosting of the Tokyo Olympics, this area saw the influx of various luxury editorial shops, propelling it to sudden fame as a fashion street. Thanks to this, even now, there are various editorial shops selling clothing in this area.
As the street is quite long, taking your time to stroll around can take a considerable amount of time. Being located between Harajuku and Shibuya, not far from Omotesando Station, it is positioned among major areas of Tokyo.
Our group also took a leisurely walk along Cat Street in Harajuku, capturing the street with photos. Even in the evening, the well-lit street appeared safe. We spent time exploring the unique shops scattered along the street.
Given its proximity to Harajuku, Shibuya, and Omotesando, it’s a worthwhile place to visit during your Tokyo trip.
“Tokyo, Harajuku, Cat Street (CAT STREET)”
- Address: 5-10-10 Jingūmae, Shibuya-ku, Tōkyō-to 150-0001, Japan