Sweet Tokyo: 10 Unique Candies & Desserts Near Shibuya

Introduction: A Sweet Obsession with Tokyo’s Treats

Every time I land in Tokyo, my feet seem to carry me to Shibuya—a place where the energy never stops, and neither does my craving for something sweet. Over my 10+ visits to this vibrant city, I’ve learned that Tokyo is more than neon lights and fashion; it’s a paradise for those with a sweet tooth. And as a traveler with a deep love for Japanese culture and cuisine, I’ve made it my mission to hunt down the most unique and delicious sweets in this buzzing part of the city. Come with me on this flavorful journey through the streets of Shibuya as we explore 10 unique candies and desserts that you simply can’t miss.

1. Shiroichi: The Art of Soft-Serve

A delicate, almost ethereal experience, Shiroichi soft-serve ice cream is like no other. Located just a few minutes from Shibuya Station, this ice cream shop is famous for its long, thin swirl of milky goodness, using organic milk from Hokkaido. The minimalist presentation enhances the natural flavors, and every bite feels like you’re savoring the purity of Japanese dairy perfection.

Cultural Insight: In Japan, soft-serve ice cream (“sofuto kuriimu”) isn’t just about flavor; it’s about creating an art form from something so simple.

2. Tokyu Hands Candy Selectio

Tokyu Hands isn’t just a place for DIY enthusiasts—it’s a hidden treasure trove for unique Japanese candies. Venture to the candy section, and you’ll find everything from Wasabi KitKats to intricate artisan sweets that change with the seasons. The variety is overwhelming, and it’s the perfect place to grab some edible souvenirs.

Traveler’s Tip: If you’re new to Japanese candies, start with the Pocky or the ever-famous Glico caramel.

3. Dominique Ansel Bakery: Cronut Meets Mochi

When the master of the cronut, Dominique Ansel, opened a shop in Tokyo, I knew I had to try it. But what truly sets this bakery apart is its unique Japan-inspired creations. Their “Monaka Mochi” dessert blends traditional Japanese flavors with a modern twist. Imagine a mochi-filled wafer, crisp on the outside but chewy and delicious inside.

Ambition: I’ve always admired how Japan takes something foreign and blends it with its own cultural essence, making it uniquely Japanese.

4. Pablo: The Ultimate Cheese Tart Experience

Pablo’s cheese tarts are iconic in Tokyo, and for good reason. Just a short walk from the hustle of Shibuya Crossing, this shop offers warm, gooey cheese tarts that melt in your mouth. The balance of sweet and savory is unlike any dessert you’ve ever tried.

Traveler’s Insight: The Japanese take on cheesecake is lighter and fluffier than Western versions—perfect for a mid-shopping snack.

5. Taiyaki at Kurikoan

Walking down the streets of Shibuya, you’ll catch the smell of freshly baked taiyaki—fish-shaped pastries stuffed with sweet fillings like red bean or custard. Kurikoan is one of the best places to grab these on-the-go desserts. It’s an old favorite for me, bringing back memories of my first trip to Japan.

Cultural Insight: Taiyaki is rooted in tradition, dating back to the Meiji era, when it was first made as a celebratory dessert.

6. Mont Blanc at Ginza Cozy Corner

You wouldn’t expect to find a French-inspired dessert in the heart of Tokyo, but the Japanese have made Mont Blanc cakes their own. Ginza Cozy Corner near Shibuya offers a delicious version, with chestnut cream and a soft sponge that feels like eating autumn itself.

Reflection: It’s always fascinating to see how Japan has embraced Western desserts and added its own signature to them.

7. Sakuraya Daifuku

If you’re looking for something traditionally Japanese, head to Sakuraya for daifuku—a chewy rice cake filled with sweet red bean paste. Their strawberry daifuku is especially popular and offers a refreshing mix of sweetness and tartness.

Traveler’s Tip: Don’t be intimidated by the texture if you’ve never tried mochi before—it’s a unique but delightful experience.

8. J.S. Pancake Café

Pancakes are all the rage in Japan, and J.S. Pancake Café in Shibuya serves up some of the fluffiest, cloud-like pancakes you’ll ever taste. Their menu includes unique Japanese toppings like matcha and red bean paste, making it a cross-cultural breakfast delight.

Ambition: I’ve dreamed of recreating these pancakes at home, but somehow, they always taste better in Tokyo!

9. Amezaiku Candy Art

Amezaiku is not just candy—it’s art. At Amezaiku Yoshihara, a short train ride from Shibuya, artisans handcraft intricate edible sculptures of animals, flowers, and more using traditional candy-making techniques. Watching them create your candy on the spot is a performance in itself.

Cultural Insight: Amezaiku dates back to the Edo period, and it’s considered one of Japan’s most intricate forms of street performance art.

10. Kiddy Land’s Character-Themed Candies

If you’re a fan of character-themed goodies, Kiddy Land in Harajuku (just a stone’s throw from Shibuya) has everything from Hello Kitty candies to anime-inspired chocolates. It’s a whimsical experience that makes you feel like a kid again, even if just for a moment.

Traveler’s Tip: It’s also the perfect place to stock up on gifts for friends and family who love kawaii culture.

Conclusion: Tokyo’s Sweets Are a Reflection of Its Culture

Tokyo’s sweets aren’t just about sugar—they’re a reflection of the city itself: innovative, vibrant, and deeply connected to both tradition and modernity. From the streets of Shibuya to hidden dessert spots only the locals know, every bite tells a story. And with each visit to Tokyo, I find myself craving more of these uniquely Japanese experiences, each sweet somehow better than the last.

Tour Guide: How to Find These Sweet Spots in Shibuya

Here’s a quick guide to help you navigate your way through these delicious spots:

Shiroichi – 5-minute walk from Shibuya Station, near the Center Gai street.
Tokyu Hands – 5-minute walk from the Hachiko Exit, located on the higher floors.
Dominique Ansel Bakery – Near Omotesando, about a 10-minute walk from Shibuya.
Pablo – A 7-minute walk from Shibuya Crossing.
Kurikoan – Along Shibuya Center Gai, a short walk from the station.
Ginza Cozy Corner – Inside Tokyu Plaza Shibuya.
Sakuraya Daifuku – Near the bustling Aoyama district.
J.S. Pancake Café – On Meiji Street, a 5-minute walk from Shibuya Crossing.
Amezaiku Yoshihara – Just a few stops from Shibuya on the Ginza Line.
Kiddy Land – Located in Harajuku, a 15-minute walk from Shibuya.

Happy exploring, and let your sweet adventure begin!