Shibuya Halloween 2024 (Cancelled)

What happens?

Watched by millions, Halloween in Shibuya has become famous (or we could say, infamous) around the world. There is no actual organizer for the event; it is an unregulated meet-up of Halloween lovers across Tokyo (and Japan). An array of costumes from the disturbing to the hilarious are typically on display, although in recent years, there have been more onlookers than cosplayers.

Regulations and rules

Authorities have tried to cut down on the debauchery by banning street drinking, not allowing convenience stores in the area to sell alcohol, and keeping the roads closed to pedestrians.

For 2023, Shibuya will ban public drinking from October 27 to Halloween around the station, specifically in the areas of Dogenzaka and Center Gai, as well as other public places. The times of the ban are from 6 p.m. to 5 a.m.

Alcohol will not be sold in most stores in the area (particularly from convenience stores) on the 28th and 31st from 6 p.m. to 5 a.m.

There will be around 100 security guards in the area, and like in previous years, there are no temporary toilets or changing spaces — as it is not an official, organized event.

Cleanup

There have always been many volunteers on the streets in the early morning from October 29 to Halloween. They are very efficient and the streets are almost spotless by 8 a.m.

Check out our articles on the awesome costumes we’ve seen throughout the years (2014, 2015, and 2016). Note: These photos were taken before attendance was discouraged.