Tabelog ratingFor decades, Meibutsu Tianjin Amaguri Shibuya (名物 天津甘栗 渋谷ハチ公前店) has been a fixture at one of Tokyo's most famous landmarks, the Shibuya Scramble crossing. This tiny takeaway stall serves one thing: hot, roasted Tianjin-style sweet chestnuts, sold by weight in iconic red paper bags. For many, grabbing a bag here is a quintessential Shibuya experience, a warm, nostalgic snack to enjoy while navigating the bustling streets.
Reviewers consistently praise the quality of the chestnuts. They describe a natural, mellow sweetness and a satisfying texture. A key highlight is how easily they peel; the shells crack cleanly, and the shop even provides a small plastic tool ('栗爪', kuritsume) to help. The chestnuts are sold by weight, and guests find the portions fair for the price.
The experience can have its quirks. A few visitors have noted that the service can be brusque, and staff strictly enforce a no-photography rule. As a small operation, the stall is sometimes unstaffed or sold out for the day, particularly later in the evening.
This is a very affordable snack. Reviewers in recent years paid around ¥500 for a small 150g bag, ¥1,000 for 300g, and ¥1,500 for 450g. One summer review also mentioned a flavoured ice pop for about ¥150. Most agree it's excellent value for a tasty, classic treat in the heart of Shibuya.
- Getting There: The stall is a 2-minute walk from any line at Shibuya Station, located right near the Hachiko exit and the Scramble crossing.
- Booking: Walk-up only. Reservations are not available.
- Payment: Cash only. Credit cards, electronic money, and QR code payments are not accepted.
- Seating: This is a takeaway-only stall with no seating.
- Good to Know: Photography is not permitted. The stall may occasionally be closed or sold out, and some recent reviews mention it is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, so it's wise to have a backup plan.
