The top 5 most stylish Tapioca cafe in Shibuya Tokyo
Paolo Ragone
Tapioca Milk tea is not a new trend in Japan, it has been around for years, but now seems to be at the peak of a mass hysteria, specially in Shibuya city! The youngsters are lining up for hours outside the stores to TAPI (yeah, in Japan they go "TAPI" witch means going out with friends to grab a Tapioca tea).
Currently there are about 100 shops in Tokyo where they only serve tapioca, taking advantage of this boom still flourishing especially among young women. But where are the most popular Tapioca cafe in the youth city Shibuya? Let's go find out!
1. THE ALLEY LUJIAOXIANG
THE ALLEY LUJIAOXIANG is originally from Taiwan, and is highly recognizable thanks to the unique deer logo. The base of their drinks is Assam tea characterized by a fruity aroma, but you can experience a more Japanese taste with the Oyama green tea or the Okinawa black molasses variants.
2. TEA18
TEA 18 has branches in China, Taiwan and United States; the Japanese one opened in Shibuya in 2017. Together with the standard milk tea, you can enjoy the more sophisticated "Honey Oolong Tea", "Kinhana Green Tea" and "Rose Lemon Tea", based on your mood of the day.
3.MING TEA
MING TEA is located right next to the Aoyama Gakuin University. They prepare tapioca with a unique method, serving the drink with larger grain that are crisp and sweet. In addition to the classic tapioca lineup, you can chose the Japanese cream tea, coming in three different kinds of creams. Unique and delicious!
4. MARIO GELATERIA Shibuya
You would't expect Tapioca from a place called MARIO GELATERIA, but in Shibuya everything's possible. Mario offers unique tapioca drinks as well as the Italian gelato that made him famous. The Shibuya Hikari shop has some exclusive tapioca tastes like the "cream chocolate mint tapioca", the "double berry tapioca milk" and the "seasonal juicer drink tapioca".
5. GONG CHA
Gong Cha Tapioca is made from selected high-quality tea leaves, including tea leaves cultivated in Mt. Ali (Arian) known as the tea ceremony mountain in Taiwan. The quality of this milk tea is so appreciated by Japanese youngsters that they opened a second store in Shibuya. One is located on the "Spain Saka" area and the other in the Shibuya MODI store.
So, if you happen to be in Shibuya and you love Tapioca you want to drop by one of those cafes, then wait in line few minutes (or hours?) with the Shibuya tribe before getting to sip on some of the best tapioca teas in Japan!
Related articles
Japanese Beer: Why Are Microbreweries So Popular?
Japanese craft beer is becoming more popular thanks to its unique flavors and rich history. Japan’s beer scene has dramatically changed since Dutch traders introduced it to Japanese-owned microbreweries. Today, the country has over 400 craft breweries, each offering unique tastes that reflect Japan’s culture and creativity. Whether you’re a beer lover or a curious...
Matcha Chocolate Kit Kat: Inside Japan’s Irresistible New Flavors
Japan has long been the champion of amazing Kit Kat flavors, and 2025 is proving they’re not slowing down. If you thought Kit Kats were just basic milk chocolate, buckle up. J
Convenience Stores in Japan: Their Amazing History!
From their early beginnings to their current high-tech form, Japanese convenience stores have grown alongside society, changing how people shop, eat, and manage daily tasks. They also support communities, offer jobs, and provide help during emergencies.
Japanese Restaurant: Five Great Hot Spots Worldwide!
Are you a massive fan of Japanese food, but you can’t make it to Japan? You don’t have to hop continents to taste this magic; there’s probably a Japanese restaurant in your neck of the woods! Grab your chopsticks and join us as we explore these global hotspots!
Let’s Try Cooking Chicken Karaage Like Aaron and Claire!
If you’re a fan of cozy, food-filled YouTube content, you’ve likely come across Aaron and Claire, the fun-loving couple whose cooking videos have won over fans worldwide. In one of their most satisfying uploads yet, the duo dives into the world of chicken karaage, Japan’s beloved version of fried chicken.
Cold Noodles and More: Japan’s Konbini Delights
In Japan, konbini (convenience stores) are places where you can enjoy many helpful services. But the most popular thing everyone does at a konbini is buying delicious and ready-to-eat food. Let’s look at everyday meals you can’t miss, starting with cold noodles!