Yokohama-ben may have started out in Yokohama but it is now spoken broadly across the southern Kanto area from the Shounan beaches south of Kamakura all the way up to Shibuya in south-western Tokyo. It is especially noticeable in young people between the ages of 10 and 25 or so.

The primary and official language spoken in Shibuya, one of Tokyo's most vibrant and iconic districts, is Japanese. However, because Shibuya is a global hub for tourism, fashion, and international business, the linguistic landscape is quite diverse. In 2026, you will find that English is very widely understood in major department stores like Shibuya 101, high-end hotels, and popular tourist spots like the Shibuya Crossing and the Hachiko statue. Most signage in the Shibuya Station and along main thoroughfares is provided in a combination of Japanese, English, Chinese, and Korean. Young people in Shibuya often have a basic to moderate command of English, and many trendy cafes and bars provide English menus. Furthermore, as a center for "youth culture," you will often hear "Kogyaru" or modern Japanese slang that is unique to the area. While you can easily navigate Shibuya using only English, learning a few basic Japanese phrases like "Sumimasen" (Excuse me) or "Arigato" (Thank you) is highly appreciated by the locals and will significantly enhance your cultural experience in this fast-paced, neon-lit corner of Tokyo.