Shinjuku is a big name in the Tokyo neighborhood. It is dubbed the “Red-Light District of Tokyo” but you would not know it just by strolling around - it all goes underground. During the day, Shinjuku is a busy metro hub. In fact, it is home to the world’s busiest station. Another thing that you will love about Shinjuku is that it offers plenty of free and cheap thrills like the scenic view at Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observatory and exhibits at Fire Museum. When the clock strikes at night, Shinjuku never turns its lights off - it instead transforms into a lively and colorful night district. When you say “nightlife”, Golden Kai and Kabukichō will ring a bell. These two are famous for bar-hopping opportunities, midnight dining, and entertainment. All this is just a fraction of the action. Check out this article and discover the best things to do in Shinjuku, Tokyo!
1. Experience the culinary scene and nightlife at Shinjuku Golden Gai (from USD 156.96)
If you want to immerse yourself in Japanese culture, you must first experience their one-of-a-kind culinary scene. This awesome three-hour Golden Gai Food Tour is what you need to satisfy your tastebuds. Indulge in some of the best local cuisines at Shinjuku’s Golden Gai, from ramen to yakisoba (meat, veggies, grilled noodles) and from gyoza (wonton wrappers filled with cabbage and pork) to a variety of sushi. This place will also give you the chance to see what life in Tokyo was like during the early 20th century. Golden Gai is also famous for its nightlife, so be sure to check it out.
byFood experience
1) Guided tour of hidden bars and izakayas of Shinjuku
Make your Tokyo trip memorable with this awesome nightlife tour. Follow an experienced English-speaking Japanese host, to explore the most famous area in Tokyo for nightlife in Shinjuku! This guided journey tour will walk you through the mystical streets of Omoide Yokocho, the cosmopolitan atmosphere of Golden Gai as well as the bright lights energy of Kabukicho. As you go along, slip into the top-secret spots of Tokyo’s nightlife scene with our hidden bar hopping and izakaya picks, guaranteeing an unforgettable trip.
Shinjuku: Golden Gai Food Tour
Duration: 3.0 hour
Shinjuku Nightlife: Omoide Yokocho, Golden Gai, & Kabukicho
Duration: 3hours
2. Explore the beauty of Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden (from USD 94.0)
Your crash course in Japanese History 101 will start once you join this wonderful half-day tour. It is a good choice if you want to be practical and save time, as it allows you to customize your itinerary. Be among the 2,500 people who cross the iconic intersection of Shibuya Crossing and experience a blast from the past by admiring the 15th-century Imperial Palace. No adventure is complete without a visit to Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden - this is a huge park and garden that is considered one of the most famous green treasures in town.
Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Duration: 4 hours
3. Admire some artworks at Seiji Togo Memorial Sompo Japan Nipponkoa Museum of Art
Your eyes will twinkle and your heart will melt when you see the notable works of arts by outstanding Japanese and European artists at Seiji Togo Memorial Sompo Japan Nipponkoa Museum of Art. Nestled on the 42nd floor of a stunning skyscraper, this small museum is home to plenty of important art pieces, including works by Van Gogh, Grandma Moses, and Leo Leoni, among others. If you love art, this museum should be included in your bucket list.
Seiji Togo Memorial Sompo Japan Nipponkoa Museum of Art
Address: Sompo Credit Inc, 1 Chome−26−1, Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo, Japan 160-8338
Website: Seiji Togo Memorial Sompo Japan Nipponkoa Museum of Art
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 6pm (closed on Mon)
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4. Admire the scenic landscape of Toyama Park
If you want to stay away from the hustle and bustle of the city, there’s another green treasure in Tokyo that will soothe your mind and soul. The wonderful Toyama Park offers peace and quiet within its verdant landscapes, lush gardens, splash pond, and sports complex. There is enough green space where children can run and play. This lush park is surrounded by beautiful flowers and trees, which makes this gem of a place perfect for relaxation. Whether it’s spring or fall, the park’s beauty is timeless.
Toyama Park
Address: 3 Chome-5 Okubo, Shinjuku City, Tokyo, Japan
Website: Toyama Park
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
5. Join some famous festivals at Hanazono Shrine
Hanazono Shrine is a refuge from the crowded and noisy city. This gorgeous, mid-17th-century shrine was built as a devotion to Inari, god of success and fertility. There are plenty of happenings in Hanazono Shrine that can be the highlight of your Shinjuku escapade, from exploring the Sunday flea market to witnessing a spectacular show by Karakumi, a Japanese theatrical company. These shows are usually held twice a year and joins traditional festivals like Bird Festival and Setsubun. You can also visit and pay respects to the god of media and public entertainment at Geino Asama Shrine.
Hanazono Shrine
Address: 5 Chome-17-3 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0022, Japan
Website: Hanazono Shrine
6. Conquer your fear of heights at Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observatory
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observatory is a real treat, as it offers amazing city views for free. Known as Tochō, it is 242.9 m (797 ft) in height and was designed by renowned Japanese architect Kenzo Tange. This building is home to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government that presides over the villages, cities, and towns that make up the whole metropolis of Tokyo.
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observatory
Address: 2 Chome-8-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 163-8001, Japan
Website: Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observatory
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8:30am - 5:00pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
7. Take a break at Shinjuku Central Park
Another green gem and calm oasis that can be found in the western part of town is Shinjuku Central Park. From here, you can access two worlds: on one hand, the park is surrounded by flowers, trees, fountains, and shrines, which allows you to enjoy nature. This is a great opportunity to take a break from the bustling city. On the other hand, tons of shopping areas and nightlife spots are just steps away. There is even a skatepark and a playground for everyone to enjoy.
Shinjuku Central Park
Address: 2 Chome-11 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo, Japan
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
8. Find your heart's desire at Don Quijote
With over 150 branches all over Japan, Don Quijote, also known as DONKI, is one of the most famous discount stores in the country. Almost everything is sold here, including snacks, cosmetics, electronics, household items, and more. If you want something that will remind you of Shinjuku, you will probably find it here. If you are a matcha lover, you are in the right place! Donki stores have a dedicated shelf filled with matcha-flavored snacks and sweets. Take home some delicious ramen from the popular ramen restaurant called Ichiran by buying their instant ramen. Take time to find your heart’s desire at Don Quijote.
Don Quijote
Address: 3 Chome-36-16 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0022, Japan
Website: Don Quijote
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
9. Tokyo Night Foodie Tour in Shinjuku (99 USD)
Enjoy some of the most delicious Japanese cuisines Tokyo has to offer during this three-hour foodie tour through the picturesque Shinjuku ward. Accompanying you to make everything as comfortable as possible will be our knowledgable, friendly, local tour guide! This ensures you’ll learn all about Japan, Tokyo, Shinjuku, and the food you’ll be enjoying during the excursion. You’ll start the trip off with one of Japan’s most famous delicacies: the sushi. The sushi restaurant you will visit is found in the Shinjuku underground and is manned by an authentic sushi chef, or itamae in Japanese. Next, you’ll head to a famous yakiniku restaurant where you will get to prepare and cook your own Japanese BBQ, and not just any BBQ! You’ll be grilling the popular wagyu beef! And once you’re done, enjoy a cooling dessert of artisan gelato at the vibrant Kabuki-Cho. This is truly a special dining experience you won’t want to miss!
Tokyo Night Foodie Tour in Shinjuku
Duration: 3 hours
Price: 99 USD
10. Catch a baseball game at Meiji Jingu Gaien
With an amazing driving range, an indoor ice skating rink, a baseball diamond, and tennis courts, Meiji Jingu Gaien is the perfect venue for small and big sports events. This multi-use stadium can cater for up to 65,000 spectators. It also offers plenty of green spaces, tables, and seats, perfect for picnics and other types of activities like jogging and playing. Your visit to Japan won’t be complete without seeing a Japanese baseball game. These games are action-packed, as the players are highly skilled.
Meiji Jingu Gaien
Address: 1-1 Kasumigaokamachi, Shinjuku City, Tokyo, Japan
Website: Meiji Jingu Gaien
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 6am - 11pm; Sat - Sun: 5:30am - 11pm
11. Take some pictures with the Big Buddha at Taisoji Temple
In Naito Shinjuku, another unexpected place for refuge amidst the bustling city center is Taisoji Temple. Taisoji is a Buddhist temple that is also the grave of Masakatsu, the fifth feudal lord of the Naito clan, as well as other lords. Known also as “Kakanzanhongakuintaisoji”, this temple was erected in 1596 by a monk named Taiso. The Big Buddha on the grounds of the temple is the main highlight that will give you plenty of opportunities for photo ops. If you are a cat person, expect and look out for the stray cats in the area.
Taisoji Temple
Address: 2 Chome-9-2 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0022, Japan
12. Learn about Japan's fire fighting history at Fire Museum
Shinjuku offers plenty of treats for everyone, especially for the kiddos. Visiting the Fire Museum is every kid’s dream, especially for those who want to be a firefighter. The museum is not big, but it offers plenty of information about the fire fighting history of Japan from the Edo period, as well as displays of some machines. It also features fire gear and equipment, trucks, exhibits, and even helicopters.
Fire Museum
Address: 3 Chome-10 Yotsuya, Shinjuku City, Tokyo, Japan
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 9:30am - 5pm (closed on Mon)
13. Try not to scream when you see Godzilla's Head
Godzilla is ready to destroy Tokyo once again! Situated in the Kabukicho area and sitting 40 m (131.23 ft) high above the Shinjuku Toho Building, you will find the King of all Monsters looking as scary as ever. This 12-m (39.37-ft) tall Godzilla roars when the clock strikes the hour, which makes it look even more realistic.
Godzilla Head
Address: 1 Chome-18-8 Kabukicho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0021, Japan
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
14. Have a real ramen experience at Ichiran Ramen (from USD 119.0)
No Japan tour is complete without having a real ramen experience, and ramen is the name of the game at Ichiran, as it is one of the most committed ramen companies in the country. They serve some of the best tonkotsu ramen around. Every day, the team works hard to add new flavors and ideas, from the firmness of noodles to the delicious broth - basically everything about ramen. Ichiran only uses high-quality ingredients to make and prepare ramen. With that said, a gastronomic experience is always guaranteed here.
Ichiran Ramen
Address: 6F Peace Building, 3 Chome−34−11 B1F, Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo, Japan, 160-0022
Website: Ichiran Ramen
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
byFood experience
1) Tokyo yakitori and ramen tour in Shinjuku
Embark on an exclusive three-hour-long yakitori and ramen tour led by a bona fide ramen expert in the heart of Shinjuku. With over a decade of experience documenting the local ramen scene and two acclaimed books on the subject, your guide is the ultimate ramen connoisseur. Get ready to slurp your way through the best ramen joints in town, savoring each bowl just like a local. Along the way, relish the flavors of mouthwatering yakitori skewers, complemented by two refreshing drinks.
Tokyo Yakitori and Ramen Tour in Shinjuku
Duration: 3hours
15. Laugh your heart out at Suehirotei
Visiting Suehirotei, a theater in Shinjuku, is a great way to have a unique, cultural experience. Enjoy plenty of great shows, from a rakugo (a stand-alone, traditional comedy performance) to a manzai comic dialogue and even some acrobatics. You can catch shows every day, and they run in the afternoon and evening. Don’t worry, some shows are performed in English so you can still join in the fun and laughter. This theater is affordable and popular with young people.
Suehirotei
Address: 3 Chome-6-12 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0022, Japan
Website: Suehirotei
16. Learn about the latest trends at LUMINE Shinjuku
If you fancy a bit of shopping, perhaps browsing some shops at LUMINE Shinjuku is a good idea. Situated in the main train station in Tokyo, LUMINE is a fashion center that offers the latest trends and gives you the chance to explore a wide range of fashion, cosmetics, lifestyle items, and many more. Feeling hungry? LUMINE also has many restaurants that will surely satisfy your hungry tummy and replenish your energy so you can continue shopping.
LUMINE Shinjuku
Address: 3 Chome-38-2 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0022, Japan
Website: LUMINE Shinjuku
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 11am - 9:30pm; Sat - Sun: 10:30am - 9:30pm
17. Buy souvenirs at Mosaic Street
If you want to buy high-quality souvenirs at affordable prices, don’t miss the chance to pass through the calm and gorgeous Mosaic Street. It is a pedestrian-only street that features high-end boutiques, restaurants, and cafes. The location is top-notch as it is near the Shinjuku JR Train Station. If you want to try some maple cookies, a famous shop that sells them is available here.
Mosaic Street
Address: 1-1-3 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo, Japan
Opening hours: 10am - 9pm (daily)
18. Catch a show at Opera City Tower
Tokyo Opera City Tower is a 234-m (767.72-ft) high skyscraper with 54 floors. This tower ranks seventh and third as the tallest building in Shinjuku and Tokyo respectively. It offers two museums, sixty shops, and six amazing theaters. These world-class theaters are equipped with a high-quality acoustic system - one of the best in the world. Inspiring and top-notch performances are available here, from opera to music recitals, as well as ballet and other performing arts.
Opera City Tower
Address: 3 Chome-20-2 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0023, Japan
Website: Opera City Tower
Opening hours: 7am - 11:30pm (daily)
19. Discover ultra-realistic and high-end games at Taito Station Arcade
Taito Station is a big name not only in Shinjuku but in all of Japan. This is a mecca for gamers and anime lovers, as it boasts a variety of arcade games, including prizes, famous manga and anime memorabilia, photo booths, high-end virtual games, and more. You can enjoy some cockpit-style driving as well as shooting games. Other eye-catching games are also available, like horse racing, cards, and bingo. This is just a fraction of the action, as plenty of games are unique to Japan and can only be seen and played here.
Taito Station Arcade
Address: 3 Chome-35-8 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0022, Japan
Website: Taito Station Arcade
Opening hours: 10am - 1am (daily)
20. Solve the mystery at Tokyo Mystery Circus
Tokyo Mystery Circus is known as the world’s first “theme park of mystery”, and it was opened in December 2017. It boasts plenty of hair-raising and adrenaline-pumping games created by SCRAP. Run as fast as you can when you play the thrilling Real Escape Game. Experience some Mission Impossible action while invading the enemy’s base by playing Real Stealth Game. Think outside the box and solve complex puzzles at the Projection Table Game. Whatever you play at Tokyo Mystery Circus, a unique and thrilling experience is guaranteed.
Tokyo Mystery Circus
Address: 1 Chome−27−5 APM Building, Kabukicho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0021, Japan
Website: Tokyo Mystery Circus
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 11:30am - 10pm; Sat - Sun: 9:30am - 10pm
21. Hear live jazz music at Pit Inn
Posted by on Thursday, 14 November 2019
If you are aiming for a relaxed night, head out to Pit Inn. This is an old-school kind of club that offers live jazz with a full bar and dining options. Though small, this entertainment spot is always jam-packed with patrons. The shows start from afternoon until evening. Overall, this venue is a great combination of outstanding music, nice people, friendly staff, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Pit Inn
Address: Accord Building 2 Chome-12-4 Japan, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0022, Japan
Website: Pit Inn
22. Join exciting anime-related events at Tokyo Anime Center
Hard-core anime fans, there is a place for you here in Shinjuku. Tokyo Anime Center offers everything an anime lover could ever want. It is a permanent facility that was built to promote anime to everyone, and it is the home to many anime-related events and merchandizing fairs. You’ll also be able to witness your favorite creators and voice actors in a live radio interview. The AKIBA3DTheater is also here. A permanent exhibit is dedicated to technology for anime production, and a small screening space is available. If you get hungry, a nice cafe located above the exhibition floor serves delicious desserts, snacks, coffee, and beverages.
Tokyo Anime Center
Address: Building DNP 1 Chome-14-1, Ichigayatamachi, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 162-0843, Japan
23. Look for some high-end items at BICQLO
BICQLO is a combination of two of Japan’s major retail big names: Bic Camera (home electronics) and Uniqlo (fashion pioneer). BICQLO was opened in 2012, and it gives shoppers the chance to buy an iPhone and underwear in one roof. Everything is already here, from a wide selection of high-quality clothes and garments to electronic accessories and more. Famous brands like Rolex and Tissot can also be found here. Cosmetic stores and watch shops are located on the ground floor, while the games department is on the upper floor. Tired already? Luckily, BICQLO also sells massage chairs that offer free massage.
BICQLO
Address: 3 Chome-29-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0022, Japan
Opening hours: 10am - 10pm (daily)
24. Learn about an iconic personality at Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery
Your Japanese history crash course continues at Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery. Japan considers this awesome gallery an Important Cultural Property that showcases 80 paintings about the life of Emperor Meiji, the emperor who opened Japan to the world for the first time. Keep in mind that taking pictures inside is not allowed, but the building itself, which is surrounded by a beautiful garden, provides an opportunity for photography.
Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery
Address: 1-1 Kasumigaokamachi, Shinjuku City, Tokyo, Japan
Website: Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
25. Discover toys from all over the world at Tokyo Toy Museum
Tokyo Toy Museum is another interesting venue for learning and fun in Shinjuku. It first opened back in 2008, inside an old elementary school building. It offers tons of exhibits of toys that come from all over the world. Not only will kids learn but also adults, as this museum will shed some light on the evolution of toys. There are plenty of wooden toys here that challenge children’s problem-solving skills.
Tokyo Toy Museum
Address: 4 Chome-20 in Yotsuya Hiroba, Yotsuya, Shinjuku City, Tokyo, Japan
Website: Tokyo Toy Museum
Opening hours: Fri - Wed: 10am - 4pm (closed on Thu)
26. Enjoy a dancing show at Kokucho no Mizuumi
Visiting Kokucho no Mizuumi will surely spice up your night. Colorful, vibrant, and entertaining - that’s what you can expect from this place. It features dancing shows with “new half” (transexual) performers. It is an adult show that lasts for about an hour and will leave you smiling all throughout. All performers are charming and talented.
Kokucho no Mizuumi
Address: Araville B2F, Chome-25-2, Kabukicho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo, Japan
Website: Kokucho no Mizuumi
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 6pm - 12am (closed on Sun)
27. Bar hopping in Tokyo's Kichijoji and Harmonica Yokocho (from USD 102.0)
Get set to have an eventful evening with this four-hour bar-crawling tour across the streets of Kichijoji and Harmonica Yokocho. Throughout this process, your guide will show and explain to you some of the customs, etiquette and drinking culture in Japan. At the host’s top spot for drinks, you can feast on an all-inclusive food extravaganza. Relax as you sip delicious Japanese cocktails such as Oolong High, whisky highballs, or umeshu plum wine while mixing among local patrons and other globetrotters.
The Midnight Diners: Tokyo Experience
Duration: 4hours
28. Dress up like a samurai at Samurai Museum (from USD 16.89)
When in Shinjuku, don’t miss the chance to book this wonderful tour that allows you to learn about the ancient history of the Japanese samurai. All artifacts and exhibits have stories to tell, including the 200 and 400-year-old samurai armors. The tour includes an English-speaking guide to help shed some light on the history behind the displays. Your tour will not be complete without the chance to dress up and act like a princess in a kimono or a samurai in full armor. This is a great opportunity for a photo op. Also, expect a fascinating sword fighting show by professionals.
Tokyo: Shinjuku Samurai Museum Ticket
Duration: 1 hour
29. See a world-class robot show at Robot Restaurant (from USD 65.95)
If you’re up for loud music and entertainment and you want to try something out of the ordinary, Robot Restaurant is where you should go. This 90-minute robot show will make your childhood fantasies come true. Watch samurai, ninjas, and robots perform with neon lights and upbeat music. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the moment and to appreciate the artistic interior of the restaurant. With that said, it is not surprising why this place is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Tokyo.
Tokyo: Samurai Show Ticket with 2 Drinks
Duration: 2.0 hour
30. Enjoy the amazing nightlife at Kabukichō (from USD 57.0)
Kabukichō is Tokyo’s red-light district - a place that never sleeps. This two-hour nocturnal adventure allows you to enjoy the nightlife and entertainment scene in Tokyo. This is also the perfect opportunity to meet new friends. During this tour, you’ll have the chance to taste different flavors from some hole-in-the-wall restaurants and bars at Golden Kai. The romantic ambiance of Hanazono will mesmerize you, while Omoide Yokocho offers wooden shacks that will amaze you. Finally, experience the fashion culture of Tokyo by checking out the latest trends at famous department stores.
Evening Tour of Kabukicho and Shinjuku Golden Gai with Bar Experience
Duration: 2 hours
31. Experience old-world Tokyo vibe at Omoide Yokocho (from USD 57.0)
Your adventure is far from over. This awesome, four-hour nocturnal walking tour allows you to explore the beauty of Shinjuku at night. Expect a visit to Golden Gai, Hanazono Shinto Shrine, and the Kabukicho area. A view of the city at night is even more mesmerizing from above the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. Finally, in the northwest part of Shinjuku Station, you will find a notorious alleyway called Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane). This iconic place is also known as “Piss Alley” and will give you an old-world Tokyo vibe.
Evening Tour of Kabukicho and Shinjuku Golden Gai with Bar Experience
Duration: 2 hours
32. Shop till you drop at Isetan Shinjuku (from USD 873.0)
It’s now time to experience the shopping scene of Tokyo by joining this exciting, eight-hour private tour with a chartered vehicle (bus, limo, or van). Don’t miss the opportunity to find some unique items or some souvenirs that will remind you of Tokyo when you go home. This tour allows you to explore the city’s high-end boutiques, electronic centers, and department stores. Big stores like LAOX, Takashimaya, and Isetan Shinjuku are included in the itinerary. You should know that Tokyo is one of the world’s best cities to shop, so come prepared to spend some of your hard-earned cash!
Private Tokyo Custom Shopping Tour by Chartered Vehicle
Duration: 8 hours
Shinjuku: home to many things
Shinjuku is one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in Tokyo. Unlike its neighbor Shibuya, this place is less crowded and more classy. In every turn, there’s action waiting for you to discover. Shinjuku isn’t known as the “Red-Light District of Tokyo” for nothing. Night entertainment is the name of the game here. It boasts more or less 200 buzzing bars and clubs. If you want to see some out-of-this-world attractions and performances, you are in the right place! Indeed, Shinjuku is many things - big things.
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