10 Best Sweets and Snacks in Shinjuku 2024 w/map
As someone with a serious sweet tooth, I'm excited to introduce you to Shinjuku's sweets scene.
From basement food halls to street-level shops, Shinjuku is home to a diverse array of sweets shops. To be honest, it's not a district known for historical Japanese confections like Asakusa or Kyoto, nor is it the trendsetting area for the latest sweets like Omotesando. But I believe that's precisely what makes Shinjuku special.
The diversity of having "everything" - from traditional Japanese sweets to Paris-trained refined Western confections and Instagram-worthy latest treats - is what makes Shinjuku unique.
I'm particularly happy about the wide range of price points, from high-end department store brands to casual cafes, allowing you to choose based on your mood and budget.
Let me introduce you to 10 recommended shops based on my actual food adventures in Shinjuku's sweets scene.
Table of Contents
・Characteristics of Shinjuku's Sweets Shops
・Enjoying Traditional Japanese Sweets in Shinjuku
・Enjoying Quality Takeout Western Sweets in Shinjuku
・Savoring Stylish Cafes in Shinjuku
・New Trendy Sweets in Shinjuku
Characteristics of Shinjuku's Sweets Shops
The most distinctive feature of Shinjuku's sweets scene is its diversity.
I've been exploring Shinjuku's sweets for over 10 years, and the charm of this area is undoubtedly that it has "everything." Shops of various price ranges and types are available.
As mentioned earlier, it's neither a district of historical Japanese sweets like Asakusa nor a trendsetting area like Omotesando.
However, having all genres of sweets gathered in one area is a unique characteristic of Shinjuku. I'm particularly pleased that it can accommodate various scenarios, from special day treats to casual break-time snacks.
Enjoying Traditional Japanese Sweets in Shinjuku
Here, I'll introduce recommended sweets shops in Shinjuku. Let's start with shops where you can enjoy traditional Japanese sweets.
Oiwake Dango
Source：Tabelog
This is a famous dango (rice dumpling) shop that has been loved by locals since its establishment. When you step inside, you'll feel a gentle Japanese atmosphere.
What I particularly like is the refined sweetness of their homemade anko (red bean paste). By using moderate amounts of sugar, they preserve the natural taste of ingredients. They also offer plenty of seasonal menu items, making every visit feel fresh.
Located just 5 minutes' walk from Shinjuku-sanchome Station, it's easily accessible during sightseeing.
<Store Information>
Address: 3 Chome-1-22 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0022
Closed: None
Phone: 0333510101
Hours: 10:30 AM–7 PM
Website: https://oiwakedango.co.jp/
TORAYA AN STAND Shinjuku
Source：Tabelog
This is a modern Japanese sweets cafe run by the long-established Japanese confectionery "Toraya."
I always order the seasonal Japanese sweets and hojicha tea set. Their products, which combine traditional Japanese confectionery techniques with modern arrangements, are particularly popular among foreign tourists.
The interior has a calm, modern Japanese atmosphere, and takeout is available for enjoying at your hotel.
Located right outside the JR Shinjuku Station's New South Exit, it's convenient for buying souvenirs while moving from the station.
<Store Information>
Address: 3 Chome-1-22 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0022
Closed: None
Phone: 0333510101
Hours: 10:30 AM–7 PM
Website: https://oiwakedango.co.jp/
Seigetsudo Main Store Keio Shinjuku
Source：Tabelog
With over 100 years of history, this traditional Japanese confectionery store offers the essence of traditional Japanese sweets. My top recommendation is the "5-piece Japanese Dessert Basket Set" which includes mitsu-mame (sweet red beans), shiratama zenzai (rice dumplings in sweet red bean soup), matcha jelly, tokoroten (agar noodles), and vanilla ice cream with matcha.
They also have an excellent selection of seasonal menu items where you can enjoy the tastes of Japan's four seasons. Located just 2 minutes' walk from JR Shinjuku Station inside Keio Department Store, you can comfortably enjoy shopping even on rainy days.
<Store Information>
Address: 8F, 3-38-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0022
Closed: None
Phone: 0353215966
Hours: 11 AM–10 PM
Website: https://tabelog.com/en/tokyo/A1304/A130401/13094913/
Enjoying Quality Takeout Western Sweets in Shinjuku
Shinjuku has many shops where you can easily take out delicious cakes and other Western sweets. Here are two particularly recommended stores.
KEN'S CAFE TOKYO
Source：Tabelog
This popular store is known for specializing in gateau chocolat. I'm captivated by their rich gateau chocolat made with the finest chocolate.
The simple and sophisticated interior exudes the atmosphere of a high-end chocolate specialty store. As it's takeout only, it's perfect for picnics in Shinjuku Gyoen.
Located 3 minutes' walk from Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line "Shinjuku Gyoenmae Station" Exit 2, it's easy to combine with sightseeing at Shinjuku Gyoen.
<Store Information>
Address: 1 Chome-23-3 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0022
Closed: Sunday, Monday
Phone: 0333546206
Hours: 11 AM–7 PM
Website: https://kenscafe.jp/
PATISSERIE SADAHARU AOKI PARIS
Source：Tabelog
This is the store of Japanese patissier Sadaharu Aoki, who gained fame in Paris. The macarons are particularly excellent, and I always purchase them when I visit. Their seasonal cakes are masterpieces that beautifully fuse French and Japanese food cultures.
Located in the basement floor of Shinjuku Isetan, you can take out high-quality sweets. It's 5 minutes' walk from JR Shinjuku Station, perfect for stopping by during Tokyo sightseeing.
<Store Information>
Address: B1 Isetan Shinjuku Store, 3-14-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0022
Closed: None
Phone: 0333521111
Hours: 10 AM–8 PM
Website: https://www.sadaharuaoki.jp/en/
Savoring Stylish Cafes in Shinjuku
There are several stylish cafes scattered throughout Shinjuku where you can spend relaxing time. Here are two cafes that I particularly like.
CAFE AALIYA
Source：Tabelog
Their signature French toast is so delicious that I visit multiple times. It features a crispy exterior and moist interior texture.
With stylish interior design and relaxed atmosphere, you can enjoy a leisurely cafe time. They also have plenty of seasonal menu items and a wide variety of homemade sweets.
Located 5 minutes' walk from Shinjuku Station, it's perfect for tea time between shopping.
<Store Information>
Address: B1F, Building Yamamoto, 3-1-17 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0022
Closed: None
Phone: 0333541034
Hours (Weekdays): 9 AM–8:30 PM
Hours (Sat/Sun): 9 AM–9 PM
Website: https://tabelog.com/en/tokyo/A1304/A130401/13012089/
SALON BAKE＆TEA
Source：Tabelog
This cafe is famous for its sophisticated parfaits made for adult tastes. Their menu items using seasonal fruits lavishly are outstanding in both appearance and taste.
What I particularly enjoy is having parfait together with tea. The calm atmosphere of the interior makes it perfect for dates.
Located on the 3rd floor of NEWoMan Shinjuku, right by Shinjuku-sanchome Station, it's ideal for taking a break between shopping.
<Store Information>
Address: NEWoMan Shinjuku 3F, 4 Chome-1-6 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0022
Closed: None
Phone: 0333541034
Hours (Weekdays): 11 AM–8:30 PM
Hours (Sat/Sun): 11 AM–8 PM
Website: https://tabelog.com/en/tokyo/A1304/A130401/13193544/
Shinjuku Takano Fruit Parlor
Source：Tabelog
This is a fruit parlor run by Takano, known for their high-end fruit specialty store. I've tried their weekend-only all-you-can-eat fruit menu several times, and it's a luxurious offering where you can fully enjoy fresh seasonal fruits.
I especially recommend their afternoon tea set, which uses seasonal fruits abundantly. The bright and open atmosphere of the interior is also attractive.
Located just 3 minutes' walk from Shinjuku Station East Exit, it's perfect for refreshing during sightseeing breaks.
<Store Information>
Address: NEWoMan Shinjuku 3F, 4 Chome-1-6 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0022
Closed: None
Phone: 0333541034
Hours (Weekdays): 11 AM–8:30 PM
Hours (Sat/Sun): 11 AM–8 PM
Website: https://tabelog.com/en/tokyo/A1304/A130401/13193544/
New Trendy Sweets in Shinjuku
While not as prominent as Harajuku or Omotesando, Shinjuku has its share of trendy sweets shops. Here are two particularly recommended trendy sweets shops.
MERCER BAKESHOP
Source：Tabelog
This shop is famous for their Instagram-worthy photogenic chiffon cakes.
What I like about it is the portion size that's perfect for solo enjoyment. New creations appear each season, making every visit a new discovery.
Their takeout menu is extensive, making it perfect for quick snacks. Located in EATo LUMINE within Shinjuku Station, it's convenient to visit while waiting for trains.
<Store Information>
Address: EATo LUMINE, 3 Chome-38 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0022
Closed: None
Phone: 0362731201
Hours: 8 AM–10 PM
Website: https://www.instagram.com/mercer_bakeshop/
Anbataya
Source：Tabelog
This is an up-and-coming sweets shop gaining attention as an anko butter (red bean paste and butter) specialty store. With easy-to-carry sizes and plenty of seasonal items, it's becoming increasingly popular.
Located in EATo LUMINE within Shinjuku Station, tourists can easily experience Japan's new sweets trends.
<Store Information>
Address: EATo LUMINE, 3 Chome-38 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0022
Closed: None
Phone: 0363801731
Hours: 8 AM–10 PM
Website: https://anbataya.jp/
Shinjuku's sweets scene has many faces, from traditional Japanese confections to trendy new creations.
What's particularly attractive for tourists is that many shops are concentrated around the station area. Even during short sightseeing trips, you can visit multiple shops. Also, many shops offer takeout options, so you can enjoy them leisurely at your hotel.
Please use this article as a guide to enjoy Shinjuku's unique sweets and snacks!
