10 Things to Do in Kabukicho Tower; Shinjuku’s New Landmark!
Tokyo's Shinjuku is drawing worldwide attention as Japan's busiest commercial district. The subcenter area, dominated by skyscrapers, features numerous commercial facilities centered around JR Shinjuku Station, which boasts 3.5 million daily passengers.
At night, the Kabukicho area comes alive with its unique energy as an entertainment district, illuminated by neon lights and famous for its numerous establishments, including popular Shinjuku host clubs. In April 2023, a new 48-story landmark, "Kabukicho Tower," emerged in this vibrant area. It has garnered attention as a multipurpose facility offering various attractions, including movie theaters, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
From an observation deck overlooking Shinjuku's cityscape to state-of-the-art theaters and diverse dining options, we'll introduce 10 must-experience attractions in Kabukicho Tower.
About Kabukicho Tower: A 225-meter High-Rise Complex Facility
Kabukicho Tower, founded on the concept of "Pursuing Your Passions," was established as a new entertainment hub that fuses physical and digital experiences. This massive 48-story structure (with 5 basement levels) standing 225 meters tall houses various facilities, including cutting-edge movie theaters, a live hall, and hotels.
Access is approximately 8 minutes on foot from Exit E1 of Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line's Shinjuku-sanchome Station. From JR Shinjuku Station's East Exit, it's about a 15-minute walk through Kabukicho Ichiban-gai. As a massive landmark in the area, even first-time visitors can easily find their way.
With many facilities operating 24 hours, this new Shinjuku landmark allows visitors to enjoy entertainment and stay at the hotel afterward.
Various Tenants from Izakayas to Observatory Restaurants and Movie Theaters
Kabukicho Tower houses various establishments from the basement to the top floor. The basement features "Zepp Shinjuku," a live hall accommodating 1,500 people, while the above-ground floors offer facilities where visitors can enjoy everything from traditional Japanese culture to pop culture.
The major floor configurations are as follows.
Free and Paid Areas in Kabukicho Tower
Kabukicho Tower offers free access to shopping and dining areas from floors 1-5, as well as the 17th-floor observation deck and outdoor terrace. Walking distance from numerous Shinjuku host clubs, this landmark tower has become a central feature of the entertainment district.
The 17th floor provides stunning views of the western skyscraper cluster including the Cocoon Tower and Sompo Japan Building, along with panoramic views of the Shinjuku Station area to the south and passing trains below.
The same floor features "JAM17 DINING & BAR" where visitors can enjoy meals and drinks while taking in the transforming views of Shinjuku from day to night. As the sun sets, you can watch the neon signs of host clubs illuminate the streets below, creating that iconic Kabukicho atmosphere.
While areas above the 18th floor (hotel zone) and above the 45th floor (luxury restaurants) are exclusively for guests and patrons, the free areas alone offer plenty to experience the tower's charm.
10 Ways to Enjoy Kabukicho Tower: A Local's Guide
Bar Hopping at "Shinjuku KABUKI hall"
Source: Official website
Shinjuku KABUKI hall, located on the 2nd floor of Kabukicho Tower, is a next-generation food hall. Here, you can enjoy diverse cuisines ranging from various Asian countries to Japanese regional specialties, along with a wide selection of beverages.
Every night features different performances and events, creating a festival-like atmosphere. Much like the famous host clubs that made Kabukicho famous, the venue comes alive at night with entertainment and energy.
The charm lies in its unique spatial composition of over 10 stores combined with digital productions for an extraordinary experience. Since each store operates independently, you can enjoy bar hopping based on your mood or group preferences.
Some stores operate 24 hours, allowing for flexible enjoyment without time constraints.
Operating hours: Varies by store
Closed: Never (Open year-round)
Phone: None
Official website: https://kabukihall.com/
Admission: Free
Neo-Izakaya Style Hall Offering Local Delicacies from Across Japan
Source: Official website
The Neo-Izakaya area showcases "soul food" from across Japan, from Hokkaido to Okinawa, creating a treasure trove of culinary delights.
Neo-Izakaya refers to establishments that blend traditional izakaya atmosphere with contemporary trends, creating a perfect fusion of "retro" and "modern" elements.
You can order items from different stores and have them brought to your table, allowing you to enjoy everything from Hokkaido seafood to Hakata street food without moving – it's like taking a culinary journey across Japan from one seat.
Additionally, regular live performances and seasonal events allow visitors to experience Japanese food culture with all five senses.
Enjoy Arcade Games While Drinking at Namco Tokyo
Source: Official website
Located on the 3rd floor of Kabukicho Tower, "Namco Tokyo" is a new-concept amusement facility for adults. Just a short walk from the famous Shinjuku host club district, you can fully experience Japanese arcade culture with over 250 capsule toy machines, latest crane games, and various arcade games.
The lounge offers a diverse drink menu including original cocktails, sake, wine, and a great selection of bar snacks. Enjoying games with a drink in hand is a luxurious and special experience unique to adults.
The facility is always bustling with tourists and locals alike. Gaming is a universal language that transcends barriers. Why not try enjoying games together with people from all over the world?
Hours: Mon-Thu 11:00-23:00
Fri, Sat, Sun, and days before holidays 11:00-25:00
Closed: Never
Phone: 03-6302-1311
Official website: https://bandainamco-am.co.jp/namco_tokyo/
Admission: Free
Experience Nightclub Scene at Zepp Shinjuku & Zero Tokyo
Source: Official website
Basement floors 1 to 4 of Kabukicho Tower operate as the live house "Zepp Shinjuku" during the day and transform into the nightclub "ZEROTOKYO" at night, offering a different vibe from the nearby Shinjuku host club scene.
The main floor features an open ceiling structure spanning B3F and B4F, accommodating up to 1,500 people. The space captivates visitors with its Canadian-made Adamson speakers (used in world-class clubs), 360-degree LED vision, and laser lighting.
With DJs gathering from both Japan and overseas, it's a space that symbolizes Tokyo's night culture, connecting people through music and dance beyond language barriers.
Create unforgettable memories in Japan at "ZEROTOKYO." Check the official website for event details.
Hours: Varies by event
Closed: Varies by event
Phone: 03-5272-2110
Official websites: https://www.tokyu-kabukicho-tower.jp/livevenue/ (Zepp Shinjuku) , https://zerotokyo.jp/ (ZEROTOKYO)
Admission: Varies by event
Enjoy Meeting Locals and Tourists at JAM17 DINING&BAR
Source: Tabelog
"JAM17 DINING&BAR" is located on the 17th floor of Kabukicho Tower. The menu features authentic Italian dishes baked in a stone oven, creative cocktails, and artisanal gelato, suitable for various occasions.
Despite being a hotel restaurant, it's casual enough for both formal dining and café visits. Window seats offer panoramic views of Shinjuku fukutoshin during the day and a spectacular night view of countless lights after dark.
On the open terrace, you'll find locals enjoying afternoon tea, while the bar counter buzzes with conversation among travelers from around the world, creating a different atmosphere from the energetic Shinjuku host club scene below.
Please enjoy this new social spot in Shinjuku for meeting both locals and tourists.
Hours: 17:00-26:00
Closed: Never
Phone: 03-6233-8217
Official website: https://www.hotelgroove.jp/jam17/
Admission: Free
Experience Live Entertainment at Milano-za
Source: Official website
"THEATER MILANO-Za," a cutting-edge entertainment theater, is located on floors 6-8 of the Kabukicho Tower. Just a short walk from the famous Shinjuku host club district, this venue hosts a wide variety of performances daily, including theater productions, live music, and video events.
The intimate atmosphere allows you to feel the artists' energy up close, providing the true essence of live entertainment. The foyer, featuring large windows overlooking West Shinjuku's skyscrapers, offers an elegant space to spend time before and after performances.
THEATER MILANO-Za, housed in Kabukicho Tower, inherits the name of the historic Milano-za that has long been part of Kabukicho's culture, and is now gaining attention as a cultural hub for a new era.
Check the official website's event calendar for performance information.
Hours: Depends on events
Closed: Depends on events
Phone: None
Official website: https://milano-za.jp/
Admission: Varies by event
Enjoy Premium Movie Experience at 109 Cinema
Source: Official website
"109 Cinemas Premium Shinjuku," located on floors 9-10 of Kabukicho Tower, offers a luxurious movie-watching experience.
All theaters feature a sound system supervised by renowned Japanese musician Ryuichi Sakamoto, and every seat is a premium reclining chair designed for ultimate comfort. This creates an unprecedented immersive movie experience.
Additionally, the cinema offers unlimited soft drinks and popcorn starting one hour before showtime.
This new movie experience, combining home theater-like comfort with top-tier audio-visual systems, has become a popular entertainment destination for both domestic and international visitors. Just be careful not to fall asleep in the ultra-comfortable seats!
Hours: Varies by showing
Closed: None
Phone: None
Official website: https://109cinemas.net/premiumshinjuku/
Admission: CLASS A ¥4,500/CLASS S ¥6,500
Enjoy a Luxurious Evening with Shinjuku Views at BELLUSTAR TOKYO A Pan Pacific Hotel
Source: Official website
BELLUSTAR TOKYO, a luxury hotel occupying floors 39-47 of Kabukicho Tower, offers spectacular Tokyo views from 200 meters above ground.
The rooms blend traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern design, featuring 7-meter-wide windows that provide exclusive views of the sprawling metropolis below.
The restaurant floor includes high-end sushi and teppanyaki restaurants, while "Bar Bellustar" serves premium cocktails alongside sparkling night views.
The serene atmosphere and beautiful night scenery, far removed from the bustle of the streets (where you might spot the famous Shinjuku host clubs), will surely create unforgettable Tokyo memories.
Phone: 03-6233-8800
Official website: https://www.bellustartokyo.jp/
Immerse Yourself in Japanese Culture at HOTEL GROOVE SHINJUKU - A PARKROYAL Hotel
Source: Official website
Located between the 20th and 38th floors of the Kabukicho Tower, "HOTEL GROOVE SHINJUKU" is a new-style hotel that blends Shinjuku's urban landscape with art. Each room features large windows offering panoramic views of Kabukicho's glittering nightscape and vibrant neon streets, including glimpses of famous Shinjuku host clubs that contribute to the area's legendary nightlife.
For those seeking an authentic Japanese experience, the Japanese Suite Room is highly recommended. It includes a Tatami-floored space where guests can relax shoeless and sleep on traditional Futon bedding, providing a uniquely Japanese accommodation experience.
On the 17th floor, you'll find a dining & bar area that serves as a social hub where you can unwind from your travels while interacting with locals. Not far from the famous Shinjuku host club district, this hotel serves as the perfect base camp for tourists wanting to fully experience Shinjuku's charm.
Phone: 03-6233-8888
Official Website: https://www.hotelgroove.jp/
Experience the "Pursuit of Passion" Concept with Ground Floor Tenants of Kabukicho Tower
Source: Official website
The first floor of Kabukicho Tower hosts specialty shops that pursue excellence in their respective fields. Just steps away from the glittering Shinjuku host club district, these establishments offer their own brand of entertainment through culinary excellence.
At "Wagyu Tokku," you can savor dishes featuring Japan's finest A5-ranked Kobe beef. Meanwhile, "SHOGUN BURGER" attracts crowds with its premium hamburgers made from 100% wagyu beef patties. These two establishments captivate visitors by showcasing wagyu's appeal in different styles.
Additionally, "Wine Wall KABUKICHO" offers a perfect marriage of carefully selected Japanese wines and kushiyaki (grilled skewers). Starbucks, a leader in the coffee industry, also pursues its own concept of excellence here.
Take time to explore these shops gathered under the concept of "pursuing one's passions" and discover your own passion.
Enjoy Art Installations Throughout Kabukicho Tower
Source: Official website
Kabukicho Tower functions as an art gallery throughout its entirety, featuring over 190 contemporary art pieces from basement to top floor. Twenty-six Japanese artists, from emerging talents to masters, participate in expressing Shinjuku and Kabukicho's energy and transformation from their unique perspectives.
I particularly recommend "Aurora's Dream" by Ushio Shinohara, located at the hotel entrance on the first floor. Purple and green colors brilliantly contrast against a gold background, suggesting the elegance of traditional Japanese painting from afar. However, this piece was created using boxing gloves covered in paint, and its power becomes more apparent as you approach.
This building serves as a new type of "art museum" that functions as an exhibition space. Why not explore the facility while experiencing contemporary Japanese art firsthand?
Hours: 24 hours
Closed: Never
Phone: 03-5272-2110
Official Website: https://www.tokyu-kabukicho-tower.jp/art/
Admission: Free
Kabukicho Tower Access & Basic Information
Address: 1-29-1 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Access:
- 1-minute walk from Seibu-Shinjuku Station (Seibu Shinjuku Line)
- 6-minute walk from Shinjuku-Nishiguchi Station (Toei Oedo Line)
- 7-minute walk from Shinjuku Station (JR Lines, Odakyu Line, Keio Line, Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
- 8-minute walk from Shinjuku-sanchome Station (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line/Fukutoshin Line, Toei Shinjuku Line)
Hours: 24 hours (varies by facility)
Closed: Never
Phone: None
Official Website: https://www.tokyu-kabukicho-tower.jp/
