13 Best Bars & Nightclubs in Shinjuku: Enjoy Friendly Ambiance & Drinking
I moved to the city next to Shinjuku in 2024. While exploring the area, I discovered that Shinjuku has numerous nightlife spots not only like Kabukicho and Omoide Yokocho (piss alley). As we enter January 2025, I've compiled this article with my rediscovered spots ideal for nightlife, along with the latest 2025 updates.
Shinjuku is a district that truly embodies Tokyo's diversity, where modern urban landscapes blend seamlessly with retro and historically rich locations. I'd like to introduce you to some carefully selected spots and events that are perfect for maximizing your Shinjuku experience in January.
However, it can be challenging for first-time visitors to fully appreciate this complex and culturally rich district of Shinjuku in just a few days. That's why guided tours that take you to tourist attractions and locally beloved izakayas (Japanese pubs) with knowledgeable guides who know Shinjuku inside and out have been gaining popularity.
Magical Trip offers many popular tours, and their high-quality "Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku" was ranked number one among all tours on TripAdvisor in 2024.
To fully experience Shinjuku, I recommend not only the "Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku" but also the "Tokyo Night Foodie Tour in Shinjuku," where you can enjoy sushi and yakiniku (Japanese BBQ). Make the most of Magical Trip's Shinjuku tours to ensure you don't miss out on anything Shinjuku has to offer!
If you are visiting Tokyo, you should also visit Omoide Yokocho, which is known not only as a drinking district but also as a representative of Tokyo's retro streetscape.
You can also visit Magical Trip's ‘Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku’, where you can soak up the uniquely Japanese atmosphere.
Introduction
Shinjuku is a vibrant metropolis that attracts people for various reasons, including business, cuisine, shopping, and entertainment. The area around Shinjuku Station, which boasts the world's highest daily passenger traffic, is packed with commercial facilities. Additionally, Kabukicho in Higashi-Shinjuku is Japan's largest entertainment district, lined with restaurants and izakayas, illuminated by neon lights throughout the night.
The area also features numerous cultural facilities like theaters and cinemas, while West Shinjuku is home to the Metropolitan Government Building, skyscrapers, and luxury hotels.
When exploring bars at Shinjuku 2024, visitors will find not only traditional izakayas but also a rich variety of establishments ranging from relaxed bars to lively nightclubs.
In this article, we'll introduce recommended bars and nightclubs in Shinjuku based on different preferences!
13 Recommended Bars & Nightclubs in Shinjuku by Category
Bars & Nightclubs with Friendly Atmosphere
Jigoku no Death Match (Golden Gai)
Source: Tabelog
Located in Golden Gai, an area hosting over 280 unique establishments in a compact space, this bar reflects the owner's passion for horror and punk rock. The interior features carefully curated decorations and lighting, creating a dark and mysterious atmosphere. With no cover charge and most drinks priced at 666 yen, visitors can enjoy a reasonable drinking experience. The bar is popular among foreign tourists, offering Japanese spirits like shochu and Japanese whiskey. It's particularly recommended for horror and metal music fans, as well as adventurous souls.
* Address: Shinjuku Golden Gai Sangai Street, 1-1-8 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
* Hours: 8:00pm-3:00am
* Closed: Sundays and holidays
* Phone: 090-2524-5575
* Official Website: https://www.facebook.com/deathmatchinhell/?_rdr
ACE'S (Golden Gai)
Source: Kabukicho Culture Press
Operating under the motto "One nation under the drink," this bar is run by a master who lived in Colorado, USA, and has a deep love for music. The owner values human connection regardless of nationality or ethnicity, offering warm hospitality to foreign visitors. He often shares unique customs of Golden Gai with his guests.
The bar features white walls and plays various music genres including Rock, Blues, and Jazz as background music. With no cover charge and reasonable drink prices, it's an accessible spot for all visitors.
* Address: G2 Street, Golden Gai, 1-1-9 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
* Hours: 8:00pm-5:00am
* Closed: Sundays
* Phone: 090-5801-7886
* Official Website: https://www.facebook.com/ACES.Golden
Albatross (Omoide Yokocho)
Source: Omoide Yokocho
Omoide Yokocho, which originated from a post-war black market, is a famous Shinjuku landmark featuring about 80 shops, including yakitori and various eateries. Located just a 1-minute walk from Shinjuku Station, its retro atmosphere is popular among international visitors.
Operating since 1997, Albatross is the only bar in Omoide Yokocho. The bar's interior features striking crystal chandeliers and an artistic ambiance. Here, you can enjoy drinks and perfectly paired appetizers in a serene atmosphere that makes you forget the bustle of Shinjuku. With an extensive selection of Japanese spirits and cocktails, it's also welcoming for solo visitors.
* Address: 1-2-11 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo (Omoide Yokocho)
* Hours: 5:00 PM - 2:00 AM
* Closed: Never
* Phone: 03-3342-5758
* Official Website: https://www.alba-s.com/shop-2-2/
Shuten Doji (Golden Gai)
Source: Official Facebook
Shinjuku is renowned as an entertainment district frequented by writers, performers, and cultural figures. At the entrance of Shinjuku Golden Gai stands the shot bar "Shuten Doji."
The interior features provocative artwork by premier artists, creating a surreal space that perfectly embodies the bar's "Japanese Horror" theme. A unique specialty is the "Dashiwari" (dashi-infused spirits) created by a bartender trained at a prestigious Kyoto udon restaurant. Enjoy sake enhanced with the aromatic essence of dashi.
This uniquely styled bar is rare even in Japan. Those who appreciate mysterious atmospheres and art should definitely give it a try.
* Address: 1F Sankei 55 Building, 1-2-6 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
* Hours: 6:00 PM - 5:00 AM
* Closed: (Not specified)
* Phone: 03-6205-9515
* Official Website: https://shuten-doji.com/
SPIRITS BAR Sunface SHINJUKU (Shinjuku Station West Exit)
Source: Official Facebook
This sophisticated cocktail bar operates without a menu, featuring a world cocktail competition champion bartender who creates drinks through consultation with customers.
Specializing in tequila, rum, and gin, the bar offers creative cocktails using seasonal fruits and unique twists on classic drinks. The comfortable atmosphere is enhanced by watching the bartender at work and admiring the impressive array of bottles on the shelves. Even the glassware provides visual entertainment.
Perfect for those seeking expertly crafted drinks or customized cocktails to their taste, this highly acclaimed bar has been featured in magazines and media.
* Address: 10F Yamatoya Building, 1-13-7 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
* Hours: 6:00 PM - 1:00 AM
* Closed: Sundays and Holidays
* Phone: 03-6302-0809
* Official Website: https://www.facebook.com/bar.sunface.shinjuku/
H2 International Bar (Yotsuya-sanchome)
Source: Tabelog
This is a vibrant establishment where you can enjoy various genres of music, sports viewing, karaoke, darts, and more for an entertaining evening.
You can enjoy music from the 70s to 90s spanning genres like jazz, soul, hip-hop, pop, and reggae, while watching sports such as baseball, soccer, and American football alongside drinks and food. With entertainment options like karaoke and darts, it's perfect for having a great time with friends and acquaintances.
The clientele includes many foreigners and Japanese people interested in international culture, making it an ideal spot for those seeking cross-cultural interactions!
* Address: 2F Aida Building, 3-6-7 Yotsuya, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
* Hours: 8:00pm-5:00am
* Closed: Never
* Phone: 03-5315-4531
BAR Okina (Golden Gai)
Source: Official X
This bar offers a surprisingly homey and warm atmosphere uncommon in Shinjuku's Golden Gai.
In this jazz-filled space, the female owner serves shochu and western spirits accompanied by well-crafted appetizers. Visitors can enjoy the nostalgic Japanese home atmosphere and traditional home-cooking alongside their drinks.
The owner's specialty hand-made soba, perfect for ending your drinking session, is highly praised by soba enthusiasts and offers a unique appeal not found in other bars.
The friendly female owner welcomes guests with a motherly warmth. This bar is perfect for those wanting to experience authentic Japanese hospitality or as a final stop after drinking in Kabukicho.
* Address: 2F, 1-1-6 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo (Golden Gai Hanazono 5th Street)
* Hours: 5:00pm-0:00am
* Closed: Tuesdays and Wednesdays
* Phone: (Not listed)
* Official Website: https://x.com/bar_okina
Entertainment Bars and Nightclubs
KUJIRA ENTERTAINMENT (Kabukicho)
Source: Official Instagram
This is a media-featured entertainment dining venue offering unique experiences unavailable elsewhere.
In a futuristic space with artistic video and lighting, guests can enjoy carefully crafted meals and drinks. The video shows and performances are packed with impact and entertainment! The food, supervised by a famous Daikanyama restaurant, consists of satisfying creative dishes that demonstrate attention to quality. Guests can also enjoy a wide selection of drinks, including sake.
It's perfect for friends and large groups. Those seeking an extraordinary experience in a unique atmosphere should definitely give it a try.
* Address: B2F Furinkaikan, 2-23-1 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
* Hours: 9:00pm-5:00am
* Closed: Sundays
* Phone: 03-6205-6675
* Official Website: https://kujiraentertainment.com/index.html
Entertainment Bar ZINO on Yasukuni Street, Shinjuku Kabukicho
Source: Hot Pepper Gourmet
ZINO is a new-style entertainment bar that has everything you need - drinks, darts, and karaoke all in one place. It's highly recommended when you're unsure where to go among the many bars at Shinjuku 2024.
The fee includes access to over 100 types of drinks, darts, and karaoke. With a straightforward pricing of 660 yen per 30 minutes, you can enjoy yourself until morning without worrying about hidden costs (440 yen per 30 minutes after the first 2 hours). When you're hungry, you can enjoy a variety of à la carte dishes like takoyaki, french fries, and light meals such as curry.
With excellent access from Shinjuku Station, this is a perfect spot where you can sing, play, drink, eat, and have a satisfying time!
* Address: 3F Fuji Building, 1-16-2 Kabukicho, Shinjuku, Tokyo
* Hours: 8:00 PM - 5:00 AM
* Closed: Not specified
* Phone: 03-6826-0713
* Official Website: https://zino.co.jp/
Bars and Nightclubs with Different Concepts
Shinjuku Shisha Club (Kabukicho)
Source: Official website
Enjoy various flavored shisha and drinks while overlooking the bustling Kabukicho intersection and Nishi-Shinjuku skyscrapers. This venue is perfect for shisha enthusiasts and newcomers alike, thanks to its reasonable prices.
The drink menu is extensive, featuring whiskey and Japanese spirits like Shochu, including popular "Chuhai" (Shochu highballs).
While enjoying shisha and drinks with a quintessential Shinjuku view, you can even charge your mobile devices. If you're interested in experiencing subculture in Shinjuku's nightlife, this is a must-visit destination.
* Address: 6F Don Quijote Kabukicho Store, 1-16-5 Kabukicho, Shinjuku, Tokyo
* Hours: 2:00 PM - 8:00 AM (Last Order 7:00 AM)
* Closed: Not specified
* Phone: 03-6380-2860
* Official Website: https://shinjuku-shisha-club.com/
Karaoke Bar GIFT
Source: Yahoo! Maps
This is a casual bar where you can enjoy karaoke, one of Japan's beloved cultural experiences, while drinking. Among the many bars at Shinjuku 2024, this one stands out for its unique atmosphere.
The interior has a homey atmosphere that's welcoming even for solo visitors. You can enjoy a wide variety of drinks, from Japanese sake and shochu to beer and cocktails.
The bar is known for its friendly staff who ensure guests have an enjoyable time. There are box seats available, making it perfect for groups of friends or acquaintances.
Uniquely for a drinking establishment, snacks are free, and you can bring your own food. Come experience the fun atmosphere while focusing on drinks and karaoke.
* Address: 5F Skylark Building, 2-38-11 Kabukicho, Shinjuku, Tokyo
* Hours: 10:00 PM - 5:00 AM
* Closed: Sundays
* Phone: 03-6273-9024
* Official Website: https://gj7g400.gorp.jp/
ROCKIN' COMMUNICATION Shinjuku LOFT
Source: Official website
Shinjuku LOFT is a famous live house that opened in 1976. After relocating to Kabukicho in 1999, it continues to evolve under the theme of "ROCKIN' COMMUNICATION." The LIVE FLOOR can accommodate around 500 people for live performances and events. After shows, visitors can enjoy drinks and light meals at the BAR FLOOR, a communication space perfect for discussing music and meeting new people.
This venue has become more than just a place for experiencing live music; it's a hub for meeting people and broadening horizons through new discoveries. If you're interested in music and events, check their event schedule before visiting.
* Address: Tatenaha Building B2, 1-12-9 Kabukicho, Shinjuku, Tokyo
* Business Hours: Not specified
* Closed Days: Not specified
* Phone: 03-5272-0382
* Official Website: https://www.loft-prj.co.jp/schedule/loft
Two Recommended Tours to Fully Experience Shinjuku
Experience the best of Shinjuku with these two night tours offered by MagicalTrip, perfect for international visitors.
Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku
Named Japan's #1 experience on TripAdvisor in 2024, this popular tour has hosted over 20,000 guests. For $105.56 per person, the 3.5-hour tour includes more than 4 drinks and 3 food items.
Visit three carefully selected izakayas that tourists rarely find, enjoying authentic Japanese pub dishes like yakitori, gyoza, and agedashi tofu. We serve enough food to constitute a full dinner.
Open to participants aged 15 and above, with alcohol served only to those 20 and older. Vegetarian options are available.
This small-group tour explores different faces of Shinjuku, from Omoide Yokocho to Kabukicho. Perfect for solo travelers, friends, couples, and families.
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, with complimentary date changes (subject to availability). Photo service included, with English-speaking guides providing detailed menu explanations.
Meeting point is at the black pillar next to UNIQLO Shinjuku West Exit Store, 7-8 minutes walk from Shinjuku Station West Exit. Late arrivals cannot participate, receive refunds, or reschedule.
For more details: Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku
Tokyo Night Foodie Tour in Shinjuku
A 3.5-hour small-group culinary journey through Shinjuku. Priced at $128.74 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Experience seasonal omakase nigiri (8 pieces) at a hidden sushi restaurant prepared by master chefs. Vegetarian options available.
At the wagyu BBQ restaurant, guides teach optimal grilling techniques. The tour concludes in Kabukicho with dessert or drinks.
Includes English-speaking guide and photo service with pictures emailed later. Visit authentic establishments frequented by locals, discovering aspects of Shinjuku's food culture not found in guidebooks.
For more details: Tokyo Night Foodie Tour in Shinjuku
Both tours offer authentic experiences with experienced English-speaking guides, taking you to hidden gems of Shinjuku. With flexible cancellation policies, you can book with confidence and immerse yourself in genuine Japanese cuisine and atmosphere.