8 Best Shinjuku Night Tours: Bar Hopping & Night Walking
Shinjuku stands as Tokyo's premier "sleepless district," renowned as one of Japan's most vibrant entertainment hubs. From its striking cityscape of towering skyscrapers to intimate street vendors, this multifaceted neighborhood draws visitors from all walks of life. Additionally, Shinjuku serves as a treasure trove for food enthusiasts, dotted with countless Izakaya (traditional Japanese pubs), bars, and dining establishments.
Shinjuku's allure intensifies as night falls. Areas like Kabukicho and Shinjuku-sanchome become dense with restaurants and leisure facilities, buzzing with nighttime visitors. Looking ahead to Shinjuku night tours 2025, the district continues to evolve while maintaining its traditional charm.
In this article, we'll provide a comprehensive list of night tours that allow you to experience everything Shinjuku's nightlife has to offer.
Shinjuku's Famous Collection of Izakaya Districts and Alleyways
Shinjuku boasts numerous nationally renowned drinking districts and alleyways that never fail to captivate visitors. Areas such as Kabukicho, Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane), and Shinjuku-sanchome are packed with distinctive izakayas and bars, creating lively atmospheres along their streets.
However, with such abundant choices, first-time visitors might find it challenging to discover their perfect "must-visit" establishment.
This is where Shinjuku's night tours become invaluable. Guided tours lead you to carefully selected spots, including hidden gems known only to locals and bars with unique characteristics. Tour guides also provide detailed information about each establishment's special features and recommended menu items, ensuring a fulfilling evening experience.
In the following section, we'll introduce popular tours that allow you to fully enjoy Shinjuku's nightlife.
5 Recommended Tours to Enjoy the Deep Night Scene of Shinjuku
Shinjuku Night Free Walking Tour
Source: Tokyo Localized
The "Shinjuku Night Free Walking Tour" is perfect for those wanting to experience Shinjuku's nightlife, with tours continuing through 2025 and beyond. During this approximately 2-hour tour, you'll explore the particularly vibrant Shinjuku East Exit area. Together with your guide, you'll walk through uniquely Japanese cultural spots and nightlife locations including Kabukicho, host club districts, Godzilla Road, and love hotels.
The tour's appeal lies in its immersion into Shinjuku's culture. By discovering Shinjuku's deep night spots, you'll gain perspectives and make discoveries unavailable through regular tourism. Thanks to the guides' extensive knowledge, you can experience aspects of Shinjuku often overlooked by typical tourists and enjoy the nightlife efficiently in a short time.
Reservation is required, so don't forget to book in advance.
While Japan's night spots can be surprising for first-time visitors, this valuable tour offers a complete experience of Shinjuku's nightlife.
Meeting point: Shinjuku Tourist Information Center
Tour Area: Shinjuku (Kabuki-Cho, Host/Hostess Club Area, Godzilla Road, Golden Gai, Omoide-Yoko-Cho, Love Hotels)
Start times: 18:00/19:00/20:00
Tokyo Night Foodie Tour in Shinjuku
The "Tokyo Night Foodie Tour in Shinjuku" is a luxurious tour where you can enjoy both Shinjuku's nightlife and traditional Japanese cuisine at once. The tour visits hidden local gems, including sushi restaurants serving exquisite sushi with fresh ingredients and restaurants where you can grill Wagyu beef on "Shichirin," a traditional Japanese portable charcoal grill.
The tour's main appeal is its small-group format. Your guide gives personal attention to each participant, thoroughly explaining each establishment's charm and the background of the dishes. Another delightful aspect is discovering hidden spots with your guide that travelers might not find on their own.
Why not experience Shinjuku's night with all five senses? This exciting culinary experience and new discoveries will surely become wonderful travel memories.
Meeting point: In front of black pillar (Next to Uniqlo Shinjuku Nishiguchi shop)
Tour Area: Sushi Restaurant in Shinjuku area, Wagyu Yakiniku Restaurant in Shinjuku area, Sake Tasting or Sweet/dessert bar/restaurant
Start times: 17:00/18:00/19:00
The Dark Side of Tokyo - Night Walking Tour Shinjuku Kabukicho
Source: Tripadvisor
"The Dark Side of Tokyo - Night Walking Tour Shinjuku Kabukicho" is a safe and immersive tour experience of Shinjuku's nightlife areas. Looking ahead to Shinjuku night tours 2025, this tour continues to be a premier way to explore diverse areas including Kabukicho, Omoide Yokocho, and the LGBTQI-friendly Gay Town. With expert guide commentary, you'll learn about the area's culture and subculture while experiencing the depths of Shinjuku.
One of the tour's main attractions is how welcoming it is for solo travelers. The guide creates a friendly atmosphere among participants, allowing everyone to enjoy Shinjuku's streets without hesitation.
Please note that food and drink costs are not included in the tour fee.
This is a valuable opportunity to fully enjoy Shinjuku's nighttime charm while learning about Tokyo's diverse culture. Come experience the deep and authentic nightlife of Shinjuku!
Meeting point: JR Shinjuku Station East Exit Police Box
Tour areas: Omoide Yokocho, Kabukicho, Godzilla Head, Shinjuku Golden Gai, Hanazono Shrine, Shinjuku 2 Chome Gay Town
Start times: 18:00~/19:00~
Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku
"Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku" is a night tour that takes you to hidden Shinjuku bars that tourists might find difficult to discover on their own. Anticipated to be a highlight of Shinjuku night tours 2025, this tour features friendly, English-proficient guides who take you to three vibrant bars in Shinjuku, where you can experience local food culture and nightlife. The tour includes bars serving Japanese street food like Yakitori and Gyoza, as well as all-you-can-drink establishments.
The tour's appeal lies in its all-inclusive fee covering food and drinks, allowing you to enjoy without worrying about additional payments. Another pleasant feature is receiving photos taken by the guide via email after the tour.
During this tour, you can relax and enjoy the authentic local atmosphere. However, please note that smoking may not be permitted in some establishments.
Through this tour, enjoy local cuisine and nightlife for an unforgettable evening.
Meeting point: In front of Black pillar (Next to Uniqlo Shinjuku Nishiguchi shop)
Tour areas: Omoide Yokocho Alley (1 bar), Kabukicho (1 bar), Another bar in Shinjuku area
Start times: 17:00~/17:30~/18:00~/18:30~/19:00~
3-Hours Tokyo Local Bar & Izakaya Crawl in Shinjuku Area
Source: Tripadvisor
Looking ahead to Shinjuku night tours 2025, the "3-Hours Tokyo Local Bar & Izakaya Crawl in Shinjuku Area" with a local guide is perfect for experiencing Tokyo's nightlife. From the nostalgic atmosphere of Memory Lane (Omoide Yokocho) to the neon-lit Kabukicho, and the off-the-beaten-path Golden Gai, you'll experience Shinjuku's deep nocturnal character.
The tour's highlights include savoring local flavors at atmospheric yakitori shops and enjoying authentic drinks at Nihonshu (Japanese sake) bars. In Kabukicho, your guide will share interesting behind-the-scenes stories about pachinko parlors and entertainment districts, offering more than just a typical tourist experience.
Please note that participants must be 20 years or older.
This tour is recommended for those unsure about where to go in Shinjuku at night. Discover Shinjuku's hidden charms and enjoy a special evening.
Meeting point: Kitakata Ramen Omoide Yokocho branch
Tour areas: Omoide Yokocho・Kabukicho・Shinjuku Golden Gai
Start times: 18:00/19:00/20:00
Tokyo by Night: Happy Hour with Karaoke in Shinjuku's District
Source: Tripadvisor
"Tokyo by Night: Happy Hour with Karaoke in Shinjuku's District" is a tour where you can explore illuminated Shinjuku while enjoying local cuisine, drinks, and a fun time at a karaoke bar. As part of the expanding Shinjuku night tours 2025 offerings, this experience takes you through Shinjuku's major entertainment districts like Golden Gai, Kabukicho, and Omoide Yokocho with an English-speaking guide.
The highlight of this tour is the karaoke experience at a snack bar. Singing in a place frequented by locals will create special memories. In the cozy atmosphere of a snack bar, you can relax, enjoy songs with companions, and savor local food and drinks, allowing you to deeply connect with Japanese culture.
Come enjoy nighttime Shinjuku alongside local regulars.
Meeting point: Hanazono Shrine
Tour areas: Shinjuku Station・Hanazono Shrine・Shinjuku Golden Gai・Kabukicho・Omoide Yokocho
Start time: 17:30
[By Purpose] Three Unique Tours to Enjoy Shinjuku at Night
Tokyo by Night Photography Tour
If you want to beautifully capture your memories of Shinjuku at night, the "Tokyo by Night Photography Tour" is highly recommended. Looking ahead to 2025, this tour continues to be one of Shinjuku's most popular night tours, taking you to both famous spots and hidden gems around Shinjuku while a professional photographer captures beautiful nightscapes and unique urban landscapes.
The guide, who is also a professional photographer, is well-versed in photogenic locations. This allows you to explore Shinjuku's streets while securing Instagram-worthy photos. During this tour, you can preserve the excitement and memories of your trip in beautiful form.
One of the highlights is receiving professionally edited photos from your tour session at a later date.
This tour is perfect for those who want to enjoy Shinjuku's nighttime beauty while creating unforgettable memories. Preserve your travel memories eternally with specially captured photos from a professional perspective.
Meeting point: Lion Statue (Right in front of the East exit of Shinjuku Station)
Tour areas: Cyberpunk style bar・Local shrine・Kabukicho & Golden Gai・Route A: Shinjuku West side (Business district)/Route B: Shibuya Crossing and streets
Start time: 17:30~
Private Tokyo Night Tour
Source: Tripadvisor
The "Private Tokyo Night Tour" is a luxury driving tour to enjoy Tokyo's night views. With plans extending into 2025, this tour comfortably takes you through Tokyo's most attractive spots in a chauffeured car, including Shinjuku, the upscale Ginza district, the majestic Tokyo Tower, and the colorful Rainbow Bridge.
The greatest appeal of this tour is the ability to fully customize your itinerary in a completely private setting. For example, after enjoying Shinjuku's night views, you can add a photo stop at Tokyo Tower, enjoying Tokyo's nightlife at your own pace. With a chauffeur-driven car, you don't need to worry about nighttime crowds or public transportation.
As this is a popular tour, early reservations are recommended rather than last-minute bookings. Since the tour involves car travel, those prone to motion sickness should bring medication.
This tour is perfect for those who want to experience the magical Tokyo night where city lights and shadows interweave in luxury.
Meeting point: Your hotel, airport, or home
Tour areas: Rainbow Bridge・Ginza・Tokyo Tower・Tokyo Central Railway Station・Daiba・Roppongi District・Omotesando・Shibuya・Shinjuku
Start time: Not specified
Route 15: Shinjuku Night Tour
Source: Go Tokyo
"Route 15: Shinjuku Night Tour" is a free guided tour hosted by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government where you can fully enjoy Shinjuku's nightlife. Looking ahead to Shinjuku night tours 2025, you can experience the area's captivating nighttime scenery, which differs distinctly from its daytime atmosphere, including the bustling Kabukicho and illuminated skyscrapers.
The tour offers two routes. The first is the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Projection Mapping Tour. After exploring Shinjuku's streets, you'll watch a projection mapping display using the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building as its canvas.
The second is the Shinjuku Night Tour. You'll visit Hanazono Shrine, which enshrines deities of prosperity in business and performing arts, followed by a tour through the vibrant Kabukicho district.
Both tours offer experiences that showcase Shinjuku's unique nighttime charm, different from its daytime appeal, promising participants a special experience.
Please note that at least one participant aged 20 or above is required for this tour.
Meeting point: Tokyo Tourist Information Center at Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal
Tour areas: Hanazono Shrine・Kabukicho・West Exit Skyscraper District・Shinjuku Station
Start time: 18:00~
To Fully Enjoy Tokyo, We Recommend Another Entertainment District Tour: "Shibuya"
Shibuya Bar Hopping Night Tour in Tokyo
The "Shibuya Bar Hopping Night Tour in Tokyo" is a night tour where you can explore Shibuya's izakayas with a friendly English-speaking guide.
During this tour, you'll visit three establishments with different atmospheres. Each venue offers various Japanese meat dishes, featuring wagyu, Kobe Beef, and creative meat sushi.
Tour guides provide detailed explanations about each dish's background and food culture, making it easy for first-timers to enjoy Japanese cuisine with confidence. All drinks and meals are included in the tour price, allowing you to relax and enjoy dining without worrying about costs.
Unlike Shinjuku's historic drinking district, Shibuya is characterized by its modern and casual establishments. You'll experience a special night unique to Shibuya, enjoying both sophisticated urban spaces and accessible izakaya culture.
Meeting point: In front of the floor to ceiling windows under SHIBUYA TSUTAYA sign
Tour areas: A bar around Shibuya station・Food Alley in Shibuya (2 bars)・Meat Alley
Start time: 18:00~/19:00~
Shibuya Night Walking Tour
Source: Tokyo Localized
The "Shibuya Night Walking Tour" takes you through Shibuya's iconic spots with a local guide. While the upcoming Shinjuku night tours 2025 will showcase a different side of Tokyo's nightlife, this tour offers its own unique charm.
The highlight of this tour is gaining deep insights into Shibuya's character. Knowledgeable English-speaking guides share Shibuya's history and hidden stories, helping you understand not just the tourist attractions, but also the area's rich culture and narratives. This deeper understanding will enhance your enjoyment of Shibuya. Additionally, you'll have opportunities to take social media-worthy photos at popular spots like the Shibuya Scramble Crossing and Miyashita Park.
While Shinjuku is renowned for its distinctive nightlife and historic drinking districts (which will be extensively featured in the Shinjuku night tours 2025), Shibuya stands out for its modern, casual streetscape deeply rooted in youth culture. This tour allows you to fully experience Shibuya's energetic and contemporary aspects. Come and experience Shibuya's modern and dynamic nightlife with a local guide.
Meeting point: SABON Shibuya Mark City 3rd Floor
Tour areas: Shibuya Crossing, Center-Gai, Nonbei Yoko-Cho, Hachi-ko, Spain Zaka (Hill), Myth of Tomorrow
Start time: 19:00
