Exploring Shinjuku: A Comprehensive Guide to Tokyo's Dynamic Heart
As someone born and raised in Tokyo, I'll share the allure of Shinjuku with you, our foreign visitors.
Shinjuku is a place that can be called the heart of Tokyo. The unique landscape woven by high-rise buildings, large department stores, and distinctive restaurants centered around Shinjuku Station, which boasts the world's largest number of passengers, is truly a microcosm of Tokyo.
However, to be honest, Shinjuku might be a bit challenging for foreign tourists. You may find yourself confused by the complex station structure, language barriers, and precautions in the nightlife district. But this complexity of Shinjuku is also part of its charm.
In this article, as a Tokyo resident, I'll teach you the charms of Shinjuku along with tips for sightseeing. From the sophisticated high-rise district to the alleys that retain an old atmosphere. From gourmet food to shopping, nightlife, and popular spots in the surrounding area. I'll introduce you to the diverse faces of Shinjuku, so please read on to the end!
Table of Contents
・What Kind of Area is Shinjuku?
・Shinjuku Zone Map
・4 Things to Do in Shinjuku
・Guided Tours to Fully Enjoy Shinjuku's Charm
・Areas to Visit Along with Shinjuku
What Kind of Area is Shinjuku?
Shinjuku is a massive commercial, administrative, and entertainment center located in the heart of Tokyo. Since I was a child, I've always had the image of Shinjuku as an "adult's town." The sight of high-rise buildings standing side by side and people bustling about symbolizes the economic center of Japan.
The area spreads out widely around Shinjuku Station, which boasts the world's largest number of passengers. As soon as you step out of the station, you're greeted by clusters of skyscrapers and large department stores. On the other hand, if you walk a bit further, you'll find areas lined with unique restaurants, allowing you to feel the diversity of Shinjuku.
Notably, there are areas with distinctive cultures such as Kabukicho and Shinjuku Ni-chome. These areas are valuable spots where you can experience Japan's night culture.
However, Shinjuku is not just about urban hustle and bustle. There are also lush green parks scattered around, such as Shinjuku Gyoen. These places are loved by many as oases in the city.
Shinjuku is a town that can be called a microcosm of Tokyo. Business, shopping, entertainment, and even nature - all elements are condensed here. Just by walking through this town, you can experience the essence of Tokyo's modern culture.
Shinjuku Zone Map
Shinjuku spreads out to the east, west, south, and north centered around the station. Each area has its own characteristics, creating a diversity that feels like a collection of small towns.
As a Tokyo local, I freely move between these areas, but it might seem a bit complex for first-time visitors. So, let me introduce you to the characteristics of each area.
East Exit Area
The East Exit area symbolizes the night in Shinjuku. When I was a student, I often came to this area with my friends for nightlife. The neon-lit streetscape is truly a symbol of a "sleepless city."
The center of this area is Kabukicho. Known as Japan's largest entertainment district, it's full of energy 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Many restaurants and entertainment facilities are concentrated here, and at night it's enveloped in a unique atmosphere. However, for first-time visitors, I recommend paying close attention to safety.
Shinjuku Sanchome is an area concentrated with restaurants and bars. The famous "Golden Gai" is also near this area. The unique landscape of small bars lined up in narrow alleys is one of Tokyo's hidden charms.
Shinjuku Ni-chome is famous as an LGBTQ-friendly neighborhood. It's a valuable area where you can see a side of Japan that respects diversity. My foreign friends were also fascinated by the open atmosphere of this area.
The East Exit area symbolizes Shinjuku's "night face." It's an area I'd definitely recommend visiting if you want to enjoy an energetic and diverse atmosphere.
West Exit Area
The West Exit area is the business center of Shinjuku. The office where I work is also in this area. The sight of looking up at the cluster of high-rise buildings every morning on my way to work symbolizes Tokyo's business district.
The symbol of this area is, needless to say, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. The 243-meter-tall skyscraper has become a landmark of Shinjuku. You can enjoy a panoramic view of Tokyo from the free observation deck. On clear days, you can even see Mount Fuji, and I often take my foreign friends here.
The West Exit is also known as an electronics district. Large electronics stores like Yodobashi Camera line up, and many people come here seeking the latest gadgets and home appliances. It's an irresistible spot for tech enthusiasts where you can experience Japan's latest technology.
There's also a drinking alley called "Omoide Yokocho" with a retro Showa-era atmosphere. This is one of my favorite places, and I often drop by after work. The sight of small izakayas lined up in narrow alleys allows you to feel the atmosphere of old Tokyo.
Shinjuku Central Park is popular as an urban oasis. Many office workers visit during lunchtime to refresh.
The West Exit area represents Shinjuku's "daytime face." While being the center of business, it's an area with diverse faces including retro drinking alleys and lush parks. I'd love for you to visit if you want to feel the multifaceted nature of Shinjuku.
South Exit Area
The South Exit area has been attracting attention in recent years as Shinjuku's new face. I too have been surprised by the changes in this area lately.
The center of this area is Busta Shinjuku. This is Japan's largest expressway bus terminal, making access to various parts of the country convenient. As someone who loves to travel, the appearance of this terminal was really exciting for me.
At the New South Exit, a new shopping area including NEWoMan Shinjuku has emerged. Trendy stores including fashion, accessories, and restaurants are gathered here, attracting young people in particular. I often enjoy shopping here on my days off.
North Exit Area
The North Exit area is a place with a particularly international atmosphere in Shinjuku.
Shin-Okubo is famous as Koreatown. Korean restaurants, Korean cosmetics shops, and stores dealing with K-pop goods line the streets, making you feel as if you're walking in a Korean town.
I love Korean food too, and often come here to eat. Not only can you enjoy authentic tastes, but you can also feel the latest Korean trends firsthand, which is part of its charm.
The Okubo area has an even more multicultural atmosphere. Various ethnic restaurants from different countries line up, allowing you to enjoy tastes from around the world.
4 Things to Do in Shinjuku
Shinjuku is a town with diverse charms, but for first-time visitors, it might be difficult to know where to start. So, as a local, I'll introduce you to 4 things you absolutely must do in Shinjuku that I confidently recommend.
Sightseeing
Shinjuku has many tourist spots that represent Tokyo. Here, I'll introduce you to the tourist spots I especially recommend.
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observation Deck
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observation Deck is a must-visit spot in Shinjuku.
Its greatest charm is, of course, the panoramic view. You can overlook the cityscape of Tokyo from a height of over 200 meters above ground. On clear days, you can even see as far as Mount Fuji.
I always bring my friends from overseas here. I think it's the best spot to realize the vastness and beauty of Tokyo.
The night view is also exceptional. The lit-up Tokyo cityscape is a must-see. If you visit with your partner, you're sure to enjoy a romantic atmosphere.
What's even better is that admission is free. It's a big attraction that you can casually drop by without worrying about your budget.
Website: https://www.yokoso.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/en/tenbou/index.html
Shinjuku Gyoen
Shinjuku Gyoen is a special place for me. It's a memorable place where I've been coming since I was a child for family picnics, and even now, it's an important oasis I visit to refresh between work.
The greatest charm of this place is, without a doubt, its natural beauty throughout the four seasons. In spring, numerous cherry blossoms bloom, and in autumn, the entire park is colored with autumn leaves.
Within the park, there are gardens of different styles coexisting - Japanese garden, French formal garden, and English landscape garden.
I recommend Shinjuku Gyoen as a precious place where you can enjoy a quiet and calm atmosphere despite being in the hustle and bustle of Shinjuku.
Website: https://fng.or.jp/shinjuku/en/
Kabukicho
Kabukicho is one of the places that represent the "night face" of Shinjuku. When I was younger, I often came here with my friends for nightlife. Even now, I sometimes visit to enjoy this unique atmosphere.
The greatest charm of Kabukicho is its unique vibrancy and energy. The neon-lit streetscape is truly the epitome of a "sleepless city." It's bustling with people 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The atmosphere intensifies especially at night.
The landmark of this area is the giant Godzilla head. It's installed on the roof of the Shinjuku Toho Building. When I first saw it, I was overwhelmed by its impact.
Kabukicho is concentrated with a variety of restaurants and entertainment facilities. You can enjoy all kinds of entertainment, from izakayas, bars, clubs, karaoke, to movie theaters.
However, for first-time visitors, I recommend paying close attention to safety. Especially at night, try to move around with someone as much as possible. Also, never respond to suspicious solicitations.
For those who want to know more about Kabukicho, please check out the Kabukicho Guide.
Hanazono Shrine
Hanazono Shrine is a very quiet space despite being right next to Kabukicho.
This shrine is famous as the god of prosperous business. Therefore, many people working in Shinjuku come to pray.
The charm of Hanazono Shrine lies in its calm atmosphere. Just a few minutes walk from the hustle and bustle of Kabukicho, you're enveloped in a quietness as if you've come to a different world. The grounds surrounded by dense trees are the perfect place to calm your mind.
Website: http://hanazono-jinja.or.jp/
Shopping
Shinjuku is one of Tokyo's premier shopping areas. From luxury brands to the latest fast fashion and unique specialty stores, shops of all genres are gathered here.
I often enjoy shopping in Shinjuku on my days off too. Here, I'll introduce you to my favorite shopping spots.
Isetan Shinjuku Store
Isetan Shinjuku Store is a high-end department store representing Shinjuku. For me, this is an indispensable place for shopping on special days or choosing gifts for important people.
The charm of Isetan lies in the abundance and high quality of its product lineup. From the latest fashion items to luxury brand goods and traditional Japanese crafts, it offers a wide range of products.
Especially the fashion floors feature items at the forefront of Japanese trends, which is fun just to look at.
Among them, what I particularly like is the food floor. Here, you can find high-quality ingredients selected from all over Japan, side dishes supervised by famous chefs, and beautifully delicate Japanese sweets - there's so much delicious-looking food that it's dizzying.
The tax-free counter for foreign tourists is also well-equipped. With support for many languages, it's reassuring even when guiding friends from overseas.
Website: https://www.mistore.jp.e.az.hp.transer.com/store/shinjuku.html
Shinjuku Subnade
Shinjuku Subnade is a huge underground shopping mall spread beneath the east exit of Shinjuku Station. For me, this is my favorite shopping spot on rainy days.
The greatest charm of Subnade lies in its convenience. Directly connected to Shinjuku Station, you can enjoy shopping regardless of the weather. It's really nice to be able to shop comfortably even during the rainy season or on hot summer days.
Subnade has about 100 stores lined up. The genres are diverse, including fashion, accessories, and restaurants.
The restaurants in Subnade are also attractive. I'm happy that there's a wide variety of options, from Japanese to Western and ethnic cuisines, that I can choose based on my mood of the day.
Another feature of Subnade is its maze-like structure. First-time visitors might be a bit confused, but I like this complex structure. It's also fun to discover unexpected shops or find new shortcuts as you walk around.
Website: https://www.subnade.co.jp/
Bic Camera Shinjuku East Exit Store
Source: Google Map by Bic Camera
Bic Camera Shinjuku East Exit Store is a place that's irresistible for electronics and camera enthusiasts, and for those who love Japanese gadgets. When I want a new gadget, I always come here first.
The greatest charm of this store is its overwhelming product lineup. From the latest home appliances to cameras, smartphones, computers, and even uniquely Japanese convenient goods, all kinds of electronic devices are available. The camera corner is especially well-stocked, with a wide range of options from professional high-end models to products for beginners.
Bic Camera is also very friendly to foreign tourists. There are staff who can speak multiple languages, so you don't need to worry about language barriers. My foreign friends have also highly praised their shopping experience here.
Website: https://www.biccamera.com/bc/i/shop/shoplist/shop116.jsp
Don Quijote
Source: Google Map by Red October65
Don Quijote, commonly known as "Donki," is an iconic presence in Shinjuku's night shopping scene. For me, it's a strong ally for late-night shopping or when I've forgotten to buy something urgent.
The biggest feature of Donki is its 24-hour operation. The convenience of being able to shop anytime is very appreciated by people who lead night-oriented lives or tourists who need to make sudden purchases. I often stop by on my way home from work to buy necessary items.
Also, the wide range of products at Donki is surprising. From daily necessities to food, cosmetics, electronics, and even rare items, they really have everything. The souvenir corner for foreign tourists is especially well-stocked, with many unique Japanese products lined up. I often use this place to choose souvenirs for my overseas friends.
The interior of the store is a bit chaotic, but that's what creates the fun of finding unexpected bargains.
Website: https://www.donki.com/store/shop_detail.php?shop_id=29
Gourmet
Shinjuku is one of Tokyo's premier gourmet spots. From high-end restaurants to casual izakayas, eateries of all genres are gathered here.
Shinjuku Takashimaya Times Square Restaurant Street
Source: Google Map by YUJI YAMASHITA
The restaurant street in Shinjuku Takashimaya Times Square is one of the places representing Shinjuku's gourmet scene.
The greatest charm of this restaurant street is its diversity. Restaurants of truly wide-ranging genres are gathered here, including Japanese, Western, Chinese, and ethnic cuisines. People with any preference should be able to find a satisfying restaurant. I always enjoy choosing a restaurant based on my mood and who I'm with.
Also, the restaurants here are known for their high quality. There are many reliable stores including popular nationwide chains. I
Furthermore, a feature is that there are many family-friendly stores. There's an atmosphere where you can comfortably enjoy a meal even with children, making it perfect for family dining.
Website: https://global.restaurants-park.jp/en/
Shin-Okubo Koreatown
Shin-Okubo's Koreatown is a special place that brings an exotic flavor to Shinjuku's gourmet scene. For me, this is a favorite spot where I can feel like I'm on a trip to Korea.
The greatest charm of this area is that you can enjoy authentic Korean cuisine. Korean staples like bibimbap, jijimi, and samgyeopsal are lined up.
There are also many Korean-style cafes where you can enjoy trendy sweets. In particular, Instagram-worthy Korean-style shaved ice is very popular, especially among young women.
The charm of Shin-Okubo's Koreatown isn't just that you can enjoy Korean food. As you walk here, you can experience an atmosphere as if you're strolling through a Korean street. You can experience Korean culture with all five senses, including Korean signs, K-pop music, and Korean cosmetics shops.
For those who want to know more about this area, please check out the Shin Okubo Guide.
Nightlife
The night in Shinjuku represents the night face of Tokyo. There are various ways to enjoy the night, from lively entertainment districts to quiet bars. I often have a drink in Shinjuku after work, and I find it enjoyable with new discoveries every time. Here, I'll introduce you to the nightlife spots in Shinjuku that I recommend.
For more about Shinjuku's nightlife, please also check out the Shinjuku Nightlife Guide.
Omoide Yokocho
Omoide Yokocho is a drinking alley with a retro atmosphere located under the railway tracks at Shinjuku Station's West Exit. For me, this is the perfect place to grab a quick drink after work.
The greatest charm of this place is its retro atmosphere. The sight of small izakayas and yakitori shops lining up in narrow alleys is impressive. You can experience the atmosphere of old downtown Tokyo, which has become rare in modern Tokyo.
There's also a variety of shops, offering Tokyo's popular drinking snacks like yakitori, oden, ramen, and motsuyaki.
Another charm of Omoide Yokocho is how easy it is to do "bar hopping." Because the shops are close to each other, you can visit multiple shops and enjoy various dishes and drinks. When I come with friends, we always enjoy hopping between several shops.
The price range is also relatively reasonable, making it easy to casually drop by. However, some shops only accept cash, so I recommend preparing cash in advance.
Golden Gai
Golden Gai is one of the places that represent the night face of Shinjuku.
The greatest charm of this place is its unique atmosphere. The sight of over 200 small bars lined up like a maze can be said to be a symbol of Shinjuku's night. It's fun enough just to walk around and look at the unique exteriors and signs of each shop.
The history of Golden Gai is also part of its charm. This place, which has continued since after the war, was once frequented by many cultural figures and artists.
In recent years, the number of foreign tourists has increased, and you can enjoy an internationally diverse atmosphere. When you visit Shinjuku, I highly recommend spending a local night in Golden Gai.
For those who want to know more about this street, please check out the Golden Gai Guide.
Website: http://goldengai.jp/
Gay Bars in Shinjuku Ni-chome
Shinjuku Ni-chome is known as Tokyo's premier LGBTQ-friendly neighborhood. Although I'm not gay myself, I love the accepting atmosphere of this area and often visit.
The greatest charm of this area is its open and accepting atmosphere. Here, everyone can be themselves. The sight of people interacting happily regardless of gender or sexual orientation is truly heartwarming.
The gay bars in Shinjuku Ni-chome are famous for their diversity and unique atmospheres. There are various types of bars, from glittering disco-style places to bars with a calm adult atmosphere.
However, remember to be discreet with photography and respect other customers' privacy. Above all, it's important to enjoy with an open mind and without prejudice.
For those who want to know more about this gay town, please check out the Shinjuku 2-chome Guide.
Karaoke Shops at Shinjuku Station East Exit
Around Shinjuku Station's East Exit, there are numerous karaoke shops lined up. Among them, popular chain stores that operate 24 hours a day, such as "Manekineko," have become standard spots for enjoying Shinjuku's nightlife. I often end up here with friends when we're out for a night on the town.
Karaoke is one of Japan's unique cultures and an indispensable entertainment for many Japanese people. The charm of karaoke shops in Shinjuku lies in their well-equipped facilities.
With the latest soundproofing equipment, you can sing your heart out without worrying about those around you. The song lineup is also extensive, allowing you to enjoy songs from all genres, from J-pop to Western music and anime songs.
All-you-can-drink courses are also popular. It's charming that you can sing, drink, and get carried away with friends, forgetting about time. I sometimes drop by with colleagues after work, and we always have a great time.
Also, many shops have machines that support English, so even foreigners who don't understand Japanese can enjoy themselves without worry. In fact, my friends from overseas were very excited about Japanese karaoke culture.
Guided Tours to Fully Enjoy Shinjuku's Charm
Shinjuku is known as the center of Tokyo. While it's generally safe during the day, there are some dangerous spots at night, so if you want to enjoy it more deeply and safely, I recommend a guided night tour.
Here, I'll introduce three tours where you can fully experience the charm of Shinjuku at night.
Experience Shinjuku's Food and Drink Culture: Magical Trip's "Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku"
For those who want to experience Shinjuku's diverse food and drink culture, the "Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku" offered by Magical Trip is perfect. This tour takes you to hidden gem restaurants in Shinjuku over 3.5 hours.
The feature of this tour is that you can deeply experience Shinjuku's unique izakaya culture by visiting three bars with a local guide. You can enjoy authentic Japanese izakaya dishes like yakitori, gyoza, and fried tofu, as well as drinks like sake and beer, all in an all-inclusive package.
The bustling streets of Shinjuku might seem a bit intimidating for first-time visitors, but with this tour, you can safely enjoy Shinjuku's nightlife. I recommend this tour for those interested in Japanese drinking culture and those who want to enjoy delicious food and drinks.
Click here for more details: Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku
Stroll Through Shinjuku's Cityscape: Tokyo Localized's "Shinjuku Night Free Walking Tour"
Source: Tokyo Localized
For those who want to leisurely enjoy Shinjuku's cityscape and atmosphere, I recommend the "Shinjuku Night Free Walking Tour" offered by Tokyo Localized. This is a night walking tour that covers the main spots of Shinjuku in two hours.
You can visit famous spots in Shinjuku such as Kabukicho, Godzilla Road, and Golden Gai, discovering the charm of the city while listening to explanations from an English-speaking guide.
It's a tip-based tour with small groups, making it easy to ask questions and receive detailed guidance. After the tour, you can freely spend time in Golden Gai, fully enjoying Shinjuku at night.
Food and drink costs are not included, so it's especially recommended for those who want to enjoy the city atmosphere rather than drinking.
Click here for more details: Shinjuku Night Free Walking Tour
All-Ages Food Tour: Magical Trip's "Tokyo Night Foodie Tour in Shinjuku"
For those who want to indulge in Shinjuku's gourmet offerings, I recommend this 3.5-hour foodie tour. You can deeply experience Japanese food culture by visiting three carefully selected restaurants in Shinjuku.
The tour includes seasonal omakase nigiri sushi by skilled sushi chefs, a Japanese-style barbecue experience at a wagyu beef restaurant, and concludes with a stroll through Kabukicho and dessert/drinks.
While you can enjoy alcohol, it's suitable for all ages, so there's no problem if you have non-drinking companions.
Click here for more details: Tokyo Night Foodie Tour in Shinjuku
By using these tours, you can fully enjoy the diverse charms of Shinjuku at night.
I recommend the "Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour" for those who want to enjoy drinks and meals, the "Shinjuku Night Free Walking Tour" for those who want to leisurely enjoy the city atmosphere, and the "Tokyo Night Foodie Tour" for those who want to widely enjoy Shinjuku's gourmet offerings or experience Japanese culture more deeply through food.
Areas to Visit Along with Shinjuku
While Shinjuku is the center of Tokyo, there are many attractive areas around it as well. By visiting these areas along with Shinjuku, you can experience the diverse charms of Tokyo more deeply. Here, I'll introduce four areas that I especially recommend.
Shibuya
Shibuya is a town with a completely different atmosphere, despite being only about 7 minutes from Shinjuku on the JR Yamanote Line. For me, Shibuya is a special place where I can feel the cutting edge of youth culture.
Speaking of Shibuya's symbol, it's undoubtedly the Scramble Crossing. The sight of thousands of people crossing at once symbolizes the energy of Tokyo. Just crossing this intersection allows you to feel the vibrancy of the big city Tokyo firsthand.
Shibuya is also known as a town at the forefront of fashion. There are many trendy shopping spots like 109. It's particularly rich in fashion for young women, allowing you to feel the latest trends firsthand.
Also, Shibuya is famous as a nightlife spot alongside Shinjuku. For more details, please check out the Shibuya Nightlife Guide.
If you extend your feet a bit from Shibuya, you can easily access Harajuku and Omotesando. Harajuku is the center of pop culture, while Omotesando is a sophisticated street where high-end brands gather. By visiting these areas together, you can experience the diverse faces of Tokyo at once.
Ikebukuro
Ikebukuro is another large entertainment district about 5 minutes by train from Shinjuku. For me, Ikebukuro holds a special place as a town of entertainment and diversity.
The greatest charm of Ikebukuro is probably Sunshine City. This large complex facility includes an aquarium, an observation deck, and many shops and restaurants.
In particular, the "Sunshine Aquarium," famous as a sky aquarium, is a must-see. The unique atmosphere of an aquarium in the middle of a high-rise building in the city fascinates many people. I visit occasionally too, and it always relaxes me.
Also, Ikebukuro is famous for its "Otome Road," a street of anime shops. Here, specialty stores for anime, manga, and games line up. It's like heaven for anime fans, where you can feel Japanese pop culture firsthand.
Another characteristic of Ikebukuro is its diversity. It's particularly rich in Asian cuisine, especially Chinese cuisine. You can enjoy various Asian cuisines, from authentic Chinese cuisine to Taiwanese and Korean cuisine.
Around Tokyo Station
The area around Tokyo Station can be called the heart of Tokyo, the capital of Japan. It's accessible in about 15 minutes by train from Shinjuku. For me, the area around Tokyo Station is a special place where Japan's history and modernity intersect.
First, Tokyo Station itself is a must-see tourist spot. This historical red brick building has over 100 years of history and welcomed us with an even more beautiful appearance after completing a major preservation and restoration project in 2012. The sight of Tokyo Station lit up at night is particularly beautiful and fascinates many people.
Walking from Tokyo Station towards the Imperial Palace, you'll arrive at the Imperial Palace, which is the site of Edo Castle. In the Imperial Palace East Gardens, you can feel the remnants of the Edo period with vast green spaces, moats, and stone walls.
On the other hand, the Marunouchi area spreading on the opposite side of Tokyo Station is an office district where modern high-rise buildings stand in a row. This area, where the headquarters of Japan's leading companies are concentrated, can be said to be the center of the Japanese economy. It's bustling with businesspeople during the day, and at night, the lit-up buildings create a beautiful night view.
Furthermore, if you walk a bit from Tokyo Station, you'll arrive at Ginza, famous as a high-end shopping district. Ginza, where flagship stores of world-class luxury brands and long-established department stores line up, is a place where you can feel the sophisticated side of Tokyo. I often use it for shopping on special days or entertaining friends from overseas.
I absolutely recommend this area for those who want to feel the essence of Tokyo, the capital of Japan. When you visit Shinjuku, please make sure to extend your feet to the area around Tokyo Station as well.
Ueno
Ueno is an attractive area where culture and nature are in harmony, accessible in about 20 minutes by train from Shinjuku. For me, Ueno is a place full of memories that I've been familiar with since childhood, and it's still a favorite place I visit frequently.
The greatest charm of Ueno is undoubtedly Ueno Park. This vast park is home to a concentration of museums and art galleries. It houses Japan's leading cultural facilities such as the Tokyo National Museum, Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, and National Museum of Western Art. I sometimes visit these museums to enrich my mind.
Especially in spring during the cherry blossom season, the entire Ueno Park is dyed in cherry blossom colors, and the sight of many people enjoying hanami (cherry blossom viewing) is spectacular.
Ueno Zoo, located within Ueno Park, is also a popular spot. The giant pandas, in particular, fascinate many people. I was often taken here by my parents when I was a child, and even now I sometimes visit to look at the animals and return to my childhood mind.
The charm of Ueno doesn't end here. The "Ameyoko" or Ameyayokocho Shopping Street spreading around the station is also not to be missed. This shopping street developed from a black market after the war and is still full of energy. The sight of all kinds of food, clothing, and sundries crammed together, with energetic calls flying about, is truly the atmosphere of downtown Tokyo.
Also, if you extend your feet a little from Ueno, you can easily access the Asakusa area. There are many spots where you can experience Tokyo's traditional culture, such as Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise Street. This is a particularly popular area among foreign tourists.
I recommend Ueno and Asakusa as areas where you can feel more of the downtown atmosphere compared to Shinjuku.
Shinjuku is truly a microcosm of Tokyo. It's a place where all elements are condensed, from business districts with clusters of high-rise buildings, entertainment districts lined with diverse restaurants, to lush green parks. Even for locals like me, it's an attractive town with constant new discoveries.
In this article, I've introduced you to the diverse charms of Shinjuku, including its main areas, tourist spots, shopping, gourmet food, and nightlife.
From the panoramic view from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building's observation deck, the changing seasons in Shinjuku Gyoen, the vibrant night view of Kabukicho, to experiencing the atmosphere of old Tokyo in Omoide Yokocho and Golden Gai. All of these are concentrated in the single town of Shinjuku.
Please use this article as a guide to fully enjoy your Shinjuku sightseeing!
