If asked to name just one central area of Tokyo, many Japanese would answer "Shinjuku."
With Shinjuku Station boasting the world's highest number of passengers, large-scale office building complexes, and Kabukicho, known as the largest entertainment district in the East, Shinjuku is packed with people 24 hours a day, both day and night.
That's why, when I introduce Tokyo's nightlife to you, Shinjuku is one of the places I want to thoroughly showcase, along with Shibuya.
When I was younger, I often drank near Shinjuku Station and in Kabukicho, and as I grew older, I started visiting Golden Gai, which is more of an adult playground.
I don't go to Shinjuku Ni-chome much, where there are many gay bars, but when you drink in Shinjuku, you naturally become friends with diverse people.
As a born-and-bred Tokyo local who knows every nook and cranny of Shinjuku, I'll share with you the allure of Shinjuku's nightlife.
Shinjuku has many faces, from the flashy Kabukicho to Omoide Yokocho and Golden Gai, which retain an old-fashioned atmosphere. There are also many shopping spots for miscellaneous goods and cosmetics, as well as karaoke shops.
This article, originally written in 2018, has been read by many people. However, as Shinjuku is a constantly changing area, and due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, I am rewriting this article in 2024.
I'll introduce you to the tips for maximizing your enjoyment of Shinjuku's nightlife from my unique perspective as a local. You'll be able to experience the true charm of Shinjuku that you can't taste by just sightseeing.
After reading this article, you'll be able to enjoy Shinjuku's nightlife as if you were being guided by a local friend!
Table of Contents
・Magical Trip's Handpicked Authentic Nightlife Attractions in Shinjuku
・Omoide Yokocho: A Must-Visit Nightlife Spot in Shinjuku
・Kabukicho Nightlife
・Bar Hopping Nightlife Heaven at Golden Gai
・Shinjuku Station · Shinjuku Nishiguchi (West Exit)
・Shinjuku 3-chome
・Tokyo's Biggest Gay Bar District: Shinjuku 2-Chome
・Tips for Safely Enjoying Shinjuku's Nightlife
・Tours to Fully Enjoy Shinjuku's Nightlife
Magical Trip's Handpicked Authentic Nightlife Attractions in Shinjuku
First, let's explore an overview of this area from a Tokyo local's perspective!
What to Do and See in Shinjuku at Night
The Shinjuku area is one of Tokyo's secondary cities like Shibuya and Ikebukuro, and its huge downtown area started about 100 years ago. You can experience the good old days at Omoide Yokocho where you find the oldest drinking street in Shinjuku, and the delicious aroma of yakitori catches your attention.
Shinjuku was originally developed as a post-town, and it prospered as a terminal station as the traffic system developed. Shinjuku then became the center of commercial business and culture.
The number of theaters, cinemas, and cafes started to increase in Kabukicho around 60 years ago, and now there are a variety of eateries such as yakitori shops, yakiniku stores, yakiniku restaurants, Japanese-style pubs, soba, sushi, and more.
Eateries in Shinjuku have a wide range of stores from full-fledged Japanese cuisine to budget-friendly shops where you can eat and drink for less than 1000 yen, so you can enjoy according to your budget. It is okay to visit a place for only drinking or eating, it is ideal for bar hopping.
There are various ways to have fun at night in Shinjuku. If you visit Japan with your friends, I hope you enjoy interacting with local Japanese people as well. Although many Japanese are not able to communicate in English, you will be able to enjoy night clubs even if you don't understand Japanese.
If you visit Japan with your partner, there are wonderful night view spots in Shinjuku, and Shinjuku is so interesting that you can enjoy nightlife with your family.
Areas to Maximize Your Enjoyment of Shinjuku's Nightlife
Shinjuku has various faces, and you can enjoy different attractions in each area. As a local, I'll introduce you to the characteristics and ways to enjoy each area.
Kabukicho Area
In the "Kabukicho" area, you can find nearly everything Tokyo has to offer in one place, with a multitude of taverns with different concepts, serving gourmet food and sake from all over Japan.
There also are nightclubs and night shows you can enjoy. Kabukicho is also known as a place where lots of cabaret clubs and host clubs are located. It will give you a great experience as it is a unique culture in Japan.
Golden Gai
Golden Gai (street) would be your destination if you want to experience good old Japanese culture. It retains the old Japanese eatery style where yakitori shops, Japanese restaurants, and bars are packed in a small space.
However, Golden Gai is a pretty intricate place, so our "Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku" would be a good way to experience this place. Enjoy bar hopping with a guide, you can expect to interact with locals.
Click here for more details: Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku
Around Shinjuku Station
Around Shinjuku Station, there's a retro-atmosphere drinking district called "Omoide Yokocho," where you can enjoy cheap and delicious food and drinks in a down-to-earth atmosphere. There are also many large shopping malls and department stores such as Lumine Shinjuku and Odakyu Department Store, where you can enjoy shopping.
I recommend exploring Shinjuku Station itself, known as the station with the highest number of users in the world. There are various restaurants and souvenir shops inside the station, and you can enjoy yourself without noticing the time. I often stop by on my way home from work.
Shinjuku Ni-chome Area
If you want to enjoy drinking until late at night, the "Shinjuku 2-chome" area would be an ideal place. One of the leading gay towns in Japan, and lots of unique shops welcome new guests warmly.
Shinjuku South Exit Area
While not directly related to nightlife, the "Shinjuku South Exit" area was recently renewed. If you travel by bus all over Japan, Busta Shinjuku (Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal) is convenient.
A tourist information office and Wi-Fi are also available there, so it would be good to visit if you run into trouble while traveling.
Shinjuku Station West Exit Area
The "Shinjuku Station West Exit" area is an office district, so skyscrapers stand side by side, and there are many business hotels such as foreign-affiliated hotels and Japanese-style luxury hotels.
Shinjuku is a lively area, but you can enjoy a quiet hotel stay in Nishi-Shinjuku (West Shinjuku). Also, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Office, which is also a symbol of Nishi-Shinjuku, has an observatory, so you can enjoy the night view allowing you to see all around the Tokyo area!
Access to Shinjuku Area
Access to Shinjuku is 1 hour 20 minutes by Narita Express bound to Shinjuku from Narita International Airport, and 2 hours ride by limousine bus.
It takes about 40 minutes by train from Haneda Airport and about 40 minutes by limousine bus. From Tokyo Station, it takes 15 - 20 minutes by JR Chuo Line or Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line.
Shinjuku vs Shibuya?
While both Shinjuku and Shibuya are representative downtown areas of Tokyo, they each have different attractions. Shibuya is known as a youth-oriented area, attracting many people in their late teens to twenties. It centers around clubs and live houses, where you can enjoy the latest music and DJ culture.
On the other hand, Shinjuku has a more adult-oriented atmosphere, with a tendency to attract salarymen and people in their 30s and above. Especially around Kabukicho, the unique nightlife culture of Tokyo, such as cabaret clubs and host clubs, remains strongly present. Also, Shinjuku has Ni-chome, a gay town, which serves as a hub for the LGBTQ community.
While there are LGBTQ-friendly facilities in Shibuya as well, they are not as concentrated as in Shinjuku. However, an atmosphere that respects the diversity of young people is spreading throughout Shibuya.
From my experience, I feel that Shinjuku is more diverse than Shibuya. With a wider age range and various types of drinking establishments and entertainment facilities, I think it's an area where more people can enjoy themselves.
On the other hand, Shibuya is perfect for those who want to experience the cutting edge of youth culture. Both are attractive areas, but choose according to your preferences and purposes.
Related Article
・Shibuya Nightlife Guide 2024 - What to Do at Night in Tokyo's Trendy Neighborhood w/ Map
・Tokyo Nightlife Dictionary - Top 8 what to do at night w/map
Omoide Yokocho: A Must-Visit Nightlife Spot in Shinjuku
Shinjuku Omoide (memory) Yokocho (alley) is a drinking street located between JR Shinjuku Station and Seibu Shinjuku Station. Various shops such as Yakitori shops, Oden (Assorted Japanese stew) shops, and motsuyaki (roast giblets) shops are all lined up tightly together and it has become popular with foreign tourists recently.
Omoide Yokocho has a long history which was originally a black market 70 years ago, after the end of World War II. Even now the construction of the shops separated by a single door plate remains, and the warm light of the red lantern and the signboard of the store shines at night.
You will see photogenic scenery here and there with smiling faces of people who drink happily. Go to Omoide Yokocho to experience real Japanese culture.
What to Do in Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho: Bar Hopping in a Famous Area
At Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho, bar hopping is recommended rather than staying at one place. For example, go to an izakaya or diner where you can eat a variety of different Japanese cuisine to fill your stomach and move to a 2nd and 3rd place to enjoy mainly drinking whilst snacking on yakitori and oden.
Each store at Omoide Yokocho is very small and narrow but cozy, so you will be able to get along well with the people you meet for the first time. You can ask staff and other customers about where is best to go next, or even join in drinking with them!
Kabukicho Nightlife
Kabukicho is Japan's leading entertainment district. As you leave the Shinjuku east exit and turn left on Yasukuni Street, you will see the entrance to Kabukicho on the left side. It is always overflowing with people, and on the main street there is a big red gate with "Kabukicho Ichibangai (first street in Kabukicho) written on it.
In the evening it changes to a lively night city where neon lights shine. Although it is a relatively safe place if you stay on the main street, it is better not to proceed to a street where there are no people. Con games are prohibited, so if you are called out by a store, carefully decline it.
What to Do in Kabuki-cho: First Things to Do in Kabuki-cho When You Plan on a Night in Shinjuku
You can enjoy Japanese foods as well as gourmet food from around the world at taverns and bars in Kabukicho. If you enjoy the nightlife of Tokyo, go to Kabukicho first where you can enjoy nightclubs and live houses as well as shot bars where you can expect to interact with local Japanese people. Shinjuku is also famous as an adult night city with places such as cabaret clubs and host clubs.
Meet Godzilla!? and Do Quirky Souvenir Shopping at Don Quijote!
Source: Google Map by Shibusan
As you might have noticed in the above photo, Shinjuku is the current home of one of Japan's most famous movie stars: the mighty Godzilla!
You'll find him overlooking the Kabukicho area from behind the Toho Cinema building making for a great Instagram shot! Nearby you'll also find a huge Don Quijote store where you can find a plethora of uniquely Japanese goodies and souvenir-worthy products for family and friends back home.
Bar Hopping Nightlife Heaven at Golden Gai
Golden Gai is perhaps one of the most unique gatherings of small quirky bars you'll find not only in Japan, but maybe even the rest of the world.
Unlike the rest of the neon metropolis that is Shinjuku, this little area just off of Kabukicho (the quickest way to get there is to cut through the red light district!) is one of the rare places that has kept its postwar vibe and architecture.
While there are over 200 bars here squeezed together, most of the bars will only seat up to 8 people maximum, so keep your group tight.
Each bar has its own theme and decor and you'll find that the bar on the first floor and the one on the second (accessible via tiny narrow stairs) will be completely different in atmosphere and what they have to offer.
How to Navigate the Intricate Alleys and Countless Miniature Bars of Shinjuku's Golden Gai!
First of all let’s go over the basics of Golden Gai.
- Most of the bars here won’t open until 8:00~9:00pm
- While some bars welcome foreign patrons with a warm heart and open arms, some do not
- Some bars will require you to be a member in order to enter
- Bar hopping is the best way to enjoy Golden Gai
- Some bars will require an entry/cover charge that is usually stated clearly on the door/sign outside
Now, for some more detail. In regard to number 1, yes, Golden Gai probably isn’t the best place to start a night, perhaps get something to eat first before venturing into this magical wonderland of tiny but cozy bars.
As for number 2, as backwards as this may sound, it’s nothing to worry about as there are plenty of bars that will welcome you with smile and be happy to have a laugh and a drink with you. The bars you should probably avoid are the ones with closed doors, no windows, and the ones that have “No foreigners” written on them, as crazy as that sounds.
However, if you see a welcoming atmosphere, open doors, good music and a smile and a nod from the bar-tender, you’re in for a good time! Also look out for places that have English menus/signs!
Like number 2, these “members only” bars are best avoided, as they tend to only want locals who will spend the whole night there.
Number 4, Golden Gai has so much choice that it would be a waste to only visit one bar! First take a walk around the 6 or so lines/alleys of bars the area has to offer and pick the first 3 that catch your attention the most, then simply hop between each to keep the night rolling!
As mentioned in number 5, some of the bars will require an entry/cover charge on top of the individual drinks etc that you buy. Each bar usually states this cover charge cost on it’s door or sign outside, so make sure you check before you enter!
Shinjuku Station · Shinjuku Nishiguchi (West Exit)
Shinjuku station is the center of Tokyo tourism. There is the JR train, Private Railways, Metro subway and Bus Terminal to regional cities, and the Guinness Book certified that the number of users at Shinjuku Station is the top in the world.
A Limousine bus is available between Shinjuku Nishiguchi and Haneda/ Narita International Airport. It also has convenient access to sightseeing spots such as Shibuya and Asakusa, and Shinjuku is located as a hub station for Tokyo sightseeing.
The Shinjuku Nishiguchi area is an office town, so it would be interesting to feel a different atmosphere from the bustle of Shinjuku Higashiguchi (East Exit) area.
What to Do in Shinjuku Station · Shinjuku Nishiguchi (West Exit): Enjoy the Night Stays and Views at a Hotel in Shinjuku
There are large fashion buildings and department stores at Shinjuku station such as Lumine, Odakyu Department Store, Takashimaya department store, and you can purchase Japanese trends, "cute" clothes, general goods, and cosmetics as well as brand name items.
The Shinjuku Nishiguchi area is one of Japan's leading office streets with skyscrapers. There are foreign capital hotels such as Hilton Tokyo, Park Hyatt Tokyo, and established Japanese hotels like Keio Plaza Hotel, Tokyu Stay Shinjuku and you can enjoy beautiful night views from restaurants and bars in these hotels.
Related Article
・Top 5 Night Views in Shinjuku (w/Photos)
Shinjuku 3-chome
Shinjuku 3-chome is located around Shinjuku station east exit area. The area is located next to Kabukicho, but this area consists of lots of department stores and the surrounding streets become a car-free zone on holidays.
Also, there are many cafés with various concepts, so it is a fun area to walk around. Karaoke shops and 24-hour stores are also located here, so you can enjoy until the morning even if you miss the train to return to your hotel. It is a fun area day and night.
Related Article
・Karaoke 47 ｜Nishi Shinjuku – The Best Selection of Karaoke in Shinjuku (w/Photos)
What to Do in Shinjuku 3-chome: Souvenir Shopping and Shopping at Shinjuku 3-chome
Source: Google Map by Bic Camera
I often go shopping in Shinjuku 3-chome. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, many stores were open 24 hours, but recently, more stores have shortened their business hours. Still, many stores are open late into the night, so you can enjoy night shopping.
I especially recommend Bic Camera. They handle a wide range of products from electronics to daily necessities, toys, and cosmetics. There's also a tax-free counter for foreign tourists, making it ideal for souvenir shopping. Just walking around the store is fun, as you can feel the latest technology and culture.
There are also many karaoke shops open late into the night, perfect for ending the night with friends. I highly recommend it for those who want to experience Tokyo's karaoke culture.
There are also commercial facilities like Shinjuku Marui, where you can enjoy shopping for fashion items and miscellaneous goods. Shinjuku 3-chome is an area where you can enjoy shopping, dining, and entertainment all day long.
Tokyo's Biggest Gay Bar District: Shinjuku 2-Chome
Shinjuku 2-chome is easily the biggest gay district in Tokyo and the rest of Japan for that matter. While it's not too far from Shinjuku station, the nearest stations would be Shinjuku 3-chome or Shinjuku Gyoen station. It is said that there are about 500 gay bars on the main street from Shinjuku-dori towards Yasukuni-dori.
There are a variety of different types of gay bars such as stores that have a membership system or no female customers. There are also gay bars for tourists communicating in English so anybody can enjoy. Shinjuku 2-chome is an ordinary place during daytime but it shines after dark.
What to Do in Shinjuku 2-chome: Meet an "Okama" at the Biggest Gay Town in Japan
Men who dress as women in Japan are called "okama". There are various shops in Shinjuku 2-chome such as okama bars where the okama people entertain guests, shops where you can enjoy shows, and bars where same sexually-oriented people gather.
Although it is a gay town, Shinjuku 2-chome is one of the best places to pick up women since groups of girls visit there to go to gay bars.
Shinjuku 2-chome has a warm hospitality where you can communicate with your heart even if there is a language barrier.
Tips for Safely Enjoying Shinjuku's Nightlife
Shinjuku is basically a safe area, but caution is needed especially in Kabukicho and Golden Gai. As a local, I'll share some tips with you.
Generally Safe, but the Northern Part of Kabukicho Has Poor Security
I used to hang out in Kabukicho when I was younger, but the northern area needs special attention. There are many fights and troubles, and you might even see people who look like yakuza.
I recommend that tourists don't get too close to this area. It's wise to focus on enjoying the main streets and famous places.
Don't Follow Touts and Be Wary of Scams
This is a particularly important point. When I was young, I was once tricked by a tout and charged a high amount. Be especially cautious of malicious touts and scams targeting foreign tourists.
You should never trust touts who are not Japanese. Even Japanese touts can't be trusted. You need to firmly refuse people who try to forcefully guide you to a store.
Even if you can confirm the pricing system, often the promises are not kept, so be careful.
Be Careful About Drugs
Japan's drug laws are very strict even by global standards. If a stranger offers you drugs, always refuse. Even if they say it's a "light" drug, it's a serious crime in Japan.
I have an acquaintance who casually tried drugs and got into serious trouble. Make sure you don't get involved with drugs at all.
Don't Become Aggressive When Drunk
Even now, various yakuza and their associates exist in Kabukicho. If you cause trouble in a store, it's almost certain that such people will intervene.
They are skilled at creating trouble to extort money, so if you sense an atmosphere that might lead to a fight, it's wise to leave the place immediately.
Respect Other Customers and Shops in Golden Gai
Golden Gai is a place with a unique culture. I felt it was difficult to enter at first, but if you behave politely, it's a place where you can have a wonderful experience.
Recently, there has been an increase in tourist-friendly stores, but there are still many stores centered on regular customers. It's important to show respect to other customers and staff and enjoy quietly. In my experience, if you approach with a humble attitude, you can enjoy wonderful conversations with locals.
The charm of Golden Gai lies in its unique atmosphere and interactions with people. Please enjoy it with respect for the local people.
Tours to Fully Enjoy Shinjuku's Nightlife
To enjoy Shinjuku's nightlife more safely and deeply, I recommend guided tours.
"Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku" by Magical Trip
Our tour won No.1 as a "Japan experience" on TripAdvisor!
If you plan on bar hopping in Shinjuku, please join our tour to discover hidden izakayas with a friendly tour guide. Let's enjoy delicious Japanese food and sake for 3 hours! You will be able to deeply experience the Japanese nightlife with the guide.
Click here for more details: Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku
"Tokyo Night Foodie Tour in Shinjuku" by Magical Trip
This tour is to enjoy the food culture of Shinjuku. For 3.5 hours, you'll visit hidden gem restaurants in Shinjuku with a local guide. You can enjoy sushi, meat dishes, desserts, and drinks.
It costs about 131 USD per person, including food and drink fees. I especially recommend this for those who want to enjoy Tokyo's diverse food culture in Shinjuku all at once.
Click here for more details: Tokyo Night Foodie Tour in Shinjuku
"Shinjuku Night Free Walking Tour" by Tokyo Localized
Source: Tokyo Localized
This is a tip-based night walking tour. It's a 2-hour tour that covers famous spots like Kabukicho and Omoide Yokocho, ending at Golden Gai.
It's more suitable for people who want to enjoy the night scenery and atmosphere rather than drinking.
Click here for more details: Shinjuku Night Free Walking Tour
The nightlife in Shinjuku continues to fascinate tourists from all over the world with its diversity and energy. The glamour of Kabukicho, the unique atmosphere of Golden Gai, the retro charm of Omoide Yokocho - Shinjuku's night with its various faces will surely become an unforgettable experience.
However, it's important to always be mindful of safety while enjoying. Be cautious of touts, absolutely avoid drugs, and be mindful of moderate drinking. And by respecting local culture and rules, you should be able to have a deeper experience.
Shinjuku is attractive both day and night, but it's a city that shines especially at night. I hope you'll fully enjoy Shinjuku's night using this article as a reference!
