Shinjuku Station: Tokyo's Bustling Hub - A Guide to Attractions, Shopping, and Nearby Districts

I updated this article in January 2025 to incorporate my findings from this research, along with the latest information for 2025.

Another reason for updating the article is the growing interest in tours that allow visitors to safely and deeply experience Shinjuku's nightlife. As these tours gain popularity, Magical Trip's tour, which ranked #1 among all tours on Tripadvisor, has been receiving numerous applications.

If you want to enjoy Shinjuku's nightlife, I recommend the "Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku," which ranked #1 on Tripadvisor. Our guides who know Shinjuku inside and out will take you bar hopping while avoiding dangerous areas, allowing you to fully enjoy Shinjuku at night.

I also recommend the "Tokyo Night Foodie Tour in Shinjuku," where you can enjoy premium wagyu beef barbecue and exceptional sushi. You'll learn from food-savvy tour guides about the best ways to grill your meat and proper sushi etiquette while enjoying exquisite Japanese cuisine.

I hope you can safely and thoroughly enjoy Shinjuku's nightlife with Magical Trip's tours!

Introduction

Shinjuku Station. Known as the center of Tokyo, when I first set foot in this station, I was overwhelmed by its scale and the number of people, but now it has become a familiar sight.

Shinjuku Station is recognized by the Guinness World Records as the busiest station in the world.

With about 3 million daily passengers, many people might be surprised to hear this number. While it's certainly crowded during the morning rush hour, the flow of people is surprisingly smooth. I think it's a place where you can experience Tokyo's "orderly chaos".

Shinjuku Station is not just a place for transfers. Various areas with different faces spread out around the station. Head towards the east exit, and you'll find a lively entertainment district. The west exit leads to a modern office district. If you walk a little further, you'll find the lush Shinjuku Gyoen.

Shopping, dining, sightseeing, work. Depending on your purpose, Shinjuku Station shows different faces.

In this article, as a Japanese person, I'll introduce you to the charms of Shinjuku Station and its surroundings. As you walk through this seemingly complex city bit by bit, you'll start to understand its depth.

The atmosphere of Shinjuku Station changes depending on the time of day. The busyness of the morning, the hustle and bustle of the afternoon, the glamour of the night. Even within a single day, Shinjuku shows various faces, which is its characteristic.

Using this article as a reference, I encourage you to explore the area around Shinjuku Station!

For those who want to get tourist information about the entire Shinjuku area, please also check out the Shinjuku Guide.

Table of Contents
・What is Shinjuku Station?
・Main Exits of Shinjuku Station
・Attractions Around Shinjuku Station
・Shopping Spots Around Shinjuku Station
・Areas Easily Accessible from Shinjuku Station
・Frequently Asked Questions

What is Shinjuku Station?

Shinjuku Station is the heart of Tokyo. Known as the busiest station in the world, this giant terminal welcomes about 3 million passengers daily. It's even recognized by the Guinness World Records as the busiest railway station in the world.

I still vividly remember being overwhelmed by its scale when I first visited Shinjuku Station. With 14 lines including JR, private railways, and subways converging here, it's like a giant anthill.

Since its opening in 1885, this station with over 140 years of history has been constantly evolving. Even now, a large-scale renovation project is underway until the 2040s, aiming to make the station more user-friendly and attractive.

The charm of Shinjuku Station isn't just its size. I feel that the true attraction of Shinjuku lies in the diverse areas that spread out around the station.

Head towards the east exit, and you'll find a lively entertainment district. The west exit leads to a modern office district. If you walk a little further, you'll find the lush Shinjuku Gyoen. Shopping, dining, sightseeing, work - depending on your purpose, Shinjuku Station shows different faces.

Main Exits of Shinjuku Station

Each of the main exits of Shinjuku Station has a different face. When I first started using Shinjuku Station, I was confused by this complex exit system, but now I understand the characteristics of each exit and use them according to my destination.

The East Exit is convenient for accessing Kabukicho and Golden Gai. This exit leading to the lively entertainment district is perfect for those who want to enjoy Shinjuku's nightlife. I always use this exit when going out for drinks with friends.

The West Exit is ideal for accessing the skyscraper district and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. This exit, which serves as the gateway to the business district, is overflowing with office workers during the morning and evening rush hours. I recommend using this exit when visiting the observatory of the Metropolitan Government Building.

The South Exit is the exit for Busta Shinjuku and Takashimaya Times Square. It's a convenient exit for those using long-distance buses or wanting to enjoy shopping. I often use this exit when I go shopping.

The New South Exit leads to a relatively newly developed area with NEWoMan and a tourist information center. This area with trendy cafes and shops is popular among young people.

The Central East Exit and Central West Exit are exits to department stores and shopping malls directly connected to the station. I often use these because I can enjoy shopping without getting wet on rainy days.

By mastering the use of these exits, using Shinjuku Station becomes much easier. It might seem complex at first, but once you get used to it, you'll realize how convenient Shinjuku Station is.

Attractions Around Shinjuku Station

There are many attractions full of diverse charms around Shinjuku Station. Let me introduce you to some of my favorite spots.

Shinjuku Subnade

Shinjuku Subnade is a vast underground shopping street spreading beneath the east exit of Shinjuku Station. This giant shopping mall with nearly 100 stores lined up can truly be called an underground labyrinth.

When I first visited Subnade, I was surprised by its scale. I find it especially useful on rainy days or hot summer days when I can spend time comfortably without worrying about the weather.

The charm of Subnade isn't just shopping. It's also popular as a spot where you can experience Shinjuku's underground culture.

Moreover, Subnade functions as an underground passage connecting Shinjuku Station with the main buildings in the area. It's very convenient as you can reach your destination without getting wet on rainy days.

When you visit Shinjuku, make sure to stop by Subnade. You're sure to discover a different side of Shinjuku from what you see above ground.

Website: https://www.subnade.co.jp/

Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observatory

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observatory is a scenic spot in Tokyo, located about a 10-minute walk from the west exit of Shinjuku Station. The most surprising thing is that you can enjoy this wonderful view for free.

I first visited the Metropolitan Government Building Observatory when a friend took me there. We took the elevator straight to the upper floor. When the doors opened, I was breathless at the view of Tokyo spread out before me.

The view of Shinjuku's skyscrapers, the distant Tokyo Skytower, and even Mt. Fuji on clear days - the panoramic view of Tokyo never fails to excite me, no matter how many times I see it.

The night view is particularly impressive. After sunset, the sight of Tokyo's streets illuminated by countless lights is truly moving.

There are North and South Observatories, each offering different views. I recommend visiting both. The scenery changes depending on the time and weather, so it never gets old no matter how many times you visit.

Website: https://www.yokoso.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/en/tenbou/index.html

Kabukicho

Kabukicho is an iconic area of Shinjuku known as Japan's largest entertainment district.

When you stand at the entrance of Kabukicho, the first thing that catches your eye is the giant Godzilla head. This has become a landmark of Kabukicho and is a popular photo spot for many tourists.

The charm of this area lies in its numerous diverse restaurants and entertainment facilities. Izakayas, bars, clubs, karaoke, and even movie theaters - Kabukicho is full of vitality, truly living up to its name as the "sleepless town".

While Kabukicho is popular as a nighttime tourist spot, it has had safety issues in the past. However, in recent years, security measures have been strengthened, making it safer to enjoy than before. Still, I recommend avoiding walking alone late at night and always being aware of your surroundings.

If you want to know more about this area, please check out the Kabukicho Guide.

Memory Lane (Omoide Yokocho) & Golden Gai

Memory Lane (Omoide Yokocho) and Golden Gai are small drinking alleys with a retro atmosphere, just a step away from the hustle and bustle of Shinjuku.

Memory Lane is located about a 5-minute walk from the west exit of Shinjuku Station. This alley, which strongly retains the atmosphere of old Tokyo, is packed with small izakayas such as yakitori shops and standing bars.

On the other hand, Golden Gai is about a 10-minute walk from the east exit of Shinjuku Station, passing through Kabukicho. This area, known for its concentration of about 200 small bars, is famous as a place where literary giants and artists used to gather.

These areas have become popular tourist spots for foreign visitors as well. However, many of the shops are small and may not have English menus. Therefore, for those who don't speak Japanese, I recommend using tours like the "Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku" offered by us at Magical Trip, which allows you to smoothly enter the shops.

When I guide my friends from overseas, I make sure to research shops that can accommodate English speakers in advance.

Memory Lane and Golden Gai are precious spots where you can experience the old Tokyo drinking culture that you can't taste in large chain stores. I encourage you to experience the unique atmosphere that feels like a time slip.

If you want to know about the nightlife in the entire Shinjuku area, please check out the Shinjuku Nighlife Guide.

Shinjuku Gyoen

Shinjuku Gyoen is a vast garden that could be called an oasis in the city, located about a 10-minute walk from Shinjuku Station.

Within its extensive grounds of 58.3 hectares, three different styles of gardens coexist: Japanese garden, French formal garden, and English landscape garden.

In spring, the cherry blossoms bloom in full glory, painting the garden in pink. In autumn, the trees in the garden change color, creating a scenery that looks like a painting.

When you visit Shinjuku, I encourage you to spend some relaxing time in this urban oasis.

Website: https://fng.or.jp/shinjuku/en/

Shinjuku Ni-chome

Shinjuku Ni-chome is a special area in Shinjuku known as an LGBTQ-friendly drinking district. When I first visited this area, I was struck by its open and diversity-respecting atmosphere.

Here, there's a space where everyone can be themselves regardless of gender or sexual orientation. I often have the opportunity to visit this area with my LGBTQ friends, and every time I see them relaxing and enjoying themselves, I realize the importance of this area.

Shinjuku Ni-chome is also a lively area that's bustling all year round. Even on weekday nights, it's crowded with many people, and on weekends, it's even more vibrant. The atmosphere of this area can be felt most strongly at night.

However, Shinjuku Ni-chome is not just an entertainment district. There are also information centers for the LGBTQ community and offices of organizations that advocate for the rights of sexual minorities. This area is not only a place for enjoyment but also a base for activities aimed at creating a society that respects diversity.

When visiting Shinjuku Ni-chome, I encourage you to enjoy the open atmosphere while also thinking about the role this area plays.

For those who want to know more about this area, please check out the Shinjuku 2-chome Guide.

Shopping Spots Around Shinjuku Station

The area around Shinjuku Station is known as one of Tokyo's premier shopping districts. Here, I'll introduce you to some of my favorite shopping spots.

Lumine

Lumine is a hub of youth fashion directly connected to Shinjuku Station. It consists of three buildings: Lumine 1, Lumine 2, and Lumine EST, each with its own unique character.

Lumine 1 houses many brands at the forefront of trends and is particularly popular among women in their 20s and 30s. If you're looking for the latest fashion items, I recommend visiting here first.

Lumine 2 targets a wider age range. It's not just fashion but also has a good selection of miscellaneous goods and books.

Lumine EST is home to particularly high-end stores among the Lumine buildings. It has many designer brands and unique select shops, and is bustling with fashion-sensitive people.

The charm of Lumine isn't just fashion. The restaurant floors in each building are also excellent. Being able to enjoy delicious meals between shopping is another big attraction of Lumine.

The convenient access directly connected to Shinjuku Station is also a big advantage of Lumine. I really appreciate being able to enjoy shopping without getting wet on rainy days.

It's a recommended spot not only for those interested in fashion but also for those who want to experience Tokyo's youth culture.

Website: https://www.lumine.ne.jp/shinjuku/

Isetan

Isetan Shinjuku Store is the flagship store of one of Japan's leading department stores. Located about a 5-minute walk from Shinjuku Station, its dignified exterior adds prestige to the streets of Shinjuku.

Every time I visit Isetan, I'm impressed by the abundance and high quality of its products. It handles a wide range of items from luxury brands to daily necessities, but all products maintain top-notch quality.

One of the attractions of Isetan is its food floor. The food section on the basement floor is synonymous with "depachika" (department store basement food halls).

It's lined with specialty products from all over Japan, side dishes prepared by top chefs, and beautifully decorated sweets that are enjoyable just to look at. I particularly love the seasonal Japanese sweets and look forward to them every season.

Isetan is not just a shopping place, but a place where you can experience Japanese department store culture and the latest trends at once. You can enjoy shopping leisurely in a luxurious atmosphere.

Website: https://www.mistore.jp.e.az.hp.transer.com/store/shinjuku.html

Takashimaya

Takashimaya is the core tenant of Times Square, a large commercial facility adjacent to the south exit of Shinjuku Station. As a 15-floor comprehensive department store, it handles a wide range of products.

One of the reasons I particularly like Takashimaya is its convenience. Since it's directly connected to the south exit of Shinjuku Station, I can enjoy shopping without getting wet on rainy days. It's also close to Busta Shinjuku (a highway bus terminal), making it a convenient spot for tourists as well.

A hidden charm of Takashimaya is the free observatory on the 13th floor. This observatory overlooking the cityscape of Shinjuku is a little-known spot. I like to relax here after shopping. I can spend a leisurely time enjoying the view of Tokyo.

Website: https://www.takashimaya-global.com/en/stores/shinjuku/

Bic Camera

Source: Google Map by Bic Camera

Bic Camera is a large electronics store located about a 3-minute walk from the east exit of Shinjuku Station.

The greatest charm of Bic Camera is its overwhelming product lineup. It handles a wide range of products from cameras and home appliances to computers, smartphones, and even furniture and daily necessities.

In particular, the selection of cameras and electronic devices is unparalleled. When I purchase a new camera, I always come here to touch and compare actual devices.

Bic Camera is also popular among foreign tourists. I often use it when guiding friends from overseas because of its excellent tax-free service. Japanese electronic products are highly popular overseas, so many people buy them as souvenirs.

Website: https://www.biccamera.com/bc/i/shop/shoplist/shop116.jsp

Don Quijote Shinjuku Kabukicho

Source: Google Map by Red October65

Don Quijote Shinjuku Kabukicho store is a 24-hour large discount store that symbolizes the nighttime face of Shinjuku. For me, this store is one of the places that most embodies Shinjuku's aspect as a "sleepless town".

The biggest feature of Don Quijote is its overwhelming product lineup and 24-hour service. All kinds of products from food to home appliances and clothing are crammed into the store.

Don Quijote is also very popular among foreign tourists. It's always bustling with tourists buying souvenirs because of its excellent tax-free service. I always stop by here when guiding friends from overseas.

One of the charms of Don Quijote is the unique atmosphere inside the store. With lively background music playing and a maze-like store layout, it's quite characteristic.

It's especially ideal for finding cosmetics and daily necessities as souvenirs. Japanese cosmetics and beauty products are highly popular overseas. My friends from abroad often buy a lot of Japanese cosmetics here.

Website: https://www.donki.com/store/shop_detail.php?shop_id=29

Areas Easily Accessible from Shinjuku Station

Shinjuku Station is one of Tokyo's main terminal stations, with many lines converging here. Therefore, you can easily access various popular areas from Shinjuku Station.

Here, I'll introduce some attractive areas that are easily accessible from Shinjuku Station. These are places I frequently visit and love.

Shibuya

Shibuya is just 3 stations away from Shinjuku Station on the JR Yamanote Line, about a 7-minute ride. Known as the center of youth culture, this area continues to set the latest trends.

The symbol of Shibuya is the scramble crossing in front of the station. I think this intersection, where people come and go, is one of the places where you can feel Tokyo's vitality the most.

In front of Shibuya Station, there's also a statue of Hachiko, the loyal dog. The story of Hachiko, who waited for his owner's return for years, is known throughout Japan. This statue is also popular as a meeting spot and is always crowded with people. I often designate this statue as a meeting place when meeting friends.

The charm of Shibuya lies in the abundance of shops at the forefront of fashion. Fashion buildings for young people like 109 stand side by side, constantly setting new trends.

Moreover, Shibuya has many unique restaurants. From the latest cafes to long-standing izakayas, various types of establishments line the streets.

Shibuya is also famous as a nightlife spot along with Shinjuku. For more details, please check out the Shibuya Nightlife Guide.

This area, easily accessible from Shinjuku, is a spot I'd highly recommend to those who want to experience Tokyo's modern charm.

Harajuku & Omotesando

The Harajuku & Omotesando area is just 2 stations away from Shinjuku Station on the JR Yamanote Line, about a 5-minute ride. This area is a unique place where youth street fashion and high-end brand shops coexist.

Takeshita Street, right after exiting Harajuku Station, is famous as the birthplace of youth street fashion. It's always crowded with young people in unique fashions, and its distinctive atmosphere is popular among foreign tourists as well.

On the other hand, Omotesando is a stylish area lined with high-end brand shops. From Western luxury brands to Japanese designer brands, it's an irresistible place for fashion lovers. I also enjoy walking along the tree-lined street, admiring the stylish buildings.

The charm of this area isn't just fashion. Nearby, there are also green spaces like Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park. Having places where you can feel nature a little away from the urban hustle and bustle is another attraction of this area.

Of course, for those who love fashion, and also for those interested in Japanese pop culture, the Harajuku area is sure to offer new discoveries.

Ikebukuro

Ikebukuro is a convenient area accessible in about 10 minutes, 4 stations from Shinjuku Station on the JR Yamanote Line.

On the west side of Ikebukuro Station, large department stores and electronics stores line up. There are also many specialty stores for anime and games, making it a paradise for subculture fans.

One of the characteristic facilities in Ikebukuro is Sunshine City. This complex facility includes an aquarium, an observatory, and various shops and restaurants. What I particularly like is the "SKY CIRCUS" observatory on the 60th floor. It's a scenic spot where you can see a 360-degree view of Tokyo, and the night view is especially spectacular.

There's also an indoor theme park called "Namja Town" in Ikebukuro. Here, you can enjoy unique food. I remember visiting with friends and having fun comparing unusual flavors of ice cream.

On the east side of Ikebukuro, there's a street called "Otome Road" where anime and manga-related shops gather. This street is lined with shops mainly dealing with anime and game goods, and it's crowded with fans on holidays. Although I'm not an anime fan myself, I find the energy of this street enjoyable just to watch.

Ikebukuro is a place where various elements are condensed into one area, from shopping and entertainment to quiet relaxation spots. This area, easily accessible from Shinjuku, is full of diverse attractions that can be enjoyed all day long. I encourage you to visit and experience the varied charms of Ikebukuro.

Frequently Asked Questions

Finally, I'll answer some common questions about Shinjuku Station.

How do the East and West Exits of Shinjuku Station Differ?

The East and West Exits of Shinjuku Station have completely different atmospheres.

The East Exit is an area where many entertainment districts and restaurants are concentrated. Famous entertainment districts like Kabukicho and Golden Gai are on this side. It has many stores aimed at young people and is full of energy. There are also many karaoke places and movie theaters, so I recommend this side for those who want to enjoy entertainment.

On the other hand, the West Exit is centered around office districts and skyscrapers. Many office buildings, including the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, line up here, giving it the face of a business district. Therefore, the West Exit has a stronger business-oriented atmosphere, and you'll often see people in suits. I often use the West Exit side for work.

You could say that the East Exit has a young people's atmosphere, while the West Exit has a business-oriented atmosphere. The East Exit has many unique restaurants and miscellaneous goods stores, while the West Exit has many restaurants and business hotels aimed at office workers.

As you can see, the East and West Exits of Shinjuku Station have completely different faces, despite being on opposite sides of the same Shinjuku Station. When you visit Shinjuku, I encourage you to walk around both areas.

Are There Any Points Where You Can Feel Japanese-ness at Shinjuku Station?

Shinjuku Station is a place that symbolizes modern Japanese society, but at the same time, it's a place where you can strongly feel Japanese-ness. Here are some points where I particularly feel Japanese-ness in my daily use of Shinjuku Station.

First is the punctuality of trains and the polite response of station staff. Although Shinjuku Station is said to be the busiest station in the world, the trains run with surprising accuracy. Even for delays of just a few minutes, you'll see station staff making polite apology announcements, which I think symbolizes the Japanese spirit of service.

Next, the cleanliness and orderly atmosphere inside the station are also points where you can feel Japanese-ness. Despite being a station where so many people come and go, the inside of the station is always kept clean.

The platforms without a single piece of trash and the orderly lines of passengers represent the Japanese national character that values order. I often find that friends from overseas are surprised by this sight when they visit Japan.

The station bentos and seasonal limited products sold inside the station are also points where you can feel Japanese-ness. Station bentos using seasonal ingredients and seasonal sweets that can only be tasted at that time make you feel the richness of Japanese food culture.

I always buy a station bento at Shinjuku Station when I go on a business trip or travel. Being able to enjoy the sense of the season each time is a uniquely Japanese way of enjoyment, I think.

The orderly flow of people during the commuter rush is also a point where you can strongly feel Japanese-ness. Although Shinjuku Station is said to be the busiest station in the world, even during the morning rush hour, people form orderly lines and board trains without pushing and shoving.

Lastly, the culture in the drinking districts around the station is also a point where you can feel Japanese-ness. The sight of company employees having a drink with colleagues on their way home from work symbolizes Japan's unique corporate culture.

Sometimes I have a drink with colleagues at an izakaya around the station after work, and the unique atmosphere I feel at such times is exactly what I would call "Japanese-ness".

These points make you strongly feel Japanese values and culture, even in a modern and international place like Shinjuku Station. When you use Shinjuku Station, I encourage you to pay attention to these points as well.

Around Shinjuku Station, entertainment districts, lush parks, and clusters of skyscrapers coexist, and this diversity is Shinjuku's greatest charm. Moreover, Shinjuku Station is characterized by its good access to Tokyo's main areas, making it ideal as a base for Tokyo sightseeing.

When you visit Shinjuku, try visiting the spots introduced in this article, feel the breath of the city, and experience its diverse charms!