Shinjuku Tours 2024: Tokyo’s Excursion & Things to Do List
Shinjuku is known as "Japan's busiest district." Shinjuku Station boasts the world's highest daily passenger traffic, making it a hub where countless people and facilities converge.
Even late at night, the neon lights keep glowing and the streets remain busy, earning it the nickname "The City That Never Sleeps." It's famous for its vibrant entertainment districts like Kabuki-cho and Golden Gai, known for their exciting nightlife and dining experiences.
As Tokyo's premier entertainment district, Shinjuku is an area where various attractions come together. Looking ahead to Shinjuku tours 2025, we're excited to introduce tours that will help you fully experience everything Shinjuku has to offer.
Top 3 Bar Hopping Tours to Enjoy Tokyo's Premier Entertainment District
3-Hours Tokyo Local Bar & Izakaya Crawl in Shinjuku Area
Source: Tripadvisor
This tour is perfect for those who want to enjoy karaoke at hidden izakayas while experiencing Shinjuku's nightlife. It's a small-group tour (maximum 18 people) where you'll bar-hop through local guide-selected izakayas and immerse yourself in Shinjuku's nightlife.
You'll visit local izakayas in Omoide Yokocho, lined with red lanterns (Chochin: traditional Japanese lights) that create a nostalgic atmosphere. You can enjoy appetizers and Japanese cuisine that pair perfectly with beer and sake.
The experience of eating with chopsticks will become an unforgettable memory of your Japan trip.
While heading to Shinjuku Golden Gai, your guide will explain the history, culture, and characteristics of Kabuki-cho, Asia's largest entertainment district. This knowledge will give you a different perspective on the area.
In Shinjuku Golden Gai, you'll get exclusive access to hidden izakayas that are typically closed to regular tourists. Being in these exclusive spots where most tourists can't go adds to the special experience. Spending the evening singing Japanese classics and anime songs at karaoke alongside locals will create exceptional memories.
Meeting point: Shinjuku 1-2-8 (Meet in front of Kitakata Ramen Omoide Yokocho Branch. Nearest exit from Shinjuku Station is Exit B15)
Tour area: Omoide Yokocho, Shinjuku Golden Gai
Duration: 3 hours
Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku
Looking ahead to Shinjuku tours 2025, this bar-hopping tour is perfect for those who want to enjoy a casual izakaya experience without any language barriers, accompanied by a guide well-versed in Japanese culture. With a maximum group size of 7 people, you'll get to know your guide and fellow tourists closely, and it's guaranteed that everyone will become "drinking buddies" within the 3-hour tour.
The hidden izakaya we'll visit in Omoide Yokocho is a sanctuary for locals who stop by for a quick drink and office workers unwinding after a day's work in Tokyo. With closely positioned seating, you might even make friends with other patrons.
Recommended side dishes from our drink-loving writer:
- Motsuyaki (grilled offal from beef, pork, and chicken - a popular Japanese dish)
- Hiyayakko (chilled tofu topped with green onions and bonito flakes)
- Dashimaki Tamago (a sweet and richly flavored egg dish typical in the Kanto region)
- Liver sashimi (raw liver served as sashimi)
There's no need to worry about language barriers. Come and fully enjoy Shinjuku's nightlife while interacting with both tour participants and locals.
Meeting point: 1-2-8 Shinjuku (In front of UNIQLO Shinjuku West Exit Store: Guide will hold a red and orange "Magical Trip" sign)
Tour areas: Omoide Yokocho, Kabukicho entertainment district, Shinjuku Golden Gai
Duration: 3 hours
Shinjuku Izakaya Tour
Source: Tripadvisor
If you want to enjoy traditional Japanese cuisine while feeling the atmosphere of Shinjuku's izakaya, this is the tour for you. This is a small group tour with a maximum of 10 people, and the guide will visit three different izakayas based on the preferences of the tour group.
My recommendation is Okinawan (Okinawan) cuisine. Try the following Okinawan dishes with Awamori (Awamori), an Okinawan distilled spirit characterized by its sweet flavor and powerful taste.
・Awamori-loving author's recommended Okinawan dishes
・Goya Chanpuru (bitter melon stir-fry)
・Sea grapes
・Tempura of mozuku seaweed
・Raftae (pork stewed in sweet and spicy sauce)
While in the Shinjuku area, you can take a short trip to three different worlds: (1) the neon-lit Kabukicho, (2) the retro-inspired Memories Yokocho, and (3) the exotic Okinawa. The gap between the three worlds is interesting, and the trip will give you a sense of wonder.
Meeting point: 1-2-1 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku (Mister Donut Shinjuku Yasukuni Dori)
Tour area: Nishi-Shinjuku, Kabukicho entertainment district, Shinjuku Golden Gai, Omoide Yokocho
Tour time: 3 hours and 30 minutes
Two Recommended Food Tours to Fully Experience the Culinary Battleground of "Shinjuku"
Tokyo Night Foodie Tour in Shinjuku
Looking forward to Shinjuku tours 2025? For those wanting to experience fine dining in Shinjuku at night, this tour is highly recommended. Your guide will take you to a hidden sushi restaurant known only to locals and a high-end yakiniku (grilled meat) restaurant.
At the sushi restaurant, you'll sit at the counter and enjoy watching the sushi chef prepare your food right before your eyes. Savor Edomae sushi (Wdomaesushi: traditional Edo cuisine using red vinegar in the rice) made with seasonal seafood, while experiencing Japanese dining culture including the use of chopsticks.
Next, you'll head to an upscale wagyu beef yakiniku restaurant. Experience grilling bite-sized wagyu beef pieces yourself on a traditional shichirin (earthenware brazier). Why not try this melt-in-your-mouth tender and juicy wagyu beef?
Meeting point: 1-2-8 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku (In front of the black pillar next to UNIQLO Shinjuku West Exit Store - guide will hold an orange sign reading "Magical Trip")
Tour area: West Shinjuku, Omoide Yokocho, Kabukicho entertainment district
Duration: 3 hours
Tokyo: Shinjuku Food Tour (13 Dishes at 4 Local Eateries)
Source: Tripadvisor
For those wanting to taste various Japanese dishes at dining spots beloved by Shinjuku locals, this tour is perfect. You'll visit 4 restaurants in 3 hours and enjoy 13 different Japanese dishes.
Experience Tokyo soul food made with ingredients available only to locals. Daily soul food variations include:
Daily Soul Food Examples:
[Fresh Fish] Sashimi, Sushi
[Fried Dishes] Chicken karaage, Tako karaage (fried octopus), Tonkatsu
[Grilled Dishes] Gyoza, Yakisoba, Horumon-yaki, Yakitori
[Okinawan Cuisine] Soki soba (Okinawan ramen), Sea grape salad
Beyond the food, you'll learn about Shinjuku's history and culture from your guide, hearing unique stories that can only be experienced here, ensuring both your stomach and heart will be fully satisfied.
Meeting point: 1-12-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku (In front of Starbucks near Shinjuku Station West Exit)
Tour area: Omoide Yokocho, Kabukicho, Shinjuku Golden Gai
Duration: 3 hours
Click here for more details
3 Selected Walking Tours to Experience Shinjuku's Unique Blend of Retro and Modern Atmosphere
Tokyo by Night Photography Tour
Looking ahead to Shinjuku tours 2025, this tour is perfect for those wanting to capture unforgettable highlights of Shinjuku. Experience Tokyo's vibrant nighttime atmosphere while getting amazing photos taken by a professional photographer.
Begin your evening at an exclusive cyberpunk-themed bar, where you can discuss your photography preferences over drinks. Your guide and photographer will customize photo locations based on your wishes.
You'll visit approximately 10 locations, including both popular and hidden spots. Capture shots in the neon-lit Kabukicho district and atmospheric back alleys. Beyond photography, your guide provides insightful information about each location.
Within three days, you'll receive 20 professionally selected and edited photos of exceptional quality that would be difficult to capture on your own. Why not create lasting memories with your partner, family, or special travel companions during your Japan journey?
Meeting point: 3-38 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku (Lion statue at Shinjuku Station East Exit)
Tour area: Kabukicho, Golden Gai, Shinjuku West Area
Duration: 2.5 hours
Shinjuku Night Free Walking Tour
Source: Tokyo Localized
As part of the exciting Shinjuku tours 2025 lineup, this free tour is perfect for those wanting to experience the most exciting aspects of Shinjuku's nightlife. Explore the entertainment districts safely with knowledgeable guides who are familiar with both the highlights and areas to avoid.
The guides are experts in Shinjuku's history and culture, bringing the area to life through engaging storytelling. They're happy to answer all questions, providing fascinating insights not found in typical guidebooks.
Take a journey through the bustling Kabukicho, see the impressive Godzilla Head, and experience the nostalgic Japanese atmosphere in Omoide Yokocho. It's a perfect way to immerse yourself in Shinjuku's nightlife.
Meeting point: 3-37-2 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku (Shinjuku Tourist Information Center)
Tour area: Shinjuku East Area, Golden Gai
Start time: 18:00~/19:00~ (2 hours)
The Dark Side of Tokyo - Night Walking Tour Shinjuku Kabukicho
Source: Tripadvisor
Looking ahead to Shinjuku tours 2025, this tour is perfect for those who want to safely explore Tokyo's largest nightlife district. Walking with a guide who knows the potentially dangerous areas well ensures you won't get lost or wander into uncomfortable situations.
The tour explores Shinjuku, Kabukicho, Memory Lane (Omoide Yokocho), and the LGBTQI+ district known as Gay Town. Your guide will share insights into the area's culture and subculture, offering a different perspective on Tokyo's dark side.
Please note that guides may not carry microphones or flags. To avoid trouble, stay close to your guide throughout the tour, as separating from the group could lead to difficulties.
Meeting point: East Exit Police Box, Shinjuku Station
Tour areas: Memory Lane, Kabukicho, Golden Gai, Shinjuku 2-chome Gay Town
Start time: 18:00~/19:00~ (2 hours)
For Those Seeking Special Experiences, Here's Another Unique Tour in Shinjuku
Tokyo by Night: Happy Hour with Karaoke in Shinjuku's District
Source: Tripadvisor
This tour is perfect for those who love karaoke, Japanese songs, and anime music, and will continue to be a highlight of Shinjuku tours 2025.
The tour begins with a stroll through the colorfully lit Hanazono Shrine. Next, you'll walk through Golden Gai, a photogenic area lined with small bars, before heading to Kabukicho. Get into the spirit as you walk through streets filled with people and music coming from every direction.
Then, enter Memory Lane (Omoide Yokocho) with its retro atmosphere. You can enjoy drinks and karaoke at a backstreet snack bar. Singing Japanese songs with fellow travelers and locals will surely become an unforgettable memory.
Meeting point: 5-17-3 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku (In front of Hanazono Shrine Torii)
Tour areas: Hanazono Shrine, Shinjuku Golden Gai, Kabukicho, Memory Lane
Duration: 3 hours
Small-Group Wagyu Beef and 7 Japanese Dishes Tokyo Cooking Class
Source: Tripadvisor
For those who are passionate about Japanese cuisine and love cooking, this kaiseki cooking class offers an excellent opportunity to learn Japanese culinary arts. As part of the expanding Shinjuku tours 2025 experiences, all necessary materials, including ingredients and aprons, are provided, so you can participate without bringing anything.
The main dish features thick, juicy wagyu beef. You'll also prepare seven different dishes using traditional seasonings and seasonal Japanese ingredients. The instructor will not only teach you cooking techniques but also share secrets for making delicious dishes, allowing you to recreate these meals for your loved ones back home.
Enjoy your culinary creations with sake or green tea after saying "itadakimasu." This experience guarantees an unforgettable immersion into Japanese food culture.
Vegetarian options are available upon request during booking.
Meeting point: Room 314-18, Shinano-machi Maya Building, Shinano-machi
Start time: 9:30 AM (2-3 hours)
3 Recommended Tours to Enjoy the Charming Neighborhoods Adjacent to Shinjuku
Shibuya Bar Hopping Night Tour in Tokyo
For those wanting to experience Shibuya's famous "Scramble Crossing" featured in movies and music videos while enjoying Shibuya's nightlife, this tour is perfect. At night, you can take classic photos with the bustling crowds and bright electronic billboards as your backdrop.
On this tour, you'll enjoy Japanese beer and local grilled dishes. Savor various types of premium Japanese meats, including melt-in-your-mouth Kobe beef, while enjoying sake or your preferred drinks.
As a meat lover, the author especially recommends the fresh beef sushi. It's an exclusive luxurious dish you can only taste here, so don't miss out.
The izakaya bars guided by your tour leader are intimate, with close seating to other customers, allowing for enjoyable interactions with locals. Vegetarian options are available upon request during booking.
Meeting point: Shibuya TSUTAYA, QFRONT B2F-8F, 21-6 Udagawacho, Shibuya (Guide will hold an orange board marked "MAGICAL TRIP")
Tour area: Shibuya Scramble Crossing, Shibuya Niku Yokocho, Shibuya Center Street
Duration: 3.5 hours
Shibuya Night Walking Tour
Source: Tokyo Localized
For those wanting to explore all of Shibuya's iconic spots with a guide, this tour is highly recommended. While Shinjuku tours 2025 might offer different experiences, this Shibuya night tour provides unique insights into Tokyo's vibrant nightlife.
Spots to Explore:
- "The Myth of Tomorrow" mural depicting the atomic bombing
- Scramble Crossing where you can experience the city's pulse
- Nonbei Yokocho (Drunkard's Alley) for local life and history
- Shibuya Center Street, known for youth trend-setting culture
- Maruyama-cho area for modern Tokyo nightlife
- Hachiko Statue, the famous meeting point
While these spots are enjoyable during daytime, exploring them at night with a guide provides deeper insights into the area's history and locally preserved culture.
Meeting Point: SABON Shibuya Mark City 3F, 1-12-3 Dogenzaka, Shibuya (East Mall 3F, Mark City)
Tour Area: Shibuya Scramble Crossing, Shibuya Center Street, Nonbei Yokocho, Hachiko Statue, Spain Slope
Duration: 2 hours
Harajuku Kawaii Fashion & Pop-culture Tour
This tour is perfect for those who love Harajuku fashion and Japanese "kawaii" culture. Experience Japan's colorful pop culture through cute clothing shopping, sweet treats, and purikura photo booths.
Local guides will show you around Takeshita Street's shops and restaurants based on your preferences. You'll encounter plenty of "kawaii" while shopping for souvenirs and taking photos.
Examples of shops to enjoy in Harajuku:
- Lolita fashion specialty stores
- Cosplay shops
- Photogenic sweet shops (crepes, pancakes, cotton candy)
- Anime merchandise stores
- Instagram-worthy Galaxy (mobile phone) brand shop
At an okonomiyaki restaurant featuring Japanese artists' artwork, you'll make okonomiyaki and monjayaki following the guide's instructions. Beyond shopping, you'll experience Japanese food culture.
Meeting Point: 1-18 Jingumae, Shibuya (In front of JR Harajuku Station Omotesando Exit: Guide holds an orange board with "MAGICAL TRIP" written on it)
Tour Area: Takeshita Street, Galaxy Harajuku, Shibuya Cat Street
Duration: 3 hours
4 Recommended Private Tours to Enjoy Tokyo Sightseeing with Your Own Custom Itinerary Centered Around Shinjuku
Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Source: Tripadvisor
By entrusting your Shinjuku tours 2025 experience to a Government-Licensed Guide, you can enjoy a high-quality tour customized to your preferences. These guides, who are responsible for introducing Japan to international visitors, possess not only excellent language skills but also extensive knowledge of history and culture, ensuring your journey is both entertaining and educational.
The exciting 6-hour tour includes learning about Japanese royalty at the Imperial Palace, taking relaxing walks through Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, and experiencing the thrilling atmosphere at the Shibuya Scramble Crossing.
As a private tour, you can access traditional cultural experiences (tea ceremony, calligraphy, kimono fitting) and dining spots that match your interests. Listen to your guide share Japan's charm through their extensive knowledge of history and culture while enjoying Tokyo with all five senses.
Meeting point: Hotel pickup service available
Tour areas: Asakusa area, Shinjuku area, etc.
Duration: 6 hours
Private Tokyo Tour with a Local Guide: Tailored to Your Interests
Source: Tripadvisor
Whether you're interested in temple visits, gourmet food, shopping, or Japanese cultural experiences, a specialized guide will create an original tour based on your interests.
You're guaranteed a unique journey with access to hidden spots known only to locals and opportunities to experience Japanese history and culture firsthand.
What guides can teach you:
- Proper temple worship etiquette
- Japanese dining manners and customs
- History of historic buildings and local areas
- How to enjoy festivals
- Ways to appreciate Japanese pop culture
Places guides can take you:
- Local-favorite landmarks and restaurants
- Special souvenir shops
- Venues for unique experiences like kimono fitting and tea ceremony
This tour is particularly recommended for families as you can move at your own pace without considering other tourists.
Meeting point: 1-18-20 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku
Tour areas: Shibuya, Ginza, Kappabashi Dogugai, Sensoji Temple, Yanaka District, Shinjuku
Duration: 2-8 hours
Private Walking Tour: See Tokyo's Top Sightseeing Spots in 1 Day
Source: Tripadvisor
For those who want to maximize their sightseeing experience with a private guide's expertise, this tour is highly recommended. Similar to the upcoming Shinjuku tours 2025, you can choose between visiting two locations in half a day or three to four locations in a full day.
The Tsukiji Market food tour is particularly recommended. Here are the benefits of exploring with a private guide:
Learn about ingredients used in Japanese cuisine like sushi and sashimi, along with their cultural background
Get recommendations for specific specialty shops based on your food preferences
Receive personalized suggestions for souvenir shopping based on your budget and requirements
With a guide, you may even gain access to typically "regulars-only" areas of the market. A private tour ensures a more exclusive and memorable experience.
Meeting point: Hotel pickup service available
Tour areas: Asakusa, Tsukiji Market, Imperial Palace, Shibuya Crossing
Duration: 4-8 hours
Private Tokyo Night Tour
Source: Tripadvisor
For those wanting to experience Tokyo's illuminated nights with a private chauffeur, this tour is perfect. Dress up in party attire or formal wear and enjoy an elegant journey through the magical cityscape. As an extension to the Shinjuku tours 2025, this night tour offers a completely different perspective of the city.
The breathtaking Rainbow Bridge, the Tokyo Tower glowing against the night sky, and the nostalgic atmosphere of Tokyo Station create an incredibly romantic journey. Enjoy champagne while viewing the night scenery from your limousine for an extraordinarily elegant experience.
The flexibility to customize your itinerary adds to the appeal. This tour is particularly perfect for couples celebrating special occasions or for proposal settings.
Meeting point: Hotel or station pickup service available
Tour areas: Shinjuku, Shibuya, Minato-ku, Tokyo Station area, Ginza
Duration: 3-4 hours
How to Choose a Tour? 3 Key Points to Consider When Comparing
1. Are the Tour Guide's Profile and Experience Presented?
When experiencing tours in Japan, particularly looking ahead to Shinjuku tours 2025, it's essential to check the guide's expertise and track record to enhance your tour value and avoid potential issues. Specifically, verify the following items:
- Years of experience and tour history
- Areas of expertise (history, culture, nature, cuisine, etc.)
- Language skills
- Professional certifications
Reviews and testimonials reveal personal attention and tour satisfaction levels. Use these reviews to confirm whether the guide has an approachable personality and can effectively communicate Japan's charm without missing any details.
The Magical Trip page introduces guides who are well-versed in Japanese culture, ensuring a reliable tour experience.
2. Are There Many Negative Reviews or Comments?
When selecting a tour, particularly for popular destinations like Shinjuku tours 2025, check the reviews to ensure there aren't many negative comments. The minimum acceptable rating should be 4.8 or higher.
Examples of negative reviews:
- Unfriendly guide
- Tour didn't follow the planned schedul
- Insufficient explanations
These types of reviews provide insights into the tour's weaknesses. However, reviews like "Couldn't enjoy the tour due to bad weather" are temporary factors that would affect any tour and shouldn't be given too much weight.
3. Is the Tour Duration Appropriate?
The recommended tour duration is 3-4 hours. This is optimal for building rapport with your guide and having enough time to ask questions.
Disadvantages of short tours:
- Can't fully enjoy tourist spots
- Rushed schedule
- Thin content
- No buffer time for handling issues
Disadvantages of long tours:
- Accumulation of fatigue
- Tour may drag on
- Poor cost performance
Check the tour schedule and reviews beforehand to confirm if the content is substantial enough for your interests.
A Tour Enthusiast Shares 3 Key Points to Enhance Your Tour Experience
Prepare Questions for Your Local Guide in Advance
To make your tour experience more fulfilling, especially for upcoming Shinjuku tours 2025, prepare questions for your guide beforehand. Local guides are professionals with extensive knowledge of the area and Japanese culture. Being proactive with questions offers these benefits:
- Builds a closer connection with the guide
- Reveals interesting episodes and personal experiences
- Provides deep insights into local culture and daily life
- Gets recommendations for photo spots and souvenir shops
When preparing questions, it's important to clarify "what you want to know" and "what experiences you're seeking." Don't hesitate to ask questions to create a more enjoyable journey.
Communicate Dietary Restrictions and Personal Limitations Online in Advance
When booking a tour, inform the organizers online about any restrictions or limitations you have. This ensures you can enjoy the tour without discomfort and dine with peace of mind.
Examples of what to communicate before the tour:
- Fear of heights
- Claustrophobia
- Motion sickness
- Alcohol sensitivity (or inability to drink)
- Spicy food aversion
- Allergies
- Vegetarian requirements, etc.
Some restaurants may not accommodate vegan or gluten-free diets. When tour organizers know in advance, they can prepare alternatives, ensuring you can enjoy the tour worry-free.
Choose Small Group or Private Tours When Traveling with Young Children
When touring with young children, opt for small group or private tours. While these may cost more, they offer these advantages:
- Can adjust to children's pace
- No worry about disturbing other tourists
- Better safety management for children
- Can customize content to be child-friendly
- Enjoyable for the whole family
Small group or private tours allow for easier adjustments to ensure children's comfort, letting parents relax and enjoy the experience too.
For creating memorable family moments, the Tokyo by Night Photography Tour is recommended. You can walk through Shinjuku at your child's pace while capturing photos of the whole family enjoying Tokyo's nightscape.
