Shinjuku West Gate Zone Guide: Exploring Tokyo's Skyscraper District
As a Tokyo resident, Shinjuku's West Gate is a familiar place to me. Its charm lies in the Tokyo-like diversity where modern skyscrapers coexist with back alleys that retain the atmosphere of old Tokyo.
For foreign tourists, Shinjuku can be a somewhat challenging area within Tokyo to navigate. The vast and complex Shinjuku Station, language barriers, and the lively nighttime atmosphere might be overwhelming at first. However, this complexity is part of Shinjuku's appeal.
In Shinjuku's West Gate area, you can have various experiences. From enjoying the view from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building's observation deck, spending relaxing time in the Central Park, savoring the down-to-earth atmosphere in Omoide Yokocho, to dining in restaurants within skyscrapers. Through these experiences, I believe you can feel the diverse aspects of Tokyo.
From a Tokyo local's perspective, this area often has fewer people than other parts of Shinjuku, making it relatively easy to relax in cafes and such on weekends. That being said, it's still crowded, to be honest...
I hope you'll discover the charm of Shinjuku's West Gate area using this article as a reference!
Table of Contents
・What is the Shinjuku West Gate Area?
・Things to Do in Shinjuku West
・Other Spots to Visit in Shinjuku
What is the Shinjuku West Gate Area?
The Shinjuku West Gate area symbolizes Tokyo's modernization and development. This region has undergone a significant transformation since the Shinjuku Sub-center Plan began in the 1960s. Even compared to when I was a child, the changes are astonishing.
This area, once a flat residential district, now boasts a magnificent landscape with one of the world's most impressive clusters of skyscrapers. The office district spreads out, bustling with business people on weekdays. The well-organized urban landscape vividly illustrates the success of Japan's technological prowess and urban planning.
However, I believe the charm of Shinjuku West lies in its contrast, where human-scale alleys and small shops still thrive amidst the modern landscape.
Things to Do in Shinjuku West
There are various activities in Shinjuku West that tourists can enjoy. I'll introduce you to recommended spots and experiences, drawing from my own experiences.
Enjoy the View from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observation Deck
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building's observation deck is an absolute must-visit spot when you're in the Shinjuku West Gate area. I sometimes drop by after work, and each time I'm struck by Tokyo's grandeur.
The biggest attraction of this observation deck is undoubtedly its 360-degree panoramic view. What's surprising is that admission is free. On clear days, you can even see Mount Fuji in the distance, giving you a sense of Tokyo's vastness.
The night view is particularly impressive. The sight of the city's twinkling lights is breathtaking. For photography enthusiasts, it's an excellent spot for shooting.
There's also a small cafe at the observation deck where you can take a break. I recommend visiting at dusk. You can feel Tokyo's pulse while watching the transition from day to night.
Website: https://www.yokoso.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/en/tenbou/index.html
Relax in Shinjuku Central Park
Shinjuku Central Park is an oasis in the city, surrounded by skyscrapers.
The charm of this park lies in its spacious lawn area. On sunny days, you can see locals enjoying picnics or doing yoga.
I sometimes spend my lunch break here with a bento box. It's a valuable space where you can temporarily escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Seasonal flowers are another attraction of the park. Cherry blossoms bloom in spring, and you can enjoy autumn foliage in fall. You can appreciate the beauty of Japan's four seasons right in the heart of the city.
When you're tired from sightseeing or want to get away from Tokyo's hustle for a bit, I highly recommend visiting Shinjuku Central Park. You can experience a relaxed time with skyscrapers in the background, which is unique to Shinjuku.
Website: https://shinjukuchuo-park.jp/en/
Take a Commemorative Photo at the LOVE Object
The LOVE object in Shinjuku Island is a spot I always visit when I guide friends or family around Shinjuku. This object is a work created by American sculptor Robert Indiana and is one of the most beloved art pieces worldwide.
This LOVE object is popular for taking Instagram-worthy photos. The impressive red large letters with Shinjuku's skyscrapers in the background create an excellent photo spot that blends urban scenery and art.
There are many facilities around where you can enjoy shopping. After taking photos, I recommend exploring Shinjuku's sophisticated stores.
Dine at Restaurants in Skyscrapers
I believe dining at restaurants in Shinjuku West's skyscrapers is one of the special experiences in Tokyo sightseeing. Here, you can enjoy delicious food while taking in breathtaking night views.
One particularly memorable experience for me was visiting a restaurant in the Keio Plaza Hotel for a friend's birthday. Sitting by the window and enjoying a meal while gazing at Tokyo's glittering cityscape felt like a scene from a movie. Not only the taste of the food but also the visual experience made it an unforgettable memory.
In the Shinjuku West area, various dining establishments are scattered throughout the skyscrapers, from high-end restaurants to casual cafes. For example, the Shinjuku Nomura Building houses restaurants of various genres, from Japanese to Western cuisine, each offering its unique atmosphere and view.
I recommend these skyscraper restaurants for special occasion dinners. They're perfect for setting the stage for life's important moments, such as anniversaries or proposals.
Experience Retro Izakayas in Omoide Yokocho
Omoide Yokocho is a drinking alley right next to Shinjuku Station's West Exit, retaining the atmosphere of old Tokyo.
Small izakayas line this narrow alley. The exterior of the shops is simple, and when you enter, you're enveloped in a nostalgic atmosphere, as if you've traveled back in time. The shop I used to frequent as a student still maintains its unchanged taste and atmosphere, filling me with nostalgia every time I visit.
One of the charms of Omoide Yokocho is its reasonable prices. Amidst the many high-end establishments in West Shinjuku, this place is loved by locals as a casual spot to drop by. I sometimes pop in with colleagues after work.
This place is also popular among foreign tourists. It's a valuable spot where you can experience Japan's down-to-earth drinking culture. It's also an opportunity to interact with locals, overcoming language barriers.
If you want to learn more about this street, please also check out the Omoide Yokocho Guide.
Shopping at Large Department Stores
The Shinjuku West Gate area is a paradise for shopping enthusiasts. Many large department stores like Odakyu Department Store and Keio Department Store are gathered here, and I often enjoy shopping here on weekends.
The appeal of these department stores is undoubtedly their vast selection of goods. From the latest fashion items to traditional Japanese crafts, a wide range of products is available.
What I particularly like are the seasonal exhibitions and events. For example, there are many events where you can experience Japanese culture, such as colorful kimono exhibitions in spring and cool yukata fairs in summer.
Don't miss the food floors either. Here, you'll find an eye-catching array of delicious foods, including specialties from all over Japan and carefully crafted Japanese sweets. I especially enjoy buying seasonal fruits and Japanese sweets to take home.
For foreign tourists, the tax-free shopping at these department stores is a big attraction. Many staff members are multilingual, so you can shop with peace of mind.
Explore the Underground Shopping Areas Around Shinjuku Station
Source: Google Map
The underground shopping areas around Shinjuku Station, especially Odakyu Ace, are like underground cities. I got lost the first time I visited because it was so vast.
Odakyu Ace houses a diverse array of restaurants and specialty stores. From fast food to high-end restaurants, from general stores to brand shops, stores of all genres are lined up.
A big advantage of this underground mall is that you can enjoy Shinjuku regardless of the weather. You can comfortably shop and dine even on rainy days, so I often visit here when it rains. Also, it's comfortable temperature-wise on hot summer days and cold winter days.
I recommend tourists explore this underground mall. You're sure to discover a completely different side of Shinjuku from what you see above ground.
Website: https://www.odakyu-ace.jp/gb/index.jsp#googtrans(en)
Visit a Karaoke Box
You might be surprised, but there are many karaoke boxes in the Shinjuku West Gate area. I consider this an excellent opportunity to experience modern Japanese culture.
For Japanese people, karaoke is more than just entertainment. We use karaoke to relieve stress or deepen bonds with friends and colleagues. The karaoke boxes in Shinjuku West are the perfect place to experience this uniquely Japanese karaoke culture.
Many karaoke boxes in Shinjuku West are equipped with the latest facilities. High-quality speakers, systems that allow you to easily select songs with touch panels, and multilingual functions all contribute to a comfortable singing experience.
Moreover, many establishments have extensive menus for light meals and drinks, so you won't get bored even if you stay for a long time.
For foreign tourists, it's also a good opportunity to get in touch with Japanese pop culture. A wide range of songs is available, from the latest Japanese hit songs to anime songs. There are also plenty of English songs, so you can enjoy yourself even if you don't understand Japanese.
Other Spots to Visit in Shinjuku
Besides the Shinjuku West Gate area, Shinjuku has many other attractive spots. I'll introduce you to some recommended places, drawing from my experiences.
Shinjuku Gyoen
This vast park, where Japanese and Western-style gardens coexist, is within walking distance from Shinjuku Station yet boasts a quietness and beauty that's hard to believe in the city center.
In spring, the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, and the sight is breathtaking. I look forward to visiting for hanami (cherry blossom viewing) with friends and family every year. Enjoying a picnic under the cherry blossoms and spending time leisurely is truly the essence of spring in Japan.
The autumn foliage is not to be missed either. The sight of trees turned red and yellow reflecting in the pond of the Japanese garden is like a painting. In autumn, it's become my hobby to visit here with a camera and capture the changing seasons.
Website: https://fng.or.jp/shinjuku/en/
Kabukicho
Kabukicho is known as Japan's largest entertainment district. For me, this area symbolizes Shinjuku's "other face". This area, which shows completely different faces during the day and night, makes me feel the multifaceted nature of Tokyo.
The iconic presence in Kabukicho is the giant Godzilla head. Installed on the roof of the Shinjuku Toho Building, this Godzilla is lit up at night and spouts blue light beams with a roaring sound.
This area is home to numerous restaurants and entertainment facilities. From small izakayas to large restaurants, karaoke boxes, and movie theaters, you can enjoy various activities. I often visit this area myself for drinking parties with friends or watching movies.
However, there are some points that I'd like tourists to be cautious about. While Kabukicho has its attractive aspects, it's also an area with security challenges. Especially at night, you need to be careful of suspicious solicitations and fraudulent business practices. I even had an experience of almost being deceived when I was younger.
Still, with proper caution, it's a place I'd definitely recommend visiting for those who want to experience Tokyo's modern culture and nightlife. For more details, please also check out the Kabukicho Guide article.
Shinjuku Golden Gai
This area, just a short distance from the hustle and bustle of Kabukicho, is a small drinking district that strongly retains the atmosphere of old Tokyo. Even smaller bars and snack bars than Omoide Yokocho line up here, and its unique atmosphere can't be experienced anywhere else.
The charm of Golden Gai also lies in its historical background. Formed during the post-war turmoil, this area was once known as a gathering place for cultural figures and artists. Even now, as if inheriting that tradition, there are many small shops run by unique owners.
For foreign tourists, Golden Gai has also become an attractive nighttime sightseeing spot.
However, there are a few points to note. Many shops value their "regular customers", so you might feel a bit nervous when visiting for the first time. Also, some shops may refuse entry to foreign tourists.
However, recently, guided tours for foreigners have increased, making it easier to enjoy, so I recommend taking advantage of these tours.
Website: http://goldengai.jp/
Shin-Okubo Korean Town
Shin-Okubo Korean Town is a place that I consider "Seoul within Tokyo". This area, within walking distance from Shinjuku Station, is an exotic street where you can fully experience Korean culture.
The biggest attraction of this area is undoubtedly the opportunity to enjoy authentic Korean cuisine. I myself love Korean food and often visit here on weekends. The spicy and deliciously hot cheese dakgalbi, healthy bibimbap, and the fragrant smell of Korean barbecue wafting through the streets stimulate your appetite.
Not only meals, but there are also many specialty stores handling Korean ingredients and seasonings. Moreover, K-POP goods shops are plentiful, where you can get the latest Korean music and idol merchandise.
Through experiences like tasting Korean cuisine, being exposed to the latest K-POP trends, and shopping for Korean cosmetics, I believe you can tangibly feel Tokyo's diversity and internationality.
I've shared with you the charms of Shinjuku, focusing on the Shinjuku West Gate area. What do you think? Shinjuku West, known as Tokyo's skyscraper district, and other areas of Shinjuku each have their unique appeal.
The beauty of the night view from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building's observation deck, the retro atmosphere in Omoide Yokocho, the changing seasons in the parks - I hope you'll fully enjoy the Shinjuku West zone using this article as a reference!
