Step Into the Future! Experience Neo Shinjuku Atsushi, Tokyo’s Cyberpunk Izakaya with 3D Food and Sci-Fi Drinks
Shinjuku is Japan's busiest district, home to large shopping malls, office buildings, and Kabukicho - the largest entertainment district in the East.
Shinjuku is also known for its concentration of highly-rated restaurants. It's particularly famous for its izakayas (Japanese pubs), where countless people come daily to unwind after work while bar-hopping.
Recently, "Neo Izakayas" that incorporate the neon aesthetics characteristic of Tokyo's bubble economy era have become trendy, with venues like the Kabuki Hall in Kabukicho Tower leading the trend.
Among Shinjuku's neo izakayas, Neo Shinjuku Atsushi stands out as one of the most popular destinations. Today, we'll introduce you to the captivating charm of Neo Shinjuku Atsushi, Shinjuku's newest landmark.
What are "Neo Izakayas" like Neo Shinjuku Atsushi?
A "Neo Izakaya" is a new type of Japanese pub that fuses retro atmosphere with contemporary trends. This emerging trend is particularly popular among young people in their 20s and women.
Unlike traditional izakayas, neo izakayas emphasize unique concepts, with each establishment offering a different experience. Their distinctive interior design and menus are incredibly photogenic. Personally, I look forward to their unique glasses decorated with sayings and illustrations.
Neo izakayas offer not just meals but complete "experiences." Why not enjoy the concept while taking plenty of Instagram-worthy photos?
What makes Neo Shinjuku Atsushi stand out among other neo izakayas?
Among the booming neo izakaya scene, Neo Shinjuku Atsushi in Shinjuku has become exceptionally popular.
The concept of this establishment is "A BAR existing in a devastated world where humanity has perished everywhere except NEO Shinjuku." Its cyberpunk atmosphere (a sci-fi genre depicting a decadent future society) has captured visitors' hearts.
From the interior design to the menu and staff, everything embodies the cyberpunk aesthetic, making you feel like you've stepped into a science fiction movie. In the following sections, we'll thoroughly explain Neo Shinjuku Atsushi's unique world and appeal through five key points.
5 Fascinating Features of Neo Shinjuku Atsushi - An In-Depth Guide by a Shinjuku Nightlife Expert!
An Immersive Cyberpunk Atmosphere Straight Out of a Movie
The most striking feature of Neo Shinjuku Atsushi is its cyberpunk atmosphere. The interior showcases exposed piping and an industrial design, with the space dimly illuminated by neon lights, and even includes hydroponic farming equipment - creating a scene that feels like it's straight out of a movie. As you'll discover later, both the food and drinks evoke a post-apocalyptic world.
When you're here, you'll forget about the real world and feel transported to an alternate dimension. I felt as if I was taking refuge in a familiar BAR after battling through the dangers of a desolate outside world.
If you're looking to experience a reality different from our own, you must immerse yourself in the unique world of Neo Shinjuku Atsushi.
Revolutionary Food Menu Like Never Before
One of the strongest expressions of Neo Shinjuku Atsushi's cyberpunk worldview is its innovative food menu. Enjoy futuristic survival food items that you won't find anywhere else in the real world.
Neo Shinjuku Atsushi, imagining a world where meat has become scarce, offers an extensive vegan menu, making it welcoming for vegan visitors.
Vacuum-Packed Retort Hamburger
Source: Tabelog
Neo Shinjuku Atsushi's signature dish is their "Vacuum-Packed Retort Hamburger." This cheeseburger is prepared in a specialized retort food manufacturing pot under high temperature and pressure, making it a genuine survival food that can be stored at room temperature for extended periods. When heated in a microwave, it maintains the same delicious taste as a freshly made hamburger.
It's recommended to order the vacuum-packed mashed potatoes as a set. Come enjoy this feast from a survival world!
Complete Vegetable Cheeseburger (Vegan-Friendly)
Source: Tabelog
The complete vegetable cheeseburger is another menu item that embodies the cyberpunk world. While the patty, cheese, and sauce are all plant-based, they deliver an unexpectedly rich aroma and satisfying junk food experience. When immersed in the setting, it feels like a delicacy from a post-apocalyptic world where traditional ingredients are no longer available.
This menu item avoids not only animal products but also the five pungent spices, making it suitable for Oriental vegans as well.
Unique and Futuristic Drink Menu
Neo Shinjuku Atsushi offers a modern drink menu. You'll find drinks that require courage to try, such as peculiar liquors infused with insects. You can also experience a sense of nostalgia through retro-packaged canned drinks that seem to be frozen in time.
Let me introduce two of my recommended drinks that perfectly match Neo Shinjuku Atsushi's unique atmosphere.
"Fresh Carbonated" Lemon
Source: Tabelog
The first recommendation is the "Fresh Carbonated Lemon." This unique drink comes in a vinyl drink pack that you drink through a straw. While it feels like you're drinking a mysterious potion from the future, it's actually a delicious lemon sour.
The secret to this drink's deliciousness is its freshness. The carbonation is created by directly injecting carbon dioxide from gas cylinders, ensuring the freshest fizz possible. Additionally, all fruits used are seasonal and used with their peels intact.
ChatGPT-Designed Fruit-Infused Liquor
Source: Tabelog
The second recommendation is the "Fruit-Infused Liquor." There are six unique vodka-based original cocktails featuring fruits and herbs. My recommendation is the Mars Fire Wine, a novel cocktail that combines the sweetness of pineapple with the heat of chili peppers.
The most distinctive feature of this drink is that it was designed by ChatGPT. Why not try a drink from a world where AI has surpassed human creativity?
Friendly Atmosphere in a Cozy Space
Source: Tabelog
One of Neo Shinjuku Atsushi's charms is its cozy interior filled with a friendly atmosphere. The establishment can seat 9 people at the counter, 10 in box seats, and 10 in the semi-private loft area. It feels like spending time in a secret hideout, shoulder-to-shoulder with others. You'll feel a unique connection with fellow customers, knowing that, like you, they've come seeking refuge from the chaotic world outside.
Prime Location: 30 Seconds from Shinjuku-sanchome Station Exit C3
Neo Shinjuku Atsushi's excellent location is another major appeal. It's just a 30-second walk from Exit C3 of Shinjuku-sanchome Station, served by the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line, Toei Shinjuku Line, and Fukutoshin Line. It's also a 5-minute walk from Shinjuku Station's Exit A5. Shinjuku Station connects to 11 different lines, making it easily accessible from anywhere in Tokyo.
Tokyo stations are vast, and different exits lead to completely different locations. It can be particularly troublesome if you exit on the wrong side of the road, as you'll need to find a crosswalk. Remember to use Exit C3 at Shinjuku-sanchome Station or Exit A5 at Shinjuku Station for the easiest access to Neo Shinjuku Atsushi.
Regular Events at Neo Shinjuku Atsushi
Source: Tabelog
Neo Shinjuku Atsushi offers its space for rent to both individuals and businesses for events. As a result, regular music and dance events are held here, which anyone can easily participate in. The fusion with cyberpunk creates a unique atmosphere, which is one of the most attractive points of events held here. Events under the neon lights are more enchanting than usual, giving visitors a mysterious sense of excitement as if they're in a different world from reality. Additionally, people naturally feel closer to each other, creating a sense of unity throughout the venue while enjoying the events.
Enjoy Neo Shinjuku Atsushi 10 Times More with Magical Trip's Tour!
For those wanting to experience Neo Shinjuku Atsushi, we recommend the "Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku." This is a 3.5-hour Magical Trip night tour exploring hidden izakayas and food stalls in Shinjuku.
Along with a local guide, you can experience Japanese drinking culture while visiting three bars, including Neo Shinjuku Atsushi. While enjoying new-style izakayas like Neo Shinjuku Atsushi, you can also taste traditional authentic Japanese izakaya dishes such as yakitori, gyoza, and fried tofu.
This tour is perfect for those who want to experience both modern and traditional Japanese drinking culture. One of the appealing points is that it's an all-inclusive package with drinks (including sake and beer) and food, so you can enjoy it without bringing anything.
Click here for more details: Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku
<Tour Details>
- Meeting Point: In front of Black pillar (Next to Uniqlo Shinjuku Nishiguchi shop)
- Tour Area: Shinjuku
- Start Times: 17:00, 17:30, 18:00, 18:30, 19:00
Access to Neo Shinjuku Atsushi
- Address: 4F Sankei Building, 3-3-7 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
- Access: 30 seconds walk from Shinjuku-sanchome Station Exit C3
5 minutes walk from Shinjuku Station Exit A5
- Business Hours:
[Monday-Wednesday]: 18:00-23:00
[Thursday-Friday]: 18:00-5:00 (next day)
[Saturday-Sunday]: 12:00-16:00, 18:00-5:00 (next day)
- Regular Holidays: Irregular
- Phone: 03-6457-8532
- Official Website: https://neoshinjukuatsushi.com/
Two Food Halls Where You Can Experience Tokyo's New Trend "Neo Izakaya"
Ryunomiyako Dining Street (Shinjuku East Exit Yokocho)
Source: Official website
Ryunomiyako Dining Street is a Neo Shinjuku entertainment hub featuring 17 dining establishments packed with Far East Asian entertainment elements.
The concept is based on "Ryugu-jo" (Dragon Palace), a mythical underwater castle from Japanese folklore. In the folk tale, the palace hosts daily banquets and is where the kind-hearted young protagonist Urashima Taro spent so much time that he became an elderly man without realizing it.
Living up to its inspiration, Ryunomiyako Dining Street is equally enchanting, making time fly by. The colorfully illuminated interior features performances by DJs and magicians. Another attractive point is the diverse menu ranging from meat to seafood dishes from around the world.
<Details>
- Address: Sugichuu Building B1&1F, 3-36-12 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
- Access: 1-minute walk from Shinjuku Station (JR/Tokyo Metro/Toei/Private Railways)
- Business hours, holidays & phone: Varies by establishment, please check the official website
- Official website: https://ryunomiyako.com/
Shinjuku Kabuki Hall
Source: Official website
In the heart of Neo Shinjuku, Atsushi's favorite Kabuki Hall houses 10 restaurants offering soul food from across Japan and neighboring Korea.
The concept here is "Matsuri" (Festival). It's a vibrant space where food, music, and visuals merge to create an entertaining dining experience.
The festival atmosphere is enhanced by nightly stage performances. Comedians, magicians, and dancers keep the energy high every evening. A special highlight occurs every Friday, featuring collaborative performances with traditional arts like Japanese taiko drumming.
<Details>
- Address: 1-29-1 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
- Access: 1-minute walk from Seibu-Shinjuku Station (Seibu Line)
- Business hours & phone: Varies by establishment, please check the official website
- Holidays: Open year-round
- Official website: https://kabukihall.com/