Shinjuku Guide - Tokyo’s Entertainment District
Shinjuku
Even if Tokyo is unfamiliar territory, you’ll probably have heard of Shinjuku—a bustling entertainment district filled with neon-lit skyscrapers, bars, any type of food you can imagine, adult entertainment, and thriving commerce.
In this guide we'll explore Shinjuku’s many facets, most iconic places, what’s unique about each area, and our favorite dinner spots.
In this Shinjuku Guide
Iconic spots
Kabukicho
Shinjuku West
Shinjuku East
Shinjuku Gyoen
The food
Golden Gai
The shops
Fashion in Shinjuku
Shinjuku
Iconic spots
Shinjuku has undergone a remarkable transformation from its origins as a post town to becoming the bustling commercial district it is today. With a collection of must-see photo spots, Shinjuku holds a mix of legendary landmarks. We listed its most iconic spots below.
Omoide Yokocho
Omoide Yokocho, located near the West Exit of Shinjuku Station, is a charming labyrinth of narrow alleyways, contrasting sharply with the surrounding modern skyscrapers and bright neon lights. Known as Memory Lane, this atmospheric area is filled with about 60 open-fronted izakayas, each seating only a handful of people at counters or small tables. As night falls, the red lanterns glow and the air fills with the aroma of charcoal-grilled yakitori. Locals frequent their favorite spots while tourists sip on Kirin or Suntory Premium Malt beer and enjoy omakase-style meals.
Omoide Yokocho Shinjuku
Kabukicho Gate
The iconic landmark stands as the entrance of Shinjuku’s prime entertainment district. The Kabukicho Gate’s trademark lights are a wink to Kabukicho’s reputation as a red-light district, or ‘sleepless town’, with its high concentration of host and hostess clubs, love hotels, and nightclubs.
Kabukicho Gate Shinjuku
Godzilla Head
The Godzilla head on the Hotel Gracery Shinjuku terrace is one of Shinjuku’s most iconic landmarks. This 80-ton sculpture, replicating Godzilla from the 1992 film "Godzilla vs. Mothra," was placed in 2015. Standing at 50 meters, it features glowing eyes, smoky breath, and a neon blue "atomic breath" that lights up the night. You can visit the rooftop for a close-up, but the full effect is best seen from the ground. Godzilla head celebrates Toho's iconic kaiju, who even has a star on Hollywood Boulevard.
Godzilla Head Shinjuku
Shinjuku Cat
In July 2021, Shinjuku’s 3D cat made its first appearance. Situated across from Shinjuku Station’s east exit, this high-tech, curved LED billboard spans three floors. The giant cat, appearing every 15 minutes in episodes of a special program called "Neko Channel," quickly went viral. Its lifelike presence, changing activities throughout the day, males the billboard a standout feature amid Shinjuku's bright lights and countless billboards.
Shinjuku Cat Billboard
Shinjuku main street
Probably one of Shinjuku’s most impressive views is its main street filled with billboards and neon lights. You might recognise this spot from the iconic Lost in Translation scene. Shinjuku’s main street functions as Shinjuku’s main hub. From here you can choose to explore Kabukicho, go on a shopping spree in Shinjuku’s Eastern area, or explore the old school allure of West Shinjuku.
Shinjuku Main Street
Yodobashi Camera
Located near the west entrance of Shinjuku Station, Yodobashi Camera is one of Tokyo's largest and most dynamic electronics retailers. The flagship store, established in 1975 and named after a former Shinjuku town, spans a series of 13 pavilions, each dedicated to different product categories such as cameras, watches, games, and home appliances. The store, famous for its retro neon signs and extensive advertising, offers a wide array of Japanese-made products including smartphones, digital single-lens reflex cameras, cosmetics, and designer bags.
Yodobashi Camera Shinjuku
Kabukicho
Kabukicho is known as Japan’s most famous red-light district. Originally named after a planned but never built Kabuki theater in the late 1940s, Kabukichō is now an area filled with host and hostess clubs, love hotels, bars, restaurants, and nightclubs, earning it the nickname "Sleepless Town." Amidst the neon lights and cacophony of sounds from pachinko parlors, you can experience a sensory overload with everything from traditional Japanese dining to modern digital attractions like the giant Godzilla head. The district is also home to Shinjuku Golden Gai, known for its tiny bars and nightlife. Despite its reputation, Kabukicho is relatively safe and remains a popular destination for both tourists and locals looking to explore Tokyo's eclectic nightlife.
Kabukicho Shinjuku
Kabukicho's alleys are some of the busiest and most chaotic streets you will encounter in Tokyo. Prepare for flashing lights, sounds bombarding you left and right, and a mix of unique smells. Despite the overwhelming atmosphere, the streets are spacious, offering plenty of open areas to avoid feeling cramped. Embrace the lively energy and unique vibe of Kabukicho as part of your Tokyo adventure. Let’s have a look at some of the entertainment options you can find in Kabukicho.
Kabukicho Shinjuku
GIGO Kabukicho
GIGO Shinjuku Kabukicho is one of Shinjuku’s most famous arcades. Here you’ll find rows and rows of UFO catchers, giving you a chance to grab the latest anime figure releases while spending your yen like monopoly money.
GIGO Shinjuku Kabukicho
Tokyu Kabukicho Tower
Opened in 2023, Tokyu Kabukicho Tower is a 48-story entertainment complex in Shinjuku's Kabukicho district. Designed by Yuko Nagayama & Associates, it features two theaters, Japan's largest nightlife venue, a cinema, gaming arcade, food hall, and more. Artworks by 26 artists decorate the building, including in the Hotel Groove Shinjuku. The upper floors house the luxurious Bellustar Tokyo hotel with a three-story atrium restaurant.
Kabukicho Tower Shinjuku
Samurai Restaurant Time
If you’re in for an entertaining lunch experience, look no further. The live show in Samurai Restaurant Time is loud, dynamic, and unique. Like a concentrated assault on the senses of Japanese culture. The show features dance, music, fighting sequences, all in extravagant costumes. Prices tend to be more expensive, but you’ll be left with an indescribable experience and probably some question marks.
Samurai Restaurant Time Shinjuku Kabukicho
Toho Cinema
As one of Japan’s largest cinemas, Toho Cinema Kabukicho screens most of the latest Hollywood blockbusters, as well as Japanese releases. The cinema is located in the Shinjuku Toho Building, which houses the iconic Godzilla Head. Beware that subtitles are in Japanese only, so going for a Japanese-spoken film might be tricky.
Toho Cinemas Shinjuku Kabukicho
Shinjuku West - Experience the Showa-era
If you want to experience the Showa-era charm of Shinjuku, but avoid the overcrowded streets of Kabukicho, West Shinjuku is where you’ll want to go. These streets are dominated by the retro vintage billboards of the legendary Yodobashi Camera stores and authentic restaurants. Shinjuku’s West side doesn’t need a guide in particular, every alley is filled with multimedia stores and great food.
Shinjuku East - A modern shopping heaven
If you feel the urge to shop, whether for cosmetics, fashion, or souvenirs, you'll love Shinjuku East. This is the most modern and cleanest area of Shinjuku, where stores like Uniqlo, Don Quijote, and Matsumoto Kiyoshi are nestled among towering skyscrapers. In addition to well-known shops, the area is filled to the brim with fantastic restaurants. You can easily spend half a day strolling around Shinjuku's east side, enjoying the atmosphere.
Shinjuku Gyoen
Shinjuku Gyoen, one of Tokyo's largest and most cherished parks, offers a green escape just a short walk from Shinjuku Station. Originally an Edo period feudal lord's residence, it transformed over centuries from a botanical garden to an imperial estate, and finally into a public park in 1949 after being rebuilt post-World War II destruction. The park has three distinct garden styles—traditional Japanese, formal, and landscape—with ponds, bridges, manicured shrubs, and seasonal flowers.
Shinjuku Gyoen Park
The food of Shinjuku
Kameya
Our first food recommendation takes us to Omoide Yokocho, where you'll find Kameya, a charming and authentic udon spot. This tiny gem offers a variety of udon dishes, ranging from simple plain udon with egg to more elaborate options with tempura toppings. While you might need to wait in line for a few minutes, the fast-moving service ensures you won't be waiting long. Remember to bring cash, as Kameya only accepts cash payments. Each bowl is reasonably priced at around 500 to 600 yen.
Kameya Udon Shinjuku
Kushikatsu Tanaka
Kushikatsu Tanaka is your best bet at finding delicious Osakan junk food in Tokyo. This place serves all types of small snacks, from skewers, to fried meat, all with an overload of sauce. And the best part? It’s cheap, very cheap. Great to start a night out in Kabukicho.
Kashikatsu Tanaka Shinjuku
Monja Sakaba Dashiya
A great Monjayaki restaurant in Shinjuku. Monja Sakaba Sashiya kabukicho offers one of the area’s best pan-fried batter, aka Monjayaki. For the first-timers, Monjayaki may not have the most appetizing look to it but dear lord is it delicious. The place has a table charge, as well as an all-you-can-drink option.
Monja Sakaba Dashiya Shinjuku
Robata Yui
Robata Yui is a modern yet authentic izakaya that is a little out of the way, meaning there’s way less tourists in the area. The place is basically one long counter seat, with great energy coming from the staff who don't typically speak English but are very willing to help you out. Its menu includes slightly more refined dishes like sashimi wagyu, grilled grunt, duck, or wagyu tail.
Robata Yui Shinjuku
Menshou Taketora
One of Shinjuku’s reputable ramen spots. Menshou Taketora has a couple of shops in Tokyo. On the menu you find quite a big variety of rich tonkotsu and tan tan soup options, both available as ramen or tsukemen (separating the noodles from the soup). We highly recommend getting some of their egg-cooked rice or a chashu rice bowl as a side.
Menshou Taketora Ramen
Yokohama Ramen Yamamoto
Yokohama's signature iekei ramen showcases a broth crafted from pork marrow and soy sauce, served with thick, straight noodles. Now, you can savor the rich texture and flavor of Yokohama ramen right in the heart of Shinjuku at Yokohama Ramen Yamamoto, where each bowl promises an authentic and satisfying experience.
Yokohama Ramen Yamamoto Shinjuku
Kushi Tempura Dandanya
Kushi Tempura Dandanya is a tempura restaurant in the alleys of Shinjuku’s West area. This place specializes specifically in tempura skewers, and has over 100 varieties of tempura to pick from. Its interior is small but cozy, featuring exclusively counter seats so you can keep an eye on the action taking place in the kitchen.
Kushi Tempura Dandanya Shinjuku
Golden Gai
Shinjuku Golden Gai, located in Tokyo's Kabukicho district, is a nostalgic area of six narrow alleys crammed with over 200 tiny bars, clubs, and eateries. Just minutes from Shinjuku Station, it contrasts sharply with the surrounding modern developments, preserving the charm of Tokyo's post-war era. The two-story buildings are often so close they nearly touch, with steep stairs leading to upper levels. Despite its scruffy, dimly lit appearance, Golden Gai attracts a well-off clientele, including celebrities, artists, and writers, making each night an adventure. Our guide to bar hopping in Golden Gai is coming soon.
Shinjuku Golden Gai
The shops of Shinjuku
Shinjuku is a shopper’s paradise. Whether you’re looking for books, clothes, lifestyle goods, photography gear, Shinjuku has it all. Although it’s impossible to cover all stores in Shinjuku, you can find our favorite recommendations below.
Kitamura Camera
Kitamura Camera, located in Shinjuku’s Eastern shopping district, blends the functions of a photography shop and a museum. Spanning six floors, each dedicated to its own specialty, the store offers everything from second-hand film cameras to an exclusive Leica floor. Navigating through its departments feels like exploring the curated archives of a photography museum rather than visiting a camera shop. Additionally, Kitamura Camera provides express film development services.
Kitamura Camera Shinjuku
Books Kinokuniya
Kinokuniya's flagship store on Shinjuku-dori stands as Japan's largest general bookstore, housing over numerous books, including Japanese and foreign titles, comics, DVDs, and duty-free goods across nine floors. Recognized as a Tokyo landmark since its completion in 1964, the Kinokuniya building underwent a complete refurbishment in January 2023, embracing a forward-thinking design concept. It features Kinokuniya Hall, a 427-seat theater located on the fourth floor, adding to its cultural appeal. While the south side branch offers a broader selection of foreign-language books, this main store remains the number one destination for literature, stationery, and multimedia.
Books Kinokuniya Shinjuku Main Store
Don Quijote Shinjuku Kabukicho
The Don Quijote Kabukicho store offers an extensive range of 40,000 to 60,000 items, from pharmaceuticals and cosmetics to clothing, electronics, and alcohol. The renovated Don Quijote Shinjuku Kabukicho Store spans five floors, featuring everything from seasonal apparel and groceries to cosmetics, electronics, and Japanese souvenirs. Known for its labyrinthine layout and 24/7 availability, it's a prime destination for affordable finds and unique gifts in Shinjuku.
Don Quijote Shinjuku Kabukicho
Disk Union Shinjuku
Disk Union in Shinjuku holds eight floors of music heaven, catering to vinyl and CD collectors with genres ranging from punk to Japanese rock and indie. It's a treasure trove of classics, rare finds and collectors items, featuring unique memorabilia and vintage clothing that complement each musical genre. Whether you're after obscure Japanese visual kei albums or exploring global music trends, Disk Union is sure to meet your needs.
Disk Union Tokyo
Disney Flagship Store Tokyo
Disney Flagship Store in Shinjuku is Japan's largest Disney store, spread across three floors with over 2,000 items featuring beloved characters like Mickey Mouse, and merchandise from Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars. The first floor highlights exclusive collaborations, while collectors can find global park merchandise. Customize apparel at D-Made on the basement floor and enjoy Disney videos at the Magical Digital Portal on the second floor, ensuring a magical experience for all Disney fans.
Disney Flagship Store Tokyo
Alpen Tokyo Flagship Store
Alpen TOKYO, Japan's largest sports specialty store, opened in April 2022 at Shinjuku's JR East Exit. Spanning ten floors in the Yunika Building, it combines Sports Depo, Alpen Outdoors, and Golf 5, offering about 350,000 products. From outdoor apparel on the 3rd floor to camping gear on the 4th and a wide array of outdoor brands on the 5th, the store caters to enthusiasts of all kinds.
Alpen Tokyo Shinjuku
How to get to Shinjuku
Shinjuku Station is serviced by the every JR Line, Keio Line, Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line, Toei Shinjuku, Toei Oedo Line, and Odakyu Electric Railway.
From Tokyo Station
JR Chuo Line Rapid to Shinjuku
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