Things To Do
in Shinjuku
Shinjuku is Tokyo's bustling transit and entertainment hub, where soaring skyscrapers shadow busy crosswalks and vibrant nightlife. The area blends business districts with a labyrinth of shopping streets, izakayas, and neon-lit alleys that stay active around the clock. Within Shinjuku, you can find peaceful gardens like Shinjuku Gyoen tucked beside towering office blocks.
The neighborhood serves as a convenient gateway to Tokyo, with one of the world's busiest railway stations at its heart.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your morning by indulging in a delicious breakfast at a local café, savoring a traditional Japanese breakfast set. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll through Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, where the beauty of cherry blossoms or lush greenery will captivate your senses. Spend some time capturing the picturesque landscapes and relaxing in the serene environment before heading out for the day.
In the afternoon, visit the bustling streets of Kabukicho, known for its vibrant nightlife and entertainment options. Explore the unique shops, quirky cafes, and themed restaurants, immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere. Don't forget to grab lunch at a local ramen shop to refuel for your adventures ahead.
As the sun sets, head to the observation deck of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for breathtaking views of the Tokyo skyline. Afterward, dive into the culinary scene at Omoide Yokocho, where you can sample delicious yakitori and other izakaya-style dishes. End your night by wandering through the neon-lit streets, soaking in the electric energy of Shinjuku.
Begin your day visiting the historic Hanazono Shrine, a peaceful oasis amidst the urban hustle. Participate in a traditional Japanese purification ritual, and take in the stunning architecture and beautiful gardens that surround the shrine. This spiritual experience will set a reflective tone for the rest of your day.
Next, immerse yourself in the cultural scene at the Samurai Museum, where you can learn about the history and significance of samurai in Japan. Enjoy interactive exhibits and stunning displays of armor, swords, and artifacts. For lunch, treat yourself to a bento box at a nearby restaurant, experiencing the flavors of Japan in a convenient and delightful way.
Spend your evening in the bustling Golden Gai, a network of narrow alleys lined with tiny bars and eateries. Hop from one bar to another, each with its unique theme and atmosphere, while mingling with locals and fellow travelers. As the night continues, enjoy the lively conversations and perhaps even some live music performances.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍣Lunch at a mid-range sushi or donburi spot | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee/tea at cafe | $3-6 |
| 🚇Subway/railway fare (single ride) | $2-4 |
| 🍺Beer or a drink at izakaya | $6-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- World-class transport hub with efficient trains and clean, safe streets
- Vast range of dining options from street food to fine dining
- Dynamic nightlife and cultural experiences in Kabukicho and Golden Gai
- Proximity to other Tokyo neighborhoods for day trips
- Variety of parks and green spaces amidst a dense urban core
- Crowds can be overwhelming, especially around Shinjuku Station
- Some areas are noisy late at night and can feel chaotic
- Certain experiences require cash-only transactions
- High cost of dining and accommodation in central Tokyo
- Language barriers can appear in small eateries or markets
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
- "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "英語を話せますか？" - Do you speak English?
- "これはいくらですか？" - How much is this?
- "お願いします" - Please / I would like
Places to Visit in Shinjuku
Visit one of these nice places.
Free, 45th-floor vantage points offering sweeping panoramas of Tokyo’s skyline, especially at sunrise or sunset.
A classic mix of traditional Japanese garden, English lawn, and French formal garden ideal for seasonal photography.
Lantern-lit alleyways and retro signage provide atmospheric night photography.
Iconic neon signs and compact bars create vibrant street scenes after dark.
Glass-and-steel facades and elevated viewpoints reflect the district’s modern architecture.
Food in Shinjuku
Shinjuku Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet served with shredded cabbage and rice; iconic in Tokyo, with Maisen as a popular choice.
Must-Try!
Grilled chicken skewers cooked over binchōtan charcoal, a staple of Omoide Yokocho and Golden Gai alleyways.
Rich miso or pork-based broth bowls; try Ichiran Shinjuku for a focused ramen experience.
Lightly battered, crisp seafood/vegetable tempura served with dipping tentsuyu.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A maze of tiny, nostalgic eateries offering yakitori, ramen, and soba near Shinjuku Station.
Underground and street-level food corridors with quick bites, ramen, bentos, and sweets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Stand in line quietly and maintain personal space; be patient in crowded stations.
Bowing is common but not mandatory; keep noise to a minimum on trains and in restaurants.
In many areas, eating while walking is discouraged; sit-down dining is preferred for meals.
Remove shoes in traditional spaces or certain cultural venues; keep clean footwear in indoor spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Shinjuku
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan and can be considered rude in many contexts; instead, focus on polite thanks and good service.
Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are common at larger stores. IC cards (Suica, Pasmo) work on trains and many shops, and mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are increasingly accepted.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cherry blossoms often line Shinjuku Gyoen and nearby parks; pleasant weather but can be crowded on weekends.
Hot and humid with occasional typhoons; stay hydrated and use shaded outdoor spaces; early mornings are best for outdoor photography.
Clear air and vivid foliage; ideal time for garden walks and cityscape photography.
Cool to cold, with dry air; some garden areas close earlier; city lights are bright after sunset.
Shinjuku at Night
Hiking in Shinjuku
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular hiking destination about an hour from central Tokyo; forest trails, scenic viewpoints, and a temple at the summit.
Extensive hiking opportunities in the Tokyo (Okutama) region with forest trails and river scenery.
Airports
How to reach Shinjuku by plane.
Domestic and international flights; about 25-40 minutes by train to Shinjuku on the Monorail and Tokyo Monorail connections or via Limousine Bus.
Major international gateway; typically 60-90 minutes to Shinjuku by train (Narita Express or rapid trains with transfers).
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of office workers, students, and long-term residents.
Frequent visitors seeking shopping, dining, and nightlife.
Expat and foreign visitors contributing to a cosmopolitan vibe.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Tokyo hosts professional teams and casual games; baseball is popular nationwide.
Local university and professional league games draw crowds; city parks host pickup games.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Shinjuku.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places in Shinjuku are meat-focused; look for vegetable-forward dishes, tofu, tempura, and vegetable ramen; ask for dashi-free broth when needed.