Things To Do
in Shinjuku
Shinjuku is a bustling district in Tokyo known for its vibrant nightlife, shopping, and entertainment. It is home to the busiest train station in the world, making it a major transportation hub. The iconic Godzilla statue overlooks the area, adding a touch of whimsy to the urban landscape.
Shinjuku's skyscrapers, neon lights, and diverse range of restaurants and bars make it a must-visit destination for visitors looking to experience the energy of Tokyo.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $7
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, where you can enjoy beautiful landscapes in a peaceful environment. Don't forget to grab a coffee from a nearby café before heading out.
Explore the bustling streets of Shinjuku and indulge in some retail therapy at the many department stores. Stop for lunch at an izakaya to experience traditional Japanese pub cuisine.
As the sun sets, visit the observation decks of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for stunning panoramic views. Enjoy dinner at a local ramen shop and soak in the vibrant night atmosphere.
After breakfast at your hotel, take a leisurely walk through Shinjuku's streets to admire the architecture. Visit the Tokyo Opera City Art Gallery to appreciate modern art.
Have lunch in one of the famous conveyor belt sushi restaurants in the area. Spend the afternoon exploring the high-tech shops in Akihabara or visiting Omoide Yokocho for a historical glimpse.
Head to the Golden Gai district for an evening of bar hopping in this quaint, narrow alleyway filled with unique pubs. Try various local drinks and mingle with locals and travelers alike.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant nightlife with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment options.
- Excellent transportation links, making it easy to explore Tokyo and beyond.
- Diverse dining options, from traditional Japanese cuisine to international foods.
- Access to large shopping centers and unique boutiques.
- Rich cultural experiences with theaters, galleries, and public events.
- Can be very crowded, especially during peak hours.
- High cost of living and expensive accommodations.
- Noise pollution due to the bustling environment.
- Limited green spaces compared to other neighborhoods.
- Overwhelming for some due to its fast-paced lifestyle.
Best Activities in Shinjuku
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A beautiful and serene garden with a variety of landscapes including Japanese, English, and French gardens, as well as a greenhouse and numerous cherry blossoms in spring.
A spacious park known for its lush greenery, wide lawns, and forested areas, allowing for activities like picnicking, jogging, cycling, or simply relaxing amidst nature.
Enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the scenic Kanda River, passing by charming neighborhoods and picturesque views, providing a unique perspective of the city.
Tours
Uncover the best of Shinjuku with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Shinjuku
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the city from its observation decks.
Known for its beautiful landscapes and variety of seasonal flowers, offering great photo opportunities.
Famous for its bar and restaurant on the top floors, providing stunning views of Tokyo.
Features an observation deck with impressive views of the city and Mount Fuji on clear days.
Food in Shinjuku
Shinjuku Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try in Shinjuku, head to Ichiran or Menya Musashi for a bowl of rich, flavorful ramen.
Must-Try!
Try the delectable octopus-filled takoyaki at Takoyaki Doraku Wanaka in Shinjuku.
For an authentic Japanese dining experience, savor a multi-course kaiseki meal at Kikunoi restaurant.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Shinjuku better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore Omoide Yokocho, also known as Piss Alley, for an array of tiny eateries offering yakitori, kushikatsu, and more.
Visit Shin-Okubo for an immersive Korean street food experience filled with savory delights like kimchi pancakes and tteokbokki.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In crowded areas such as Shinjuku, it is important to be mindful of personal space and avoid standing too close to others.
When entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments like ryokan or some restaurants, it is customary to remove your shoes.
In Shinjuku and throughout Japan, it is polite to keep conversations quiet and mute electronic devices while using public transportation to avoid disturbing others.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Shinjuku with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Shinjuku
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan, including in Shinjuku. It is not expected to tip at restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments.
Payment in Shinjuku, Japan is primarily done through cash. Credit cards are widely accepted in larger establishments, but it's always advisable to carry cash for smaller shops and restaurants.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Shinjuku.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Shinjuku if you want to see cherry blossoms in full bloom. The weather is mild and pleasant, and you can also experience various spring festivals and events.
Expect hot and humid weather in summer. While it can be crowded, you can enjoy various summer festivals and events in the area.
Autumn is a beautiful time to visit Shinjuku as the foliage turns vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. The weather is also generally mild and comfortable.
Winter can be cold and sometimes snowy in Shinjuku. However, you can still enjoy winter illuminations and festive decorations around the area.
Shinjuku at Night
Hiking in Shinjuku
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large park blending traditional Japanese, English, and French garden landscapes, located in the center of Tokyo, offering serene walking paths and a beautiful natural setting.
A Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, surrounded by a lush forested area, providing trails for peaceful walks and a glimpse of traditional Japanese culture.
A popular hiking destination located about an hour from Shinjuku, featuring multiple trails, scenic views, and a summit that offers panoramic views of the Tokyo skyline and Mount Fuji.
Adjacent to Meiji Shrine, this spacious park is great for walking, jogging, and enjoying nature in the heart of Tokyo, often hosting various outdoor activities and events.
Set in a spacious area near Shibuya, this park has walking trails, sports facilities, and beautiful gardens, making it a good spot for leisurely hikes close to urban areas.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Shinjuku through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Shinjuku by plane.
Located approximately 60 kilometers east of Shinjuku, Narita is one of the main international airports serving Tokyo and the greater Kanto region.
Also known as Tokyo International Airport, Haneda is located about 30 kilometers south of Shinjuku and is closer to the city center, making it a popular choice for both domestic and international flights.
Located in Osaka, approximately 400 kilometers west of Shinjuku, Kansai is a major international airport serving the western part of Japan and is well-connected to various international destinations.
Located on an artificial island near Nagoya, approximately 350 kilometers southwest of Shinjuku, Chubu Centrair serves as a hub for flights in the central region of Japan.
Also known as Osaka International Airport, Itami is located about 400 kilometers west of Shinjuku and primarily handles domestic flights along with limited international services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group consisting of individuals who hold Japanese citizenship and have lived in Japan for their entire lives.
This group includes expatriates and long-term residents from other countries, representing various nationalities and cultures.
This group includes visitors from around the world who come to Shinjuku for various purposes including tourism, business, and cultural experiences.
This demographic includes both domestic and international students who reside in Shinjuku for educational purposes, attending universities and language schools.
This group consists of elderly individuals, often retired, who may have lived in Shinjuku for many years or have moved to the area for various lifestyle reasons.
The Soul of Shinjuku
Discover the essence of Shinjuku through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Japan, and Shinjuku has numerous parks and facilities where local teams play and fans gather to watch.
Soccer enjoys a strong following in Shinjuku, with many local clubs and frequent matches taking place in various stadiums and parks.
Martial arts such as Judo and Karate are widely practiced in Shinjuku, with many dojos and events attracting participants of all ages.
Tennis is a popular recreational sport in Shinjuku, with several public courts available for residents and tourists to enjoy.
Running is a favorite pastime for many in Shinjuku, particularly in parks and along the scenic paths that crisscross the area.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Shinjuku.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available at many restaurants in Shinjuku, such as Afuri Ramen for delicious vegan ramen.
Explore vegan-friendly dining at Ain Soph Journey, offering a variety of plant-based dishes in the heart of Shinjuku.
For gluten-free options, consider dining at restaurants like T's Tantan for flavorful, gluten-free ramen in Shinjuku.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Shinjuku with these cultural adventures.
