One-Day Shinjuku Itinerary 2026 | Gyoen, Kabukicho & Shin-Okubo

exploring Tokyo Japan Travel Shin-Okubo Shinjuku Travel Guide

Updated: 2026年9月25日333 views

東京•新宿Tokyo Shinjuku

Table of contents

One-Day Shinjuku Itinerary: Shinjuku Gyoen, Kabukicho & Shin-Okubo

Shinjuku brings skyscrapers, department stores, and retro izakaya alleys together in one district. Next door, Shin-Okubo has its own shopping atmosphere, with Koreatown streets, food, beauty stores, and K-Pop goods. The two areas are close enough to visit in one day: explore the sights during the day, then stop for dinner or Shinjuku nightlife.

Shinjuku GyoenMust-visit attractions in Shinjuku: Step away from the bustling urban jungle and enter this expansive garden that blends Japanese, English, and French styles. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom, and in autumn, the leaves turn fiery red. Each season offers a unique beauty, making it an oasis in the city.
Tokyo Metropolitan Government BuildingHere, you can take a free elevator directly to the observation deck on the 45 floor, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of Tokyo’s cityscape. On clear days, you can even see Mount Fuji in the distance, making it the best choice for overlooking Tokyo.
Memory Lane (Omoide Yokocho)Step into this narrow alley filled with a nostalgic Showa atmosphere, lined with numerous izakayas and yakitori shops. The air is thick with smoke and lively chatter, making it an excellent place to experience Japan’s local nightlife.
KabukichoAs Japan’s largest red-light district, Kabukicho is famous for its dazzling neon lights and vibrant atmosphere. Here, you’ll find not only numerous cinemas, game centers, and restaurants but also a wealth of nighttime entertainment options.
Shin-Okubo:Shin-Okubo is the largest Korean town in Japan, filled with a strong Korean Wave cultural atmosphere. From K-POP music, beauty products to authentic Korean cuisine, every street here is brimming with Korean charm.

Shinjuku Transportation Guide

Transportation in Shinjuku and Shin-Okubo

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🚆 Traveling from Narita Airport to Shinjuku?

The most recommended option is to take theJR Narita Express (N’EX), which goes directly to Shinjuku in about 75-90 minutes.

Other options includeSkyliner transferring to the Yamanote Line(faster, about 60-70 minutes, requires a transfer) orLimousine Bus(direct, but takes longer).

N'EX Narita Express Ticket

👉kkday

👉Klook

Skyliner Keisei Electric Railway Ticket

👉kkday

👉Klook

👉Trip

Limousine Bus

👉kkday

👉Klook

👉Trip

🚆 How to get to Shinjuku from downtown Tokyo?

Shinjuku StationIt is one of the busiest train stations in Japan, with over 350 thousand people using it every day, connecting multiple JR lines, subways, and private railways, making transportation extremely convenient!
1Take the JR Line
- Yamanote Line(Yamanote Line): The most convenient way.
- Chuo Line (Rapid)(Chuo Line Rapid): It takes about 13 minutes to get from Tokyo Station directly to Shinjuku.
- Sōbu Line (Local Service)(Sobu Line Local): Suitable for travelers coming from Akihabara, Chiba, and other directions.
2. Take the Tokyo Metro
- Marunouchi Line (M)This red line connects major locations such as Ikebukuro, Ginza, and Tokyo Station, providing easy access directly to Shinjuku Station.
- Oedo Line (E): Passing through Roppongi, Tsukiji, Ueno, and other areas, it’s suitable for those who want to visit tourist attractions.
- Shinjuku Line (S)If you are coming from Ichikawa, Kudanshita, and other areas, this line is a good choice.
3. Private Railways & Other Transportation
- Odakyu LineTravelers arriving by Shinkansen from Kanagawa, Odawara, or Hakone can transfer here.
- Keio Line: Ideal for travelers heading to places like Takao Mountain and Chofu for a nearby getaway.
- Seibu-Shinjuku LineFrom Saitama, Tokorozawa, and other areas, you can reach the ‘Seibu Shinjuku Station’ right next to Shinjuku Station.

🚉 How to get to Shin-Okubo?

Shin-Okubo Station is much smaller than Shinjuku Station, mainly becauseJR Yamanote LineOne of the stops is only one station away from Shinjuku Station (about 2 minutes by train), and it’s also within walking distance!

1Take the JR Yamanote Line

From Shinjuku Station, you only need to takeJR Yamanote Line (Inner Loop/Outer Loop)It takes about 1 minutes from 2 Station to reach Shin-Okubo Station.
From Tokyo Station, it takes about 15 minutes by train to reach Shin-Okubo.

2. Walk

Walk from Shinjuku StationIt takes about 10-15 minutes to head towards the ‘Shokuan-dori’ direction, and you will soon see the lively Korean street in Shin-Okubo.
Walk from Seibu Shinjuku Station: It’s even closer, taking only about 5 minutes.

Essential Transportation Cards for Japan

👉 Suica IC Card

Metro 1 Day～3 Day Pass

👉 kkday

👉 Klook

Kanto region 5 day pass

👉 kkday

👉 Klook

👉 Trip

JR TOKYO Wide Pass

👉 kkday

👉 Klook

👉 Trip

JR EAST PASS

👉 kkday

👉 Klook

👉 Trip

🚃 JR Yamanote Line

This is a circular line that takes about1 hours。

Main features:The best way to move between major transfer stations in the city center, such as: Shinagawa, Hamamatsucho, Tokyo, Ueno, Shibuya, and Shinjuku.
Tips:If you want to travel between ‘Shinjuku Station ⇔ Tokyo Station’, takeJR Chuo LineIt will be faster.

Detailed Information:

Ticket price:Charging based on distance, approximately150～280 yenUsing a transportation IC card (such as Suica) for direct payment will cost146～274 yen。
Travel time:The travel time between each station is approximately1～3 minutes。
Interval between departures:During the day, approximately every3～4 minutesA group.

🚇 Subway

Tokyo’s subway is operated by two companies: Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway, with a total of13 route。

Identification method:Each route has its own color, and the stations are numbered. It is recommended to obtain a route map for easier navigation.
Recommended Attractions:Convenient routes to tourist attractions include the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, Marunouchi Line, and Toei Subway Asakusa Line.

Detailed Information:

Ticket price:Charges are based on distance. The starting fare for Tokyo Metro is180 yenStarting with the Toei Subway,180 yenStart.
Travel time:The travel time between each station is approximately2～3 minutes。
Interval between departures:During the day, approximately every2～10 minutesA group (varies by route).

Attractions that can be paired with Shinjuku for your itinerary

Shinjuku is a place where you can easily fill an entire day just shopping and strolling, but if you have more time or want to extend your itinerary, the location is actually very convenient—IkebukuroandHarajukuare nearby, and it takes at most 10 minutes by train, making it flexible to either schedule them on the same day or separate them as backup options.

If you want to walk and experience the vibe of Tokyo, you can head east from Shin-Okubo, and it takes about 20–25 minutes to reach the Waseda area, and further ahead isKagurazaka. The atmosphere in Kagurazaka is very different from Shinjuku, with cobblestone alleys and traditional shops, making it suitable for a leisurely afternoon stroll. If you’re not tired after exploring Shinjuku, I highly recommend taking a detour there.

Here are some transportation references for a few locations:

Shinjuku → Ikebukuro: JR Yamanote Line takes about 8 minutes, fare is 170 yen, or you can also take the Seibu Shinjuku Line.
Shinjuku → Harajuku: JR Yamanote Line takes about 5 minutes, fare is 170 yen, very close.
Shinjuku → Kagurazaka: Take the Tokyo Metro Tozai Line from Waseda Station, it takes about 10 minutes, or from Shinjuku, it takes about 20 minutes including walking.
Shin-Okubo → Waseda/Kagurazaka: It takes about 25–30 minutes on foot, and you’ll pass through residential areas, making the route easy and not too boring.

These areas can be planned together with the three lazy guides below 👇

👉 Harajuku, Shibuya & Omotesando: Shopping & Walking Guide

👉 2026 Tokyo Ikebukuro Guide | Sunshine City, Otome Road & Otsuka

👉 Kagurazaka Must-Eats & Iidabashi Food | Tokyo’s Little Paris Half-Day Guide 2026

The Shinjuku attraction notes below include addresses, opening hours, and key points to know before you visit.

▷more Tokyo Travel Guide 2026

Attraction notes — suggested route

Use a computer to open the Shinjuku–Shin-Okubo attraction map and plan your walking order by matching the notes.

Orange is Shinjuku Station South Exit; blue is West Exit; green is East Exit; purple is Kabukicho; yellow is Shin-Okubo.

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Open the Shinjuku–Shin-Okubo attraction map

The name Shinjuku actually originates from the transportation needs of the Edo period.

Birth of the StationDuring the Edo period (17 century), the Koshu Highway was an important transportation route. Because of Edo (now Tokyo) and the first post stationTakaidoThe distance between them was too long, so in 1698, a new station was established near Shinjuku Gyoen, called ‘Naito Shinjuku.’
Meaning of the Name：The literal meaning of ‘Shinjuku’ is ‘new station’ or ‘new lodging area’.This new rest area (shukuba) has gradually developed into a prosperous town center with the increase in foot traffic.
Transportation hubWith the Meiji Restoration and the development of railways, the importance of Shinjuku Station has been increasing day by day, especially after the Great Kanto Earthquake, when many people moved from the old city area to this location, accelerating its modernization process, ultimately becoming the super hub with the largest passenger traffic in the world today.

南口方向

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NEWoman

11:00～21:00

Intro

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NEWOmAn Shinjuku: A New Era of Sophisticated Aesthetics for Women

Item	Details
Attraction Address	Tokyo, Shibuya-ku, Sendagaya 5-chome 24-55 (JR Shinjuku Station New South Exit side)
Business Hours	Shopping Area: Weekdays/Saturdays 11:00～20:30, Sundays/Public Holidays 11:00～20:00 / 2F Food Hall: 07:00～22:00 (varies by store)
Admission Ticket	Free admission
Transportation	Directly connected to JR 'Shinjuku Station' New South Ticket Gate; shares a building with 'Busta Shinjuku (Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal)'.
Official Website	www.newoman.jp/shinjuku

Revolutionizing the Definition of Department Stores! An Ultimate Shopping Space Tailored for Modern, Quality-Conscious Women

Unlike traditional large department stores that cater to all demographics,NEWOmAn Shinjukuis a high-end concept mall centered around the philosophy of 'allowing modern women to shine and express themselves'. Located at the busiest transportation hub in Japan—Shinjuku Station New South Exit, the building is integrated with Miraina Tower and Japan's largest expressway bus terminal, 'Busta Shinjuku'. Here, high-density chain brand counters are replaced with high-end fashion, quality lifestyle goods, exquisite salons, and high-standard dining options. The transparent, refined space design exudes a strong modern art museum atmosphere, transforming shopping from mere consumption into an immersive experience that enhances life aesthetics, making it highly favored by quality-seeking independent travelers and local Tokyo white-collar women.

NEWOmAn Shinjuku Floor Layout and Featured Store Guide

The mall cleverly utilizes the station's structural layout to create a quality space with excellent flow. The main floors and must-visit highlights are as follows:

1F: International High Street Fashion and Premium Fragrances (Fashion & Cosmetics)Gathering numerous trendsetting international clothing and lifestyle brands. Featured stores include the classic French fashion brandMaison Kitsuné, as well as the beloved fragrance concept storesDiptyque、SabonandChanel Beauty. This floor's display method, blending clothing and beauty, showcases Tokyo's cutting-edge fashion taste.
2F: Food Oasis Inside and Outside the Station and Quality Coffee (EKINAKA & EKISOTO)This floor is divided into inside the ticket gate (EKINAKA) and outside the ticket gate (EKISOTO). In addition to the spacious store with large floor-to-ceiling windows established byBlue Bottle Coffee, a renowned traditional Japanese confectionery store,Toraya An Stand, also offers a trendy red bean-filled bread, making it an excellent spot for buying souvenirs and enjoying afternoon tea.
2F Food Hall: Tokyo's Best Late-Night and Early-Morning Food HallThe independently planned Food Hall breaks the department store's operating restrictions, open from 7 in the morning until 22 at night. It gathers several high-quality international cuisines, such as New York's top deliDEAN & DELUCA, and the Michelin-starred chef's creation,Le Cafe de Joël Robuchon, whether you're looking for an exquisite breakfast after a night bus or a late-night drink, you can find top-notch satisfaction here.
3F - 4F: Japanese High-End Select Shops and Lifestyle Aesthetics (High-End Select Shops)The middle and upper floors are a super battleground for high-end Japanese select shops. IncludingTomorrowland、EstnationandLe Dome Édit d'Edifice et Iéna, showcasing the most quality Japanese clothing cuts of the season. Additionally, 4F features a unique space combining lifestyle gardening and coffee, providing a comfortable resting experience.
RF: Urban Oasis and New South Exit Observation Terrace (SHINJUKU FARM)The top floor is specially planned with a rare rooftop garden and green space in the city center. From the observation terrace here, you can overlook the intricate train tracks of Shinjuku Station and gaze at the skyscrapers on the Yoyogi side, making it a hidden gem in the bustling Tokyo area where you can breathe freely and find ultimate healing.

💡 NEWOmAn Shinjuku Shopping Tips:

If you arrive in Shinjuku by express bus (Limousine Bus or overnight express bus), you can seamlessly enter the Food Hall on 2 floor by going downstairs after getting off. As the first stop into Tokyo city, grab a cup of Blue Bottle Coffee or enjoy a croissant at Le Cafe de Joël Robuchon, and you can store your luggage in the large lockers at the transfer station, starting your exquisite Tokyo shopping journey with your hands free!

🎬 NEWoman Video

Bakery & Restaurant Sawamura

ベーカリー＆レストラン沢村

07:00～23:00

All-you-can-eat lunch bread

Intro

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Karuizawa's famous store has arrived in Shinjuku! NEWoMan's super popular bakery and restaurant: Bakery & Restaurant Sawamura Shinjuku

Item	Details
Attraction Address	Tokyo, Shibuya-ku, Sendagaya 5-24-55 NEWoMan SHINJUKU 2F
Business Hours	07:00～23:00 (L.O. 22:00) * Closed: No holidays (based on NEWoMan's business days)
Dining Budget	Lunch ¥1,000～¥1,999 / Dinner ¥3,000～¥4,999
Driving Navigation Mapcode
Transportation	Directly accessible from the new south exit of Shinjuku Station, located on the 2F floor of NEWoMan Shinjuku.
Tabelog Rating	3.63 (A super popular store leading Tokyo's high-quality brunch and European-style bakery dining)

A baking legend from Karuizawa, creating a modern and stylish dining space next to Shinjuku Station

Bakery & Restaurant Sawamura ShinjukuOriginating from the summer resort of Karuizawa, it is famous for its high-quality European bread made with carefully selected domestic and foreign wheat and natural yeast through long-term low-temperature fermentation. The Shinjuku store is located on the stylish 2 floor of NEWoMan department store, cleverly combining a takeaway bakery hall with a trendy bistro space for dining in. The interior decor follows a modern style, bright and spacious yet calm, creating an elegant and comfortable dining atmosphere, making it a top choice for local fashionable women, office workers, and couples on dates in the Shinjuku south exit area.

A dreamy 'unlimited hot bread refill' perfectly paired with exquisite chef's dishes

When you come to Sawamura for lunch, the most captivating feature is the complimentary 'special bread platter (free refills)'. The staff will serve a variety of signature European breads, freshly baked and warm, such as soft and delicate toast and crunchy bread filled with walnut aroma. The rich layers of crispy on the outside and soft on the inside will drive bread lovers wild. As for the main dishes, the chef team's performance is equally impressive, whether it's the crispy and juicy roasted chicken thigh, carefully cooked tender seasonal fish, or the rich and flavorful red wine braised beef, each dish pairs perfectly with the mildly sour wheat bread.

From the morning light to the late-night buzz, a multifunctional bistro that satisfies all day

As a fully operational bistro, Sawamura opens from the early morning 7:00, offering freshly made hot-pressed sandwiches, soft croissants, and aromatic coffee, making it a dreamy brunch spot to kick off your day in Tokyo; in the afternoon, it transforms into a leisurely afternoon tea café. As night falls, it elegantly turns into a romantic European bistro, offering a rich selection of cold and hot appetizers, grilled meats, and carefully selected wines. With its direct access to the station, travelers can enjoy a hearty meal here without worrying about the pressure of catching a train.

💡 A little suggestion before you go

Due to the high popularity of Sawamura's Shinjuku store in Tokyo, especially during the lunch hours when they offer great value for bread refills, long queues are almost a daily sight. If you want to avoid waiting, it is highly recommended to come right when lunch opens in the morning 11:00 for a higher chance of getting a seat. If you plan to visit during dinner hours, some seats are available for online reservation, so you can book in advance through the official website or partner platforms. Additionally, the quality of the bread included with the dine-in set is very high, and each refill may offer different baking surprises, so be sure to leave enough room in your stomach!

🎬 ベーカリー＆レストラン沢村 Video

Shinjuku Takashimaya

新宿高島屋

10:30～19:30

Intro

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Shinjuku South Exit Fashion Landmark: Shinjuku Takashimaya

Item	Details
Attraction Address	Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, Sendagaya 5-24-2 (next to Shinjuku Station South Exit/New South Exit)
Business Hours	10:30～19:30 / 12F～14F Restaurant Street: 11:00～23:00 (some store hours may vary)
Admission Ticket	Free admission
Transportation Duration	Directly connected to the JR 'Shinjuku Station' New South Exit ticket gate, just a 1-minute walk; about 10 minutes on foot from Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line, Fukutoshin Line, or Toei Shinjuku Line to 'Shinjuku Sanchome Station' E1 exit.
Official Website	www.takashimaya.co.jp/shinjuku

Takashimaya Times Square Highlights: A One-Stop Shopping Destination

'Shinjuku Takashimaya'Located within the iconic building 'Takashimaya Times Square', it is a large-scale, luxurious yet practical top-tier department store. This skyscraper houses Takashimaya Department Store, the lifestyle goods store 'HANDS', and the large chain bookstore 'Kinokuniya', forming a shopping circle at Shinjuku South Exit. Whether you're looking for top international brands, local Japanese trendy designs, or exquisite gourmet food, this place can meet the shopping lists of all kinds of travelers:

B1F: Food Basement (Depachika)
A food paradise! It gathers top Japanese and international sweets, high-end Western pastries (like the classic Gramercy New York), exquisite bento boxes, and premium fresh produce. If you're looking for the most impressive Tokyo souvenirs, this floor is the right choice.
1F - 2F: International Luxury Brands and Cosmetics
Home to top-tier luxury boutiques like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Hermès, and Gucci. 2F is also a primary area for perfumes and cosmetics, with a direct connection to JR Shinjuku Station New South Exit, ensuring a smooth flow.
3F - 9F: Trendy Clothing, Baby Products, and Lifestyle Goods
Each floor is themed with men's and women's clothing, golf sports goods, children's wear, and more. The best part is that the building directly connects 1F to 7F's'HANDS (formerly Tokyu Hands)'and 1F to 5F's'NITORI', allowing you to find high-end fashion and affordable lifestyle goods all in one building.
11F: Duty-Free Counter and Duty-Free Shop
An important base for foreign tourists. In addition to having a highly efficient tax refund center, the same floor also houses 'Takashimaya Duty-Free Shop SHILLA&ANA', providing a tax-free shopping experience before departure.
12F - 14F: Sky Food Street 'Restaurants Park'
One of the largest department store restaurant streets in Tokyo. It features many popular restaurants, including the internationally renowned 'Din Tai Fung', the top sukiyaki restaurant 'Ningyocho Imahan', and the crispy yet tender 'Meidai Tonkatsu (かつくら)', etc. 13F and 14F also have a lush outdoor terrace with a beautiful view of Shinjuku Gyoen's seasonal scenery.

The Glamorous Transformation of the Former Railway Freight Yard: A Miracle of Urban Renewal at the South Exit

Although Shinjuku Takashimaya itself is a modern skyscraper, the land it occupies carries a historical legacy that witnessed the development of Tokyo. Before 1990, the area around Shinjuku Station South Exit was vastly different from today's bustling scene; the current site of Takashimaya Times Square was actually the enormous'Shinjuku Freight Station (新宿貨物駅)'of Japan National Railways (JNR). As the urban center shifted and freight transport became a thing of the past, this abandoned railway freight yard underwent a glamorous transformation in 1996, being redeveloped into the groundbreaking 'Takashimaya Times Square'. This urban renewal project changed the past desolate impression of Shinjuku South Exit, which was obstructed by multiple railway tracks, and brought the original Shinjuku shopping district, centered around the East and West exits, to the south side, forming today's skyscraper shopping district connected to 'Busta Shinjuku (Shinjuku South Exit Terminal)'. Walking through the spacious corridors of the mall is like stepping on the historical tracks that propelled Japan's modernization in logistics.

💡 Shinjuku Takashimaya Efficient Shopping Tips:

International travelers are strongly advised to first visit the2F or 11F Foreign Customer Service Desk, and present your passport to receive a 'Takashimaya Shopper's Card'. For a single purchase of 3,000 yen (excluding tax) or more, showing this card will give you a discount of5% off(some brands and sale items excluded). After shopping, you can go directly to the 11F tax refund counter to process your refund. Additionally, if you want to try the popular restaurants at 12F～14F (like Ningyocho Imahan), it's recommended to go right when they open at 11 in the morning or before 5 in the afternoon to avoid the worst of the crowds!

🎬 新宿高島屋 Video

Torishige

鳥茂

17:00～24:00

Stuffed Green PeppersOrigin

Intro

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The pinnacle of offal barbecue! A legendary yakitori establishment in Tokyo that defies imagination: Tori Shige

Item	Detailed Information
Attraction Address	Yoyogi 2-6-5, Shibuya, Tokyo
Business Hours	17:00～24:00 ※ Closed: Every Sunday (may adjust for national holidays or temporary closures)
Dining Budget	Lunch - / Dinner ￥8,000～￥14,999
Transportation Methods	Located next to Shinjuku Station. It takes about 2 minutes to walk from the JR Shinjuku Station South Exit.
Tabelog Ratings	A top-notch yakitori establishment that has long been awarded the 4.05 year Bronze and recognized as one of the top 2026 restaurants.

Located at the south exit of Shinjuku, this legendary offal skewer shop has been in operation since the Showa 24 era.

Although the shop is namedTori ShigeHowever, what this place is most famous for, and what food enthusiasts go crazy over, is the 'Grilled Pork and Beef Offal Skewers (もつ焼き).' This long-established restaurant, which started as a street stall in Shinjuku and has been passed down for three generations, is the birthplace of Japanese green pepper stuffed with meat and has maintained a high rating on Tabelog for many years. The restaurant carefully selects the freshest top-quality offal ingredients every day, combined with the chef's skilled use of Kishu binchotan charcoal and a secret sauce that has been passed down for years, elevating what was once a common people's dish to a new level of kaiseki cuisine. It is an irreplaceable culinary gem in the hearts of Tokyo's food lovers. The restaurant has two floors with a total of 82 seats. The open counter seating on the first floor is the most popular, allowing diners to closely watch the chef sweat it out in front of the charcoal grill, skillfully flipping the skewers in a 'live show' that offers a stunning visual and olfactory experience. The second floor features semi-private tables suitable for larger gatherings. The restaurant is equipped with excellent smoke extraction and ventilation systems, so even when it's bustling with business and the charcoal is burning continuously, you can enjoy your meal in a very comfortable, elegant, and vibrant atmosphere.

The legendary grilled liver that overturns prejudices and the must-try 'original stuffed green pepper' from its birthplace

At Torishige, many people are sure to be completely amazed by the signature dish, grilled pig liver (レバー). The chef expertly controls the cooking to achieve a perfect medium-rare state, making it as rich and smooth as top-quality foie gras or cream, with absolutely no fishy taste or graininess, instantly overturning your preconceived notions about pig liver. Additionally, you must pay homage to the original stuffed green pepper (ピーマン肉詰め), where the crispy and juicy outer layer of green pepper envelops a generous meat filling, perfectly intertwining the flavors of charcoal and meat juices. For first-time visitors or those wanting to experience the essence of the cuisine, I highly recommend ordering the Omakase chef's recommendation set. With classic offal skewers, seared sashimi, premium pork tongue, and even melt-in-your-mouth wagyu steak, the exquisite dishes come in succession, creating a crescendo of flavors. Finally, the meal concludes with a bowl of rich and warming special boiled noodles or zosui, making the entire culinary feast a perfect journey, leaving you feeling both satisfied and happy.

💡 A little advice before you set off

Due to the renowned reputation of "Torishige" both domestically and internationally, it has been difficult to secure a reservation for many years. It is strongly recommended to book at least two to three weeks in advance through the internet or by phone. If you decide to go last minute, you can try your luck during the first round when 17:00 just opens or during off-peak hours after 21:00. It is important to note that the restaurant only focuses on evening operations (no lunch service) and the average cost per person is relatively high (recommended budget is around ￥10,000 each). The restaurant is currently completely smoke-free, and there are no children's chairs available, so please keep this in mind when visiting.

🎬 鳥茂 Video

Reserve

👉autoreserve

Bunka Gakuen Costume Museum

文化学園服飾博物館

10:00～16:30

Intro

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The cultural temple of Japanese fashion: Bunka Gakuen Costume Museum

Item	Detailed Information
Attraction Address	Yoyogi, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 3-22-7 Shinjuku Bunka Quint Building 1 Floor
Business Hours	10:00～16:30 (※ The last admission time is 16:00; closed every Sunday and on national holidays)
Admission Ticket	General 500 yen / University, high school, and middle school students 300 yen / Elementary school students 200 yen (Ticket prices may vary slightly depending on special exhibitions)
Transportation travel time	From the JR 'Shinjuku Station' South Exit, or the Toei Shinjuku Line 'Shin-Shinjuku Station', it takes about 7 to 10 minutes on foot to reach.
Official website	museum.bunka.ac.jp

An extremely rare clothing specialty museum in Asia, witnessing a century of evolution in global fashion.

Located in the prime area of Shinjuku, TokyoBunka Gakuen Costume MuseumThis is one of the few specialized museums in Japan and even in all of Asia that focuses on "clothing and textiles." The museum is affiliated with the internationally renowned "Bunka Gakuen" — its Cultural Fashion School has produced world-class fashion masters such as Yohji Yamamoto and Kenzo Takada. Since its opening in 1979, the museum has aimed to "understand the cultures of various countries through clothing," collecting European royal garments, traditional Japanese kimonos, and ethnic costumes from around the world. Whether you are a fashion design student, a fashion enthusiast, or a traveler who loves historical textiles, this is a hidden cultural treasure trove where you can deeply absorb aesthetic nourishment.

A cradle of aesthetics that nurtures fashion masters, rich in history and culture.

The establishment of this museum is closely linked to the development of modern clothing education in Japan. In the early th century, as Japanese society gradually embraced Western clothing, the predecessor of Bunka Gakuen was founded in Shinjuku, dedicated to introducing Western three-dimensional tailoring and garment-making techniques to Japan. To allow students to see and touch authentic clothing craftsmanship firsthand, the school systematically began collecting precious textile and clothing specimens from around the world. This initial intention, accumulated over decades, ultimately culminated in the creation of this museum. The museum houses a collection of18The European noble attire from the century to the present perfectly recreates the intricate splendor of the Rococo period and the elegant lines of Neoclassicism; at the same time, it fully preserves the Kosode from Japan's Edo period and modern textiles, showcasing the ultimate aesthetics of Eastern and Western crafts as they have flourished throughout history.

Immersive themed exhibitions: Every visit is a brand new aesthetic shock.

Unlike typical museums that display exhibits in a fixed manner for a long time, the Bunka Gakuen Costume Museum adopts"All Theme Special Exhibition System"Every year, approximately 4 exhibitions with different themes are meticulously planned in conjunction with academic research. The exhibits span specific historical periods of Western haute couture, traditional Japanese indigo dyeing techniques, and even embroidery and silver ornaments from various Asian ethnic minorities. Since clothing and textiles are easily affected by light and humidity, rotating displays help protect these precious artifacts while ensuring that each visit offers a unique experience. The high-quality lighting and layout design within the exhibition space allow the intricate stitching, lace patterns, and gemstone inlays on the fabrics to be clearly visible, making visitors feel as if they have traveled through time into the luxurious dressing rooms of different eras.

💡 Tips for Visiting Fashion Aesthetics:

Due to the museum's use of themed exhibitions,The museum will be completely closed during the exhibition changeover period.Before departing, independent travelers must check the official website for the current exhibition schedule and opening calendar to avoid disappointment. Additionally, photography is generally prohibited inside the museum to protect the colors and fibers of the century-old textiles. It is recommended to set aside about 1 to 1.5 hours to slow down and focus on capturing the craftsmanship details of the garments with your eyes. After the visit, you can also conveniently head to the nearby shopping area at Shinjuku South Exit for some shopping, as the flow is very smooth.

🎬 文化学園服飾博物館 Video

Available

👉東京MUSEUM通票

Shinjuku Gyoen

新宿御苑

09:00 - Depending on the season

Intro

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Oasis in the heart of Tokyo and royal history: Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Item	Detailed Information
Attraction Address	Naito-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 11
Business Hours	09:00～16:00 (10/1-3/14) / 09:00～17:30 (3/15-6/30, 8/21-9/30) / 09:00～18:30 (7/1-8/20) ※ Closed every Monday (if it falls on a national holiday, it will be extended to the next day)
Admission Ticket	Adults 500 yen / Seniors (ages 65 and above) and students (high school and above) 250 yen / Junior high school students and below free
Transportation travel time	Take the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line to "Shinjuku Gyoenmae Station" and walk about 1 minutes from Exit 5; or take the JR Yamanote Line to "Shinjuku Station" and walk about 10 minutes from the Southeast Exit. From Shin-Okubo Station to Shinjuku Gyoen, you can first take the JR Yamanote Line to Shinjuku Station, then walk to the Shinjuku Gate from the Southeast Exit. It is recommended to check the official transportation information for Shinjuku Gyoen before your trip.
Official website	fng.or.jp/shinjuku

The Royal Palace East Garden, a masterpiece of garden design that blends the styles of three countries, spans across a vast metropolis.

Shinjuku GyoenIt is the most famous and largest national park in Tokyo, covering an area of 58.3 hectares. Here, amidst the bustling Shinjuku shopping district, lies a beautiful oasis that feels worlds apart. The most well-known feature of the park is its perfect blend of three distinctly different garden designs: the elegantly symmetrical 'French Formal Garden', the 'English Landscape Garden' with its expansive lawns and towering trees, and the 'Japanese Traditional Garden' filled with Zen elements and flowing streams. Every spring, it transforms into the most popular cherry blossom viewing spot in all of Tokyo, boasting thousands of cherry trees with up to 65 different varieties blooming in succession; in autumn, it is adorned with fiery red maple leaves and golden ginkgo, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking to experience the changing seasons and relax their minds and bodies.

From the Edo Daimyo Residences to the Imperial Family's Exclusive Property: The Historical Development of Shinjuku Gyoen

The land of Shinjuku Gyoen carries a profound historical significance. During the Edo period (1590), Tokugawa Ieyasu granted this land to the hereditary daimyo, the Naito clan, as the Edo residence (the name of the area, 'Naito-machi,' originates from this). By the Meiji period, the government reclaimed it and transformed it into the 'Shinjuku Botanical Imperial Property,' serving as a testing ground for agriculture and horticulture. Until 1906, it was redesigned by French landscape designer Henri Martinet, officially renamed asShinjuku GyoenThe garden became a designated imperial garden for the Japanese royal family, specifically used to host international dignitaries and hold sightseeing banquets. It wasn't until after World War II (1949) that it was officially opened to the public, transforming into a nationally managed national park, allowing the previously mysterious royal scenery to be accessible to ordinary citizens.

Historical Witness: The Modern Marvel of the Old Western-style Tea Room and the Grand Greenhouse

The park preserves many precious cultural heritages, among which the most storied is the one built in 1927 year.Old Imperial Villa(Also known as Taiwan Pavilion). This building was donated by Japanese residents in Taiwan to celebrate the wedding of Emperor Showa (then Crown Prince). It features the Minnan architectural style from southern China, resembling a soaring swallow, standing by the pond. It is one of the very few royal historical buildings in Japan that showcases Taiwanese style. Additionally, the 'Great Greenhouse' in the garden is a treasure trove of modern botany, tasked with cultivating rare tropical and subtropical plants since the Meiji era. Inside, it displays over 2,700 species of plants, and walking along the paths of the greenhouse feels like embarking on a jungle adventure across time and space.

💡 Smart visiting tips for Shinjuku Gyoen:

Shinjuku Gyoen has three main entrances: 'Shinjuku Gate,' 'Okido Gate,' and 'Sendagaya Gate.' If you are walking from JR Shinjuku Station, the most convenient entrance is 'Shinjuku Gate.' Additionally, it is important to note that to protect the park's ecology and maintain a serene environment, Shinjuku Gyoen isBringing alcoholic beverages and recreational items (such as frisbees and badminton) is completely prohibited.Upon entering, staff will conduct a personal belongings check. During the cherry blossom season, there are many visitors, so it is highly recommended to purchase electronic tickets (QR Code) in advance on the official website to avoid waiting in line for tickets and to enter the park directly by scanning the code!

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Memory Alley

思い出横丁

16:00～翌5:00

Gourmet Street

Intro

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Tokyo's Late Night Drinking Paradise: Omoide Yokocho

Item	Details
Attraction Address	Shinjuku, Tokyo, Nishi-Shinjuku 1-chome 2
Business Hours	Each shop has different business hours, usually from 16:00 to 23:00 (some shops start operating from noon or during lunch hours)
Admission Ticket	Free entry to the alley (minimum spending and seating charges apply inside each shop)
Transportation	Located right next to the JR, Keio, Odakyu, and Tokyo Metro lines at 'Shinjuku Station' West Exit, it takes about 1 to 3 minutes on foot from the exit; if you take the Toei Oedo Line to 'Shinjuku Nishiguchi Station' D3 exit, it only takes 1 minutes on foot.
Official Website	shinjuku-omoide.com

Historical Background: From Post-War Ruins to a 'Showa Time Machine'

Nestled among countless modern skyscrapers and glass curtain buildings,Omoide Yokocho(also known as Memory Lane or Torikizoku) is an old alley that preserves the ultimate retro Showa charm. The story here dates back to 1946 (Showa 21) during the chaotic period right after World War II. At that time, the area around Shinjuku Station was a wasteland, gradually forming a 'black market' for trading essential goods. Due to severe shortages and strict material control, necessities like clothing and food were hard to come by, so vendors took advantage of the looser regulations on beef and pork offal and chicken, setting up makeshift roadside barbecue stalls separated by simple wooden boards. This is the origin of the now-popular grilled skewers and offal barbecue shops filled with the aroma of charcoal. Although this historic old street suffered a severe fire in 1999, the local shop owners and residents' commitment to preserving this historical sentiment meant that during reconstruction, it not only avoided modernization but also completely retained the original narrow alley layout, dense shop configurations, and exposed piping, becoming the only post-war witness to the common people's history amidst the bustling Shinjuku.

Alley Experience: Late Night Diners Under Red Lanterns and Genuine Human Connection

Walking into this narrow alley, which is only wide enough for two people to pass each other, you are greeted by the rich aroma of binchotan charcoal and the enticing scent of soy sauce. Hundreds of vintage red lanterns and green willows sway above, and the narrow shops usually contain only a simple L-shaped wooden bar that can tightly accommodate 5 to 8 guests. Here, whether you are a local business person stopping by for a drink after work or a traveler from around the world, everyone sits shoulder to shoulder, enjoying cold draft beer, highballs, or shochu while watching the skilled chefs deftly handle the skewers over the grill. This almost intimate 'grassroots feel' is the unique cultural charm that makes Omoide Yokocho so captivating.

Must-Try Specialty Dishes: Charcoal-Grilled Skewers and Classic Offal Stew

When you visit Omoide Yokocho, you must order the most authenticYakitoriandMotsuyaki. The shop owners usually ask whether you prefer the pure meat flavor of 'Shio' (salt) or the rich 'Tare' (sauce) that has been passed down for decades. Additionally, almost every small shop has its own specialty—Motsunibe, which is a slow-cooked stew of beef and pork offal, radish, and konjac with miso or soy sauce. The offal is tender and flavorful without any fishy taste, and the broth is delicious, making it an excellent accompaniment to drinks. Many shops still maintain the traditional method of slow grilling over charcoal, so ordering a few skewers along with a cold drink is the most authentic way to enjoy Tokyo cuisine.

💡 Omoide Yokocho Tips:

1. Otoshi (Seating Charge):Most izakayas in Omoide Yokocho provide a small dish (usually non-negotiable) upon seating and charge a handling fee ranging from 300 to 500 yen. This is a normal seating fee in Japanese izakaya culture and is not a forced consumption or a scam!
2. Ordering and Consumption Etiquette:Due to the extremely small size of the shops and limited seating, it is usually recommended that each seated guest orders at least one drink and one or two skewers, and after finishing the meal, guests should not linger for long conversations but should give up their seats to those waiting outside.
3. Photography Guidelines:Omoide Yokocho is visually striking, but please strictly adhere to the principle of 'not photographing the faces of shop staff or other diners' when taking pictures. Additionally, some narrow passages prohibit the use of tripods or long-term obstruction of passage. Furthermore, most shops in the alley still maintain the tradition of 'cash only,' so please ensure you have enough yen in cash before entering!

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Yakinikutei Rokkasen Otabashi-dori Branch

やきにく亭六歌仙小滝橋通り店

11:00～23:00

Popular All-You-Can-Eat Yakiniku and Sukiyaki

Intro

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An ultimate luxury all-you-can-eat yakiniku restaurant! A feast of top-grade black-haired wagyu and seafood: やきにく亭六歌仙新宿西口小滝橋通り店

Item	Details
Location	東京都新宿区西新宿7-2-6 西新宿K-1ビル B1F
Business Hours	11:00～23:00 (L.O. 22:30) * Closed: No holidays
Dining Budget	Lunch ￥8,000～￥9,999 / Dinner ￥10,000～￥14,999
Transportation	About 5 minutes walk from Toei Oedo Line 'Shinjuku Nishiguchi Station' D1 exit; about 6 minutes walk from JR 'Shinjuku Station' West Exit; about 4 minutes walk from Seibu Shinjuku Station.
Tabelog Rating	3.29 (A highly representative and internationally renowned high-end wagyu yakiniku all-you-can-eat restaurant in Shinjuku)

A tranquil and stylish Japanese space amidst the urban hustle, a paradise for all-you-can-eat luxury wagyu and seafood

やきにく亭六歌仙新宿西口小滝橋通り店This is a popular branch of the legendary high-end yakiniku restaurant 'Rokkasen' in Shinjuku, Tokyo. Located on the basement floor next to KOTAKIBASHI Dori, it is only a 1-minute walk from Shinjuku Nishiguchi Station, making it an excellent location that is hardly affected by rainy weather. The interior decor is based on a calm 'Japanese modern' style, creating a fashionable and high-end dining atmosphere. The restaurant features spacious open seating as well as several tatami rooms and private booths that can accommodate different group sizes, providing a dining experience with high privacy and comfort for private dates, family gatherings, or business receptions. The biggest feature of this restaurant is its all-you-can-eat offerings of high-quality 'Matsusaka beef', 'domestic black-haired wagyu', and top-grade seafood grilled over an open flame. Breaking the stereotype that all-you-can-eat places serve 'ordinary ingredients', Rokkasen insists on using beautifully colored, evenly marbled top-grade beef, paired with smokeless grill equipment, allowing diners to elegantly enjoy premium meats without worrying about their clothes getting stained with smoke.

Thick-cut Matsusaka beef melts in your mouth, a double impact of king crab and rich seafood

When you visit Rokkasen, the most recommended option is definitely their signature all-you-can-eat yakiniku set. The restaurant particularly insists on slicing selected meats like Matsusaka beef to a thickness of '8 mm', which is the perfect ratio to lock in the juices and simultaneously present the ultimate 'melts in your mouth' texture. Grilling the wagyu on the grill releases a fragrant aroma of fat, and when dipped in the special secret sauce, the sweetness of the fat and the tenderness of the meat explode in your mouth, making it irresistible. In addition to the stunning meats, Rokkasen's seafood selection is equally luxurious and impressive. The all-you-can-eat menu includes meaty and juicy king crab (タラバ蟹), Matsuba crab, plump shrimp, and sweet scallops. Many foodies even come specifically for the 'all-you-can-eat crab legs' here, with top-quality surf and turf ingredients taking turns on the table, making it one of the best value options in Tokyo's high-end yakiniku scene.

A prime location in Shinjuku Nishiguchi, the perfect choice for business meals and rewarding yourself after a trip

Due to its extremely convenient transportation and proximity to major department stores and shopping districts, Rokkasen KOTAKIBASHI Dori is very suitable as a perfect reward spot after a big shopping spree in Tokyo. Compared to the crowded main restaurant, this branch offers the same high-quality dishes and a more spacious, modern banquet space (with a maximum capacity of 120 people for private events). The restaurant also provides smooth English and multilingual services, making it very friendly for foreign travelers.

💡 A little suggestion before you go

Rokkasen is extremely popular among both domestic and international tourists as well as local business clients, so it is strongly recommended to make a reservation in advance on the official website or dedicated platform. If you are more than 10 minutes late for your reservation, the restaurant will automatically cancel it, so please be punctual. The all-you-can-eat set offered during lunch hours (11:00～16:00) is more affordable compared to dinner and also includes selected meats and drinks, making lunch a better option for those looking to experience all-you-can-eat on a lower budget.

🎬 やきにく亭六歌仙小滝橋通り店 Video

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Gyutan no Lemon Sohonten

牛たんの檸檬総本店

11:30～15:00

17:00～22:00

Page Introduction

Intro

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A super popular restaurant in Shinjuku! Thick-cut grilled beef tongue and feather kettle rice set meal:Shinjuku Yakiniku Gyutan no Lemon Sohonten

Item	Details
Location	YS Building B7F, 〒16-12-1, Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Business Hours	Lunch 11:30～15:00 ｜ Dinner: Sunday to Thursday 17:00～22:00 (L.O. 21:00), Friday and Saturday 17:00～22:30 (L.O. 21:45) ※ Closed: Year-end and New Year (12/31~1/3)
Dining Budget	Lunch ￥3,000～￥3,999 / Dinner ￥5,000～￥6,999
Driving Navigation Mapcode	-
Transportation	About 4 minutes walk from Toei Oedo Line 'Shinjuku Nishiguchi Station'; about 5 minutes walk from Seibu Shinjuku Line 'Seibu Shinjuku Station', and about 7 minutes walk from JR 'Shinjuku Station' West Exit.
Tabelog Rating	3.50+ (A representative restaurant in Tokyo known for its thick-cut grilled beef tongue and long queues)

Specializing in artisan charcoal grilling, a paradise for tender and juicy 'thick-cut beef tongue'

Located on the first basement level in a back alley of Shinjuku West Exit,Shinjuku Yakiniku Gyutan no Lemon Sohonten, has recently gone viral on social media, with tourists and locals alike queuing up crazily for its beef tongue. Unlike traditional barbecue restaurants where customers grill their own meat, here all the beef tongue is expertly grilled by skilled chefs in the kitchen using binchotan charcoal before being served. The restaurant's signature dish, 'Kiwami (Ultimate) Thick-Cut Beef Tongue', has a mouthwatering pinkish hue and is over 1 cm thick, yet miraculously retains a slightly crispy exterior while being incredibly tender and springy inside. The rich juices burst in your mouth, completely redefining your perception of beef tongue! In addition to the soul of the beef tongue, the restaurant also insists on high-quality rice. They have partnered with a long-established rice shop in Kyoto to select premium grade A rice, which is cooked on-site using traditional 'Oobakama' methods. The rice grains are plump and chewy, filled with rice aroma, making it a perfect match with the rich, aromatic grilled beef tongue, making it hard to resist taking bite after bite.

High value multi-flavor set meal, satisfying with yam puree, curry, and spicy beef sauce

When visiting 'Gyutan no Lemon', the set meal is highly recommended. In addition to the star thick-cut beef tongue, the side dishes and dipping sauces that come with the meal are also very generous. The set includes a refreshing salad, sweet beef tongue soup, and three major rice killers: creamy and smooth 'Yam Puree (Tororo)', rich and hearty 'Beef Tongue Curry', and the special 'Spicy Beef Miso'. Whether enjoyed on its own, dipped with the beef tongue, or drizzled over hot feather kettle rice to make yam curry rice, the multi-layered eating experience keeps the meal lively, and the set meal's rice can be refilled for free, ensuring that those with a big appetite leave satisfied.

A lively dining atmosphere hidden in the bustling underground of Shinjuku

The restaurant is located on the B1 floor, with decor that blends American vitality and the lively atmosphere of a Japanese izakaya. Although the space is slightly tight, once seated, you can feel the vibrant energy and warmth, complemented by a friendly QR code ordering system. Due to its excellent location, it is within walking distance of major shopping areas and attractions like Kabukicho, making it a perfect culinary conclusion after a day of shopping or sightseeing in Shinjuku.

💡 A little suggestion before you go

Due to the restaurant's immense popularity, it is strongly recommended to make an online reservation in advance to avoid waiting in line for one to two hours. Please note that the dining time for set meals is limited to 60 minutes (if ordering drinks only, the limit is 2 hours), and the restaurant is very strict about reservation times. If you are late by 5~10 minutes and do not contact them in advance, your reservation may be canceled or you may have to queue again, so be sure to arrive on time!

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Peace Memorial Exhibition Hall

平和祈念展示資料館

09:30～17:30

Free admission

Intro

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A Painful Historical Testament and a Prayer for Peace: The Peace Memorial Museum

Item	Details
Attraction Address	Tokyo, Shinjuku-ku, Nishi-Shinjuku 2-6-1, Shinjuku Sumitomo Building 33 Floor
Business Hours	09:30～17:30 (※ Last entry time is 17:00; closed every Monday, and if it falls on a national holiday, it will be closed the following day; also closed during year-end and New Year holidays and building maintenance days)
Admission Ticket	Free Admission
Transportation Duration	Take the Toei Oedo Line to 'Tocho-mae Station' and walk about 1 minutes (directly connected to A6 exit); or walk about 10 minutes from JR 'Shinjuku Station' West Exit.
Official Website	www.heiwakinen.go.jp

Entering the Memory River of Post-War History: The Siberian Detention and the Difficult Return Home

Located on the 33 floor of the iconic skyscraper in the Shinjuku business district,the 'Peace Memorial Museum', is a national-level institution that offers a quiet yet historically educational experience amidst the hustle and bustle. The purpose of this museum is to pass on the tragic histories that are not well-known to most modern people after World War II. It mainly focuses on three major historical groups: the 'Siberian detainees (シベリア抑留)' who were forcibly taken to the cold lands of Siberia for labor after the war, the 'overseas returnees' who waited in hardship abroad for their repatriation after the war, and the 'ordinary war victims' who endured hunger and poverty while rebuilding their homes during the chaotic post-war period. This museum does not glorify the heroism of war but quietly tells the story of post-war tragedies and the resilience of life through the most authentic perspectives of civilians and soldiers. This place records a painful chapter of history: 180 ten thousand overseas Japanese and military personnel were forced to face a long repatriation journey, with nearly 60 ten thousand people forcibly taken to Siberia by the Soviet army. In the extreme cold environment of minus 30 to 40 degrees, they survived on meager black bread and thin soup while engaging in heavy logging and railway construction. This years-long 'Siberian Elegy' is the most shocking core exhibit in the museum.

Life Stories Woven from Real Artifacts: Diaries on Birch Bark and Frozen Clothing

Upon entering the museum, the most moving aspect is not the exquisite multimedia interactions but the real artifacts donated by survivors or their families, which carry the warmth of life. In the 'Siberian Detention' exhibition area, you can see poems and diaries inscribed on'birch bark'by soldiers who, in extreme scarcity of resources, used their nails and charcoal to record a glimmer of hope; there are also spoons and lunch boxes made from discarded cans. The museum even uses precise wax figures to recreate the interior of the Siberian camps (Lager), with a realistic sense of freezing and cramped space, making it feel as if you can hear the cold wind screaming through the gaps in the wooden houses. In the 'Overseas Returnees' exhibition area, countless records show mothers waiting at ports with their young children on the brink of life and death for repatriation ships. Tattered cotton blankets and stamped repatriation certificates carry the strong desire of 'as long as we can step on our homeland alive.' These artifacts are no longer just cold exhibits but have transformed into concrete human stories, reminding every visitor of the cost of peace.

The 'Oasis of Peace' and Reflection Space at the Peak of Bustling Shinjuku

The museum is located on a high floor of the famous Shinjuku Sumitomo Building, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering views of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building and the bustling Shinjuku skyline. The museum has specially designed a quiet reflection area at the end of the exhibition. After witnessing the struggles of people in the icy cold and their search for a warm meal amidst ruins, you can look up and see the prosperity, peace, and freedom of modern Tokyo. This stark contrast in space and time often provides travelers with a profound inner impact and deep reflection. This is not just a sightseeing trip but a spiritual experience that cleanses the soul.

💡 Tips for Reflection During Your Visit:

Although the Peace Memorial Museum is completely free, the quality and curation of the exhibits are extremely high. The museum providesfree audio guides in multiple languages(including Traditional Chinese), and it is highly recommended to request one from the staff at the entrance. Listening to the snippets of diaries and the background stories of the artifacts through the Chinese audio guide will allow you to immerse yourself more deeply in the historical context of that time. Additionally, the Sumitomo Building 33 floor itself has several scenic restaurants, making it a great place to take a break while exploring Nishi-Shinjuku (combined with the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observation Deck and Central Park).

🎬 平和祈念展示資料館 Video

Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

東京都庁

09:30～22:00

Free admission

Intro

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The power center of Tokyo and its dazzling night view: Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

Item	Detailed Information
Attraction Address	Chome, Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo8number1Number
Business Hours	Observation Room: 09:30～22:00 (※ Entry is allowed until 30 minutes before closing; the North Observation Room is currently closed due to policy adjustments, while the South Observation Room is regularly open, with public holidays on the first and third Tuesday of the month)
Admission Ticket	Free admission for visits
Transportation travel time	Take the Toei Oedo Line to 'Tocho-mae Station' and exit at A4; alternatively, walk about 10 minutes from the JR 'Shinjuku Station' West Exit (you can use the underground passage to avoid the wind and rain).

The architectural masterpiece by Kenzo Tange: a fusion of Gothic twin towers and the historical evolution of chip technology

Tokyo Metropolitan GovernmentThe core giant that governs the entire Tokyo metropolitan administration, this massive complex completed in 1990 was designed by the father of contemporary Japanese architecture.Kenzo TangeDesigned with personal craftsmanship. In terms of architectural imagery, the master creatively combines the soaring lines of the Gothic twin towers of the historically rich "Notre-Dame de Paris" with the geometric patterns of modern digital age "computer microprocessor chips," symbolizing that Tokyo is a super city rooted in profound culture while racing towards future technology. Before the 1960 era, the land of Nishi-Shinjuku was home to the "Yodobashi Water Purification Plant," after which the Tokyo government launched a large-scale subcenter project. The 1991-year-old Metropolitan Government Building was relocated here from Yurakucho, and the cluster of skyscrapers in Nishi-Shinjuku gradually took shape; this building has also become a landmark of Tokyo's administration and urban landscape.

Must-Visit Unique Spaces and High-Altitude Guide Inside the Metropolitan Government Building

The public areas inside the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building are planned out beautifully, with each floor having its own unique characteristics, making it very worthwhile for travelers to take the time to explore them one by one.

The first main hall 45 floor (South Observation Room): Stunning views and an artistic piano.Taking the dedicated high-speed elevator only takes 55 seconds to reach the observation deck at an altitude of 202 meters. Here, you can enjoy a 360 degree panoramic view, with clear sights of Mount Fuji, Tokyo Tower, and Tokyo Skytree on sunny days; at night, it becomes a free sanctuary for overlooking the luxurious night view of the skyscrapers in West Shinjuku. In the center of the observation room, there is also a piece by a world-class avant-garde artist.Yayoi KusamaThe hand-painted and supervised 'Yellow Body Black Dot Love Piano' often features musicians from various countries performing live improvisations, providing a satisfying experience for both the visual and auditory senses.
The first main building 32 (Tokyo Metropolitan Government Employee Restaurant): an incredibly high value local experience.This is a hidden travel gem! The restaurant is completely open to both locals and tourists. Here, you can enjoy limited offerings like the affordable 'Metropolitan Ramen', Japanese pork cutlet rice, or various nutritious 'Makunouchi' set meals at very reasonable prices, all while dining and taking in the lush greenery of Shinjuku Central Park through large floor-to-ceiling windows.
The first main building 1 (National Tourism PR Center and Hobby Shop): A hub for souvenirs and information.The first-floor lobby features a powerful travel information area that offers free sightseeing brochures from all over Japan. The best part is that it houses the 'TOY PARK 博品館' Tokyo store, which sells a variety of anime merchandise, Tokyo-exclusive handcrafted items, and local specialties from Japan's 47 prefectures, making it an excellent place to pick unique souvenirs.

One Day in Shinjuku: Attractions and Walking Routes Near the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

Centered around the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, the surrounding walking area connects many distinct landmark attractions, making it perfect for a smooth one-day itinerary in West Shinjuku.

Shinjuku Central Park:Adjacent to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, there is an oasis in the bustling concrete jungle. The 'Kumano Shrine' within the park has a long history and serves as a quiet corner for cleansing the soul amidst the noisy city.
LOVE Sculpture (Shinjuku i-Land Tower):It takes about 5 minutes on foot. The giant red 'LOVE' installation art designed by artist Robert Indiana is a romantic pilgrimage site featured in countless classic Japanese dramas.
Shinjuku West Exit Camera Street and Omoide Yokocho:It takes about 10 minutes to walk to 12. After enjoying the night view in the evening, walk back to the west exit of the station through the underground passage. On one side is the tech-filled electronics district, while the other side features the nostalgic atmosphere of the Showa era, with the enticing aroma of grilled skewers wafting from the narrow alleys of 'Memory Lane,' allowing you to perfectly experience the unique nightlife that blends the old and new of Tokyo.

💡 Tips for dining and enjoying the view from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building:

Before entering the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observation Deck, you need to undergo a simple security check for your personal belongings with the guards. Since the South Observation Deck tends to be crowded at night, if you want to capture both the sunset and the night view, it is recommended to line up 45 minutes before sunset. Additionally, if you wish to visit the employee cafeteria on the 32 floor, remember to align your visit with the office hours of the public servants, as the cafeteria is only open duringDuring the weekday (Monday to Friday) lunch hours (11:30～14:00)Open to the public, before entering, you need to fill out a simple temporary pass at the 1 visitor reception desk, so you can experience the daily fun of being a Tokyo civil servant!

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Tokyo Metropolitan Government Observation Deck

東京都庁展望室

09:30～22:00

Free admission

Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, First Main Office, Floor 45

Intro

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A Free Skyline View of Tokyo: Tokyo Metropolitan Government Observatory

Item	Details
Attraction Address	Tokyo, Shinjuku-ku, Nishi-Shinjuku 2-8-1, First Main Building, 45 Floor
Opening Hours	09:30～22:00 (※ Last entry is 30 minutes before closing; currently, only the South Observatory is open, and the status of the North Observatory and special closure days should be checked on the official website)
Admission Ticket	Free Entry
Travel Time	About 10 minutes on foot from JR 'Shinjuku Station' West Exit; or take the Toei Oedo Line to 'Tochomae Station' and walk directly.
Official Website	www.metro.tokyo.lg.jp

Kenzo Tange's Masterpiece: The Architectural Aesthetics of the Contemporary 'Shinjuku Holy Temple' and a Reflection of the Bubble Economy

'Tokyo Metropolitan Government'Completed in 1990, at the peak of Japan's bubble economy, it was designed by the internationally renowned architectKenzo Tangehimself. This administrative headquarters, built at great expense, features an exterior that combines the soaring lines of Western 'Gothic cathedrals' with the geometric façade texture of modern 'computer microchips', presenting a powerful visual shock that intertwines technology and classicism, earning it the nickname 'New City Hall Temple' at the time. It is the power center of Tokyo, symbolizing the city's ambition to rise as a top international metropolis by the end of the 20 century. The observatory located on the 45 floor of the First Main Building, 202 meters above ground, is a classic design that embodies the Tokyo government's spirit of 'sharing with citizens' and is a landmark that can be conveniently included in a visit to Nishi-Shinjuku.

202 Meters of Ultimate View: A Panoramic View of Tokyo Landmarks and Sacred Mount Fuji

Taking a dedicated high-speed elevator, you can reach the cloud world on the 55 floor in just 45 seconds. Due to the well-planned surroundings of Nishi-Shinjuku, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Observatory offers an extremely wide 360-degree panoramic view. On clear days, you can see the Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree interweaving in the city skyline to the east, while to the west, you can gaze upon the majestic sacred mountain of Japan—Mount Fuji. As night falls, the entire Tokyo basin transforms into an endless sea of dazzling lights, with the neon lights of skyscrapers and the flowing headlights of cars intertwining, creating a spectacle that rivals other high-priced attractions, making it the best value night view in all of Tokyo.

45 Floor Highlights: Yayoi Kusama's 'Kusama Piano' and Limited Souvenirs

Although the observatory is not a department store, the space on the 45 floor is exquisitely planned, making it a great spot for travelers to pause and enjoy:

Tokyo Metropolitan Government Memory Piano (都庁おもいでピアノ):Located in the center of the South Observatory, it is a platform piano designed under the supervision of avant-garde artist Yayoi Kusama. The piano body is covered with Kusama's iconic 'yellow background with black dots' geometric totem. It is open for travelers from around the world to play freely, and the beautiful piano music resonates in the high-altitude observation deck, adding a romantic artistic touch to the visual beauty.
Bohin-kan TOY PARK Tokyo Metropolitan Government Store / Bohin-kan Specialty Store:Offers a variety of exquisite crafts representing Tokyo, anime merchandise, limited postcards, and exclusive souvenirs from the government building, making it an excellent place to pick up mementos.
Sky Café (Green View Café):Serves locally roasted coffee, light meals, and exquisite desserts, allowing travelers to sit by the window, enjoy their drinks, and leisurely take in the Tokyo cityscape below.

💡 Tokyo Metropolitan Government Observatory Private Tips:

Due to the allure of free admission, the golden hour from sunset to night (evening 17:00～19:00) is the busiest time, and the queue for security checks on the ground floor can sometimes take up to 20 to 30 minutes. It is highly recommended for travelers wanting to capture silhouettes of Mount Fuji and night views toarrive at least 1 hours before sunsetto queue for the elevator. Additionally, a simple security check for personal belongings is required on the 1 floor before entering the government building (tripods are usually prohibited in the observatory), so it is advisable to travel light for a smoother and quicker entry!

🎬 東京都庁展望室 Video

Shinjuku Central Park

新宿中央公園

24H Open

Free admission

Intro

▼

An oasis in the skyscrapers of Shinjuku: Shinjuku Central Park

Item	Details
Attraction Address	Tokyo, Shinjuku Ward, Nishi-Shinjuku 2-11
Business Hours	Open for 24 hours (※ The operating hours of various facilities and restaurants in the park are subject to each store's announcement)
Admission Ticket	Free entry
Transportation Duration	Take the Toei Subway Oedo Line to "Tocho-mae Station" A5 exit and walk about 1 minutes; from "Shinjuku Station" West Exit, walk about 10 minutes.
Official Website	shinjukuchuopark.jp

Breathe in the forest among the skyscrapers, the strongest green spot in Nishi-Shinjuku

Surrounded by countless towering skyscrapers,"Shinjuku Central Park", is the largest municipal park in Shinjuku. It faces the famous Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building across the street, perfectly embodying Tokyo's ultimate landscape of "urban grandeur coexisting with nature." The park is shaded by trees and offers different beautiful scenes in each season; cherry blossoms bloom in spring, and ginkgo and maple leaves intertwine in autumn, making it a cherished urban refuge for office workers and local residents in Nishi-Shinjuku. In recent years, a new complex facility called "SHUKNOVA" has been established in the park, featuring the popular Starbucks and an outdoor restaurant, allowing travelers to sit on the quality grass terrace, enjoy coffee, and gaze up at the magnificent government building up close. In addition to casual strolls, this place is also a microcosm of Tokyo's street culture. The park's "Viewing Plaza" often hosts large flea markets, food festivals, or outdoor cinemas, brimming with endless local vitality. Whether you want to temporarily escape the bustling crowds of Shinjuku Station or capture classic photography spots where skyscrapers blend with nature, this is an excellent destination.

A six-hundred-year-old ancient boundary guarding Shinjuku: Jujisya Kumano Shrine and the evolution of the Edo Water Town

On the west side of Shinjuku Central Park, there lies a deep historical and cultural foundation—"Jujisya Kumano Shrine". This ancient shrine can be traced back to the Muromachi period during the Eisho era (around 1400), founded by a wealthy merchant from Kishu (now Wakayama Prefecture), Suzuki Kuro. He enshrined the most sacred deities of his hometown, the "Kumano Three Mountains," here, praying for prosperous business. Later, due to the effectiveness of his prayers, the Suzuki clan truly became a local magnate, and this shrine became the guardian of the entire Nishi-Shinjuku (formerly known as Kakuzuzumura). During the Edo period, this place was a popular excursion spot for all residents of Edo Castle. At that time, the area around "Jujisya" had numerous ponds and cascading waterfalls, earning the title of "Edo Water Town." Countless literati composed poetry at the tea houses by the ponds, and ukiyo-e masters like Utagawa Hiroshige recorded the stunning water scenery in their works. Although the water town landscape has disappeared due to urban development since the Meiji era, the shrine still preserves artifacts from the Edo period, silently witnessing the miraculous history of Shinjuku's transformation from a desolate countryside to an international metropolis.

💡 Tips for exploring Shinjuku Central Park:

When visiting Shinjuku Central Park, it is highly recommended to schedule your time fromevening to night. At this time, you can first visit the "Jujisya Kumano Shrine" to experience the sacred historical atmosphere amidst the hustle and bustle. Then walk to the square in front of "Shinjuku White Silk Waterfall (新宿ナイアガラの滝)," which offers the best angle for photographing the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. As night falls, the skyscrapers of the government building will light up brilliantly, reflecting beautifully with the water scenery in front of the park. Compared to simply visiting during the day, the magical interplay of light and shadow created by the night and the steel jungle will definitely enhance the quality of your Instagram photos!

🎬 新宿中央公園 Video

Taizoji Temple

太宗寺

09:00～17:00

Built in 1712 year

Intro

▼

The Guardian of the Underworld Amidst the Bustle of Shinjuku: Taisoji Temple

Item	Details
Attraction Address	Tokyo, Shinjuku City, Shinjuku 2-9-2
Business Hours	09:00～17:00
Admission Fee	Free Admission
Transportation	Take the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line to 'Shinjuku Gyoenmae Station' 2 Exit, and walk for about 2 minutes; or take the Shinjuku Line to 'Shinjuku Sanchome Station' and walk for about 5 minutes.

A Pure Land in Nishi-Shinjuku, a Historical Temple Guarding the Edo Gateway

Taisoji Templeis a Pure Land sect temple with a history of four hundred years. During the Edo period, it served as the family temple (family grave) of the local lord Naito family, witnessing Shinjuku's transformation from a small post town to an international metropolis. Upon entering the mountain gate, the surrounding skyscrapers and business hotels instantly fade away, replaced by a serene and solemn Buddhist Pure Land. The most notable feature in the temple grounds is the bronze statue of Jizo Bodhisattva, the third of the historically renowned 'Edo Six Jizo,' established in 1712, which has silently protected countless travelers and merchants passing through Edo for hundreds of years.

A Blend of Horror and Awe: The Beliefs in 'Enma Daio' and 'Datsueba'

The most talked-about cultural core within Taisoji Temple is undoubtedly the giant statues ofEnma DaioandDatsuebaenshrined in the Enma Hall. The statue of Enma Daio stands at a height of 5.5 meters, majestically seated in the hall, with a piercing gaze that exudes the authority of judging the souls in hell. Next to it is the statue of Datsueba, who in Buddhist mythology is the judge of souls waiting by the Sanzu River (the river of the underworld), responsible for forcibly stripping the deceased of their clothes and hanging them on tree branches, using the length of the hanging clothes to measure the depth of the deceased's sins in life. This statue of Datsueba has a legendary status from the Edo period. At that time, Shinjuku, as a post town, was filled with many low-level workers known as 'Iyasume Onna.' These women, along with local innkeepers, believed that Datsueba could determine the liberation of souls after death, leading to an extremely fervent faith in her. Worshippers would come to offer cotton, praying for disaster relief and business prosperity, transforming this originally fearsome deity of hell into a spiritual refuge for vulnerable women in Shinjuku's history.

Shio Jizo and the Crescent Moon Fudo, Folk Wishes Hidden in an Urban Oasis

In addition to the beliefs in hell, the temple also contains several warm relics of folk beliefs. Outside the hall, there is a statue completely covered in white coarse salt, known asShio Jizo, which is said that if a believer feels discomfort in a certain part of their body, they can apply salt to the same part of the Jizo statue and sincerely pray for healing; once their wish is fulfilled, they must return with double the amount of salt to express gratitude. Additionally, the 'Crescent Moon Fudo' enshrined within the temple is the guardian deity founded by the famous general Nukata, attracting many people seeking smooth careers and disaster relief, showcasing the inseparable cultural essence of traditional Japanese Buddhism and the lives of ordinary people.

💡 Tips for Visiting Taisoji Temple in Shinjuku:

The interior of the Enma Hall is usually accessible for public worship through glass windows. If you want to experience the shocking presence of the judge of hell up close, it is recommended to visit on the days of 1 in the month of 15, 16 (Shin Enma) or 7 in the month of 15, 16 (Daizai Day). On these days, the temple will hold the traditional festival 'Enma Daio Go Kaicho,' fully opening the hall doors, lighting lamps, and conducting special worship ceremonies, allowing a glimpse into the mysterious ritual atmosphere that has been passed down since the Edo period.

🎬 太宗寺 Video

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Shinjuku Cat

新宿猫

07:00～25:00

Intro

▼

Cross Shinjuku Vision: Giant 3D Calico Cat

Item	Details
Attraction Address	東京都新宿区新宿3-23-18
Business Hours	07:00～25:00 (Cat animation playback time, silent during late night hours)
Admission Ticket	Free viewing
Travel Time	Located directly across from the East Exit of JR 'Shinjuku Station', about 1 minutes on foot from the station.
Official Website	vision.cross-shinjuku.com

A stunning new technological landmark that brings comfort to the streets of Shinjuku.

Located across from the East Exit Plaza of Shinjuku Station, 'Cross Shinjuku Vision' features a high-definition 4K curved screen. Here, a lifelike giant calico cat is displayed. This cat is extremely popular, creating a strong three-dimensional effect using optical illusion principles, as if it could peek out from the building at any moment. It showcases different poses throughout the day, yawning in the morning, occasionally meowing softly at passersby during the day, and curling up to sleep at night. This vibrant technological creativity injects warmth and vitality into the bustling streets of Tokyo.

The Birth and Design Concept of the Giant 3D Cat

This calico cat, affectionately nicknamed the 'Shinjuku Cat', officially debuted in 2021 year 7 month. At that time, during the global pandemic turmoil, the organizers hoped to bring a touch of healing to the tense urban populace through the combination of technology and art. The design team specifically chose the calico cat, which symbolizes wealth and good fortune in Japanese traditional culture, as the main character and crafted realistic cat behavior animations for it. Utilizing a curved LED screen measuring up to 150 square meters, they successfully broke the limitations of traditional flat advertisements. It quickly sparked global discussions on social media, becoming a classic case of modern urban marketing in Tokyo.

Best Viewing Angles and Surrounding Space Analysis

To capture a clear 3D three-dimensional effect, the best viewing point is at 'JR Shinjuku Station East Exit Plaza'. From this angle, looking up at the screen, the visual displacement creates the strongest three-dimensional sensation. The lower floors of this building are planned as 'Cross Shinjuku Space', a multifunctional event space and café that regularly hosts various limited collaboration events. Travelers visiting Shinjuku can buy a cup of coffee, sit by the plaza, and wait for the cat to appear, experiencing the unique humor of a technological metropolis.

💡 Shinjuku Giant Cat Star-Gazing Tips:

The cat's exclusive 3D animation plays several times every hour, with each session lasting about several dozen seconds. Since the screen also rotates other commercial advertisements, it is recommended to patiently stay at the East Exit Plaza for 10 to 15 minutes. If you want to capture the adorable sight of the cat preparing to sleep, you can head over after 23:00, when the street is less crowded, and the animation switches to night mode, with the cat lying down and dozing off, creating a very soothing scene.

🎬 新宿猫 Video

LUMINE EST Shinjuku

ルミネエスト新宿

11:00～21:00

Intro

▼

The Trendsetting Hub of Shinjuku East Exit: Lumine Est Shinjuku (LUMINE EST Shinjuku)

Item	Details
Attraction Address	Tokyo, Shinjuku City, Shinjuku 3 Chome 38-1
Business Hours	[Shopping] Weekdays 11:00–21:00 / Saturdays and National Holidays 10:30–21:00; [Dining 7F・8F] 11:00–22:00 (some store hours may vary)
Admission Ticket	Free admission
Transportation	Directly connected to the JR 'Shinjuku Station' East Exit ticket gate (located on the underground 1 floor), you can reach it right after exiting; about 1 minutes on foot from Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line 'Shinjuku Station'.
Official Website	www.lumine.ne.jp/est

Half a century of station building evolution, leading Tokyo's cutting-edge fashion trends

Lumine Est Shinjuku is located directly above the East Exit of Shinjuku Station, the busiest station in Japan, and is a popular trend shopping mall among Tokyo's youth. This building was born in 1964 as 'Shinjuku Station Building', becoming a pioneer in Japan for combining public transport hubs with commercial spaces. In 1978, it was renamed to the familiar 'My City', and in 2006, it officially became part of the LUMINE group and was renamed 'Lumine Est'. This long history has deeply integrated it into the urban development trajectory of Shinjuku, successfully transforming it into a fashionable destination for seasonal clothing, cosmetics, and popular cuisine.

Core Guide to Each Floor and Featured Stores

The internal flow of the mall is smooth, connecting two underground floors to eight above ground, with each floor having its unique positioning and must-visit highlights:

B2F - B1F (Makeup and Popular Dessert Area):Directly connected to the underground ticket gate of the station. B2F gathers a large number of makeup brands and lifestyle goods, such as popular cosmetic selection stores favored by girls; B1F hosts many popular dessert shops and clothing stores, including the well-known mille-feuille cake brand HARBS.
1F - 4F (Frontline Women's Fashion and Exquisite Accessories):A core area designed for women's fashion. 1F showcases the latest seasonal fashion trends, while 2F to 4F categorizes Japanese clothing brands by different styles such as street, sweet, and casual, offering a rich selection of bags, shoes, and unique accessories.
5F - 6F (Unisex Streetwear, Men's Fashion, and Anime Culture):5F mainly introduces men's clothing and unisex design brands loved by today's Japanese youth, showcasing a strong street vibe; 6F breaks traditional department store frameworks, incorporating anime character merchandise stores, quirky gift shops, and chain bookstores, making it a treasure trove for pop culture enthusiasts.
7F - 8F (Instagrammable Food Hub 7&8 DINER):These two upper floors are designed as a modern dining space, featuring popular Kyushu ramen, decadent American egg dishes, creative Japanese Western food, and exquisite Korean cuisine. Delicious meals paired with a comfortable dining atmosphere make it always packed on weekends.

💡 Shinjuku East Exit Travel Tip:

After arriving at Shinjuku Station via JR train, look for the underground ticket gates for 'Chuo East Exit' or 'East Exit'. Once you exit, there’s no need to go above ground to check navigation; just turn around and you’ll see the entrance to Lumine Est B1F. This perfect direct access design keeps you dry on rainy days and shaded on sunny days, making it an ideal backup plan for your Tokyo itinerary on rainy days or a final shopping stop before leaving Shinjuku.

🎬 ルミネエスト新宿 Video

Kani Doraku Shinjuku Ekimae Branch

かに道楽新宿駅前店

11:30～22:00

Intro

▼

A must-visit classic for crab lovers! A top-notch crab full-course meal just a 1-minute walk from the East Exit of Shinjuku Station: かに道楽新宿駅前店

Item	Details
Attraction Address	東京都新宿区新宿3-27-10 武蔵野ビル 4F
Business Hours	11:30～22:00（L.O. 21:30）※ Closed on New Year's Day (1月1日)
Dining Budget	Lunch ￥5,000～￥5,999 / Dinner ￥10,000～￥14,999
Driving Navigation Mapcode	-
Transportation	About 1 minutes on foot from JR 'Shinjuku Station' East Exit or Central East Exit, directly connected to Musashino Building.
Tabelog Rating	3.57 (A highly representative and long-established top crab cuisine specialty store in Shinjuku)

A pure Japanese crab restaurant in a prime location in Shinjuku East Exit, extremely convenient for transportation.

かに道楽新宿駅前店Located next to the bustling Shinjuku East Exit, it takes only 1 minutes on foot from JR Shinjuku Station, directly connected to Musashino Building, so you don't have to worry about the route regardless of the weather. Upon entering the restaurant, you are greeted by a rich traditional Japanese decor. The restaurant features private tatami rooms that provide a high level of privacy, accommodating everything from intimate dates to large family gatherings. The staff, dressed in traditional kimonos, provide attentive table-side service, making you feel as if you've stepped into a hot spring inn, enjoying a luxurious dining experience that is both relaxing and pampered.

The incredibly sweet 'crab sashimi' and heartwarming 'paper pot hot pot', a stunning crab multi-course meal.

When you visit かに道楽, the top experience to arrange is to order a refined 'crab kaiseki (set meal)'. Among them, the highly popular 'crab sashimi (かに刺身)' has a delicate and translucent texture, and as soon as you take a bite, you can taste the rich sweetness and bouncy texture unique to top-quality fresh crab. Following that, the 'crab hot pot (かにすき)' is the soul signature dish, where the restaurant's special sweet broth is added to a paper pot to slowly simmer crab legs and fresh vegetables, fully releasing the crab's deliciousness into the broth. Finally, using the remaining essence of the broth, rice and eggs are added to create 'crab zosui', where every bite is filled with the essence of the sea, ensuring a satisfying feast.

A landmark with a long history, balancing high quality and great value for lunch kaiseki.

The giant red dynamic crab sign outside the building constantly moves its claws, making it one of Tokyo's most iconic street landmarks. Whether you want to treat yourself to an exquisite dinner or are targeting the highly popular lunch limited 'lunch crab set (お昼のかに御膳)', this place can perfectly accommodate both. In the bustling and noisy center of Shinjuku, having such an oasis where you can enjoy authentic Japanese crab cuisine in peace is perfect for including in your Tokyo itinerary for dinner or lunch.

💡 A small suggestion before you go

Due to the high popularity of かに道楽 among food lovers both domestically and internationally, especially the comfortable Japanese private rooms (hidden compartments) which are in high demand during weekend and holiday dining times, it is strongly recommended to make a reservation in advance through the official website or by phone. If your budget is limited, consider scheduling your visit during the lunch hours of 11:30 to 15:00, as the lunch limited set menu is more affordable, allowing you to enjoy the same level of crab feast at a more manageable price.

🎬 かに道楽新宿駅前店 Video

Reserve

👉autoreserve

Kinokuniya Bookstore

紀伊國屋書店

10:30～21:00

Intro

▼

Tokyo's Literary and Architectural Dual Heritage: Kinokuniya Shinjuku

Item	Details
Attraction Address	Tokyo, Shinjuku-ku, Shinjuku 3-17-7
Business Hours	10:30～21:00 (※ The business hours of each floor and attached restaurants are subject to on-site announcements)
Admission Ticket	Free admission
Transportation	Take the JR, Odakyu Line, or Keio Line to 'Shinjuku Station' East Exit, and walk about 3 minutes; or take the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line or Fukutoshin Line to 'Shinjuku Sanchome Station', and you can walk directly through the underground passage.
Official Website	store.kinokuniya.co.jp

The Birthplace of Showa Literary Thought: A Cultural Giant with Nearly a Century of History

Kinokuniya Shinjuku was founded in 1927 (Showa 2), crafted by the renowned cultural figure Shigeichi Tanabe. The existing main building was completed in 1964 and designed by the master of modernist architecture, Kunio Maekawa. Maekawa boldly employed rugged concrete lines, paired with a high open corridor on the ground floor, perfectly merging urban public space with the bookstore. This groundbreaking masterpiece was selected as a 'Tokyo Selected Historical Building' by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government in 2017, becoming one of the few bookstore buildings officially recognized as a historical cultural asset, profoundly recording over half a century of reading memories and ideological evolution in Tokyo.

Floor Guide: A Vertical Exploration of Knowledge Department Store

This literary temple extends from the basement 1 floor to the ground 7 floor, with its interior resembling a large department store, providing book lovers with exceptional professional guidance and unique store arrangements:

B1 Floor (Kinokuniya Specialty Street):A Showa-style retro food street directly connected to the subway line. Here, you can find the long-established Japanese curry shop 'C&C' and various retro coffee shops, exuding a strong traditional Tokyo atmosphere.
1 Floor (New Books and Lifestyle Goods):The bookstore's welcoming facade, featuring the latest seasonal magazines, popular bestsellers, and exquisite lifestyle design goods.
2 Floor (Japanese Literature and Pocket Books):Home to an impressive collection of pocket books, showcasing classic literary novels from major publishers.
3 Floor (Humanities, Social Sciences, and Business Economics):Specializing in books on history, philosophy, psychology, and business management, this floor has a strong academic atmosphere.
4 Floor (Kinokuniya Theatre and Natural Sciences):This floor houses the famous hidden gem 'Kinokuniya Hall (紀伊國屋ホール)'. This theater is known as the 'Koshien of Small Theaters', having nurtured countless prominent stage actors, and continues to host high-quality performances regularly.
5 Floor (Art, Engineering, and Medicine):A space filled with design, offering a rich selection of photography books, architectural volumes, various art monographs, and professional medical and engineering vocabulary books.
6 Floor (Anime Paradise and Children's Books):A gathering place for the latest popular manga, light novels, and related merchandise, making it a must-visit pilgrimage site for anime fans in Shinjuku.

The Social Stage of Showa Literary Giants and Hidden Theater Culture

Founder Shigeichi Tanabe had a legendary life, forming connections with literary figures, making this bookstore a top social venue during the Showa era for literary giants like Osamu Dazai, Yukio Mishima, and Yasunari Kawabata to frequently gather and exchange ideas. The 'Kinokuniya Hall' on 4 floor, which opened in 1964, aimed to become a 'cultural dissemination hub' rather than just a commercial marketplace. This innovative integration of avant-garde theater into retail space successfully transformed the bookstore into a living cultural organism. Strolling between the low Showa-style ceilings and unique terrazzo floors, travelers can easily capture the unique charm of a space where the literary giants of the past intertwine with modern thought.

💡 Tips for a Literary Stroll in Shinjuku:

If you are walking from the Tokyo Metro 'Shinjuku Sanchome' station, it is recommended to enter the building's basement level (B1F) directly through the underground passage. You can first enjoy a bowl of traditional Japanese curry that has been passed down for decades at the specialty street here, and then take the retro elevator to explore each floor. The bulletin board outside the theater on 4 floor is always filled with hand-drawn posters of the latest Japanese stage plays, making it highly recommended to stop here and experience the most authentic Tokyo theater culture.

🎬 紀伊國屋書店 Video

Isetan Shinjuku Store

伊勢丹新宿店

10:00～20:00

Intro

▼

A shopping paradise where fashion meets history: Isetan Shinjuku

Item	Details
Attraction Address	Tokyo, Shinjuku-ku, Shinjuku 3-14-1
Business Hours	10:00～20:00 (The restaurant street on the 7 floor operates from 11:00～22:00)
Admission Ticket	Free entry for shopping
Transportation	There is a direct connection from Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line, Fukutoshin Line, and Toei Shinjuku Line at 'Shinjuku Sanchome Station'; it takes about 5 minutes to walk from JR 'Shinjuku Station' East Exit.

Walk through the Art Deco historical building that survived the Showa era and wartime

Isetan ShinjukuLocated in the bustling core shopping district of Shinjuku, it holds a prestigious position as a fashion trendsetter in Japan's department store industry, with its single-store annual sales consistently ranking first in the country. This historic 'Main Building' was completed in 1933 (Showa 8), showcasing an exquisite and fluid Art Deco style on its exterior, and has been designated as a 'Tokyo Selected Historical Building.' During the late stages of World War II, the Shinjuku area suffered severe bombing during the Tokyo air raids, but this magnificent building miraculously escaped destruction. It has preserved its classical appearance and elegant demeanor from the early Showa period, allowing visitors to appreciate nearly a century of architectural culture while shopping.

Main Building Floor Guide and Introduction to Iconic Specialty Stores

Isetan Shinjuku meticulously categorizes fashion trends, with each floor featuring unique classic positioning and star counters:

B1 Floor Food Basement (Depachika):This place is recognized by gourmets across Japan as the 'ultimate holy land for branded desserts.' It houses the French top-tier dessert 'Pierre Hermé Paris,' the long-queued famous store 'noix de beurre' for freshly baked financiers, and limited-edition traditional Japanese sweets from various regions, making it a must-visit paradise for selecting top-notch souvenirs.
1 Floor Cosmetics and Boutique Accessories:This floor has set the highest cosmetics sales record in Japan's department store industry. International top luxury brands have flagship counters for makeup, fragrances, and skincare products, with the fastest new product launch speed and the most comprehensive selection in the country.
2 Floor to 4 Floor Women's Fashion and Designer Styles:The 'Tokyo Closet' on 2 Floor showcases avant-garde trends and emerging designer works from Tokyo; 3 Floor and 4 Floor feature world-class international brands and high fashion houses, defining the pulse of fashion in Asia.
5 Floor Home Aesthetics and Artistic Living:Showcasing tableware, bedding, and lifestyle items that blend traditional Japanese craftsmanship with modern design, filled with a sense of refined Japanese living rituals.
7 Floor Restaurant Street (Eat Paradise):Gathering iconic traditional Japanese cuisine, including long-established eel rice, top-quality Edomae sushi, and exquisite kaiseki cuisine.

Independent Landmark: The 'Men's Building' Leading Global Men's Fashion

In addition to the Main Building, the adjacent'Men's Building'is also a legend of this department store. This entire independent building is tailored for male consumers, covering everything from the basement 1 Floor to the 8 Floor, including world-class gentleman's shoes, high-end bespoke suits, contemporary streetwear, and luxury skincare products exclusively for men. The Men's Building completely overturns the stereotype of men's clothing being a supporting role in traditional department stores, becoming a shopping landmark that fashionable men from around the world must visit when in Tokyo.

💡 Shopping Tips for Isetan Shinjuku:

Foreign tourists are strongly advised to first visit the overseas customer service center on the 6 Floor of the Main Building after entering, present their passport to apply for the 'Mitsukoshi Isetan Overseas Customer Card (GUEST CARD),' which allows for a 5% discount at designated counters. Since there are connecting passages between the underground 1 Floor of the Main Building and the Men's Building, travelers with strollers or carrying luggage can easily navigate between the two buildings via the flat indoor corridors. Tax refund procedures are also handled uniformly on the 6 Floor, and it is recommended to visit during non-peak hours before 4 o'clock in the afternoon to significantly reduce waiting time.

🎬 伊勢丹新宿店 Video

Shinjuku Marui - Main Building

新宿マルイ本館

11:00～20:00

Intro

▼

Shinjuku 0101 Floor Introduction: Shinjuku Marui Main Building

Item	Details
Attraction Address	Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 3-30-13
Business Hours	11:00～20:00 (Note: The rooftop garden may close earlier depending on the season and weather, and some dining establishments operate until 21:00)
Admission Ticket	Free entry and access to the rooftop garden
Transportation	Direct access from Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line, Fukutoshin Line, and Toei Shinjuku Line 'Shinjuku Sanchome Station' A4 Exit; about 5 minutes on foot from JR 'Shinjuku Station' East Exit.
Official Website	www.0101.co.jp/003

Iconic trendy department store! A complete guide to all floors and specialty shops

Shinjuku Marui Main BuildingLocated in the bustling core shopping district of Shinjuku Sanchome. This building integrates fashion trends, lifestyle beauty, and eco-friendly concepts, attracting a large number of customers seeking a quality lifestyle. The internal floor planning of the mall is clear and organized, each featuring unique types of merchandise:

B1F (Basement Food and Light Meals):This floor has direct access to the subway station and features exquisite dessert counters and organic food stores. It houses the highly popular Starbucks Black Apron concept store, offering a high-standard hand-brewed coffee experience.
1F - 2F (Trendy Beauty and Lifestyle Accessories):These two floors gather the most popular Japanese and international cosmetic brands and designer accessories. The counter designs emphasize transparency, providing a comfortable space for makeup trials.
3F - 6F (Men's and Women's Fashion and Quality Living):Breaking the traditional strict separation of men's and women's clothing, this area mixes casual wear, elegant formal attire, and comfortable footwear. The brand selection focuses on material comfort and tailoring, making it perfect for spending half a day choosing daily outfits.
7F - 8F (Anime Culture and Interactive Experience Space):Marui Department Store is known for frequently hosting popular anime collaboration pop-up stores. The eighth floor features various character merchandise specialty areas and innovative technology experience booths, showcasing the vibrancy of contemporary pop culture.

Hidden Urban Secret: Award-winning English-style Rooftop Garden 'Q-COURT'

After navigating through the bustling marketplace, take the elevator directly to the top floor to enter a completely different tranquil world. This aerial garden, named「Q-COURT」, has won multiple awards, including recognition for urban greening in Japan since its completion. This family garden is planned around the core concept of 'coexistence with nature,' with design inspiration drawn entirely from traditional English gardens. The garden is cleverly divided into five exotic areas, including a rose garden, early spring garden, and fountain garden. The garden is filled with various seasonal plants and flowers, with a central corridor intertwined with greenery. Here, in the prime real estate of Shinjuku city center, a luxurious sanctuary is created, providing weary travelers with a perfect space to cleanse their minds, read quietly, or rest, profoundly embodying the architectural aesthetics of modern urban sustainable greening.

💡 Shinjuku Marui Smart Shopping Tips:

Shinjuku Marui Main Building is very friendly to overseas tourists. The first floor has a dedicated tax-free service counter, and the building fully supports various electronic payments and credit card discounts. It is recommended to head to the basement level in the afternoon when the sun is mild, grab a cup of limited coffee or exquisite dessert to go, and enjoy it on the rooftop English garden benches. This experience of enjoying green afternoon tea surrounded by skyscrapers is highly recommended by seasoned travelers.

🎬 新宿マルイ本館 Video

Q-COURT

11:00～20:00

Free admission

Top floor of Shinjuku Marui Main Building

Intro

▼

An English-style oasis in the bustling area of Shinjuku: Shinjuku Marui Q-COURT

Item	Details
Attraction Address	Tokyo, Shinjuku-ku, Shinjuku 3-30-13 (on the rooftop of Shinjuku Marui Main Building)
Business Hours	11:00～20:00 (※ Hours may vary by season; closed during severe weather such as heavy rain or strong winds)
Admission Ticket	Free entry
Transportation	Take the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line, Fukutoshin Line, or Toei Shinjuku Line to 'Shinjuku Sanchome Station', then walk about 4 minutes from A1 exit to reach the main building directly.
Official Website	www.0101.co.jp/003

As you ride the elevator up to the rooftop, the view opens up, leading you to this secret garden 'Q-COURT' hidden among the concrete jungle.

The Essence of Nature: A Classic English Garden to Heal Urban Dwellers

The rooftop garden 'Q-COURT' was designed with the cultural intention of 'injecting gentle vitality into the crowded and busy Shinjuku'. The design team based it on traditional English classical gardens, aiming to create a pure oasis where the public can pause and catch their breath amidst the fast-paced, high-rise environment of central Tokyo. The overall layout follows the spatial order of traditional British horticulture, cleverly divided into several small gardens of different styles. The garden is filled with a large number of seasonal herbaceous plants, featuring neatly trimmed geometric boxwood hedges, romantic climbing rose arches, and a European classical fountain that emits a gentle sound of flowing water. This space perfectly embodies the philosophical concept in European landscape art of 'bringing nature back into everyday life', allowing visitors to walk on the soft grass, cleanse their minds and bodies with the scents of soil and flowers, and experience the tranquil aesthetics of harmonious coexistence between humans and nature.

💡 Travel Tips for Sightseeing:

The Q-COURT garden has many wooden benches and secluded shaded areas, and entry is completely free. It is highly recommended to come here for a coffee break after shopping and exploring the department stores in Shinjuku Sanchome. The best time to visit is close to dusk, when the sunset casts a warm glow on the fountain in the English garden, with the backdrop of Shinjuku's skyscrapers gradually lighting up, creating strikingly contrasting urban secret photos.

🎬 Q-COURT Video

Shinjuku Suehirotei

新宿末廣亭

12:00～21:00

Rakugo, manzai, kodan, and magic performances

Intro

▼

Tokyo's Century-Old Public Arts Theater: Shinjuku Suehirotei

Item	Detailed Information
Attraction Address	Shinjuku, Tokyo, Shinjuku 3-6-12
Business Hours	Daytime hours 12:00～16:30 / Nighttime hours 16:45～21:00 (Special events or alternating periods may have adjusted operating hours)
Admission Ticket	General Adult 3,000 yen / University Student 2,500 yen / High School and Middle School Student 2,200 yen / Elementary School Student 1,500 yen (ticket prices may vary slightly during special event periods)
Transportation travel time	Take the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line, Fukutoshin Line, or Toei Subway Shinjuku Line to 'Shinjuku Sanchome Station', then walk about 3 minutes from exit C1; from JR 'Shinjuku Station' East Exit, it's about a 7 minute walk.
Official website	suehirotei.com

A traditional wooden performance theater in Tokyo, a rare gem that has been passed down for a hundred years.

Located at a bustling corner in Shinjuku, Shinjuku Suehirotei was established in the Meiji 30 year (1897 year) and is one of the last four traditional 'yose' (public performance halls) in Tokyo. This building was destroyed during World War II, and the current wooden exterior was rebuilt in 1946 year. The architecture retains the theater style of the Edo period, with the front adorned with name cards (めくり) of rakugo performers written in kanji and colorful performance banners, creating a striking contrast with the surrounding modern skyscrapers. Here, traditional Japanese entertainment such as rakugo (solo storytelling), manzai (stand-up comedy), folk songs, and magic is offered, making it a core place to experience local popular culture. The performance programs change daily, alternating between the Rakugo Association and the Rakugo Arts Association, showcasing the authentic flavor of Edo-era common people's life. For travelers seeking a deep cultural experience, this place provides a timeless perspective, allowing a glimpse into Japan's century-old linguistic art and sense of humor.

Step into Edo-style: Tatami 'Zashiki-seki' and the Art of Storytelling

Stepping through the warm noren curtain at the entrance, you are greeted by an interior that exudes a strong sense of history. In addition to the central area with Western-style seating, both sides have preserved traditional Japanese 'tatami' seating, allowing the audience to sit on the floor and enjoy the performance in the most authentic way. The performers on stage, using only a fan and a handkerchief, can portray multiple characters through their voices, expressions, and delicate body movements, leading the audience into a world filled with humor and wisdom. The venue allows food and drink, and many local foodies take the opportunity during the intermission between the first and second halves to savor their packed lunches or snacks while quietly discussing the exciting moments they just witnessed. This interactive mode of performance, where there is no distance between the stage and the audience, creates a warm and friendly viewing atmosphere. The laughter and applause from the audience directly feedback to the performers on stage, collectively building a unique rhythm for that day's show, showcasing an aesthetic of performance that is completely different from modern large theaters.

Recommended nearby attractions: A cultural and shopping stroll through Shinjuku Sanchome

Shinjuku Suehirotei is located in an excellent area, surrounded by several unique and representative attractions, making it perfect for a day trip in Shinjuku that combines both tradition and modernity.

Hanazono Shrine:It takes about 3 minutes on foot. This ancient shrine that protects Shinjuku is well-known for praying for the prosperity of the performing arts and business success, complementing the local cultural scene of the Suehirotei.
Isetan Shinjuku Department Store:A 2 minute walk. This century-old department store, filled with classical beauty, houses countless top brands and an exquisite underground food street.
Shinjuku Gyoen:A 8 minute walk. This expansive royal garden in the bustling area is perfect for a stroll to enjoy the seasonal scenery before watching traditional performances.

💡 Practical Tips for Watching a Performance at the Theater:

Tickets for the Shinjuku Suehirotei are sold on-site on the day of the performance, and they operate on a 'no re-entry' policy. This means that once you buy a ticket, you can stay from the afternoon show until the evening show ends, offering great value for money. Although the entire performance is in Japanese, even if you don't understand the dialogue, just experiencing the laughter of the Japanese audience, appreciating the performers' exaggerated and lively body language, and enjoying the unique atmosphere of sitting on tatami mats while eating a bento box makes for a deeply enriching and extraordinary cultural experience.

🎬 新宿末廣亭 Video

Sekaido Shinjuku Main Store

世界堂新宿本店

09:30～21:00

Art Supplies

Intro

▼

A Pilgrimage Paradise for Tokyo's Art Creators: Sekaido Shinjuku Main Store

Item	Details
Attraction Address	Tokyo, Shinjuku-ku, Shinjuku 3-1-1 Sekaido Building 1F～6F
Business Hours	09:30～21:00 (※ New Year's Day holiday and business hours are subject to the official website announcement)
Admission Ticket	Free admission
Transportation	Take the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line, Fukutoshin Line, or Toei Shinjuku Line to 'Shinjuku Sanchome Station', and walk about 1 minutes from Exit C1; or walk about 7 minutes from the East Exit of JR 'Shinjuku Station'.
Official Website	www.sekaido.co.jp

A stationery miracle founded in the Showa era, with pricing evolution that even shocked the Mona Lisa

SekaidoFounded in 1940 (Showa 15), the founder, Murao Nishimura, initially opened a small framing and painting materials shop in Shinjuku. During World War II, the Shinjuku area suffered severe air raids, and the shop was once reduced to ashes. In the face of post-war material shortages, Sekaido rose from the ruins with the dedication to 'provide affordable and comprehensive tools for art creators', gradually expanding to become Japan's largest art supplies haven. At Sekaido Shinjuku Main Store, the exaggerated expression of the‘Shocked Mona Lisa’（モナ・リザも驚く）sign on the exterior is the most famous cultural symbol here. This design conveys the store's core philosophy: the variety of products is so incredible and the prices so low that even the protagonist of a world-famous painting would be left speechless. This humorous visual symbol has transformed Sekaido from a traditional art supply store into a highly recognizable cultural landmark on the streets of Tokyo.

Sekaido Shinjuku Main Store: A Layered Professional Exploration Guide from 1F to 6F

This six-story art giant categorizes its offerings in great detail, with each floor staffed by knowledgeable professionals in their respective fields, catering to the needs of everyone from casual stationery enthusiasts to top-tier artists:

1F General Stationery and Lifestyle Goods:Selling various Japanese fountain pens, ballpoint pens, high-end notebooks, office supplies, and seasonal greeting cards. The entrance often features seasonal limited products or discounted stationery promotions.
2F Comics, Design, and Drafting Supplies:This is a sacred place for anime creators. It showcases a full range of Copic markers, comic manuscript paper, dot screen paper, architectural model materials, and various professional drafting tools.
3F Professional Painting Materials:Displaying oil paints, acrylic paints, watercolors, traditional Japanese painting pigments, various brushes and canvases from around the world, along with a complete selection of oil painting boxes and easels.
4F Professional Framing and Custom Frames:Offering framing services for paintings, posters, and certificates. Hundreds of different materials and ornate wooden frames, metal frame lines are displayed on-site, customizable according to the size of the artwork.
5F Various Ready-Made Frames and Mirrors:Selling standard-sized oil painting frames, watercolor frames, puzzle frames, and photo frames, with high-end traditional Japanese folding screen frames and decorative mirrors also concentrated here.
6F Sekaido Gallery and Art Classroom:Regularly hosting solo exhibitions by local artists and art club showcases, while also offering painting and craft experience courses for all age groups.

An Unshakable Art Sanctuary, a Supply Hub for Creators Worldwide

Sekaido has maintained a tradition of comprehensive discounts on product prices for many years. The store's dazzling display method showcases the unique dense aesthetics of Japanese mass retailers. Many rare paint colors, specific weights of Japanese washi paper, and handmade brushes that are hard to find overseas can easily be found on the shelves of the Shinjuku Main Store. This overwhelming completeness and price advantage attract countless international designers, illustrators, and anime enthusiasts who come specifically to shop, making it Tokyo's most recognized professional creative supply station.

💡 Art Enthusiasts' Pilgrimage Tips:

Sekaido usually offers direct pricing discounts of 7.5 off to 8 for most art and stationery products. If you plan to purchase a large quantity of high-end paints or professional materials, it is recommended to apply for a 'Sekaido Card (ST CARD)' at checkout. This membership card allows you to accumulate reward points for future purchases, which can be redeemed for cash. Additionally, the framing areas on 4 and 5 floors offer tax-free services (Tax-Free); before purchasing, you can show your passport to the staff to confirm tax-free eligibility, which can save you a considerable budget.

🎬 世界堂新宿本店 Video

舞伎町

Kabukicho is known as the ‘First Entertainment District of the East.’ It is synonymous with Tokyo’s nightlife and is a vibrant entertainment hub filled with neon lights and energy. For first-time visitors to Tokyo, Kabukicho is an essential area to experience Japan’s subculture and nightlife.

Post-war reconstruction planningAfter World War II, the area where Kabukicho in Shinjuku is located was almost leveled during air raids. To rebuild, the local government formulated an ambitious plan in 1948.Cultural Revival Project。
The Dream of KabukizaThe core of the plan is to build a largeKabukiza TheatreThus, the area was named ‘Kabukicho’ after this unbuilt theater.
The Rise of the Entertainment IndustryAlthough the Kabukiza Theater ultimately could not be built due to funding issues, the positioning of this ‘entertainment district’ was established. With the gathering of cinemas, dance halls, bars, restaurants, and other entertainment facilities, Kabukicho quickly developed into Japan’s premier comprehensive entertainment and red-light district.

Showing: All（9）

Kabukicho

歌舞伎町

24H

Intro

▼

Tokyo's Skyline Adventure: Kabukicho

Item	Details
Attraction Address	Shinjuku-ku, Kabukicho, Tokyo
Business Hours	The district's walkways are open all day (operating hours for individual shops and department stores are subject to official announcements)
Admission Ticket	Free entry to the area (additional fees apply for entertainment facilities, theaters, and restaurants)
Transportation Duration	Take the JR Yamanote Line to "Shinjuku Station" East Exit, and it's about 5 minutes on foot; or take the Seibu Shinjuku Line to "Seibu Shinjuku Station," and it's about 3 minutes on foot.

Kabukicho Without a Kabuki Theater: An Unfinished Cultural Revival History

Many travelers standing in front of the neon-lit streets often wonder why there is no Kabuki theater in this area. The origin of this place name dates back to the year 1945, just after World War II ended. At that time, the land known as "Kakuhazu" was reduced to ashes during air raids, and the head of the reconstruction plan, Shigehei Suzuki, proposed a grand vision for cultural revival, planning to build a large "Kabuki theater" here to attract families and revitalize local culture. In 1948, the local government officially renamed this area "Kabukicho." However, the subsequent financial crisis led to the complete abandonment of the theater construction plan. This area, which was expected to give birth to traditional performing arts, unexpectedly evolved into Japan's largest entertainment district over the following decades. Although the original cultural landmark was never completed, the name was surprisingly retained, becoming a legendary historical misunderstanding of Tokyo.

Vertical Entertainment Giant Tower: A Complete Analysis of the Tokyu Kabukicho Tower Floors

As the latest skyscraper in Kabukicho, standing at 225 meters,"Tokyu Kabukicho Tower"breaks the retail framework of traditional department stores, with the entire building filled with dining, amusement parks, cinemas, and theaters. Below is a summary of its key floors and featured shops:

1F: Modern Dining and Transportation Hub
Equipped with an airport shuttle bus stop. Inside, there are unique flower shop cafes, gourmet takeout, and a trendy burger joint that combines music concepts.
2F: Shinjuku Kabuki Hall ~ Kabuki Yokocho ~
This is a visually stunning new type of food street. The interior is decorated with numerous festival floats, neon lights, and LED screens. It gathers soul food from all over Japan, izakayas, and Korean cuisine, with DJ and taiko performances at night.
3F: NAMCO TOKYO Entertainment Center
A giant amusement park created by Bandai Namco. It is filled with the latest claw machines, anime prize games, and features an interactive dining bar with a giant Pac-Man, brimming with futuristic technology.
4F: THE TOKYO MATRIX Escape Room
This is an underground adventure escape room that combines Sony's latest sensing technology. Players need to team up and use strategy and physical strength to escape in an immersive virtual monster space, popular among young people and tech enthusiasts.
6F - 8F: THEATER MILANO-Za Theater
A new generation live stage with approximately 900 seats. It regularly hosts various avant-garde plays, musicals, and stage adaptations of anime, inheriting the theatrical spirit from the early days of this district.
9F－10F：109 CINEMAS PREMIUM SHINJUKU
All screening rooms are equipped with luxurious reclining chairs in a top-tier cinema. The sound system is personally supervised by the late world music master Ryuichi Sakamoto, and even the background music in the lobby is a work of the master, providing movie fans with an ultimate auditory and visual feast.

Monster Skyline and Geographical Deities: The Ultimate Clash of Old and New Cultures

Walking along Chuo Road, you can see the"Giant Godzilla Head"at the top of the Hotel Gracery Shinjuku. This life-sized monster statue lights up its eyes, roars loudly, and emits white smoke every hour, becoming a classic scene that international travelers must capture when visiting Shinjuku. In 2015, Godzilla was officially appointed by the Shinjuku Ward government as the "Shinjuku Tourism Ambassador," symbolizing the entry of modern Japanese pop culture into this district. On the edge of this sci-fi and neon-colored entertainment area, quietly sits the"Hanazono Shrine"established before the Edo period. This shrine has long been the guardian deity of Shinjuku, and the "Eino Asama Shrine" enshrined inside is revered as the god of performing arts. Countless Japanese stars and stage actors come to pay their respects before performances. Modern monsters and ancient deities coexist within a few hundred meters, showcasing Tokyo's unique inclusiveness in its cultural diversity.

💡 Kabukicho Safety Exploration Tips:

The interior of Tokyu Kabukicho Tower and the main roads around it are patrolled by police cars and equipped with modern surveillance cameras, making the overall safety from daytime to early night quite good, perfect for independent travelers to take photos and shop. However, during late-night hours, many "touts" (Kabuki-cho touts) may appear on the streets trying to lure people into bars or izakayas. Please remember to stick to the direct routes of well-known shopping malls and firmly ignore the approaches and pitches from strangers on the street to safely enjoy the unique charm of this sleepless city.

🎬 歌舞伎町 Video

Don Quijote Shinjuku Kabukicho Store

ドン・キホーテ新宿歌舞伎町店

24H

Intro

▼

Tokyo's shopping landmark: Don Quijote Shinjuku Kabukicho Store

Item	Details
Attraction Address	東京都新宿区歌舞伎町1-16-5
Business Hours	24 hours open, open year-round
Admission Ticket	Free entry (purchase of products is charged separately)
Transportation Duration	Approximately 5 minutes on foot from JR 'Shinjuku Station' East Exit; approximately 3 minutes on foot from Seibu Shinjuku Line 'Seibu Shinjuku Station' Front Exit.
Official Website	www.donki.com

Open 24 hours a day! A treasure-hunting paradise with densely packed displays

Don Quijote Shinjuku Kabukicho StoreLocated at the entrance of Tokyo's most bustling entertainment district, this flagship store ranks among the top in Japan for both revenue and popularity. The eye-catching yellow penguin sign and dazzling electronic neon lights guide night owls and tourists from around the world through the night. The biggest feature of this store is its classic 'compressed display' magical style, stacking products from floor to ceiling, creating a maze-like adventure in the narrow aisles, allowing every visitor to experience the joy of treasure hunting. This store offers comprehensive duty-free services, with multilingual staff on-site, ensuring smooth communication. Whether you need daily necessities late at night or plan to do last-minute bulk shopping before your flight home, the store's 24 hours of uninterrupted operation provide the most flexible itinerary options.

Floor Distribution and Featured Product Recommendations of the Flagship Store

This store adopts a vertically extended dense layout, with each floor serving its purpose, planning a highly efficient shopping space:

1 Floor: Popular Souvenirs, Seasonal Products, and Duty-Free Checkout: As soon as you enter, you'll see shelves filled with Japanese specialty snacks (such as various limited-edition KitKats, Tokyo bananas, etc.) and anime collaboration packaged treats. This floor mainly handles efficient duty-free checkout processes, with numerous counters to manage the queue.
2 Floor: Drugstore, Japanese Cosmetics, and Health Supplements: A golden floor where female tourists linger. This floor gathers various Japanese drugstore cosmetics, popular face masks, and sunscreens, as well as health products favored by Taiwanese travelers, such as EVE painkillers, vitamin supplements, and Taisho cold medicine, along with a large section for colorful contact lenses (cosmetic lenses).
3 Floor: Trendy Clothing, Luxury Brands, and Luggage Supplies: Selling various Japanese streetwear, sneakers, and backpacks. In a corner, you'll find international luxury leather goods, branded perfumes, and high-end watches. The large-capacity, impact-resistant suitcases sold on-site are very popular, making it convenient for travelers to pack their purchases.
4 Floor: Electronics, Anime Merchandise, and Party Props: An entertainment floor filled with Japan's unique creativity. It includes the latest beauty appliances, hair dryers, anime figurines, Switch game merchandise, and party costumes with Halloween or humorous themes, perfect for finding unique gifts.
Underground 1 Floor: Japanese Instant Noodles, Fresh Seafood, Alcohol, and Various Foods: This is an underground supermarket loved by both locals and international tourists. A whole wall of instant noodles from various regions of Japan and takeout options from Ichiran Ramen are available, along with a rich selection of Japanese sake, whiskey, shochu, and local specialty snacks.

💡 Kabukicho Late-Night Shopping Tips:

Due to its location in a popular tourist area, the peak hours for this store are from 19:00 to late night 23:00, when crowds are at their largest, and duty-free counters often require a wait of over half an hour. It is recommended for independent travelers to stagger their shopping times and visit between 06:00 and 09:00 in the morning, when the store's products have just been restocked and there are fewer tour groups, allowing for a more comfortable and less crowded shopping experience. Additionally, using the official electronic discount coupons at checkout can provide extra duty-free discounts, so remember to prepare your mobile screen before checking out.

門票

👉Coupon

Godzilla Head

ゴジラヘッド

24H

Intro

▼

Kabukicho Landmark: Godzilla Head Shinjuku

Item	Details
Attraction Address	Tokyo, Shinjuku-ku, Kabukicho 1-19-1 Shinjuku Toho Building 8F Terrace
Business Hours	The exterior is open all day / The terrace on 8 floor is open according to the announcements of the Gracery Shinjuku Hotel (from noon 12:00 to evening 20:00, there is a roaring light show every hour on the hour)
Admission Ticket	Viewing the exterior is free / To get close to the 8 floor terrace, you must be a hotel guest or a customer of the 8 floor café
Transportation	About 5 minutes on foot from JR 'Shinjuku Station' East Exit; about 3 minutes on foot from Seibu Shinjuku Line 'Seibu Shinjuku Station'.
Official Website	gracery.com/shinjuku

Get up close with classic monsters! A stunning landmark recreated in the original scale of 1954 years

Located in the bustling district of Kabukicho in Tokyo, the 'Godzilla Head Shinjuku' is situated on the 8 floor terrace of the Shinjuku Toho Building. This massive head stands at a height of 12 meters, perfectly replicating the true scale of the monster from the first 'Godzilla' movie in 1954 years, which was 50 meters tall. Since its completion in 2015, it has become one of Tokyo's most iconic modern pop culture landmarks. Every day from noon 12 to evening 8, the Godzilla head activates its stunning light effects on the hour. Accompanied by the classic roar and smoke from its mouth, it recreates classic scenes from the big screen, attracting countless independent travelers and film fans to stop and watch.

Shinjuku Toho Building Floor Guide and Recommended Shops

The Shinjuku Toho Building is a mixed-use commercial complex that combines entertainment, dining, and accommodation. The internal floors are well-planned, offering a rich variety of consumption and leisure experiences:

1 floor (various themed restaurants):The food street gathers various local Japanese dishes, including chain yakitori, classic Japanese ramen, and lively izakayas, making it an excellent choice for enjoying meals and late-night snacks.
2 floor (entertainment and gaming area):Features a large electronic gaming hall with a rich selection of claw machines and the latest arcade games, showcasing the vibrant nightlife entertainment atmosphere of Tokyo.
3 floor to 6 floor (TOHO CINEMAS Shinjuku):Equipped with the latest top-notch sound systems and IMAX giant screens, this large cinema frequently hosts Japanese film premieres, making it a must-visit for film enthusiasts.
8 floor to 30 floor (Gracery Shinjuku Hotel):High-quality accommodation space. The 8 floor lobby and outer terrace is where the Godzilla head is located. The hotel has specially planned limited 'Godzilla-themed rooms' that are filled with monster murals and exclusive merchandise, with stunning views of the giant Godzilla head from the windows.

The Birth and Evolution of the King of Monsters and the Story of Shinjuku's Honorary Citizen

Godzilla was born in 1954 years, initially created by Japan's Toho Company, representing humanity's awe of nature and the threat of nuclear energy, becoming the ancestor of monster movies that swept the globe. To commemorate this legendary creature that has spanned half a century, the Shinjuku Ward government specially issued a 'Special Resident Certificate' in 2015 years, officially appointing Godzilla as the tourism ambassador and honorary citizen of Shinjuku. The establishment of this head symbolizes the combination of Japan's special effects film culture and urban tourism development, representing a monster that once destroyed cities, now becoming a cultural symbol that protects and prospers Shinjuku.

💡 Best Photo Tips for the Godzilla Head:

To capture the most impactful Godzilla photos, the best spots are in front of the building at 'Sakura Street (さくら通り)' or the intersection of 'Yasukuni Street'. From this angle, the giant monster head peeks out from between the tall buildings, as if it is attacking the street. If you want a close-up photo, consider staying at the Gracery Shinjuku Hotel, or visit the café on the 8 floor, where you can access the terrace walkway and get up close to Godzilla's claws and head for unique close-up shots.

🎬 ゴジラヘッド Video

Katsu Pripou

Katsuプリポー

By reservation only

Intro

▼

A dream pork paradise that's hard to book! The ultimate fried pork cutlet at Katsuプリポー in Shinjuku Kabukicho, with classes held irregularly.

Item	Detailed Information
Attraction Address	G1 Building, Kabukicho, Shinjuku, Tokyo 10-3-3 2F
Business Hours	Reservations are required and the business hours are irregular. Regular operating hours: 12:00 to 15:00 (Last Order 14:00), 17:00 to 23:00 (Last Order 21:30). Please check the official social media for the dates of the fried pork cutlet (とんかつ) events. Closed during the New Year period.
Dining Budget	Lunch ￥4,000～￥5,999 / Dinner ￥8,000～￥9,999
Transportation Methods	It takes about 3 minutes to walk from the JR 'Shinjuku Station' East Exit or Tokyo Metro 'Shinjuku Station'; it's about 306 meters from the Seibu Shinjuku Line 'Seibu Shinjuku Station'.
Tabelog Rating	Selected as one of the 'Top 3.87 Tonkatsu Shops 2026', this is a highly talked-about premium aged pork tonkatsu in Tokyo.

Hidden in Kabukicho, a dream pork cutlet project that operates as a pork specialty shop on weekdays.

Katsuプリポー（Katsu Pulipo）Its operating model is very unique; it usually operates under the name of the premium brand pork shabu-shabu specialty store 'PRETTY PORK FACTORY,' and only on specific and irregular niche dates does it transform into a high-end tonkatsu (fried pork cutlet) exclusive store. The restaurant is located in the bustling Kabukicho building in Shinjuku, and the entire establishment operates on a complete reservation system—without a reservation, you absolutely cannot dine here. It is considered a dream restaurant among tonkatsu enthusiasts in Tokyo.

A collection of rare and premium pork brands all in one place! Enjoy the top-notch flavor of slow-fried at low temperatures.

The most impressive aspect here is that it breaks the traditional limit of pork cutlet shops that only offer one or two types of pork. Diners can order various rare national brand pork, such as the Chiba Prefecture Diamond Pork. The chef employs the exquisite technique of 'low-temperature slow frying,' resulting in a perfectly golden and crispy outer layer, while the pork inside retains a subtle pink hue, full of juiciness. The moment you take a bite, the elegant sweetness of the fat and the incredibly tender meat intertwine in your mouth, and when paired with truffle salt or a special sauce, it completely refreshes your perception of pork cutlets.

A hidden culinary paradise in the bustling district

Located in the heart of Shinjuku, the transportation is extremely convenient whether you take the JR, Tokyo Metro, or Seibu Shinjuku Line. The interior is modern and private, making it perfect for food enthusiasts looking to arrange an exquisite dining experience in Tokyo. It is important to note that since it is situated within the bustling Kabukicho building, parking in the surrounding area is not very convenient. Travelers driving are advised to park at nearby paid parking lots or take public transportation directly.

💡 A little advice before you set off

"Katsuプリポー" operates on a completely reservation-based system, and the fried pork cutlet events are held irregularly. The shop releases available dates and time slots for reservations each month on social media or their official reservation platform (usually every 30 minutes per session, with very limited spots available). Food enthusiasts wishing to visit should definitely make a reservation in advance through the online booking platform to avoid disappointment. Additionally, since they offer premium brand pork, the average spending is relatively high, so a lunch budget of at least 4,000 yen is recommended.

🎬 Katsuプリポー Video

Reserve

👉kkday

👉autoreserve

Shinjuku Ninja Live Show

SHINJUKU NINJA LIVE SHOW

12:00～13:30

15:00～16:30

18:00～19:30

Ninja Performance Show

Intro

▼

Shinjuku Ninja Theater: SHINJUKU NINJA LIVE SHOW

Item	Details
Attraction Address	東京都新宿區歌舞伎町1-21-1 WARP SHINJUKU
Business Hours	12:00～13:30, 15:00～16:30, 18:00～19:30 (Weekday performances, announced one month in advance)
Admission Ticket	¥8,000 (includes a special bento and a drink)
Transportation	Take the JR, Odakyu Line, or Keio Line to 'Shinjuku Station' East Exit, then walk about 5 to 8 minutes; take the Seibu Shinjuku Line to 'Seibu Shinjuku Station', then walk about 3 minutes.
Official Website	Please refer to the ticket purchase URL on the reservation platform or official announcements

A modern ninja barrier hidden in Kabukicho, an immersive sensory shock

Amidst the neon lights of Shinjuku Kabukicho, a fantastic feast combining ancient ninjutsu and modern lighting quietly unfolds - the Shinjuku Ninja Live Show is a perfect reflection of the city's pulse. This 90-minute non-verbal performance is like an adventure through time and space, allowing you to become a ninja and immerse yourself in a passionate world of swordplay and drumbeats. On stage, ninjas leap and dance with swift movements, performing alongside glamorous courtesans, accompanied by the dazzling visuals projected by 3D, as if bringing the legends of the Edo period back to life. Whether for family outings or gatherings with friends, the interactive segments here allow every audience member to participate, sweat, and cheer, instantly igniting the adventurous spirit within, making the nights in Shinjuku incredibly exciting and unforgettable.

Looking back at history, this performance premiered in 2024 year 8 month, fully supported by the world's only official ninja organization - the Japan Ninja Council, and directed by the famous Kabuki musician Tanaka Denjiro VII. Tanaka Denjiro is the seventh-generation inheritor of Kabuki, and he also performed at the opening ceremony of the Tokyo Olympics in 2020, bringing traditional arts to a wider audience. The inspiration for the performance comes from the techniques of Edo period Kabuki theater, where audiences enjoyed 'bento between acts', which has also become a special element included in the show. From a concept with nothing to becoming a popular attraction in Shinjuku in just one year, this show has witnessed the transformation of Japan's entertainment industry with its innovative format, symbolizing how post-war Japan infuses classical heritage with contemporary vitality, creating a ninja legend for the 21 century.

The Shinjuku Ninja Live Show places entertainment and the cultural concept of Japan's 'Wakon Yosai' on the same stage. It cleverly merges ninjas - guardians symbolizing secret wisdom and the spirit of bushido, courtesans - representing the glamorous yet resilient Edo style, and wadaiko - traditional instruments conveying primal power and rhythm, through the non-verbal narrative of Kabuki, transcending language barriers and touching the hearts of global audiences. This show emphasizes audience participation, resonating with the Japanese philosophy of 'Ichigo Ichie', where each performance is a unique encounter, reminding us to rediscover the purity and surprise of tradition in the fast-paced modern life. The program continues the legend of ninjas while incorporating themes of peace and love, allowing the audience to understand this setting during the performance.

💡 Tips for Watching and Experiencing:

As seating is very limited for each performance, it is strongly recommended to make reservations online in advance. The performance includes some loud explosive sound effects and sudden light effects, so parents with young children should be cautious. The interactive time after the performance is a great photo opportunity, where you can take pictures with the agile ninja performers, leaving a unique record of your Tokyo night adventure.

🎬 SHINJUKU NINJA LIVE SHOW Video

Tickets

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Tokyu Kabukicho Tower

東急歌舞伎町タワー

24H

Depending on each facility

Intro

▼

Shinjuku's new nightlife landmark: Tokyu Kabukicho Tower

Item	Detailed Information
Attraction Address	Shinjuku, Kabukicho, Tokyo 1-29-1
Business Hours	Different facilities have varying operating hours (2KabukichoZXF operates until early morning 05:00, and some entertainment venues are open until late at night)
Admission Tickets	Free admission (additional charges apply for attractions, theaters, and restaurants on each floor)
Transportation travel time	About 1 minutes on foot from Seibu Shinjuku Station on the Seibu Shinjuku Line; approximately 7 minutes on foot from the East Exit of Shinjuku Station on the JR Line, Odakyu Line, and Keio Line.
Official website	www.tokyu-kabukicho-tower.jp

The exterior incorporates the legend of the water deity: the 'Fountain Skyscraper' that washes away misfortune.

This skyscraper, reaching a height of 225 meters, features a unique wave-like white gradient design, inspired by the concept of a 'fountain.' This design carries significant historical and mythical importance related to Kabukicho. In the past, the area around Shinjuku Kabukicho was a marshland with abundant water sources, where local residents established a guardian deity in the nearby Kabukicho Park.Kabukicho BenzaitenBenzaiten, in traditional mythology, is the goddess who governs water flow, eloquence, and the performing arts. Architect Yuko Nagayama designed the building's exterior to resemble a towering fountain, symbolizing the endless energy of the water goddess and embodying the profound meaning of 'cleansing the city's noise and nurturing performing arts culture.'

Giant Entertainment Castle: Vertical Floor Guide and Unique Spaces

This complex building breaks the traditional concept of department stores as purely shopping spaces, vertically integrating an underground music hall, an anime and gaming center, a theater, a luxury cinema, and a hotel. Below is the spatial planning for each core floor:

B1～B4：Zepp Shinjuku (TOKYO)—— The largest Live House music performance space in the Shinjuku area, equipped with top-notch sound systems, transforms into the super-sized nightclub ZEROTOKYO at night.
1F: Airport bus direct station and themed restaurantThe Limousine Bus Station offers direct access to Haneda and Narita airports, and features a specialty fried steak shop, Starbucks, and other convenient dining options.
2F: Shinjuku Kabukicho Hall - Kabukicho Yokocho—— A massive food street covering nearly a thousand tsubo. The space is filled with neon decorations reminiscent of traditional Japanese festivals, featuring 1,000 seats, and gathering local soul foods from all over Japan, from Hokkaido ramen to Okinawa stir-fried bitter melon. There are regular DJ or artist performances on the central stage.
3F：namco TOKYO—— A new type of entertainment space created by Bandai Namco, featuring the latest arcade games, a giant gacha machine area, anime prize draws, and a prize draw themed bar, all filled with a sense of futuristic technology.
4F：THE TOKYO MATRIX—— A dungeon escape game specially designed for extreme challengers, incorporating Sony's latest technology, where players must team up to solve puzzles and overcome various obstacles.
5F：EXSTION—— A members-only luxury spa and fitness club, featuring a private pool and an exquisite high-end continental restaurant.
6F～8F：THEATER MILANO-ZaThe live theater, which has approximately 900 seats, inherits the name of the original long-established cinema Milano-Za in Kabukicho and regularly hosts stage plays, musicals, and various cultural performances.
9F～10F：109 Cinemas Premium Shinjuku—— A luxury boutique cinema where the sound system in every theater is designed by the late music master.Ryuichi SakamotoPersonally supervised the design to provide an ultimate auditory feast.

💡 Kabukicho Tower Deep Enjoyment Notes:

The Kabukicho area on the second floor is open until AM, making it an excellent place to experience Tokyo's late-night izakaya culture. If you're a movie-loving music fan, it's highly recommended to make a reservation in advance on the official website.9Building109In the theater, before the show starts, you can enjoy a view of the Shinjuku nightscape from the VIP lounge while listening to the exclusive ambient music specially composed by Ryuichi Sakamoto for this cinema, experiencing the ultimate luxury night in Tokyo.

🎬 東急歌舞伎町タワー Video

Shinjuku Golden Gai

新宿ゴールデン街

About 20:00 to the next day 5:00

Food Street

Intro

▼

Tokyo's Showa Era in Miniature: Shinjuku Golden Gai

Item	Details
Attraction Address	東京都新宿区歌舞伎町1丁目1-6
Business Hours	Varies by establishment (most bars operate until early morning or the next day around 19:00 or 20:00)
Admission Fee	Free to enter the street (most bars usually charge a seating fee ranging from 500 to 1,000 yen inside)
Transportation	Take the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line, Fukutoshin Line, or Toei Shinjuku Line to 'Shinjuku Sanchome Station' E1 exit, and walk about 3 minutes; from JR 'Shinjuku Station' East Exit, walk about 8 minutes.
Official Website	goldengai.jp

From Post-War Black Market to Literary Refuge: The History of Golden Gai

The birth of Shinjuku Golden Gai can be traced back to the black market after World War II. In the early 1950 years, vendors who originally gathered at the open-air black market in front of Shinjuku Station relocated here due to government crackdowns, forming a dense area of blue line (illegal prostitution). With the full implementation of the 1958 year 'Anti-Prostitution Law', this area transformed into a unique bar street. During the peak of the Japanese student movement and avant-garde cultural trends from 1960 to 1970, Golden Gai became an important base for writers, poets, playwrights, journalists, and film directors to gather late at night and engage in intense debates. This unique cultural atmosphere allowed it to avoid urban renewal during the bubble economy period, preserving the authentic streetscape of Showa-era Tokyo.

A Maze of Wooden Townhouses and Over Two Hundred Micro Bars

This area, tightly packed with three-story wooden townhouse buildings, contains over two hundred micro bars that can only accommodate five to ten people in a space no larger than a few tennis courts. Each small establishment reflects the personal taste of its owner, covering genres like vinyl rock, classic jazz, nostalgic anime, heavy metal, or pure literary discussions. The steep, narrow wooden stairs, weathered signs, and tangled wires create a fantastical visual experience that intertwines a cyberpunk world with Showa nostalgia under the glow of colorful neon lights.

Exploration Guide: Survival Tips for International Travelers in Golden Gai

To help travelers from around the world smoothly integrate into this local culture, many bars in Golden Gai have placed clear English and Japanese signs at their entrances. Before entering, it is advisable to check if the entrance indicates 'Welcome Tourists' or displays the 'Cover Charge' for the evening. Due to the extremely limited space, it is basic etiquette for each guest to order a drink. If the bar is full, settling the bill in a timely manner to give up your seat for the next guest is the best way to experience the authentic spirit of cooperation found in Golden Gai izakayas.

💡 Golden Gai Tips for a Tipsy Exploration:

Many bars still maintain a 'regulars-only' policy, so if you see a sign saying '会員制' or a curtain drawn, it means that the establishment mainly serves regular customers. First-time visitors can choose bars that have their doors wide open, play English songs, or display their drink menus outside. Here, ordering a Highball or Japanese whiskey and casually chatting with the owner or nearby local office workers is the best way to experience the deepest aspects of Shinjuku's nightlife culture.

🎬 新宿ゴールデン街 Video

Hanazono Shrine

花園神社

Open hours within the area: 24

Intro

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The Guardian Deity of Shinjuku: Hanazono Shrine

Item	Details
Attraction Address	Tokyo, Shinjuku-ku, Shinjuku 5-17-3
Business Hours	Public areas open 24 hours / Shrine office and Goshuin sales: 09:00–17:00
Admission Fee	Free admission
Transportation	Take the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line, Fukutoshin Line, or Toei Shinjuku Line to 'Shinjuku Sanchome Station', then walk about 2 minutes from Exit E0; or walk about 7 minutes from the East Exit of JR 'Shinjuku Station'.
Official Website	www.hanazono-jinja.or.jp

Historical Connection of the Tokugawa Shogunate and Owari Domain Villa

Hanazono Shrine is a famous guardian shrine in the Shinjuku area. This shrine has existed since before Tokugawa Ieyasu established the Edo Shogunate, deeply intertwined with the local development history. The original building was located near the current Shinjuku Isetan department store, but was later relocated due to the construction of new roads. The new location was part of the garden of the Owari Tokugawa clan villa, which was filled with flowers in all seasons, hence the name 'Hanazono Shrine'. The shrine primarily enshrines the hero 'Nihonbashi Takemikazuchi' from Japanese mythology. Legend has it that after his triumphant return from the east, he passed away, and his spirit transformed into a giant white bird flying into the sky. Every November, the shrine holds a grand 'Tori no Ichi' festival to commemorate his achievements. Devotees come to purchase 'Kumade' (bamboo rakes) adorned with lucky god masks and coins, praying for prosperous business and good fortune.

The Faith Hub of the Entertainment Industry: The Origin of the Geino Asama Shrine and Stage

In addition to the majestic main hall, the 'Geino Asama Shrine' in a corner of the grounds is highly renowned in the entertainment industry. During the Edo period, Hanazono Shrine suffered a severe fire, and to raise funds for reconstruction, the shrine set up a temporary stage for Kabuki and puppet theater performances. This connection established a deep bond between the shrine and the Japanese entertainment world. To this day, this tradition continues. Surrounding the Geino Asama Shrine are hundreds of red wooden plaques inscribed with the names of contemporary famous Japanese singers, actors, directors, and models. Before the premiere of new plays or concerts, entertainers often come to offer wooden plaques, praying for box office success and smooth careers, creating a unique cultural landscape in Shinjuku.

A Serene Oasis Amidst the Bustling City and Colorful Lanterns

The shrine is located near the lively Shinjuku Golden Gai and Kabukicho, creating a wonderful contrast. The approach to the shrine is tranquil during the day, with tall torii gates shielding visitors from the city's noise, providing a peaceful space for travelers to cleanse their minds. Every weekend, an antique market is often held on the grounds, attracting many tourists who love vintage Japanese goods to come treasure hunting.

💡 Shinjuku Strolling Tips:

It is recommended to visit Hanazono Shrine in the evening. After dusk, the red lanterns inside the shrine are all lit, exuding a mysterious and enchanting Edo atmosphere, perfect for photography. After your visit, you can directly walk through the side path into the nearby 'Shinjuku Golden Gai', experiencing the rich Showa-era atmosphere of the small tavern cluster, allowing you to experience two completely different aspects of Shinjuku within the shortest walking distance.

🎬 花園神社 Video

Shuriken Dojo Ninja Trick House

手裏剣道場忍者からくり屋敷

10:00～18:30

Intro

▼

Tokyo Shinjuku Experience Ninja Holy Land: Shuriken Dojo Ninja Karakuri Yashiki (Ninja Trick House in Tokyo)

Item	Details
Attraction Address	東京都新宿区歌舞伎町2-28-13 第一雲雀ビル4F
Business Hours	10:00～18:30 (Last entry time is 18:00)
Admission Ticket	1,500 yen per person (Free entry for children under 3 years old)
Transportation	About 3 minutes on foot from Seibu Shinjuku Line 'Seibu Shinjuku Station'; about 8 minutes on foot from JR 'Shinjuku Station' East Exit.
Official Website	ninja-trick-house.com

Hidden in Kabukicho, this ninja mechanism house recreates the defensive wisdom of the Warring States period.

Located in the bustling Shinjuku Kabukicho,Shuriken Dojo Ninja Karakuri Yashiki, is an indoor experience space dedicated to deep interactions with traditional Japanese ninja culture. It accurately reproduces the 'Karakuri Yashiki' designed by ninjas from the Warring States to Edo period to prevent enemy night raids. Behind seemingly flat walls lie hidden mechanisms; by pushing at the right angle, invisible secret doors will flip open, and hidden compartments for concealing weapons are also embedded in the ceiling and floor structures. Visitors, guided by professional instructors, can personally search for these mysterious escape routes and experience the meticulous thinking of ancient stealth warriors in crisis situations.

Historical Background: From Battlefield Concealed Weapons to Survival Wisdom of Shuriken Legends

Ninja culture originated in the late Heian period of Japan. During the turbulent Warring States period, ninjas were primarily responsible for intelligence gathering, espionage, and disrupting enemy forces, rarely engaging in direct conflict with samurai. The core experience in the dojo is 'physical shuriken throwing.' Historically, shuriken were auxiliary concealed defensive weapons, mainly used to disrupt the enemy's line of sight, cut off pursuing forces, or apply poison to hinder the enemy, rather than being depicted as primary weapons in modern films. Here, visitors can hold heavy iron shuriken replicas and throw them at wooden targets under safety guidance, experiencing the power and difficulty of ancient precision techniques.

Immersive Simulation: Japanese Sword Swinging and Legendary Photo Ops

In addition to searching for mechanisms and throwing shuriken, on-site instructors will also demonstrate the traditional Japanese sword drawing and sheathing rituals. Visitors can pick up model Japanese swords and learn the standard postures for defense and swinging, gaining insight into the essential differences in action logic between bushido and ninjutsu. The experience area is adorned with period-style Japanese screens and mysterious decorations, and instructors will assist in guiding poses, allowing travelers to capture dramatic ninja-themed photos, creating unique cultural memories of their Tokyo trip.

💡 Ninja House Visit Tips:

Since this attraction adopts a small group guided tour system (each group has a dedicated instructor for explanations and guidance on mechanisms), the number of participants per session is very limited. It is strongly recommended to complete online reservations on the official website before departure to avoid being turned away due to full capacity on-site. The overall activity time indoors is about 30 to 45 minutes, with a high level of interaction, making it a fun mid-experience point to include between shopping in the busy Shinjuku area.

🎬 手裏剣道場忍者からくり屋敷 Video

新大久保

Shin-Ōkubo is a unique area in Shinjuku, Tokyo, known as Japan’s ‘Koreatown.’ It is not only a holy land for Korean Wave culture but also a popular travel destination filled with exotic charm, delicious food, and shopping fun.

K-Pop MerchandiseThere are many shops here selling merchandise, posters, albums, and official products related to Korean idol groups such as BTS, TWICE, NewJeans, and more. It isK-Pop fansA center for treasure hunting and交流.
Korean BeautyFrom affordable to high-end brands, there is a complete range of Korean cosmetics, skincare products, and face masks. Many stores offer samples and discount bundles, making them very popular among young women.
Authentic Korean BBQThe streets are lined with various barbecue restaurants. The most popular dish is thick-cut pork belly, served with lettuce and pickled vegetables, allowing you to experience the authentic Korean barbecue culture.
Cheese Food TrendThis is Japan’s ‘Cheese Craze’one of the origins, whether it isCheese hot dog,Cheese RibsYou can find both the stretchy, long Korean cheese rice here.

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Korean Plaza

韓国広場

08:00～23:00

Intro

▼

Tokyo's ultimate paradise for Korean food: Kankoku Hiroba

Item	Detailed Information
Attraction Address	Kabukicho, Shinjuku, Tokyo 2-31-11
Business Hours	08:00～23:00
Admission Ticket	Free admission
Transportation travel time	Take the JR Yamanote Line to 'Shin-Okubo Station' and walk for about 8 minutes; or take the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line or Toei Oedo Line to 'Higashi-Shinjuku Station' and walk for about 5 minutes.

The pioneer and historical development of the Korean Wave Street in Shin-Okubo

Founded in 1993.Korean PlazaIn Tokyo's multicultural development, it holds a significant position. In the early days, the area around Shin-Okubo had not yet formed the large-scale Korean street we see today. This supermarket was the first to establish itself here, importing authentic Korean ingredients, which alleviated the homesickness felt by the Korean community in Japan at that time. As the Korean Wave swept through Japan, this long-established store gradually expanded, evolving into one of the largest Korean food specialty stores in the country, witnessing the transformation of Shin-Okubo into a hub for Japan-Korea cultural exchange over the past thirty years.

Supermarket interior layout and signature products

This location is a large single-story specialty fresh supermarket, not a traditional multi-story department store. The internal space is very well organized, divided into several distinctive core shopping areas based on product categories:

Authentic Korean-style cooked dishes and homemade kimchi area:This area features a specialized kitchen that prepares fresh dishes daily. They offer dozens of varieties of handmade kimchi with different fermentation levels and spiciness, as well as traditional snacks like seafood pancakes, Korean rice rolls (Kimbap), and spicy stir-fried rice cakes, which are very popular among local residents.
Low-temperature fresh produce and Korean barbecue area:Offers authentic cuts of pork belly, marinated beef, and other essential meats for Korean cuisine. Here, you can also find rare fresh vegetables like sesame leaves and green chili peppers, which are indispensable for grilling.
The spectacular wall of instant noodles and snacks:A whole wall is neatly lined with hundreds of varieties of Korean instant noodles, ranging from the classic Shin Ramyeon to the latest spicy chicken flavor noodles. The snack section is filled with various imported Korean cookies and popular candies.
Traditional condiments and alcoholic beverages section:Introducing a variety of large-capacity Korean chili sauces, doenjang, and sesame oil. The selection of alcoholic beverages is equally rich, including various flavored Jinro soju and makgeolli, satisfying the cravings of those seeking authentic flavors.

Shin-Okubo Attractions and Shopping Route: Around Korean Plaza

The area around Korean Square is surrounded by a vibrant Korean Wave shopping district, making it perfect for planning a walking tour filled with exotic charm.

Shin-Okubo Ikemen Street (Ikemen Dori):It takes about 3 minutes to walk. This bustling alley is filled with numerous Korean beauty shops, trendy Korean fashion stores, and innovative street snack stalls, showcasing the vibrant pop culture of youth.
Kaminakazukami Shrine:It takes about 9 minutes on foot. This historic shrine is famous for its prayers for 'winning' and many concert fans come specifically to buy amulets, hoping to win tickets to see their idols.

💡 Tips for Shopping in Shin-Okubo:

The store's operating hours run from early morning until PM. If you want to avoid the crowds during peak times, it's recommended to shop before AM or after PM. The store often holds limited-time promotions on perishable or specific imported products, with prices typically more favorable than regular retail channels. Since the items in the deli section are made fresh each day, there is a chance to find clearance discounts after the evening, making it a great spot for budget-conscious travelers to hunt for treasures.

🎬 韓国広場 Video

Re:live

Relive

Depending on the activity time

Intro

▼

A multifaceted space for Korean entertainment and fan interaction: Relive Shin-Okubo (Re:LIVE)

Item	Details
Attraction Address	Tokyo, Shinjuku-ku, Okubo 1-17-8 1F
Business Hours	Depending on the performance event
Admission Ticket	Varies by performing group and event content, reference ticket price approximately ¥5,000～¥7,000; specific promotional events may have free sessions.
Transportation Duration	Take the JR Yamanote Line to 'Shin-Okubo Station' and walk about 3 to 5 minutes to reach.
Official Website	https://showbox.jp/

Shin-Okubo Re:live showbox, formerly known as the famous SHOWBOX, is a live performance space in Tokyo's 'K-Town' specifically designed for Korean idol groups and emerging artists. Although the venue is compact, accommodating about 100 spectators, this close-range design allows fans to engage in highly intimate interactions with performers, making it suitable for fans and culture enthusiasts to include in their Shin-Okubo itinerary. Different groups perform small-scale shows here every day, allowing the audience to experience the passion and charm of K-Pop up close.

This venue serves as a 'starting point' for Korean idol groups entering Japan and building their popularity. Many K-Pop groups that have not yet become widely known choose to hold small performances here for several weeks or months, using intensive stage performances and post-event activities like signing sessions and high-fives to secure and cultivate their fan base. Re:live showbox is a small performance space that also plays a role in cultural exchange between Japan and Korea and the localization of the idol industry. It profoundly reflects how Shin-Okubo, as a cultural hub, promotes the dissemination and development of Asian pop culture in Tokyo. For tourists wanting to understand the context of K-Pop culture development or to experience the charm of idol stages up close, this place holds unique value.

🎬 Relive Video

IROHANI

イロハニ

10:00～21:00

Intro

▼

Irohani: The Authentic Korean Beauty Paradise in Shin-Okubo

Item	Details
Location	Tokyo, Shinjuku-ku, Hyakunincho 1-9-12
Business Hours	10:00～21:00
Admission Ticket	Free entry for browsing
Transportation	About 2 minutes on foot from JR Yamanote Line 'Shin-Okubo Station'; approximately 1.5 kilometers from Shinjuku Station, only 2 minutes by train.
Official Website	https://iroha2.com/

Directly connected to the forefront of Seoul fashion! A top-tier beauty selection store with no time difference from Korea.

Located in Tokyo's famous Korean street,「イロハニ」（Irohani）, this iconic store focuses on introducing the latest trendy skincare and makeup products from Korea. The store's core philosophy is 'try and find the products that truly suit your skin,' with professional staff knowledgeable about ingredients available to provide customized skincare consultations and product recommendations. The most eye-catching feature in the store is the neatly arranged 'mask wall,' which collects hundreds of the most popular Korean masks of the season, allowing travelers who love Korean skincare to shop in one stop. The store emphasizes direct sourcing and quality control, with all products personally selected by the team in Korea to ensure synchronization with Seoul's fashion trends. It introduces many emerging niche Korean brands that have not yet officially opened counters in Japan, providing diverse and unique skincare options.

Introduction to Three Major Specialty Areas: Efficient Skincare and Trendy Makeup Guide

Although it is not a large department store, the store's exquisite space is functionally divided into three core specialty areas, with clear pathways and abundant products:

Core Mask Award Area:Showcasing various masks from classic moisturizing and soothing to the latest microneedle repair types. Whether for single-piece purchases or whole box collections, it meets the urgent needs of different skin types.
Niche Trendy Skincare Area:Gathering serums, toner pads, and basic conditioning waters that have gone viral on Korean social media this season. Staff will provide detailed pairing suggestions based on ingredients like Centella Asiatica and Vitamin C.
Seasonal Trendy Makeup Area:Displaying the latest seasonal eyeshadow palettes, watery lip tints, and highly moisturizing cushion foundations from Korea. Ample samples are available for customers to personally test color payoff and texture.

Nearby Recommendations: Exploring the Vibrant Korean Street in Shin-Okubo

Irohani is located in the heart of the Shin-Okubo shopping district. After browsing the rich beauty products in the store, you can easily walk to the surrounding Korean food street filled with exotic flavors:

Authentic Korean Fried Chicken Street:Just a few minutes' walk away, it features several well-known fried chicken chains imported from Korea, offering authentic sweet and spicy flavors as well as cheese varieties.
Popular Snack Stalls:Along the way, there are many famous stalls selling cheese hot dogs, sugar cakes, and the latest Korean desserts, perfect for tasting while walking.
Traditional Korean Cuisine:There are many authentic restaurants nearby specializing in pork belly barbecue and potato rib soup, making them excellent choices for lunch or dinner.

💡 Shin-Okubo Beauty Shopping Tips:

The store can get very crowded, especially on weekend afternoons, often filled with shoppers. It is recommended to visit on weekday mornings around 10:00 when the store just opens, to receive more detailed ingredient explanations and skincare advice from the staff. Additionally, the store frequently holds small events where you can receive beautiful samples for purchases over a certain amount, so be sure to check the counter announcements before checking out to maximize your chances of trying new products.

🎬 イロハニ Video

Kimchi Durian Cardamom

キムチドリアンカルダモン

11:00 (depending on each store)

Food court

Intro

▼

Directly accessible from Shin-Okubo Station! A hidden innovative dining space that creates a community with extreme Taiwanese flavors: Kimchi Durian Cardamom (K, D, C,,,)

Item	Details
Attraction Address	Tokyo, Shinjuku-ku, Hyakunincho 1-10-15 JR Shin-Okubo Station Building 3F
Business Hours	11:00～ (Operating hours may vary by brand) * Closed on days as announced by the facility.
Dining Budget	Lunch ～￥999 / Dinner ￥1,000～￥1,999
Transportation	Exit from the JR Yamanote Line 'Shin-Okubo Station' ticket gate, take the elevator or escalator directly to 3 floor.
Tabelog Rating	3.05 (A hidden spot in Tokyo combining a food laboratory and diverse international cuisine)

Breaking traditional notions of a 'food laboratory', a mysterious and diverse space above JR Shin-Okubo Station

Kimchi Durian Cardamom (K, D, C,,,)Located directly above the multicultural intersection of Shin-Okubo Station (3 floor and 4 floor). The name is composed of three spices and ingredients with strong personalities, symbolizing the intense collision and fusion of different culinary cultures. Planned and created by JR East Japan and other entities, 4 floor serves as a shared workspace and research kitchen for food entrepreneurs, while the 3 floor open to the public is a modern 'shared restaurant / food court'. This place breaks the traditional street shop framework, allowing food lovers to freely taste various innovative dishes in a comfortable space filled with artistic and experimental styles.

Authentic Taiwanese flavors sweep through Okubo! A one-stop experience of classic beef noodles, artisan tofu pudding, and premium tea

Currently, the food court on 3 floor features three highly representative high-quality Taiwanese brands, forming a refined 'Taiwanese food street' that travelers missing hometown flavors absolutely cannot miss:

‘Shanhai Tofu Pudding’:A super popular queueing shop from Taiwan, incorporating the delicate technique of Japanese yōdōfu into traditional Taiwanese tofu pudding. The signature black honey syrup is sweet but not cloying, paired with perfectly cooked soft and glutinous peanuts and surprising crispy toppings, creating a smooth and rich texture.
‘Taiwan Cuisine HIKARI’:Specializing in authentic Taiwanese street hot food. Their 'Braised Beef Noodles' have a rich and savory broth, with large, thick chunks of beef shank that are tender and flavorful; the house-special braised pork rice and chicken rice are aromatic, instantly transporting you back to a Taiwanese night market.
‘Chalu’:Managed by artisans from a Taiwanese tea family, offering top-tier freshly brewed Taiwanese tea. You can choose convenient takeaway cups or slowly brew with traditional teapots; the tea has a refreshing aroma and sweetness, perfect for an afternoon break.

A hidden gem in Tokyo away from the bustling crowds, an extremely convenient dining stop for commuters and travelers

Unlike the lively streets outside Shin-Okubo Station filled with K-pop fans, K, D, C,,, located on 3 floor of the station building feels like a tranquil oasis in the sky. It offers over 60 comfortable seats, with spacious areas and excellent lighting, making it perfect for enjoying lunch alone or having afternoon tea with friends. Since it connects directly to the station without needing to exit and get wet in the rain, it is undoubtedly the most perfect and smooth dining stop during your Tokyo city trip or Yamanote Line commute.

💡 A small suggestion before you go

Due to the nature of K, D, C,,, as a co-creation and experimental dining space, the operating hours and menus of each brand may vary by season and events. Although the overall atmosphere is relaxed like a food street, some popular items (such as specific teas or limited tofu pudding toppings) may sell out after the evening. It is recommended to plan your visit during lunchtime to afternoon tea hours, taking the elevator directly to 3 floor after exiting the Shin-Okubo Station ticket gate, to fully experience this visual and flavorful Taiwanese dining feast!

🎬 キムチドリアンカルダモン Video

Kaiten Inari Shrine

皆中稲荷神社

24H

Seeking lottery wins and passing exams

Intro

▼

Tokyo's ultimate ticket lottery and winning shrine: Kaichu Inari Shrine

Item	Details
Attraction Address	東京都新宿区百人町1-11-16
Business Hours	Open all day / Shrine office (for selling amulets): 09:00～17:00
Admission Ticket	Free admission
Transportation	Take the JR Yamanote Line to 'Shin-Okubo Station', then walk left for about 1 minutes to reach.
Official Website	www.kaichuinarishinjya.or.jp

The legend of the sharpshooter's perfect hits: The history of Kaichu Inari Shrine

Located next to Tokyo's bustling Korean Wave street, Kaichu Inari Shrine hides a historical story related to the Edo period's gunmen. 'Kaichu' in Japanese means 'perfect hits'. During the Kan'ei era, the shogunate stationed a matchlock gun unit in what is now 'Hyakunincho'. At that time, a leader of the gunmen was troubled by his inability to improve his shooting performance. One night, he was guided by the deity Inari in a dream. The next morning, after visiting this shrine to pray, he went to the shooting range for a test shot, and all his bullets hit the bullseye. This astonishing miracle quickly spread among the troops, and other soldiers came to pray for good luck. Subsequently, everyone demonstrated their perfect shooting skills during combat training. The shrine gained fame and became a place of miraculous power, officially being revered as Kaichu Inari Shrine.

A must-visit secret spot for modern idol fans: From shooting accuracy to ticket luck

Edo period samurai prayed for perfect shots, while modern visitors extend this 'hit' power to various luck-related matters. This place is recognized by idol fans and enthusiasts across Japan as the 'ticket lottery shrine'. Whenever popular concerts or stage plays are about to announce ticket results, large crowds of fans come here to pray. Everyone hopes to harness the divine power of Inari to 'hit' their ideal seats in the fiercely competitive ticket lottery system. In addition to concert tickets, many also come here to buy lottery tickets, bet on horse racing, make various investments, or seek good luck before facing entrance exams. The shrine is adorned with ema (wooden plaques) inscribed with wishes like 'Hope to win tickets for my favorite concert' and 'Pray for the grand prize', showcasing a modern faith landscape.

Unique amulets and lucky charms recommendations

The shrine office sells various unique lucky items that resonate with its shooting history. The most representative is the 'Kaichu Amulet', which features embroidery of arrows and targets, symbolizing the ability to hit one's goals and fulfill wishes. Additionally, the shrine offers 'Lucky Target Ema' designed to resemble arrows hitting the bullseye, where visitors can write their wishes on the back and hang them inside the shrine. Travelers wishing to take good luck home can also opt for the 'Golden Target Lucky Charm', which is said to continuously bring good fortune when kept nearby.

💡 Tips for a smooth Shin-Okubo itinerary:

Kaichu Inari Shrine is conveniently located right next to the lively JR Shin-Okubo Station. It is recommended to include this spot as the starting point for a morning in Tokyo. After visiting the shrine, you can step out of the alley and directly connect to the vibrant Shin-Okubo shopping street, where you can enjoy authentic Korean fried chicken, Korean barbecue, or the latest trendy street desserts. Combining a traditional sacred shrine visit with a modern, lively foreign district allows you to experience the unique charm of Tokyo's multicultural fusion.

🎬 皆中稲荷神社 Video

Life in 4 Cuts

人生4カット

10:00～23:00

Intro

▼

Korean photo sticker booth original branch: Life Four Cuts Shin-Okubo store (人生4カット)

Item	Detailed Information
Attraction Address	Hyakunincho, Shinjuku, Tokyo 2-3-21
Business Hours	10:00～23:00 (※ Business hours may vary depending on the season or store conditions)
Admission Ticket	Photo booth single shoot starts from 500 yen (basically provides 2 photos)
Transportation travel time	Take the JR Yamanote Line to 'Shin-Okubo Station,' and after exiting the station, it is about a 2-minute walk to reach your destination.
Official Website	Life 4 Cut Official Instagram Japan

Tokyo's Shin-Okubo landmark igniting a craze for Korean photo booths among Generation Z

"Life 4 Cut"(Life Four Cuts) is the pioneer of the Korean four-frame selfie sticker machines. This branch located in Tokyo's famous 'Korean Street' Shin-Okubo fully brings the most authentic pop sticker culture from Seoul to Japan. The store features multiple iconic colorful sticker machines, attracting a large number of young fans of K-Pop and Korean trends every day. Here, the traditional Japanese purikura machines' exaggerated big eyes and makeup effects are overturned, focusing instead on restoring a true sense of beauty with a fresh, soft Korean filter that captures travelers' most natural and confident moments. The interior design of the store is filled with a pink and fashionable vibe, offering several photo-worthy background walls. Whether visiting with friends or on a date, this place is perfect to include in your shopping itinerary in Shin-Okubo, making you feel as if you've instantly stepped into the streets of Hongdae or the Hongdae shopping district in Seoul.

A variety of themed props and a dedicated dressing area

Before inserting coins to take photos, customers can freely choose from hundreds of cute props provided for free in the public area. These include quirky cartoon headpieces, trendy seasonal animal hairbands, colorful retro sunglasses, and various plush dolls, with the selection of props updated rapidly. To ensure that every customer can face the camera in the best condition, the store has thoughtfully arranged a large mirror makeup area equipped with various hairstyling tools, making it convenient for travelers to touch up their hair and makeup before taking photos. The shooting process here is intuitive and easy to use, with the machine's screen offering a multilingual interface. After the shoot, you can choose from different frame colors and limited edition collaboration designs, and even download dynamic behind-the-scenes videos and high-quality digital files directly to your phone by scanning the QR Code on the photo.

A Day Trip Itinerary for Exploring the Trendy Streets of Shin-Okubo Korean Town

The Shin-Okubo area is one of the most exotic regions in Tokyo, filled with numerous Korean restaurants, popular Korean cosmetics shops, and idol merchandise stores. After taking memorable four-frame photos, it's perfect to connect with the popular food itinerary nearby:

Authentic Korean Snacks:You can enjoy freshly made cheesy hot dogs or steaming hot Korean sugar pancakes just a 3-minute walk away.
Authentic Korean Fried Chicken:There are many well-known chain fried chicken outlets nearby, perfect for enjoying crispy fried chicken with your companions.
Strolling along Okubo Street:Strolling along the main road, you can stock up on the latest Korean face masks and trendy beauty products all at once.

💡 Tips for Taking Photos in Shin-Okubo:

Due to the Shinjuku location being in a prime area, there is often a large crowd of people selecting props and waiting for machines during peak hours on weekend afternoons to evenings. It is recommended for travelers who want to avoid the crowds and leisurely get ready for photos to choose to visit in the morning.1100Earlier, or in the evening2100After that, you can head to the next time zone. The machines mainly accept yen coins. Although there are automatic coin exchange machines in the store, preparing small change in advance can make your gaming experience smoother.

🎬 人生4カット Video

Skin Garden

スキンガーデン

10:00～21:00

Korean Beauty

Intro

▼

Tokyo's K-Pop Beauty Mecca: Skin Garden Shin-Okubo Store (Skin Garden)

Item	Details
Attraction Address	東京都新宿区百人町2-1-2 K-PLAZA 2 1F・2F
Business Hours	10:00～21:00 (※ Business hours may vary by season or special holidays)
Admission Ticket	Free entry for browsing
Transportation	Approximately 1.5 kilometers from Shinjuku Station, about 3 minutes on foot after getting off at 'Shin-Okubo Station' on the JR Yamanote Line.
Official Website	www.skingarden.jp

The largest Korean town hub in Tokyo, directly connected to Seoul's fashion forefront.

Skin Garden Shin-Okubo StoreLocated in the heart of Tokyo's bustling Korean street, this is one of the largest comprehensive Korean beauty product stores in Japan. The store boasts an enormous inventory, gathering tens of thousands of the latest skincare products, makeup, and trendy beauty items from Korea. Known for its bright and spacious open shopping space and extensive product categorization, it attracts countless local Japanese women and international travelers who love Korean-style makeup every day. This store maintains a high level of synchronization with the Korean beauty market, quickly introducing new trending cosmetics from Seoul as soon as they are launched. It breaks the limitations of traditional single-brand counters by integrating popular open-shelf makeup, professional medical skincare, and salon-grade hair products all in one space, providing consumers with a one-stop shopping convenience.

Two Major Floors of Beauty Guides: Comprehensive Analysis of K-Beauty Skincare and Specialty Areas

The store spans the first and second floors of K-PLAZA 2, with each floor planned around distinctly different shopping themes and specialty product lines:

1F Popular Makeup and Daily Mask Area:The first floor mainly sells the hottest Korean makeup brands of the season, including popular items from CLIO, rom&nd, BANILA CO, and more. The most notable feature of this floor is a spectacular 'Wall of Masks,' offering hundreds of different single and boxed masks with various ingredients and functions, allowing consumers to freely choose combinations based on their skin conditions.
2F Intensive Skincare and Salon-Grade Hair Products Area:The second floor focuses on high-functionality skincare products, natural herbal skincare lines, body care, and professional hair products. It features many Korean niche brands that are rarely found in other Japanese outlets, along with open-shelf makeup testing stations and beauty consultation areas, where staff familiar with Korean multi-step skincare assist with personalized skin advice.

💡 Shin-Okubo Beauty Shopping Tips:

The peak time for crowds in Shin-Okubo's Korean street is from Saturday afternoon to evening, often requiring lines for makeup testing and checkout. It is recommended to visitin the morning after 10:00 opens, when the flow is more relaxed, and limited collaboration makeup is less likely to be out of stock. Additionally, remember to check the store's official social media accounts before checkout, as they often offer real-time gifts or limited discount promotions for foreign travelers.

🎬 スキンガーデン Video

門票

👉Online Shop

Hallyu Department Store

韓流百貨店

09:00～21:00

Intro

▼

Tokyo's strongest K-Pop holy land: Hanryu Department Store

Item	Details
Attraction Address	Tokyo, Shinjuku-ku, Hyakunincho 1-7-15
Business Hours	09:00～21:00 (may vary by season or special events)
Admission Ticket	Free entry
Transportation Duration	Take the JR Yamanote Line to 'Shin-Okubo Station' and walk for about 1 minutes to reach.

The core landmark of the Tokyo Okubo shopping district, synchronizing Seoul trends in real-time

Located in the heart of Tokyo's famous Korean street,the 'Hanryu Department Store'is a comprehensive shopping space dedicated to selling Korean pop culture. This building is situated next to the JR Shin-Okubo Station exit, attracting K-POP fans and Korean culture enthusiasts from all over Japan. The store features the latest Korean cosmetics, popular idol merchandise, snacks imported from Korea, and various creative goods. With a wide range of products and rapid updates, travelers to Tokyo can grasp the hottest K-Pop trends without needing to fly to Seoul.

Guide to the floors and featured stores of Hanryu Department Store

This shopping space is divided into different themed floors based on product categories, with clear pathways for customers to easily find their favorite items:

1F: Korean popular beauty and trendy snacks area
The first floor mainly sells the most popular Korean skincare products, makeup, and masks of the season, with many emerging Korean brands that are hard to find in Taiwan or other parts of Japan. Professional staff often provide testing suggestions on-site. Additionally, there is a large Korean food section on the first floor, offering a variety of flavored instant noodles, snacks, seasonings, and traditional beverages, making it an excellent place for purchasing souvenirs.
2F: K-POP idol merchandise and audio-visual collectibles paradise
The second floor is a dream space entirely for K-POP fans. It is filled with official light sticks, the latest album CDs, photo books, posters, and various badges and stationery related to popular Korean boy and girl groups. Whether it's long-established groups or newly debuted sensations, each group's merchandise area is clearly defined, making it a must-visit base for fans to exchange 'photo cards' and pay homage.

A one-stop travel proposal for Shin-Okubo Korean street

The Hanryu Department Store is right next to Shin-Okubo Station, making it suitable to combine with nearby Korean cuisine and attractions in the same itinerary. Starting from Shin-Okubo Station, you can extend along Okubo Street, linking the rich Korean food and attractions in the area into a day trip itinerary:

Authentic Korean BBQ and fried chicken:There are hundreds of Korean restaurants around the mall, including the famous 'Shin-Okubo Fried Chicken Street', where you can enjoy the most authentic Korean half-and-half fried chicken or thick-cut pork belly whenever you feel tired from shopping.
Korean beauty street:Strolling along the street, there are many large beauty specialty stores (like Skin Garden), making it convenient for cross-store comparisons and purchases.

💡 Shin-Okubo K-Pop shopping tips:

Due to its location right next to Shin-Okubo Station, the area is usually crowded with local students and fans on weekend afternoons, and checkout often requires waiting in line. It is recommended to visit here early in the morning when it opens at 10:00 or after peak hours in the evening at 18:00 for a more comfortable shopping experience. Additionally, the official merchandise on the second floor is sold in limited quantities, so if you see a coveted idol's limited edition album or specific support item, it's advisable to purchase it immediately to avoid missing out!

門票

👉Online Shop

Cheonggane

チョンガーネ

10:00～22:00

Intro

▼

Tokyo's ultimate Korean trend supply station: Chongane

Item	Details
Attraction Address	東京都新宿区百人町2-1-2 K-SQUARE 1F
Business Hours	10:00～22:00 (※ Hours may vary depending on the season or in-store events)
Admission Ticket	Free entry for visits
Transportation	Take the JR Yamanote Line to 'Shin-Okubo Station' and walk about 1 to 2 minutes; it takes about 15 minutes to walk from Shinjuku Station.

Origin of the Name and the History of Korean Wave in Shin-Okubo

The name 'Chongane' comes from the Korean word 'Chongak', which represents unmarried men of marriageable age in traditional Korean culture. This name carries the spirit of classic Korean youth entrepreneurship, symbolizing passion, freshness, and vitality. This large shopping mall is located in Tokyo's most iconic Korean street, witnessing the evolution of Japan's Korean Wave over the years. It started as a small local grocery store and gradually expanded into a landmark shopping destination that leads K-Beauty and Korean culinary culture, beloved by tourists from various countries and young locals in Japan.

Popular Areas and Featured Counters Inside the Mall

The mall is located on the first floor of the K-SQUARE building, featuring a spacious open layout. Although it is a giant store on a single floor, it is clearly divided into three core specialty areas:

Korean Beauty and Skincare Zone (Skin Garden):Located in the mall's prime area, it gathers highly popular Korean makeup and skincare brands. The site offers a rich variety of samples, from the latest trendy cushion foundations and centella asiatica masks to medical-grade skincare products, with multilingual staff providing professional beauty consultations.
Trendy Food and Fresh Supermarket:This area is filled with various instant noodles, snacks, seasonings, and traditional kimchi imported directly from Korea. It also sells freshly made Korean rice rolls, spicy tteokbokki, and traditional Korean snacks to satisfy food lovers' taste buds.
K-Pop Idol and Lifestyle Goods:Specializing in official and fan merchandise of popular Korean idol groups, this section also includes many stylish Korean stationery, trendy accessories, and lifestyle items.

One-Day Tour Golden Route Planning for Shin-Okubo Korean Street

The mall is conveniently located next to the main road 'Okubo-dori' in Shin-Okubo. After exiting the station, turn left and walk straight to reach it, so you don't have to worry about getting lost. The surrounding area is filled with many popular food spots, making it suitable for a fulfilling street stroll itinerary:

Shin-Okubo Korean Street (Ikemen-dori):About 3 minutes on foot. This alley is home to numerous Korean fried chicken shops, hot dog stands, makeup stores, and Korean-style cafes, making it a must-visit street to experience the authentic Korean Wave atmosphere.
Kameido Inari Shrine:About 4 minutes on foot. This ancient shrine is famous for praying for 'winning' and 'good fortune', and many fans visit to pray for luck before attending idol concerts, making it a unique pilgrimage site in Tokyo.

💡 Shin-Okubo Shopping Tips:

Chongane is extremely crowded on weekday afternoons and all day on weekends. If you want to enjoy a comfortable shopping experience, it is recommended to schedule your visit atmorning 10:00 when it just opens.The mall has a very complete range of beauty products, and some counters even offer tax-free services, so remember to confirm with the staff before checkout. Due to the wide variety of food and makeup, it is advisable to reserve at least 1 hours for your stay to properly treasure hunt and shop.

🎬 チョンガーネ Video

Hanbok Store 'Omoide'

韓服チマチョゴリの店オモイデ

10:00～18:00

Hanbok Experience

Intro

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The traditional charm of Tokyo's Korean Street: Hanbok experience shop Omoide (韓服チマチョゴリの店オモイデ)

Item	Detailed Information
Attraction Address	Hyakunincho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo1-3-17Adachi Building3building
Business Hours	10:00～19:00
Admission Ticket	Hanbok rental experience package
Transportation Duration	It takes about 3 minutes to walk from JR Yamanote Line 'Shin-Okubo Station' to 5; it takes about 7 minutes to walk from Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line or Oedo Line 'Higashi-Shinjuku Station'.
Official website	omoide_shinokubo Instagram

One second to Korea! The super popular Hanbok rental and photo shoot spot in Shin-Okubo

Tokyo Shin-Okubo'sKorean Hanbok Experience Shop OmoideWe offer authentic traditional Korean clothing rental and photo booth services. The store has prepared hundreds of different colors, modern variations, and luxurious palace-style Chima Jeogori skirts. Travelers visiting Tokyo's Korean Street can personally select their favorite outfits and take photos in a specially designed Korean-style photography studio. This is a popular spot for immersing oneself in Korean pop culture (Hallyu), highly favored among young people and couples. The store has a complete and refined service process. Friendly staff will assist travelers in wearing the intricate hanbok, and traditional hairstyling services are available on-site, along with beautiful accessories such as hairpieces and handbags. The photography studio features various styles of background panels and professional lighting equipment, allowing every visitor to easily capture high-quality salon photos.

A diverse cultural experience from indoor studio shoots to street photography

In addition to taking selfies in the comfortable air-conditioned studio, this shop thoughtfully offers long-term rental options for outdoor use. Travelers can wear colorful hanbok and stroll through the Korean Wave-infused streets of Shin-Okubo. Visit unique Korean-style shops on the streets or head to nearby traditional attractions for photo opportunities, showcasing the beauty of classical Korean culture amidst the bustling urban scenery of Tokyo, creating a visually striking contrast.

A perfect itinerary for a one-day K-Pop tour in Shin-Okubo

The store's prime location offers a vibrant surrounding area filled with tourist attractions and shopping options. Stepping outside the store, you'll find countless authentic Korean barbecue restaurants, popular traditional Korean fried chicken shops, and a lively shopping district specializing in the latest Korean beauty products and K-Pop idol merchandise. It is highly recommended to visit in the afternoon; after changing into a hanbok and taking satisfying photos, you can easily explore the nearby trendy cafes, enjoying seasonal favorites like Korean macarons or shaved ice desserts, making for an exotic Tokyo holiday.

💡 Tips for the Hanbok Experience in Shin-Okubo:

This shop is often fully booked on weekends and Japanese national holidays, so it is highly recommended to make an online reservation in advance through their official social media platforms. The rental package usually includes basic hair accessories and items, but if you want to try on more elaborate court-style outfits or need more complex hairstyles, you can upgrade on-site for an additional fee. Travelers driving should pay special attention, as the streets in the Shin-Okubo shopping area are narrow and parking is extremely difficult; taking public transportation is the easiest and most time-efficient option.

🎬 韓服チマチョゴリの店オモイデ Video

Sawi Shokudo Shin-Okubo 2nd Branch

サウィ食堂新大久保2号店

10:30～23:00

Intro

▼

Authentic Korean No. 1 sausage shrimp restaurant! Shin-Okubo cuisine: Busan seafood octopus beef intestine shrimp pot: Sawy Shokudo Shin-Okubo 2 branch

Item	Detailed Information
Attraction Address	Okubo 1-15-8, Okubo 1 Chome Building, Shinjuku, Tokyo
Business Hours	10:30～23:00 (L.O. Food 22: 00 / Drinks 22: 30) * Regular holidays: None (may adjust during special holidays or circumstances)
Dining Budget	Lunch ￥2,000～￥2,999 / Dinner ￥3,000～￥3,999
Self-driving navigation Mapcode	—
Transportation Methods	It takes about 5 minutes to walk from JR Yamanote Line 'Shin-Okubo Station', or about 9 minutes to walk from the north exit of Seibu Shinjuku Line 'Seibu Shinjuku Station'.
Tabelog Ratings	3.54 (The extremely popular authentic Busan sausage and shrimp spicy hot pot specialty store in Shin-Okubo)

The super popular Korean chain store has landed! Experience dining as if you were on the streets of Seoul.

A highly popular chain restaurant for grilled shrimp (Nakgopsae) from Korea, with over 30 branches."Saui Shokudo"Officially opened in Shin-Okubo, Tokyo! 'Sawi (사위)' means 'son-in-law' in Korean. The founder, unable to forget the delicious traditional shrimp sausage made by his mother-in-law, spent many years perfecting this classic flavor. The Shin-Okubo 2 location maintains the brand's signature Korean fashion style, from the shop's exterior sign to the lively and exotic atmosphere inside, making you feel as if you've stepped into Seoul for a delightful feast, perfect for gatherings with friends.

A must-try signature dish is the 'Chopped Intestine Shrimp Hot Pot (ナッコプセ)', featuring a special spicy sauce and the ultimate symphony of juicy beef intestines.

The absolute star of the restaurant is Busan's representative local dish, 'Nakgopsae' (章腸蝦鍋). This dish perfectly combines three exquisite ingredients: hand-sized octopus (Nakji), beef large intestine/beef small intestine (Gopchang), and fresh shrimp (Saeu). The restaurant insists on using high-quality intestines and adds bay leaves, star anise, and other secret ingredients to eliminate any fishy smell; the shrimp and octopus are cut into a golden ratio that maintains their chewy texture. It is paired with 17 types of ingredients that are low-temperature cooked for 72 hours in a special secret spicy sauce, along with a large amount of vegetables and spring noodles (Korean glass noodles), creating a rich, spicy flavor with a hint of seafood sweetness that makes it impossible to stop eating! In addition to enjoying it on its own, the most authentic way to eat it is to order a bowl of white rice topped with a fried egg, pour the fragrant Nakgopsae over the rice, and then mix in Korean seaweed, chives, and bean sprouts according to personal preference to create a special mixed rice. The mildly spicy, rich, and layered texture is truly delightful. The restaurant also offers different levels of spiciness: mild, regular, and spicy, so even those who are not very fond of spicy food can enjoy it easily.

A perfect dining choice for shopping and strolling, located right next to the Shin-Okubo shopping district.

The location of サウィ食堂新大久保2 is very advantageous, situated right in the heart of Tokyo's most famous Korean street (Shin-Okubo shopping district). Whether you're planning to shop for Korean beauty products and snacks in the afternoon or looking for a place to enjoy Korean soju with delicious food in the evening, this is a prime choice with excellent accessibility. You can easily savor the most authentic and popular Korean seafood hot pot right in the city without having to fly all the way to Busan!

💡 A little advice before you set off

Sawi Shokudo is extremely popular in Shin-Okubo, often having long lines during peak dining hours on both weekdays and weekends. During peak times on Fridays, weekends, and national holidays, the restaurant generally enforces a 【90 minute seating limit】. It is recommended that food enthusiasts planning to visit make reservations online in advance or choose to go during the afternoon off-peak hours to enjoy the authentic flavors of Busan more leisurely and comfortably!

🎬 サウィ食堂新大久保2号店 Video

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Seoul Market

ソウル市場

09:00～23:00

Intro

▼

Tokyo Korean Food Paradise: Seoul Ichiba

Item	Details
Attraction Address	Tokyo, Shinjuku-ku, Okubo 1-16-15
Business Hours	09:00～23:00 (Note: The last order time may vary for each stall and prepared food kitchen)
Admission Ticket	Free entry for visits
Travel Time	Approximately 4 minutes on foot from JR Yamanote Line 'Shin-Okubo Station'; approximately 8 minutes on foot from Toei Oedo Line or Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line 'Higashi-Shinjuku Station.'
Official Website	www.seoul-ichiba.com

The original landmark of Shin-Okubo Korean Street, a vibrant fresh supermarket full of exotic energy.

Seoul Ichiba（ソウル市場）is located in the heart of Tokyo's busiest Korean street, a supermarket filled with exotic flavors. It gathers various seasonings, fresh fruits and vegetables, and daily necessities imported directly from Korea, attracting countless residents and tourists who love Korean culture. Although the store space is compact like a traditional supermarket, the dense shelves and lively selling sounds create a unique atmosphere that feels like being instantly transported to Seoul's Namdaemun Market. Whether you're looking for the latest trendy Korean snacks or want to experience authentic Korean culinary life, this is a great first stop for shopping in Shin-Okubo.

Featured Areas and Popular Product Guide

Although Seoul Ichiba is not a multi-story large department store, its internal space is well-organized, divided into several unique dedicated stalls and product lines:

Freshly Made Takeout Area:This is the most popular area of the supermarket. There is an independent stall at the entrance selling freshly made Korean hotteok, cheese hot dogs, fried chicken, and steamed rice cakes. The aroma of hot street snacks fills the air, making it a representative spot for the walking and eating culture of Shin-Okubo.
Homemade Kimchi and Banchan Area:Located in the middle of the supermarket, it offers various types of kimchi hand-made daily by the central kitchen. In addition to the common napa cabbage kimchi, there are also radish, cucumber, and limited quantities of Korean marinated crab (Gejang), with authentic flavors highly praised by Koreans living in Japan.
Korean Instant Noodles and Snack Wall:The store features a wall of instant noodles that extends to the ceiling, showcasing classic versions from major brands and the latest seasonal collaborations like spicy tteokbokki noodles. The adjacent snack area is filled with various seaweed, honey butter potato chips, and traditional Korean court snacks, making it one of the most comprehensive selections in Tokyo.
Fresh Meat and Frozen Meal Packs:Specializing in providing pork belly slices suitable for personal grilling or making budae jjigae, marinated Korean barbecue, and ready-to-eat frozen packs of samgyetang and pork bone soup, catering to the cooking needs of international students and housewives.

Shopping in Shin-Okubo: How to Navigate Around Seoul Ichiba

Seoul Ichiba is located next to Okubo-dori in Shin-Okubo, making it a suitable starting point for a shopping route. The surrounding commercial network is highly developed, allowing travelers to start from here and explore various cultural attractions nearby. Heading east leads to a lively area filled with many K-pop star-related spots and trendy Korean photo booths; walking south connects to Shokuan-dori, where you can visit more large Korean beauty specialty stores and a famous potato rib soup restaurant open 24 hours. The entire block contrasts with the traditional Japanese charm of Kagurazaka and the neon nightlife of Kabukicho, showcasing Tokyo's diverse urban landscape.

💡 Seoul Ichiba Shopping Tips:

Since Shin-Okubo attracts a large number of young students and tourists on weekend afternoons, the narrow supermarket aisles can become very crowded. It is strongly recommended to schedule your visit onweekday mornings from 10:00 to 11:30, for a more comfortable shopping experience. The best-selling 'freshly made Korean gimbap' usually becomes available around noon, making it the perfect time to grab freshly made rolls, ideal for a light lunch while on a self-driving or free travel journey. If you plan to buy refrigerated kimchi, you can purchase a special cooler bag and ice packs at the checkout to ensure the ingredients do not spoil before returning to your hotel.

🎬 ソウル市場 Video

Toyama Park

戸山公園

24H

Intro

▼

The historic garden in the bustling area of Shinjuku and the highest peak in the city: Toyama Park

Item	Detailed Information
Attraction Address	-, , Toyama, Okubo, Shinjuku, Tokyo
Business Hours	Open all day (Office hours for each management office are 08:30 to 17:30)
Admission Ticket	Free admission
Transportation travel time	Take the Tokyo Metro Tozai Line to 'Waseda Station' and walk for about 10 minutes; or take the Oedo Line to 'Wakamatsu-Kawada Station' and walk for about 15 minutes.
Official website	www.tokyo-park.or.jp/park/format/index002.html

The Edo luxury of the Tokugawa Three Houses: The strolling garden 'Toyama-so' and the highest peak in the city center

Toyama ParkWith a legendary origin dating back to the Edo period, this land was once the lower residence of the Owari Tokugawa family (one of the three Tokugawa families), known at that time as 'Toyama Villa.' This large daimyo garden covered an area of tsubo, featuring valleys and hills, and was designed with a massive pond inspired by China's Dongting Lake. It included twenty-five tea houses and meticulously crafted imitation streets, earning the title of the finest garden in Edo. Today, most of the pond and tea houses no longer exist, having transformed into open green spaces for residents to relax. The historical core that remains is the artificial hill created from the earth excavated to form the pond—Hakone MountainThis hill has an elevation of 44.6 meters and is officially recognized by Japan as the "highest natural peak within the Tokyo Yamanote Line." From the summit, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Shinjuku's skyscrapers and experience the wonderful greenery surrounded by modern buildings.

The military stronghold of the Meiji era and the mysterious veil of modern urban legends

As time has passed, this land has witnessed Japan's modern military transformation. After the Meiji Restoration, the Tokugawa family's garden was nationalized and transformed into the 'Army Kōyama School,' becoming an important base for training Japanese Army officers, military bands, and physical education instructors. Before the end of World War II, the surrounding area established the Army Medical School and a research laboratory for epidemic prevention. This strong military background added many mysterious urban legends when the park transformed into a civic park after the war. In 1989, construction work around the park unexpectedly unearthed a large number of historical remains, and this sensational news made Kōyama Park one of Tokyo's famous haunted locations in modern Japanese ghost story culture. Every summer night, it often attracts many young adventurers seeking the supernatural, adding a layer of magical historical veil to this lush green park during the day.

Recommended nearby attractions: Navigate between academic vibes and exotic charm

Toyama Park has a unique geographical location, divided into two main sections, with surrounding tourist routes showcasing a variety of cultural features.

Waseda University:Adjacent to the eastern side of the park, you can easily walk to this historic private institution. The campus features the Tsubonai Memorial Theater Museum and Okuma Auditorium, both showcasing the beautiful Western architectural aesthetics of the Taisho era.
Shin-Okubo Korean Street:Extending south from the west side of the park, this is the largest Korean and Southeast Asian immigrant settlement in Tokyo, featuring the latest Korean cosmetics, rainbow toast, as well as authentic Korean fried chicken and barbecue.
Anahachiman Shrine:Located near Waseda Station, this ancient shrine is famous for its talismans that pray for good fortune and the revival of prosperity, and it is deeply revered by residents of the Kanto region.

💡 Toyama Park Limited Edition Souvenir Tips:

When you visit Toyama Park, don't just take a stroll; spend five minutes climbing the challenge of the 'highest peak of the Yamanote Line,' Hakone Mountain. After successfully reaching the summit, take a photo of the summit sign with your phone and head to the 'Toyama Park Service Center (Management Office)' on the Okubo side of the park. Show the staff your photo and fill out a simple climbing record to receive a free 'Hakone Mountain Summit Certificate' issued by the Tokyo Park Association. This is a highly collectible alternative souvenir from Tokyo!

🎬 戸山公園 Video

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Tokyo Shinjuku, Shin-Okubo Free Travel: Frequently Asked Questions FAQ

Q1: What is the best itinerary for a one-day trip in Shinjuku? What are the must-visit attractions?
- A：Perfect one-day itinerary for Shinjuku: ‘Daytime nature and artsy vibes, nighttime vibrant nightlife.’MorningFirst, take a stroll and have a picnic at the historic Shinjuku Gyoen.NoonShop and enjoy delicious food in the department store district around Shinjuku Station.AfternoonWalk or take the Yamanote Line (1 Station) to visit 【Shin-Okubo Korean Street】 for Korean beauty products and to taste Korean snacks.EveningVisit the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building to enjoy the sunset and night view for free.EveningThen head to 【Kabukicho】 and 【Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane)】 to experience Tokyo’s vibrant izakaya culture and the neon nightlife.
Q2: How much is the admission fee for Shinjuku Gyoen? What is the easiest way to get there from Shinjuku Station?
- A：The admission ticket for Shinjuku Gyoen is 500 yen (65 yen for those aged 250 and above and students, while junior high school students and below enter for free). The most convenient way to get to Shinjuku Gyoen is to take the Marunouchi Line subway to ‘Shinjuku Gyoenmae Station,’ which is just a 5-minute walk away; if you are coming fromJR Shinjuku Station South ExitIt takes about 10 minutes to reach the destination by walking along the signs.
Q3: Is Kabukicho safe at night? What security issues should I be aware of when visiting?
- A：Kabukicho, as a famous entertainment district in Japan, attracts many tourists during both the day and night around its main street and landmarks (such as the Toho Building Godzilla). As long as you stay alert and walk on the bustling main roads, it is generally safe. However, there are specific security blind spots to be particularly aware of:Absolutely ignore the bars or host clubs introduced by the roadside ‘recruiters’ or ‘free information centers’.to avoid falling victim to high-priced scams (black shops).
Q4: What are the must-eat foods or must-visit highlights in Shin-Okubo’s Korean Town?
- A：Shin-Okubo is the largest Korean town in Tokyo and the most popular.Shin-Okubo CuisineIt features authentic Korean barbecue, fried chicken, cheese hot dogs, and the trendiest Korean-style cafes. A must-visit highlight is the shopping street where ‘Shokuan Street’ and ‘Okubo Street’ intersect, which is packed with K-POP merchandise stores, the latest popular authentic Korean beauty and skincare shops, as well as Korean supermarkets selling various Korean instant noodles and snacks, making you feel as if you’ve instantly stepped into Myeongdong in Seoul.
Q5: Where can I buy the latest trendy Korean beauty products in Shin-Okubo?
- A：If you want to buy the latest and most comprehensive Korean beauty products, head straight to the iconic complex on Okubo Street, ‘Skin Garden (スキンガーデン)’.This place is known as a holy land for Korean beauty products; it also features high-quality selections.「Re:MAKE」is also very popular. In addition, the verticalIn the alley of ‘Ikemen Dori (帥哥通)’, there are many affordable beauty shops and the latest trendy makeup products, making it a perfect spot for girls to go on a shopping spree along with drugstores.
Q6: Is the security at Shin-Okubo Park (Okubo Park) good? Is there anything I need to be aware of?
- A：In recent years, Okubo Park has sparked discussions online due to the phenomenon of street solicitation at night (such as ‘street girls’). Although the government and police have strengthened strict patrols and regulations, there are no issues during the day, such as when food festivals (like the Spicy Food Festival) are held, butIt is still not recommended to linger or wander alone around the park after dark.Especially for solo female travelers, it’s best to stick to busy main streets like Okubo-dori or Shokuan-dori when walking at night.
Q7: What popular restaurants are recommended in Shinjuku?
- A：Shinjuku is a culinary battleground in Tokyo, with highly recommended spots including the top-notch all-you-can-eat yakiniku restaurant ‘Rokkasen’.featuring high CP value Michelin sardine dishesShinjuku Kappo NakajimaA traditional classic tempura restaurantTempura Shinjuku TsunahachiIf you’re a ramen enthusiast, you can’t miss the famous shops with long lines.“Zhan Mian Feng Yun Er”famous for its rich tonkotsu brothRamen Dragon’s House.
Q8: What are some famous shopping centers near Shinjuku?
- A：The area around Shinjuku Station is densely packed with well-known shopping centers, including those that cater to young women and trendy fashion.LUMINE 1, LUMINE 2, and LUMINE EST directly accessible from the East ExitThe high-end boutique and premium gift department store ‘Isetan Shinjuku’To the south exit, there is a large lifestyle goods store, Tokyu Hands.Takashimaya Times Square and the favorite spot for budget travelersNEWoMan Shinjuku。
Q9: Where is a good place to shop in Shinjuku? What are the differences between the East, West, South, and North exits?
- A：Shopping in Shinjuku is mainly divided into three prime areas: [East Exit]The most bustling and diverse area features a large Donki 唐吉訶德, Bic Camera electronics store, Kabukicho, and countless drugstores, making it perfect for shopping enthusiasts;【South Exit/Southeast Exit】The environment is comfortable, primarily featuring Lumine department store, Takashimaya, and flagship clothing stores, making it the most enjoyable for shopping.The West Exit features the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, large office skyscrapers, and the Yodobashi Camera headquarters.
Q10: What other attractions near Shinjuku do you recommend visiting?
- A：Transportation in Shinjuku is extremely convenient; it only takes 2-3 minutes on the JR Yamanote Line to easily visit the neighboring station, ‘Shin-Okubo Korean Street.’andYoyogi ParkIf you want to extend your itinerary, you can reach it within 5 minutes by taking the Yamanote Line.Harajuku Takeshita Street, Shrine VisitMeiji Shrineor head straight to the fashion hubShibuyaAt the intersection, take the Chuo Line Rapid train heading west, and in about 10 minutes, you will arrive at another paradise for anime fans, Nakano Broadway.

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One-Day Shinjuku Itinerary 2026 | Gyoen, Kabukicho & Shin-Okubo

One-Day Shinjuku Itinerary: Shinjuku Gyoen, Kabukicho & Shin-Okubo

Shinjuku Transportation Guide

Transportation in Shinjuku and Shin-Okubo

🚆 Traveling from Narita Airport to Shinjuku?

🚆 How to get to Shinjuku from downtown Tokyo?

1Take the JR Line

2. Take the Tokyo Metro

3. Private Railways & Other Transportation

🚉 How to get to Shin-Okubo?

1Take the JR Yamanote Line

2. Walk

🚃 JR Yamanote Line

🚇 Subway

Attractions that can be paired with Shinjuku for your itinerary

Overview of Attractions Map in Shinjuku and Shin-Okubo

At the South Exit of Shinjuku: Attractions and Must-Try Foods Towards Shinjuku Gyoen

NEWoman

NEWOmAn Shinjuku: A New Era of Sophisticated Aesthetics for Women

Revolutionizing the Definition of Department Stores! An Ultimate Shopping Space Tailored for Modern, Quality-Conscious Women

NEWOmAn Shinjuku Floor Layout and Featured Store Guide

🎬 NEWoman Video

ベーカリー＆レストラン沢村

Karuizawa's famous store has arrived in Shinjuku! NEWoMan's super popular bakery and restaurant: Bakery & Restaurant Sawamura Shinjuku

A baking legend from Karuizawa, creating a modern and stylish dining space next to Shinjuku Station

A dreamy 'unlimited hot bread refill' perfectly paired with exquisite chef's dishes

From the morning light to the late-night buzz, a multifunctional bistro that satisfies all day

🎬 ベーカリー＆レストラン沢村 Video

新宿高島屋

Shinjuku South Exit Fashion Landmark: Shinjuku Takashimaya

Takashimaya Times Square Highlights: A One-Stop Shopping Destination

The Glamorous Transformation of the Former Railway Freight Yard: A Miracle of Urban Renewal at the South Exit

🎬 新宿高島屋 Video

鳥茂

Stuffed Green PeppersOrigin

The pinnacle of offal barbecue! A legendary yakitori establishment in Tokyo that defies imagination: Tori Shige

Located at the south exit of Shinjuku, this legendary offal skewer shop has been in operation since the Showa 24 era.

The legendary grilled liver that overturns prejudices and the must-try 'original stuffed green pepper' from its birthplace

🎬 鳥茂 Video

文化学園服飾博物館

The cultural temple of Japanese fashion: Bunka Gakuen Costume Museum

An extremely rare clothing specialty museum in Asia, witnessing a century of evolution in global fashion.

A cradle of aesthetics that nurtures fashion masters, rich in history and culture.

Immersive themed exhibitions: Every visit is a brand new aesthetic shock.

🎬 文化学園服飾博物館 Video

新宿御苑

Oasis in the heart of Tokyo and royal history: Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

The Royal Palace East Garden, a masterpiece of garden design that blends the styles of three countries, spans across a vast metropolis.

From the Edo Daimyo Residences to the Imperial Family's Exclusive Property: The Historical Development of Shinjuku Gyoen

Historical Witness: The Modern Marvel of the Old Western-style Tea Room and the Grand Greenhouse

🎬 新宿御苑 Video

Attractions in the direction of the West Exit of Shinjuku Station

思い出横丁

Tokyo's Late Night Drinking Paradise: Omoide Yokocho

Historical Background: From Post-War Ruins to a 'Showa Time Machine'

Alley Experience: Late Night Diners Under Red Lanterns and Genuine Human Connection

Must-Try Specialty Dishes: Charcoal-Grilled Skewers and Classic Offal Stew

🎬 思い出横丁 Video

やきにく亭 六歌仙 小滝橋通り店

An ultimate luxury all-you-can-eat yakiniku restaurant! A feast of top-grade black-haired wagyu and seafood: やきにく亭 六歌仙 新宿西口 小滝橋通り店

A tranquil and stylish Japanese space amidst the urban hustle, a paradise for all-you-can-eat luxury wagyu and seafood

Thick-cut Matsusaka beef melts in your mouth, a double impact of king crab and rich seafood

A prime location in Shinjuku Nishiguchi, the perfect choice for business meals and rewarding yourself after a trip

🎬 やきにく亭 六歌仙 小滝橋通り店 Video

牛たんの檸檬 総本店

A super popular restaurant in Shinjuku! Thick-cut grilled beef tongue and feather kettle rice set meal:Shinjuku Yakiniku Gyutan no Lemon Sohonten

Specializing in artisan charcoal grilling, a paradise for tender and juicy 'thick-cut beef tongue'

High value multi-flavor set meal, satisfying with yam puree, curry, and spicy beef sauce

A lively dining atmosphere hidden in the bustling underground of Shinjuku

🎬 牛たんの檸檬 総本店 Video

平和祈念展示資料館

A Painful Historical Testament and a Prayer for Peace: The Peace Memorial Museum

Entering the Memory River of Post-War History: The Siberian Detention and the Difficult Return Home

Life Stories Woven from Real Artifacts: Diaries on Birch Bark and Frozen Clothing

The 'Oasis of Peace' and Reflection Space at the Peak of Bustling Shinjuku

🎬 平和祈念展示資料館 Video

東京都庁

The power center of Tokyo and its dazzling night view: Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

The architectural masterpiece by Kenzo Tange: a fusion of Gothic twin towers and the historical evolution of chip technology

Must-Visit Unique Spaces and High-Altitude Guide Inside the Metropolitan Government Building

やきにく亭六歌仙小滝橋通り店

An ultimate luxury all-you-can-eat yakiniku restaurant! A feast of top-grade black-haired wagyu and seafood: やきにく亭六歌仙新宿西口小滝橋通り店

🎬 やきにく亭六歌仙小滝橋通り店 Video

牛たんの檸檬総本店

🎬 牛たんの檸檬総本店 Video

かに道楽新宿駅前店

A must-visit classic for crab lovers! A top-notch crab full-course meal just a 1-minute walk from the East Exit of Shinjuku Station: かに道楽新宿駅前店

🎬 かに道楽新宿駅前店 Video

新宿マルイ本館

🎬 新宿マルイ本館 Video