Welcome to Shinjuku
Shinjuku is one of Tokyo’s most dynamic and multifaceted districts — a bustling blend of neon-lit skyscrapers, serene parks, endless shopping, and a nightlife that never sleeps. Whether you’re visiting Tokyo for the first time or following a Shinjuku-focused itinerary, this area is an essential stop.
How to get there
It is located in the western part of Tokyo and is bordered by the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden to the north, the Yoyogi Park to the east, and the Shinagawa district to the south. The district is home to many of Tokyo’s tallest buildings, including the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building and the Tokyo Tower.
Shinjuku Station is the busiest railway station in the world, served by multiple lines:
- Private Rail: Odakyu, Keio, Seibu Shinjuku
- JR Lines: Yamanote, Chuo, Sobu, Saikyo
- Metro Lines: Toei Shinjuku, Toei Oedo, Tokyo Metro Marunouchi
Coming from other Tokyo neighborhoods like [Asakusa] or [Shibuya]? The JR Yamanote Line makes it quick and simple.
HINT: Use a SUICA or PASMO IC cards to move seamlessly between subway lines in Tokyo.
What to do and see
If you’re looking for some entertainment, this is the right place for you. From its many theaters, restaurants, and bars to its neon lights, bustling streets, and the variety of activities to do here, this is the perfect district to spend a night.
Here are some of the most popular things to do:
- Visit the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building – Free observation decks with panoramic city views
- Take a walk through Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden – A peaceful haven, especially beautiful during cherry blossom season.
- Kabukicho – Tokyo’s infamous nightlife and entertainment zone.
- Omoide Yokocho – Tiny alleyways full of yakitori bars and Showa-era vibes
- See a kabuki performance at the Kabukiza Theater.
- Go shopping at the Takashimaya department store.
- Enjoy a night out in Golden Gai, a cluster of micro-bars, each with its own unique personality
- Visit the Shinjuku Robot Restaurant for a unique and entertaining experience.
💡 Planning a day in Shinjuku? Consider starting your morning at Shinjuku Gyoen and ending it with drinks in Golden Gai.
What to eat and where
Shinjuku is a food lover’s paradise. Whether you’re looking for Michelin-star ramen or hole-in-the-wall izakayas, you’ll find it here.
- Ichiran Ramen (Shinjuku) – Legendary solo-booth tonkotsu ramen experience
- Gyukatsu Motomura – Deep-fried beef cutlets you cook on a stone grill
- Tsunahachi – Historic tempura shop near Shinjuku Sanchome
- [Hidden ramen shops in Kabukicho] – Perfect for late-night bites
🥢 Don’t miss the food basement (“depachika”) of Takashimaya Times Square for high-end take-out and sweets.
Recommended experiences (tour, activities, express tickets ecc)
Want to level up your visit to Shinjuku? Here are some popular experiences:
Klook.comor try a self-guided walking tour 🚶 using my Shinjuku itinerary PDF
Where to sleep in Shinjuku
Shinjuku is one of the best areas to base yourself in Tokyo due to its transport connections and around-the-clock convenience.
Here are a few top picks:
“Great stay! Central location!”
“Excellent staff, quiet, and comfortable room. Close to everything you need.”
“Super convenient and very friendly staff. I would definitely recommend and visit again.”
JR Kyushu Hotel Blossom Shinjuku
“Location is superb, 1 min walk away from Shinjuku station, lots of eateries and shops nearby. Room is slightly bigger than Japan hotel standard, clean.”
Want more hotel ideas? Check out my Where to Stay in Tokyo guide.
📄 Download the Full Shinjuku Itinerary PDF
Want to follow a step-by-step route through Shinjuku?
Download my exclusive PDF itinerary with:
✅ Pre-planned route
✅ Insider tips
✅ Bonus photo spots
✅ Integrated Google Map
👉 Or Download the 1 Day in Shinjuku interactive PDF here!
🔗 More Shinjuku Resources
Explore more guides and articles:
- [Best hidden bars in Golden Gai]
- [Day vs night in Shinjuku – what changes?]
- [Tokyo itinerary: 3 days including Shinjuku]
- [Top cherry blossom spots in Tokyo]
📌 Final Tip
Shinjuku can feel overwhelming, but that’s part of the charm. Let yourself get a little lost — it’s often how you find the most memorable moments. I hope this article has given you a better understanding of the area, but f you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to reach me out!
Go back to the Tokyo Districts: A Comprehensive Guide
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