Silence, Gai Buzz: A Self Guided Shinjuku Walking Tour
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Silence, Gai Buzz: A Self Guided Shinjuku Walking Tour

Active
1h - 1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Tokyo’s Shinjuku district is like a study in contrast, where ancient shrines stand side by side with neon-lit entertainment zones.

On this self-guided walking tour, you’ll experience this fascinating cultural juxtaposition firsthand, exploring everything from tranquil Shinto sanctuaries to the legendary Golden Gai bar district. As you walk, you’ll hear about the history that binds these seemingly opposite worlds together.

This tour starts at Hanazono Shrine, which dates back to 1590 and serves as the spiritual guardian of Shinjuku. You’ll explore the shrine’s main hall and learn about its connection to the entertainment world through its dedication to Inari, the god of worldly success. From there, you’ll venture into the famous Golden Gai, a network of narrow alleyways housing nearly 300 tiny bars, each with its own unique theme and atmosphere.

Available options

Silence, Gai Buzz: A Self Guided Shinjuku Walking Tour

What's included

Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it
Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
App for Android and iOS
Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1 Pass by

Discover the ancient Hanazono Shrine, a historic Shinto landmark showcasing vibrant vermilion architecture, the intimate Itoku Inari Shrine with its captivating row of red torii gates, and classic stone lanterns, all dramatically situated beside the towering Shinjuku cityscape.

Secure your next booking by promoting this tranquil escape where visitors can immerse themselves in centuries of Japanese culture and spiritual tradition, experiencing a profound sense of peace far removed from the surrounding Tokyo energy.

2

Walk the impossibly narrow alleyways of Golden Gai, a historic collection of over 200 micro-bars packed into ramshackle two-story wooden structures, vividly preserving the retro charm of post-war Old Tokyo.

Encourage booking a Shinjuku nightlife tour here, where travelers can enjoy an authentic bar-hopping adventure, engaging in intimate conversations with local bartenders and experiencing the bohemian spirit that draws artists and international tourists alike.

3

Visitors will be utterly captivated by the shocking, immersive horror-themed interior, packed with gore-flick memorabilia, heavy metal instruments, bloody props, and a TV perpetually looping classic slasher films, offering a radically unique bar experience in Tokyo's Golden Gai.

Drive high tourist engagement by advertising this underground hot spot where guests can embrace the city's darker side, enjoy famously cheap drinks (many priced at ¥666), and engage in unforgettable, intimate conversations with the friendly owner and fellow horror buffs in the heart of Japan's alternative nightlife.

4

Marvel at the eclectic and stylish interior of Albatross G, famous for its striking centerpiece chandelier made of countless dangling white skulls, and the luxurious velvet seating across three dimly lit, artistic levels, including a cozy rooftop terrace perfect for Tokyo views.

Attract discerning travelers by highlighting this sophisticated Shinjuku destination where guests can savor perfectly crafted cocktails in an atmospheric setting, making it the ideal spot for a romantic date or a memorable premium bar experience away from the typical Golden Gai crowds.

5

Discover Thermae-Yu, a luxurious, 24-hour onsen spa in the heart of Shinjuku, featuring multiple baths with natural hot spring water trucked daily from Nakaizu, expansive open-air baths (rotenburo), high-concentration carbonated baths, and stylish Roman-inspired architecture.

Market this urban oasis for maximum SEO and bookings, allowing guests to completely rejuvenate after a long day of Tokyo sightseeing or shopping by indulging in traditional Japanese bathing culture, luxury amenities, and peaceful lounge areas.

6
Stop 6 Pass by

Explore the incredibly atmospheric, narrow alleys of Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane), a historical enclave packed with tiny, often smoke-filled, lantern-lit yakitori and ramen stalls that evoke the charming post-war era of Shinjuku.

Boost your Tokyo food tour bookings by promoting this quintessential culinary destination, where visitors can savor authentic, perfectly grilled Japanese street food like yakitori and kushiyaki alongside local workers, experiencing a vibrant, unforgettable slice of local Tokyo life and delicious, cheap eats.

What's not included

Smartphone and headphones
Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour
Food and drink
Transportation

Available languages

Audio guide
EN
Written guide
EN

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
The total tour time includes walking the route and passing by the attractions

Meeting point

This tour starts at Hanazono Shrine Ōtorii Gate, 5 Chome-17 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0022, Japan. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE
───
Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS

───

Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app

Create an account

Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes

Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE
───

You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT
───
For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Tokyo

Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is a bustling metropolis that beautifully blends traditional culture with cutting-edge technology. Known for its neon-lit streets, historic temples, and world-class cuisine, Tokyo offers a unique experience that caters to every type of traveler.

Top Attractions

Senso-ji Temple

Senso-ji is Tokyo's oldest temple and one of its most significant. The temple's massive lantern and five-story pagoda are iconic landmarks.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours Free (small fee for some areas)

Meiji Shrine

Meiji Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken. It is surrounded by a beautiful forest.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours Free

Shibuya Crossing

Shibuya Crossing is the world's busiest pedestrian crossing and a symbol of Tokyo's bustling urban life. It's a must-see for its chaotic yet orderly nature.

Cultural 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (¥2,200 for Shibuya Sky)

Tokyo Skytree

Tokyo Skytree is the tallest tower in Japan and the second tallest freestanding structure in the world. It offers breathtaking views of the city.

Architecture 2-3 hours ¥2,100 to ¥3,100 (USD $15 to $22)

Odaiba

Odaiba is a man-made island in Tokyo Bay known for its shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It's a great place for families and tech enthusiasts.

Entertainment Half day to full day Varies by attraction

Must-Try Local Dishes

Sushi

Fresh raw fish served on vinegared rice, a staple of Japanese cuisine.

Dinner Contains fish, can be vegetarian with substitutes.

Ramen

Noodle soup with various broths and toppings, a popular comfort food.

Lunch/Dinner Vegan and vegetarian options available.

Tempura

Deep-fried seafood and vegetables, known for its crispy texture.

Lunch/Dinner Contains seafood and deep-fried ingredients.

Okonomiyaki

Savory pancake with various ingredients, often topped with sauce and bonito flakes.

Lunch/Dinner Contains seafood and can be made vegetarian.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the nearby mountains Parasailing at Odaiba Onsen (hot spring) visits Tea ceremonies Traditional tea ceremonies Kimono rentals and photo shoots Boat tours on the Sumida River Beach activities at Odaiba

Best Time to Visit

March to May (Spring) and September to November (Autumn)

These seasons offer comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery, with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. However, these are also the busiest times for tourism.

10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F) 50°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Japanese
  • Widely spoken: English, Chinese, Korean
  • English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Tokyo is generally very safe, with low crime rates and a strong emphasis on public order. However, petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas.

Important Precautions:
  • • Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas.
  • • Use licensed taxis and check fares before getting in.
  • • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

Getting there

By air
  • Narita International Airport • 60 km (37 miles) from city center
  • Haneda Airport • 15 km (9 miles) from city center
By train

Tokyo Station, Shinjuku Station

By bus

Tokyo Station Bus Terminal, Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Tokyo's subway system is efficient, clean, and punctual. It consists of multiple lines operated by Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Shibuya Shinjuku Asakusa Ginza Akihabara

Day trips

Nikko
120 km (75 miles) from Tokyo • Full day

Nikko is a city known for its beautiful shrines, temples, and natural scenery. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.

Kamakura
50 km (31 miles) from Tokyo • Half day to full day

Kamakura is a coastal town known for its historic temples, shrines, and the Great Buddha statue. It's a great place to experience traditional Japanese culture.

Hakone
90 km (56 miles) from Tokyo • Full day or overnight

Hakone is a hot spring resort town known for its onsen (hot springs), scenic views of Mount Fuji, and the Open-Air Museum. It's a popular destination for relaxation and nature.

Festivals

Sannō Matsuri • Mid-June (every 2 years) Kanda Matsuri • Mid-May (every 2 years) Sumida River Fireworks Festival • Last Saturday of July

Pro tips

  • Use IC cards like Suica or Pasmo for convenient and discounted public transport.
  • Download useful apps like Google Maps, Japan Transit Planner, and Japan Travel by Navitime.
  • Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture.
  • Carry cash, as some smaller shops and restaurants may not accept credit cards.
  • Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 6-99
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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