Shinjuku Golden-gai and Kabuki-cho Bar Hopping with Master Guide

Tokyo , Japan

Shinjuku Golden-gai and Kabuki-cho Bar Hopping with Master Guide

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If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.<br>If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience the local bars of the infamous neighborhoods like a local and experience a bit shady side of Tokyo that visitors rarely see on this 2.5-hour tour. With a master barhopping guide, visit two traditional izakaya's small local bars serving drinks and small Japanese food plates. Sample typical drinks and cuisine and perhaps get to know a few regulars you can only meet during this unique tour!

A former red light district, the tight alleyways are now home to roughly

Many of the city’s budding actors and musicians moonlight as bartenders at Golden Gai, and are always happy to welcome patrons from all walks of life. However, some bars cater only to regulars or members. For travelers, it’s hard to know where and how to start your bar-hopping night here – but not if you follow our guide to the best drinking dens in Tokyo’s golden district.

Available options

6PM Bar hopping in Shinjuku

What's included

Tour guide

One drink and one dish at each bar

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Join the locals at the bar only the bar hopping master can take.....280 distinct little establishments, each just big enough to seat a handful of people at a time. In fact, many of them count among the tiniest bars in the city (and perhaps in the world as well). What they lack in space, they more than makeup for with their personality, each with its niche catering to a particular clientele, especially folks from the local creative industries.

Stop 2

Omoide Yokocho literally means “Memory Lane” more commonly known now as “Piss Alley and has a very long history dating back to 1946. A year after World War 2, this area of Shinjuku started developing into a location for street vendors and the black market because of its easy accessibility to bring goods in and out of Japan. As time went by, new structures were built, buildings demolished, and the city of Tokyo started to reshape itself to become more modern. Omoide Yokocho (思い出横丁) is one of the only areas in Shinjuku that kept its old look, style, and feel, which is why its name translates into “Memory Lane.” Also, there is only one restroom facility there, and well, you now know why it is called Piss alley...

Once in Shinjuku, you must witness Godzzila! The street where the Godzilla head is located is called "Godzilla Road" in the Kabukicho area and is well signposted. You can see Godzilla hanging from the top of the building at the end of the street. With the help of your bar-hopping master, eat, drink, laugh, talk, and have a nice time in Shinjuku at night!

What's not included

Transportation to/from bars

Additional food and drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

3 reviews

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Important information

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

A minimum of 2 people per booking is required

Minimum age is 20 years

Please advise any specific dietary requirements or food allergies at time of booking

Meeting point

Meet up at the C2 exit of Shinjuku-sanchome Station.

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.