Tokyo Shinjuku Nightlife and Izakaya Walking Tour

Tokyo , Japan

Tokyo Shinjuku Nightlife and Izakaya Walking Tour

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About this experience

Discover authentic Tokyo flavors as you explore Shinjuku’s nighttime food scene with a local guide. The tour begins in front of Kitakata Ramen Bannai Omoide Yokocho and continues with a relaxed walk through key nightlife areas. While the route may vary, you can expect to pass spots such as Omoide Yokocho, Kabukicho, and Golden Gai, each known for lanterns, neon streets, and small traditional bars.

During the evening, we stop at two local izakayas to enjoy authentic Japanese dishes, from grilled favorites to warm comfort foods and seasonal plates. Options depend on availability, keeping the experience true to local izakaya style. Please inform us at least 24 hours in advance of any allergies or preferences.

The tour also includes a visit to a secret Showa-period bar with a nostalgic retro interior. Your guide explains simple bar customs, shares local insights, and helps with photos. The experience ends in central Shinjuku for easy onward travel or continued exploration.

Available options

Tokyo Shinjuku Nightlife and Izakaya Walking Tour

What's included

2 izakayas and Showa-era bar

Cultural tips and simple bar etiquette

Photos on request

Admission fee

Walking tour through Shinjuku

Safe, easy-to-follow route

Friendly English-speaking local guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Walk through Omoide Yokocho, one of Shinjuku’s most atmospheric alleyways filled with lanterns, tiny eateries, and nostalgic Showa-era charm. Your guide will share stories about the area’s history and explain its local food culture.
We will also stop at a nearby traditional izakaya, where you can try authentic Japanese comfort dishes and learn how locals enjoy food and drinks in Tokyo.

Explore Kabukichō, Shinjuku’s vibrant nightlife district filled with neon lights and unique entertainment streets. Your guide will share cultural insights, local stories, and tips for navigating Japan’s busiest night area.
We will also visit a local izakaya in this area, where you can sample recommended plates of the evening and learn simple Japanese bar etiquette.

Stop 3

Walk through Golden Gai, a famous maze of tiny themed bars that preserve Tokyo’s post-war nightlife culture. Your guide will introduce the history of the district and explain how these small bars work and what makes them so unique. Step into a retro Showa-era bar with vintage décor and warm lighting — a hidden spot known only to locals. Your guide will explain the traditions behind these nostalgic establishments and help you navigate the menu or drink options.
We will stop here for a relaxed drink and enjoy the classic Showa ambiance.

What's not included

Food and drinks (pay as you go, average ¥3,000–5,000 per person)

Personal expenses

Transportation to and from the meeting point

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Not permitted for people under 20 years old (due to alcohol laws in Japan)

Meeting point

We will meet in front of Kitakata Ramen Bannai Omoide Yokocho. It is located at the entrance of Omoide Yokocho and easy to spot thanks to its bright sign. Your guide will be waiting outside and will send you a message via WhatsApp before the tour, so you can recognize each other easily.

Important notes

Meet your guide in front of Kitakata Ramen Bannai Omoide Yokocho.
Please arrive 10–15 minutes early so we can start on time.
Our guide will contact you via WhatsApp, so please download WhatsApp before the tour. This ensures smooth communication and an easy meeting.
Food and drinks are not included. Please bring enough cash to cover your meals and beverages.

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.