Shinjuku Tokyo Japanese Local Bar Night Tour

Tokyo’s vibrant Shinjuku district is a must-visit for those seeking an authentic Japanese nightlife experience. On this 3.5-hour guided tour, you’ll explore the lively Kabukicho entertainment area, home to a captivating mix of bars, clubs, and izakaya. Venture into the charming Omoide Yokocho and Golden-Gai neighborhoods, where you’ll discover hidden gem establishments, each with its unique character and local flair. As you savor authentic Japanese cuisine and craft cocktails, your knowledgeable guide will provide insights into the rich culture that defines this dynamic Tokyo district. Prepare to be immersed in an unforgettable evening of culinary and cultural exploration.

Key Points

1. A 3.5-hour guided tour of Shinjuku’s vibrant bar and dining scene, including the Kabukicho entertainment district and the charming Golden-Gai alleyway.

2. Opportunity to explore intimate izakayas, lively bars, and modern cocktail lounges, offering a immersive experience in Japanese nightlife culture.

3. Sampling of authentic local cuisine and a selection of alcoholic beverages to complement the tour’s focus on the Shinjuku neighborhood’s culinary and beverage offerings.

4. Tour limited to 10 people, conducted in English, with a knowledgeable local guide providing insights and recommendations to enhance the overall experience.

5. Includes dinner, alcoholic beverages, and photos, ensuring a comprehensive and memorable tour of Shinjuku’s thriving bar and dining scene.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Details and Highlights

This 3.5-hour guided tour takes participants on an exploration of the Shinjuku area of Tokyo, Japan, focusing on the local bar and dining scene. The tour is limited to 10 people and is conducted in English, meeting at the No.D3 exit of Shinjuku Station.

Guests will visit the bustling Kabukicho district, known for its entertainment and red-light offerings, as well as the iconic Omoide Yokocho and Golden-Gai areas, renowned for their intimate Japanese bars. Along the way, they’ll stop at 3 local izakaya or bars, sampling authentic Japanese food and drinks.

The tour includes dinner, alcoholic beverages, and photos taken during the experience, which are shared via mobile phones. Tips and attendance for those under 18 are excluded.

Kabukicho Entertainment District

The Kabukicho district lies at the heart of the tour, known as the largest entertainment and red-light district in Japan. Visitors will explore this vibrant area, taking in the neon lights, bustling streets, and eclectic mix of bars, clubs, and adult entertainment venues.

Kabukicho is a dynamic and lively district, offering a glimpse into Japan’s nightlife culture. Guests will wander through the narrow alleyways, soaking up the unique atmosphere and potentially encountering some of the district’s iconic characters, such as the "host clubs" where stylishly dressed men entertain female customers.

This lively district sets the stage for the local bar and culinary experiences that await on the tour.

Omoide Yokocho and Golden-Gai

After exploring the lively Kabukicho district, the tour takes guests to the adjacent Omoide Yokocho and Golden-Gai areas. These narrow alleys are known for their intimate, nostalgic atmosphere and small, local bars. Visitors can enjoy the charming, vintage ambiance as they discover hidden gems and sample traditional Japanese fare and drinks. The following table provides more insights into these distinct areas:

Area	Characteristics
Omoide Yokocho	Also known as "Memory Lane", this narrow alley is lined with tiny eateries and izakaya, evoking the post-war era.
Golden-Gai	A cluster of over 200 small bars, each with its own unique character, creating a vibrant, underground social scene.

Local Izakaya and Bar Stops

As the tour delves deeper into the heart of Shinjuku, participants can expect to visit three carefully selected local izakaya (Japanese-style bars) or bars. These establishments offer an authentic taste of Japanese nightlife, showcasing the vibrant culture and flavors that make this area so unique.

The stops may include:

1. An intimate, old-school izakaya tucked away in a narrow alley, serving up delectable small plates and ice-cold beers.
2. A lively bar in the Golden-Gai district, known for its eclectic decor and friendly, chatty clientele.
3. A modern, stylish hotel offering a wide selection of Japanese craft cocktails and seasonal dishes.

Through these stops, tour you will savor the flavors, ambiance, and camaraderie that define the local bar scene in Shinjuku.

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Food and Drink Inclusions

Participants can look forward to sampling a delightful array of Japanese food and beverages during the tour. The guided tour includes dinner, allowing guests to indulge in authentic local cuisine.

Plus, the tour provides a selection of alcoholic drinks, enabling visitors to experience the vibrant Japanese bar culture. From traditional izakaya-style dishes to refreshing libations, the inclusions aim to immerse participants in the flavors and ambiance of the Shinjuku neighborhood.

The tour also includes the services of a knowledgeable local guide, who can provide insights and recommendations to enhance the overall dining and drinking experience. With these carefully curated inclusions, the tour promises a well-rounded exploration of Shinjuku’s culinary and bar scene.

Guide Services and Photos

Enhancing the overall experience, the tour includes the services of a knowledgeable local guide who provides valuable insights and recommendations throughout the journey. The guide’s expertise ensures visitors explore the hidden gems of Shinjuku’s vibrant nightlife scene.

Plus, the tour offers the following:

1. Photos taken during the tour, which are shared with participants via mobile phones, allowing them to capture memories of their experience.
2. The guide’s fluency in English, enabling seamless communication and a deeper understanding of the local culture.
3. The small group size, limited to 10 participants, ensures a more personalized and intimate tour experience.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

The tour is priced at ¥103.86 per person and can be booked with a ‘Reserve now, pay later’ option. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Booking	Cancellation
‘Reserve now, pay later’	Free up to 24 hours in advance
Price: ¥103.86 per person	Full refund

The tour is not suitable for children under 18 years old. Participants are encouraged to check the booking and cancellation policy carefully before making their reservation.

Age Requirement and Exclusions

This tour isn’t suitable for children under 18 years old. The tour excludes the following:

1. Tips, which are optional.
2. Alcoholic beverages for those under the legal drinking age.
3. Participation for children under 18 years old.

The reason for the age restriction is to ensure the tour’s focus on visiting local bars and izakayas in the Shinjuku area. Participants will have the opportunity to sample Japanese food and drinks in an authentic setting, which may not be suitable for minors.

Guests are advised to keep these exclusions in mind when booking the tour to ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Dietary-Restricted Menu?

While the tour doesn’t explicitly mention dietary restrictions, it’s generally possible to request a vegetarian or other dietary-restricted menu. Participants should notify the tour provider in advance to ensure their needs can be accommodated.

Is Smoking Allowed During the Tour?

Smoking is generally not permitted during the tour. However, there may be designated smoking areas at the local bars and restaurants visited. It’s best to check with the tour guide for any specific policies regarding smoking during the tour.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Camera?

No, participants don’t need to bring their own camera. The tour includes photos taken during the tour, which will be shared with the group via mobile phones. The local guide will handle the photography.

Can I Join the Tour With a Group of Friends?

Yes, you can join the tour with a group of friends. The tour accommodates groups up to 10 participants, so you’re welcome to sign up with your friends and experience the local bars and restaurants together.

Is This Tour Suitable for People With Limited Mobility?

The tour may not be fully accessible for people with limited mobility. It involves walking through narrow alleyways and exploring areas with stairs or uneven terrain. Participants should contact the tour operator to discuss any accessibility needs.

Recap

This Shinjuku, Tokyo bar and dining tour offers an immersive experience in the vibrant nightlife culture of the city. Visitors will explore the lively Kabukicho district, discover hidden gems in the Omoide Yokocho and Golden-Gai neighborhoods, and savor authentic Japanese cuisine and beverages, all while gaining insights from a knowledgeable local guide. With a comprehensive itinerary and inclusions, this tour provides a unique opportunity to explore Shinjuku’s dynamic bar and dining scene.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby