Immerse oneself in the vibrant Shinjuku neighborhood on a 3-hour guided food and drink tour. Explore the local restaurants and bars with a small group, savoring authentic Japanese dishes and drinks. This personalized experience caters to diverse travelers, offering both English and Japanese tours. With flexible cancellation policies and a "reserve now & pay later" option, one can secure their spot without upfront payment and tailor the tour to their schedule. What does this unique opportunity entail, and how might it enhance one’s exploration of Tokyo’s lively nightlife?
Key Points
- Three-hour guided tour exploring Shinjuku’s best local restaurants and bars for an immersive experience into the district’s vibrant food and drink culture.
- Tour group limited to 8 participants for an intimate and personalized experience, offered in both English and Japanese.
- Includes 4 Japanese dishes, 4 deep-fried skewers, and 3 drinks, showcasing the diversity of Japanese cuisine and beverages.
- Flexible cancellation policy with a "reserve now & pay later" option to accommodate busy schedules.
- Convenient meeting point at Tajimaya coffee house in the heart of Shinjuku, with the tour guide waiting to lead the group.
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Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Details and Highlights
- Group Size and Languages
- Cancellation and Payment Options
- Included Dishes and Drinks
- Recommended Spending and Attire
- Meeting Point and Directions
- Local Restaurants and Bars
- Kabukicho Red-Light District
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Are There Any Dress Code Requirements for the Tour?
- Can the Tour Accommodate Dietary Restrictions or Allergies?
- What Is the Level of Alcohol Consumption During the Tour?
- Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?
- Can the Tour Be Customized for Private Groups?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Tokyo
- More Tours in Tokyo
- More Tour Reviews in Tokyo
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Tokyo we have recnetly reviewed
Tour Details and Highlights
This 3-hour guided foods and drinks tour takes participants on an immersive exploration of Shinjuku’s best local restaurants and bars, allowing them to experience the district like a local. The tour is limited to just 8 people and is offered in both English and Japanese.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and the option to reserve now and pay later, it’s a convenient and flexible experience. Highlights include visiting Kabukicho, Tokyo’s renowned red-light district, and ending at a local bar district with over 200 bars.
The tour includes 4 Japanese dishes, 4 deep-fried skewers, and 3 drinks, providing a well-rounded taste of the area’s culinary delights.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Tokyo.
Group Size and Languages
The tour group size is limited to just 8 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. This small group size allows the tour guide to provide more attentive service and create a comfortable atmosphere for guests.
The tour is offered in both English and Japanese, catering to a diverse range of travelers. Whether you’re a native Tokyoite or a first-time visitor, the language options make this tour accessible to everyone.
With the group size and language flexibility, you can expect a tailored experience that immerses you in the vibrant Shinjuku neighborhood like a local.
Cancellation and Payment Options
With the personalized group size and language options covered, let’s now explore the flexible cancellation and payment policies for this tour. Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy, which allows them to receive a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. Plus, the "reserve now & pay later" option lets them book their spot without paying anything upfront.
This convenient setup gives participants the flexibility to:
- Cancel their tour with no penalties if their plans change
- Secure their spot immediately and pay later
- Avoid the hassle of upfront payments
These accommodating policies cater to the busy schedules and unpredictable lifestyles of modern-day explorers.
Included Dishes and Drinks
Comprising a robust lineup of Japanese culinary delights, the tour’s inclusions beckon guests to savor an immersive gastronomic experience. Participants can look forward to sampling four Japanese meat, fish, and vegetable dishes, as well as four types of traditional Japanese-style deep-fried skewers.
To complement the flavorful fare, the tour also includes three drinks, which can be chosen from a selection of sake, shochu, Japanese beer, or other unique beverages. This well-rounded offering allows attendees to indulge in the essence of Japanese cuisine and culture, all while exploring the vibrant Shinjuku neighborhood.
More Great Tours NearbyRecommended Spending and Attire
For those looking to make the most of their tour experience, it’s recommended to bring cash for any extra food and drinks desired. The tour organizers suggest budgeting approximately ¥500-800 per drink and ¥300-800 per dish, as participants may wish to sample more than the included offerings.
This tour is best suited for experienced drinkers, as the itinerary is focused on visiting local bars and indulging in traditional Japanese beverages. Plus, attendees are encouraged to dress comfortably, as the tour involves a significant amount of walking through the vibrant Shinjuku neighborhood.
- Recommended drink cost: ¥500-800 per drink
- Recommended dish cost: ¥300-800 per dish
- Suitable for professional drinkers
Meeting Point and Directions
The meeting point for this Foods & Drinks Tour is Tajimaya coffee house, located at 1-2-6 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku. This charming coffee house is easy to find, situated in the heart of Shinjuku’s bustling streets.
Participants should arrive at the designated meeting point a few minutes before the tour’s start time. The tour guide will be waiting at the entrance, holding a sign or wearing a distinctive outfit to help identify them.
From the meeting point, the group will set off on a culinary adventure, exploring the best local restaurants and bars that Shinjuku has to offer, away from the tourist traps.
Local Restaurants and Bars
On the Foods & Drinks Tour, you will visit some of Shinjuku’s best local restaurants and bars, seeing the vibrant culinary scene away from the typical tourist traps. They’ll enjoy a guided tour through the bustling Kabukicho district, Tokyo’s infamous red-light area, and end the night at a local bar district with over 200 lively establishments.
The tour includes:
- 4 Japanese meat, fish, and vegetable dishes
- 4 types of Japanese-style deep-fried skewers
- 3 drinks, such as sake, shochu, or Japanese beer
With the recommended drink and dish costs, professional drinkers can expect to pay ¥500-800 per drink and ¥300-800 per dish.
Kabukicho Red-Light District
During the Foods & Drinks Tour, participants explore the heart of Shinjuku’s infamous Kabukicho district, Tokyo’s notorious red-light area. Guided through the neon-lit alleys, they’ll discover the district’s unique character and culture.
From lively izakaya pubs to risqué cabaret shows, the tour offers a glimpse into the vibrant nightlife. Participants can indulge in local delicacies and sip on traditional Japanese beverages, all while exploring the area’s hidden gems.
The guide provides insights into the district’s history and societal role, offering a balanced perspective on this complex and often misunderstood part of Tokyo. By the end of the tour, participants have a deeper understanding of Kabukicho and its integral place in the city’s urban fabric.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Dress Code Requirements for the Tour?
The tour does not have a strict dress code. Casual, comfortable attire is recommended, as you will be walking, eating, and drinking during the evening tour through Shinjuku’s local restaurants and bars.
Can the Tour Accommodate Dietary Restrictions or Allergies?
The tour can accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies with advance notice. Participants should inform the tour operator of any specific dietary needs when booking the tour to ensure their requirements are met.
What Is the Level of Alcohol Consumption During the Tour?
The tour involves moderate alcohol consumption, with 3 beverage samples included. It’s suitable for experienced drinkers, but participants can adjust their intake to their preferences. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated with advance notice.
Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?
Photography is allowed during the tour, but it’s best to check with the guide beforehand and respect the privacy of other participants. Discreet photography is generally fine, but avoid being disruptive or intrusive.
Can the Tour Be Customized for Private Groups?
Yes, the tour can be customized for private groups. The tour operator offers flexible options to accommodate the specific needs and preferences of private groups within the overall tour structure and inclusions.
Tokyo Life After 5 – Foods & Drinks Tour
Recap
This food and drink tour offers a comprehensive introduction to Shinjuku’s vibrant nightlife. With a small group size, diverse menu, and flexible booking options, it caters to a range of travelers. Enjoy the local dining scene while exploring the neighborhood’s sights, including the infamous Kabukicho district. Whether you’re a foodie or simply seeking a unique cultural experience, this tour provides an intimate and personalized way to discover Tokyo’s after-dark delights.
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