Exploring Tokyo’s vibrant nightlife can be a captivating experience. The "Night Tour of Bars and Izakayas in Shinjuku" offers an opportunity to take in the city’s iconic bar scene. From the bustling streets of Kabukicho to the cozy izakayas and the hidden gems of Golden Gai, this guided tour promises a glimpse into Shinjuku’s unique after-dark atmosphere. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Tokyo enthusiast, this tour might just unveil the city’s secrets in an unforgettable way.
Key Points
- Guided 4-hour night tour exploring bars, izakayas, and vibrant nightlife in Shinjuku, Tokyo, available in English and Spanish.
- Visits to iconic locations like Omoide Yokocho, Kabukicho, and Golden Gai, with opportunities to sample local drinks and cuisine.
- Tour priced at $72.68 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Tour includes hotel pickup, all meals and beverages, and an experienced local guide.
- Tour not suitable for children under 18 and large bags/luggage are not permitted.
Tour Overview
The tour offers a night exploration of bars and izakayas in the vibrant Shinjuku district of Tokyo.
Priced from $72.68 per person, the 4-hour private or small group tour is available in Spanish.
Wheelchair-accessible, the experience includes guided visits to Omoide Yokocho, Kabukicho, and Golden Gai.
Guests can enjoy drinks and food in a unique atmosphere, with the guide providing recommendations and tips.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance.
According to the single 5-star review, the tour guide’s ability to take participants to unique places received positive feedback.
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Itinerary Highlights
The tour begins at the meeting point in front of the silver sculpture Hanao-san next to Shinjuku Station’s East Exit.
From there, the guide takes the group on a 30-minute tour of Omoide Yokocho, also known as Memory Lane.
Next, they explore Kabukicho, the vibrant entertainment district, for 2.33 hours.
The tour then moves to Golden Gai, a unique area with small, intimate bars, where guests can sample specialty drinks for an hour.
Finally, the group returns to Shinjuku City, having experienced the lively nightlife of the area.
- Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane): 30-minute guided tour
- Kabukicho: 2.33-hour guided tour
- Golden Gai: 1-hour guided tour
- Opportunity to taste specialty drinks in Golden Gai
- Return to Shinjuku City
Exploring Kabukicho’s Vibrant Nightlife
After exploring the nostalgic alleyways of Omoide Yokocho, the tour ventures into the pulsing heart of Kabukicho, Tokyo’s vibrant entertainment district.
The guide leads participants through the neon-lit streets, pointing out the unique bars, clubs, and izakayas that dot the landscape.
Visitors get a glimpse of the lively nightlife, with the opportunity to step inside some of these establishments and sample local drinks and food.
The guide provides insider tips and recommendations, ensuring participants make the most of their time in this lively, unconventional part of the city.
Visiting Izakayas and Enjoying Drinks
Where next do the tour participants head on their Shinjuku night adventure?
The guide leads them to a series of izakayas, traditional Japanese bars known for their cozy atmosphere and wide selection of drinks and appetizers.
Participants have the opportunity to:
- Sample local sake, beer, and cocktails
- Savor classic Japanese bar snacks like edamame, yakitori, and karaage
- Observe the lively interactions between the bartenders and patrons
- Appreciate the unique decor and furnishings that give each izakaya its own character
- Engage in conversation with the friendly locals and fellow tour-goers.
Guided Tour Recommendations and Tips
Throughout the tour, the guide provides valuable recommendations and tips to help participants make the most of their Shinjuku night adventure.
The guide’s expertise ensures visitors discover the hidden gems of the area, from cozy izakayas serving specialty drinks to lively bars in Golden Gai. Participants receive insider knowledge on the best spots to sample Japanese cuisine and beverages.
The guide also offers suggestions on continuing the evening’s festivities, guiding guests to other popular nightlife destinations in the neighborhood.
With the guide’s assistance, travelers can immerse themselves fully in Shinjuku’s vibrant nocturnal atmosphere.
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Tasting Specialty Drinks in Golden Gai
A highlight of the Shinjuku night tour is the opportunity to sample specialty drinks in Golden Gai’s intimate bars.
Visitors can taste a variety of Japanese drinks, including:
- Sake – Japan’s national alcoholic beverage, available in diverse flavors and grades
- Shochu – a distilled spirit with a lower alcohol content than whisky
- Craft cocktails – expertly mixed drinks featuring unique local ingredients
- Beer – from classic Japanese lagers to experimental microbrews
- Umeshu – a sweet plum wine that’s popular as an after-dinner digestif
The small, cozy bars in Golden Gai provide an authentic setting to take in Japanese drinking culture.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour package includes a 4-hour guided experience in Spanish, hotel pickup if selected, and all meals and beverages during the tour.
It excludes transportation to Shinjuku, as the meeting point is at the Shinjuku Station East Exit.
The tour isn’t suitable for children under 18 years old, and large bags or luggage aren’t allowed.
Travelers should keep in mind these inclusions and exclusions when booking the tour to ensure it meets their needs and expectations.
Customer Feedback
How does the tour’s customer feedback look? Based on a single review, the night tour of bars and izakayas in Shinjuku has earned a perfect 5/5 rating.
The review highlights the guide’s ability to take participants to unique places, providing a positive overall experience.
The tour seems to offer:
- Vibrant nightlife exploration in Kabukicho
- Opportunity to visit and enjoy drinks at izakayas
- Guided recommendations and tips for further enjoyment
- Chance to sample specialty drinks in Golden Gai’s small bars
- Wheelchair accessibility and free cancellation policy
FAQ
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t specify a dress code, but participants should wear comfortable, casual attire suitable for a night out exploring bars and izakayas. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as the tour involves walking through the lively Shinjuku neighborhood.
Are Food Allergies or Dietary Restrictions Accommodated?
The tour accommodates food allergies and dietary restrictions. Participants should inform the guide of any special requirements upon booking, and the guide will work to ensure their needs are met during the experience.
Can the Tour Be Customized for Specific Interests?
The tour can be customized to accommodate specific interests. Guests can discuss their preferences with the tour guide, who can then tailor the experience to ensure they visit places aligned with their interests.
How Do I Get to the Meeting Point From My Hotel?
To get to the meeting point from your hotel, the tour operator provides hotel pickup if you select that option. Otherwise, you’ll need to travel to the specified meeting point at Shinjuku Station’s East Exit on your own.
What Is the Average Group Size for the Tour?
The tour offers both private and small group options. According to the details, the group size is flexible, allowing guests to choose between a private experience or a small group tour for their night exploration of Shinjuku’s bars and izakayas.
Sum Up
The "Night Tour of Bars and Izakayas in Shinjuku" offers a unique opportunity to take in Tokyo’s vibrant nightlife. Participants can explore iconic neighborhoods, sample local drinks and snacks, and gain insights into the city’s bar culture. With an English and Spanish-speaking guide, this 4-hour tour provides a memorable experience for those seeking to discover Shinjuku’s lively after-dark atmosphere.
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