Tokyo: Shinjuku Food Tour (13 Dishes and 4 Eateries)

Discover the culinary delights of Tokyo’s vibrant Shinjuku district on this immersive food tour. Led by an expert guide, you’ll savor 13 quintessential Japanese dishes from 4 hidden eateries, indulging in sashimi, tonkatsu, yakitori, and more. As you explore iconic local haunts like Golden Gai, you’ll uncover the rich history and culture that shape Shinjuku’s dynamic food scene. This gastronomic adventure promises to tantalize your taste buds and leave you with a deeper appreciation for the city’s diverse flavors.

Key Points

• This 3-hour small group activity in Shinjuku, Tokyo, includes 13 distinct Japanese dishes from 4 eateries, providing a comprehensive culinary exploration.
• The tour visits iconic Shinjuku landmarks, such as Golden Gai, Omoide Yokochō, and Kabukicho, while an expert guide shares insights into the area’s culture.
• Participants can enjoy 2 complimentary drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) and experience hidden local dining spots often missed by travelers.
• With a maximum group size of 10 participants, the tour offers a personalized and immersive cultural and culinary experience.
• The tour has an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 614 reviews, with praise for the guide’s knowledge and friendliness, as well as the unique dining experiences.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The "Tokyo: Shinjuku Food Tour" is a 3-hour small group activity that takes participants on a culinary journey through the vibrant Shinjuku district.

Priced at €86.67 per person, the tour boasts a maximum group size of 10 and is conducted in English. Guests enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the flexibility to reserve now and pay later.

The tour includes 13 distinct Japanese dishes from 4 eateries, as well as 2 complimentary drinks. An expert local guide provides insights into the area’s culture and history, creating a unique dining experience for foodies.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour starts at the Starbucks Coffee – Shinjuku Nishiguchi, where participants gather before embarking on their culinary adventure.

The group first explores Golden Gai, a captivating network of tiny bars and alleyways.

Next, they visit Omoide Yokochō, or "Memory Lane," a charming street lined with small eateries.

The tour then heads to Kabukicho, the infamous red-light district, where participants enjoy a variety of Japanese dishes, including sashimi, tonkatsu, yakitori, and takoyaki, across four different eateries.

The tour concludes back at the starting point, the Starbucks Coffee – Shinjuku Nishiguchi.

Culinary Exploration

As participants embark on the culinary tour, they’ll blend history, culture, and fun while sampling a variety of traditional Japanese dishes. From sashimi to tonkatsu and yakitori, the tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Japanese comfort food. Participants will discover hidden local dining spots often missed by travelers, providing an authentic and flavorful experience.

Dish	Description	Unique Characteristics
Sashimi	Thinly sliced raw fish	Fresh, delicate flavor
Tonkatsu	Breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet	Crispy exterior, juicy interior
Yakitori	Skewered and grilled chicken	Smoky, umami-rich flavors

The tour blends these culinary delights with insights into Shinjuku’s rich history and culture, offering a well-rounded experience for participants.

Dining Experience

Participants on the Shinjuku Food Tour can look forward to discovering hidden local dining spots often missed by travelers, where they’ll enjoy authentic and flavorful Japanese comfort food.

The tour offers a delightful culinary exploration, blending history, culture, and fun.

Some highlights of the dining experience include:

1. Savoring sashimi, a Japanese delicacy, at a specialty sushi hotel.
2. Indulging in the crispy and juicy tonkatsu, a beloved pork cutlet dish.
3. Sampling the smoky and succulent yakitori, grilled chicken skewers.
4. Trying the iconic takoyaki, bite-sized octopus dumplings.

Throughout the tour, you will also enjoy 2 complimentary drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, to complement the delectable dishes.

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Cultural Insight

While exploring the Shinjuku district, the expert English-speaking guide provides invaluable insights into the area’s rich culture and fascinating history.

Participants learn about the significance of Golden Gai, a vibrant network of narrow alleys lined with cozy bars and izakayas.

The guide also shares the backstory of Omoide Yokochō, a nostalgic food alley that evokes the post-war atmosphere of Tokyo.

In Kabukicho, the guide illuminates the district’s evolution from a sleepy residential area to a lively entertainment hub.

This culture enhances the overall culinary experience, offering a deeper appreciation for the traditions behind the delectable dishes.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

The tour has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with an impressive overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 614 reviews.

Participants have praised the knowledgeable and friendly guides, who provide valuable insights into Shinjuku’s culture and history. The tour’s value for money is also highly rated at 4.9 out of 5.

Key highlights include:

1. Exceptional guide rating of 5 out of 5
2. Delicious and filling traditional Japanese dishes
3. Unique dining experiences at hidden local spots
4. Overall satisfaction with the cultural and culinary exploration.

Important Information

To ensure a smooth experience, participants should advise the tour operator of any dietary restrictions prior to the tour.

The guide will contact participants via WhatsApp for coordination, so travelers should download the app before the tour.

The tour is promoted on the company’s Instagram account, @traveling.tokyo, which has over 160,000 followers.

This social media presence provides an opportunity for participants to connect with the tour experience and find additional information about the tour.

About the Guide

Expert English-speaking guides lead the Shinjuku Food Tour, providing valuable insights into the area’s rich culture and history.

These knowledgeable professionals:

1. Share fascinating stories about the hidden alleyways, iconic landmarks, and local dining spots.

2. Offer in-depth explanations of the dishes and culinary traditions sampled during the tour.

3. Facilitate smooth transitions between eateries, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.

4. Tailor the tour to accommodate participants’ interests and dietary needs, creating a personalized adventure.

Guests consistently praise the guides’ friendliness, expertise, and ability to immerse them in the vibrant Shinjuku neighborhood.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Food Tour?

There is no specific dress code for the tour. Casual, comfortable clothing and walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves walking between eateries. Participants should dress appropriately for the weather and their personal preferences.

Can I Bring My Own Water or Snacks on the Tour?

Participants can bring their own water and snacks on the tour. The tour provider encourages guests to stay hydrated and feel free to bring any personal items they may need during the 3-hour experience.

Are Vegetarian/Vegan Options Available for the Dishes?

The tour offers vegetarian and vegan options for the dishes. Participants should advise the tour guide of any dietary restrictions prior to the tour so they can accommodate their needs.

Can I Take Photos During the Tour?

Yes, participants are generally allowed to take photos during the tour. However, some eateries may have restrictions, so it’s best to check with the guide beforehand to ensure you can capture the experience.

Is Gratuity for the Guide Included in the Tour Price?

The tour price does not include gratuity for the guide. Participants are welcome to provide a tip at their discretion based on the quality of the service and their overall satisfaction with the experience.

The Sum Up

The Shinjuku Food Tour offers a delightful culinary journey through Tokyo’s vibrant flavors. Guests savor 13 distinct Japanese dishes from 4 hidden eateries, accompanied by 2 complimentary drinks. This gastronomic adventure provides valuable insights into Shinjuku’s culture and history, making it a memorable experience for food lovers seeking to enjoy the city’s captivating culinary scene.

You can check if your dates are available here: