Tokyo: Shinjuku Night Walking Tour & Secret Backstreets

Exploring the vibrant nightlife of Tokyo’s Shinjuku district is a must-do experience for any visitor. The "Shinjuku Night Walking Tour & Secret Backstreets" promises an immersive journey through the bustling Shinjuku Station and the transformed Kabukicho neighborhood. With knowledgeable guides leading the way, participants can uncover hidden gems, historic shrines, and unique dining options – all while navigating the secret back alleys that reveal the district’s intriguing history and contemporary character. For those seeking an unforgettable introduction to Tokyo’s dynamic urban landscape, this tour offers a captivating glimpse into the city’s after-dark delights.

Key Points

• A 1.5-hour walking tour of Shinjuku, Tokyo’s bustling station and the vibrant Kabukicho district, exploring historic alleys, hidden shrines, and local nightlife.
• Guided tour of Shinjuku Station, the world’s busiest train station, highlighting its underground shopping arcades, neon-lit signage, and cultural significance.
• Discover the transformation of Kabukicho from a red-light district to a vibrant nightlife hub, with insights into its history and cultural heritage.
• Venture into quieter backroads to uncover hidden gems, historic shrines, and intimate izakaya bars, offering a blend of history and modern culture.
• Highly rated tour for its exceptional value, knowledgeable guides, and unique experiences, including restaurant discoveries and vending machine drink sampling.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Details

This tour, titled "Tokyo: Shinjuku Night Walking Tour & Secret Backstreets," is priced from $23.37 to $24.60 per person and lasts approximately 1.5 hours.

It’s limited to 10 participants and available in English and Japanese. The tour is wheelchair accessible, and free cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Reservations can be made with a pay-later option.

Highlights include exploring Shinjuku Station, the world’s busiest, and visiting iconic spots like Omoide Yokocho, Kabukicho, and Golden Gai.

Guests will discover hidden gems, historic shrines, and unique restaurants, ending with a vending machine drink recommendation.

Explore Shinjuku Station: The Busiest Station in the World

As the tour begins, guests are introduced to Shinjuku Station, which holds the Guinness World Record as the busiest train station globally.

Handling over 3.5 million passengers daily, the station is a sprawling complex with multiple floors, interconnected tunnels, and dozens of exits.

The guide points out the station’s iconic features, like the bustling underground shopping arcades, towering skyscrapers, and neon-lit signage.

Participants learn about the station’s history, its role in Tokyo’s transportation network, and how it evolved into a hub for commerce, entertainment, and culture.

The tour then ventures into the station’s backstreets and alleyways, where the true exploration of Shinjuku begins.

Discover the Evolution of Kabukicho District

Leaving the bustling Shinjuku Station, the tour makes its way to the vibrant Kabukicho district.

Once a red-light district, Kabukicho has evolved into a thriving hub of nightlife and entertainment. The guide provides insights into the area’s transformation, highlighting its mix of neon-lit bars, restaurants, and theaters.

Guests explore the lively streets, discovering hidden gems and learning about the district’s unique cultural heritage. The tour visits the iconic Tokyu Kabukicho Tower, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the district’s past and present.

Throughout the experience, the guide shares insider tips on navigating the area and discovering its best-kept secrets.

Uncover Hidden Gems and Historic Shrines

Where the bustling streets of Kabukicho give way to quieter backroads, the tour takes guests on a discovery of hidden gems and historic shrines. Weaving through the maze-like alleys, the group encounters Omoide Yokocho, a charming postwar alleyway lined with intimate izakaya bars. Next, they visit the Tokyu Kabukicho Tower, a landmark that offers a unique perspective on the district’s transformation. The tour culminates at the serene Hanazono Shrine, a sanctuary that contrasts with the vibrant nightlife surrounding it.

Hidden Gem	Description
Omoide Yokocho	Postwar alleyway with intimate izakaya bars
Tokyu Kabukicho Tower	Landmark offering unique perspective on district’s evolution
Hanazono Shrine	Serene sanctuary amidst vibrant nightlife

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Navigating the Secret Back Alleys

Navigating the maze-like back alleys of Shinjuku, the tour guides lead guests through a hidden world of unique restaurants and clandestine establishments.

Tucked away from the main streets, these secret backstreets offer a glimpse into Tokyo’s underground culture. The guides expertly navigate the winding paths, pointing out historic shrines, dimly lit izakayas, and quirky shops.

Guests learn insider tips on finding the best local dining spots and are even treated to a vending machine drink recommended by the knowledgeable guide.

This immersive experience allows visitors to uncover Shinjuku’s lesser-known gems beyond the bustling main thoroughfares.

Experiencing Unique Restaurants and Vending Machine Drinks

As guests weave through the maze-like backstreets, the tour guides eagerly introduce them to unique local dining establishments.

From hidden yakitori joints to cozy ramen shops, these off-the-beaten-path eateries offer an authentic taste of Shinjuku’s nightlife.

Guests also get to sample a vending machine drink recommended by the knowledgeable guide, providing a refreshing respite amidst the exploration.

These insider tips and recommendations allow visitors to discover the area’s culinary gems, giving them a true feel for the local culture and traditions that make Shinjuku’s nighttime experience so captivating.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

With an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 43 reviews, the Shinjuku Night Walking Tour has earned high praise from past participants.

Reviewers applaud the knowledgeable guides who provide great local insights and help uncover hidden gems. Participants value the tour’s exceptional value for money, with a 4.6/5 rating in this category.

They highlight the discovery of unique restaurants and the chance to sample vending machine drinks recommended by the guide as particular highlights.

Preparing for the Tour: Recommendations and Meeting Point

How should one prepare for the Shinjuku Night Walking Tour?

Dress comfortably in shoes suitable for walking. Bring a raincoat or umbrella, as the weather can be unpredictable.

The meeting point is the Shinjuku Station East Exit Police Box, located at 3-38-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo. Look for a guide holding a sign labeled "Local Guide Stars."

The tour begins promptly, so arrive on time. Be ready to discover Shinjuku’s hidden gems, from iconic spots to secret backstreets.

With an experienced guide, you’ll learn about Tokyo’s vibrant nightlife and cultural heritage during this 1.5-hour adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Tour Group Size Limit?

The tour group size is limited to 10 participants. This small group size allows for a more personalized and intimate experience during the guided walking tour.

Can I Use My Credit Card for the Tour?

Yes, travelers can use their credit cards to reserve this tour. The tour offers a "Reserve now & pay later" option, allowing booking with a credit card and deferring payment until the tour date.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?

The tour does not have a minimum age requirement. Participants of all ages are welcome to join the tour, though parents or guardians are responsible for supervising any minors in their care.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on this tour. The tour is designed for pedestrian access only, and the guide cannot accommodate animals. Participants must leave their pets at home for the duration of the 1.5-hour walking tour.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Yes, photography is allowed during the tour. The tour guides encourage participants to capture the vibrant sights and unique experiences they’ll encounter throughout the evening exploration of Shinjuku’s hidden gems and cultural highlights.

The Sum Up

The Shinjuku Night Walking Tour & Secret Backstreets offers an unforgettable glimpse into Tokyo’s vibrant nightlife. Explore the bustling Shinjuku Station, discover the transformed Kabukicho District, and uncover hidden gems, historic shrines, and unique local eateries. With a stellar rating and knowledgeable guides, this tour promises an immersive experience through Tokyo’s dynamic urban landscape. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tour is not to be missed.

You can check if your dates are available here: