The Best Things to Do and See in Shinjuku, Tokyo
Heading to Shinjuku for the first time? Tokyo’s colourful district is well-known for its shopping and intimate nightlife, but the busy district has something for every type of traveller. These are the top things to do and see in Tokyo‘s Shinjuku district.
Home to the busiest train station in the world, the technicolour Robot Restaurant, and a myriad of great bars and eateries, Shinjuku has become one of the most popular neighbourhoods for nightlife in the city. It’s certainly a popular destination for the city’s young professionals looking to hunker down with a drink, but it’s also a tried-and-true hotspot for tourists hoping to uncover the beating heart of the city.
The centre of the ward can be found just outside Shinjuku Station and can easily be explored entirely on foot. We’ve put together a guide to help you make the most of your time in this unforgettable neighbourhood.
1. Ascend to the top of the Park Hyatt Tokyo for drinks in the sky
Suite Hotel
The architecture of the Park Hyatt Tokyo is in and of itself a sight to see – but take a series of lifts to the 52nd floor and you’ll find floor-to-ceiling glass windows that offer some of the most breathtaking views in all of Tokyo. While you might recognise the New York Bar from Sofia Coppola’s Lost in Translation, the creative cocktails and vast array of wines alone are worth a visit.
2. Go window shopping at Daikokuya
Shop
If you’re looking for a high-end handbag or accessory to commemorate your time in Tokyo, you could take to the shopping streets of Roppongi or Ginza, but we recommend heading to the vintage shops scattered around the city, like Daikokuya Inc in Shinjuku. Founded in 1947, this second-hand boutique chain has made a name for itself for its abundance of rare and vintage authentic brand-name products, including Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Supreme and Comme des Garçons. There are 26 stores across Japan, but the Shinjuku location often has the best selection.
3. Sing your heart out at one of the district's many karaoke bars
Bar, Nightclub, Pub Grub, Japanese
4. Enjoy a live jazz show at Shinjuku Pit Inn
Music Venue
This world-class venue is widely regarded as Japan’s most important jazz club – and for good reason. The original Pit Inn opened in 1966 and has been hosting local and international jazz musicians ever since. Unlike most modern jazz clubs, this subterranean spot zeros in on the music by facing all bar stools and chairs toward the stage – to encourage patrons to enjoy the show rather than making conversation.
5. Get lost in the organised chaos of Don Quijote
Store
6. Mull over fine art, science and history at one of Shinjuku's world-class museums
Art Gallery, Museum, Shop
While Shinjuku may not be widely known as an arts and culture district, it’s actually home to a handful of renowned museums and galleries. A visit to the Yayoi Kusama Museum is a must – but make sure to book, as the contemporary art gallery usually sells out weeks in advance. The Samurai Museum is also worth ducking into – at the intersection of historic and interactive, here you’ll learn all about the ancient military nobles while engaging in workshops and even sword battles.
7. Spend the evening getting lost in the narrow passageways of Golden Gai
Architectural Landmark
8. Rediscover nature at Shinjuku Gyoen (Shinjuku National Garden)
Park
9. Explore the technicolour whimsy of the Kabukicho entertainment district
Store
10. Commute to Shin-Okubo for shopping, K-pop and Korean barbecue
Market
11. Take in the views at the top of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
Building
12. Spend the day at Toyama Park – the city’s most popular cherry blossom viewing spot
Park
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