Things to Do in Shinjuku – Top Recommendations on Reddit

One of the must-see sites in Tokyo is Shinjuku, which is renowned as one of the city’s top entertainment districts. The area is known as Tokyo’s largest red light district and offers a luxurious nightlife adorned with colorful neon lights.

The Shinjuku region offers a variety of amusements and attractions where tourists may play, dine, and shop until quite late at night.

In this post, we’re going to include things to do in Shinjuku – top recommendations on Reddit, along with the greatest photo places, a vintage Izakaya lane, and some current trends.

Let’s find out with us!

10 Things to do in Shinjuku – Top recommendations on Reddit

1. Neon Wonderland of Kabukicho

Step into Kabukicho’s vibrant realm, known for its dazzling lights, energetic ambiance, and unique entertainment. Explore themed cafes like the Robot Restaurant, where giant robots and performers create a surreal show. Discover hidden gems like the Samurai Museum, offering a glimpse into Japan’s warrior past.

• Address: Kabukicho, Shinjuku, Tokyo
• Prices: Entry fees to specific attractions vary. Robot Restaurant show tickets start around 8,000 yen ∼ $56,18 per person.

2. Hanazono Shrine’s Tranquil Retreat

Find solace at Hanazono Shrine, where you can immerse yourself in traditional rituals, such as writing wishes on ema (wooden plaques) or trying omikuji (fortune-telling paper strips). Join locals during festivals like Tori-no-ichi, where vibrant market stalls offer lucky charms and delicious street food.

• Address: 5-17-3 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo
• Prices: Free admission to the shrine. Festival and event participation might have additional costs.

3. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Wander through Shinjuku Gyoen’s meticulously designed gardens. Admire the cherry blossoms in spring, relax by serene ponds, and enjoy a picturesque landscape that varies from Japanese traditional to European styles. A perfect spot for a leisurely picnic or a contemplative stroll.

• Address: 11 Naito-machi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
• Prices: 500 yen ∼ $3,51 for adults, 250 yen ∼ $1,76 for students and children.

4. High-rise Views at Government Building

Ascend to the observation decks of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for panoramic views. Gaze upon Tokyo’s skyline, including iconic landmarks like Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree. The observation decks are free to enter and provide breathtaking vistas day and night.

• Address: 2-8-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo
• Prices: Free admission to the observation decks.

5. Robot Restaurant Extravaganza

Immerse yourself in a sensory overload at the Robot Restaurant. Witness dazzling performances featuring robots, lasers, and eccentric costumes in a theatrical spectacle that defies imagination. This unique experience combines technology and artistry for an unforgettable show.

• Address: 1-7-1 Kabukicho, Shinjuku, Tokyo
• Prices: Show tickets start around 8,000 yen ∼ $56,18 per person.

6. Culinary Exploration in Omoide Yokocho

Dive into Omoide Yokocho’s nostalgic charm, where tiny restaurants and stalls offer a taste of traditional Japanese street food. Indulge in yakitori, grilled skewers, or savor local delicacies like motsunabe (offal hot pot). Engage in conversations with friendly locals and fellow travelers in this atmospheric alley.

• Address: 1-2 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo
• Prices: Costs vary depending on food and drink choices.

7. Hidden Gems of Golden Gai

Roam the narrow alleyways of Golden Gai, a collection of over 200 compact bars. Each bar has its own theme, from jazz music to horror films. Engage with locals and enjoy intimate conversations, making new friends in this authentic drinking haven.

• Address: 1-1 Kabukicho, Shinjuku, Tokyo
• Prices: Each bar has its own pricing for food and drinks.

8. Shopping Spree at Shinjuku Takashimaya

Embark on a shopping adventure at Shinjuku Takashimaya, a renowned department store. Explore a wide range of fashion brands, cosmetics, and accessories across multiple floors. Don’t miss the basement-level gourmet food market, offering delectable Japanese and international treats.

• Address: 5-24-2 Sendagaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
• Prices: Varies based on shopping preferences.

9. Kawaii Culture at Taito Station

Immerse yourself in Japan’s kawaii (cute) culture at Taito Station. Test your skills at claw machines to win adorable plush toys or challenge yourself with a variety of arcade games, from rhythm games to classic favorites like Pac-Man.

• Address: 1-10-5 Kabukicho, Shinjuku, Tokyo
• Prices: Varies depending on games played, but budget around 1,000 yen ∼ $7,02 for an hour of gaming.

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10. Cinematic Magic at Toho Cinemas

Experience the cinematic world at Toho Cinemas Shinjuku. Watch the latest blockbuster films or indulge in classic Japanese movies in state-of-the-art theaters. Immerse yourself in the art of storytelling and enjoy a comfortable movie-watching experience.

• Address: 3-14-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo
• Prices: Movie ticket prices vary based on movie and showtime, but average around 1,800 ∼ $12,64 to 2,000 yen ∼ $14,04 .

6 Things You Didn’t Know About Shinjuku

1. The busiest railway station in the world is in Shinjuku.

The busiest railway station in the world, according to the Guinness Book of World Records, is Shinjuku Station in Tokyo, where 3.4 million people use six different train companies that run across 12 different lines every day.

There are 200 access and exit ports to this beehive-like railway station because all those passengers need a route in and out. If that weren’t enough, the number of passengers increases to 5.2 million when you include Takadanobaba, Yotsuya, Iidabashi, and Ichigaya, the other four major railway stations in Shinjuku City (also known as Shinjuku-ku in Japanese).

Here’re top 3 stations situated if Shinjuku is the busiest station in the world.They all happen to be on the same Yamanote rail line and only a short journey from Shinjuku. At Ikebukuro station, the No. 2 is simply four stops to the north. The loop will take you to No. 3 Tokyo station after another 12 stops (or around 20 minutes).

2. Basic informations about Shinjuku

The first Shinjuku Tourist Information Center is the only place to go if you’re seeking for anything fresh to see. It serves as a one-stop shop for organizing your visit’s activities and schedule. The center is skillfully hidden beneath the main road that runs between Shinjuku Station’s east and west sides, right outside the JR South East Exit, just down the stairs.

You can discover all you need right here to plan your vacation. guides and brochures for well-known locations, ATMs that exchange currencies, and lockers to store all the belongings you won’t need during the daytime.

3. Shinjuku has the most restaurants

They must eventually become hungry with all the people who travel through Shinjuku every day. To assist them, Shinjuku has the most food places (5, 795) out of Tokyo’s 23 wards. And don’t worry if you enjoy fine cuisine; Shinjuku is home to 18 Michelin-starred establishments. It’s common knowledge that Shinjuku Nakajima is the world’s least expensive Michelin-starred eatery.

The line typically snakes up from the basement and out to the street, but if you time it correctly, you won’t have to wait too long. Once there, a complete set meal costs only 800 yen ∼ $5,62. It’s true that you can have lunch at a Michelin-starred establishment for about $10!

Many tourists to Tokyo are also unaware that Shinjuku City extends all the way to Iidabashi, home to the hip and very Japanese Kagurazaka district. For as low as 1,850 yen ∼ $12,99, you can eat a three-course French lunch in a real bouchon (casual restaurant) at Lugdunum Bouchon Lyonnais.

4. The biggest collection of skyscrapers

Many of Tokyo’s tallest skyscrapers climb up into the skyline to the west of the station. Over two dozen of the city’s tallest buildings can be found in the “skyscraper district,” including the Metropolitan Government Office’s twin towers, whose observation decks on the 45th floor (202-meters high) are free to the public.

Visitors can also find several upscale hotels there, including the Hilton, Hyatt Regency, Keio Plaza, and Park Hyatt (which was featured in the movie Lost in Translation). The biggest pendulum clock in the world is located at the foot of the Shinjuku NS building for people who want to keep their feet on the ground. The unique construction of the clock results in only one hand that completes one full rotation every 24 hours.

5. Over $10 billion is spent annually by consumers in stores.

Shinjuku enterprises make over 1.1 trillion yen worth of purchases annually, or slightly over US $10 billion. That amounts to roughly $28 million every day! Where the station stops and the rest of the city begins is one of the main problems you’ll encounter in the Shinjuku station region. But don’t worry, you’ll find it wonderfully convenient as you navigate the linked Metro Promenade and Subnade retail districts that connect Shinjuku and Shinjuku Sanchome stations.

For those days when the weather isn’t so cooperative, you’ll discover a seemingly limitless variety of shops and bigger businesses like Bic Camera, all with convenient access from beneath.

6. 10% of residents are from other countries.

More over 10% of Shinjuku’s 328,000 people are foreign-born, making it the neighborhood in Tokyo with the greatest international population. The non-Japanese population of Shinjuku is about 35,000 people, with the top three being China, Korea, and Vietnam.

A remarkable development given that there were just 5,000 non-Japanese people living in Shinjuku overall in 1980. Today, that figure is five times higher: approximately 25,000 of Shinjuku City’s residents are from China and Korea. The biggest concentration of French and Nepali people living in Japan is also in Shinjuku.

Shinjuku has approximately three times the population density of the rest of Tokyo Prefecture, with 18,000 people living there per square kilometer compared to just over 6,000 people living there per square kilometer throughout the whole prefecture.

FAQs

1. What is Shinjuku best known for?

Shinjuku is well recognized for its collection of high-rise structures and its nightlife sector, which is home to several eateries and bars. Hanazono Shrine, an ancient sacred Shinto shrine, is located in the heart of the bustling town.

2. Which is better, Shinjuku or Shibuya?

Budget tourists and those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere frequently visit Shibuya, while those seeking luxury hotels and fine meals frequently head to Shinjuku.

3. Is Shinjuku a good place to live?

Rent in Shinjuku is expensive due to its central location in Tokyo, but residents enjoy the obvious benefit of having a wide variety of entertainment and food options nearby, which can be reached on foot or by short bicycle rides. Mt. Fuji may be reached easily from the enormous Shinjuku Station.

4. What is the most well-known street in Shinjuku?

The most photographed street in Tokyo is Omoide Yokocho in Shinjuku. The Omoide Yokocho is a well-known location for photographers because of its congested lanes and izakaya smoke.

5. Is East or West Shinjuku better?

On the east side of Shinjuku Station, you’ll find all the neon lights, people, eateries, and bars you associate with contemporary Tokyo (along with a pretty seedy entertainment area called Kabukicho), while on the west side, you’ll find some of the tallest high-rise structures in the city, as well as offices for the government.

6. What makes Shinjuku worth visiting?

One of Tokyo’s most well-known neighborhoods is Shinjuku, and for good reason. For everyone visiting Tokyo for the first time, Shinjuku is a must-visit neighborhood. It is home to iconic skyscrapers, distinctive stores and restaurants, small lanes brimming with bars, and much more.

Conclusion

In conclusion, things to do in Shinjuku – top recommendation on Reddit offers an enriching and memorable adventure. You’ve uncovered hidden gems, savored local delights, and experienced the district’s dynamic charm. Whether you’ve checked off every spot or left a few for next time, your Shinjuku journey is a testament to the magic of shared insights.

As you reminisce about your time here, remember that Shinjuku’s allure is ever-evolving, ready to welcome you back for more unforgettable moments. Cheers to your Shinjuku exploration and the exciting travels that lie ahead!