[2025 Tokyo Attraction] Travel Guide for Shinjuku Golden-Gai (Updated Jul)

The streets of Shinjuku are a treasure trove of photography. Just by taking pictures as you walk, you can capture unique scenery and the drama of people. In particular, around Shinjuku Station, the bustling people and huge buildings intersect, creating moments that truly make you feel the dynamism of the city. At night, the city is lit up with neon lights, and street photos capturing the unique atmosphere of Kabukicho and Shinjuku Golden Gai are like a scene from a movie. The contrast of light and shadow is fascinating, and you can capture a deep side of Tokyo 📸 In addition, there are spots where nature and the city blend together, such as Shinjuku Gyoen and Shinjuku Central Park. You can also capture moments of tranquility amid the hustle and bustle of the city, broadening the scope of your street photography. If you want to take photos that capture the energy of the city, Shinjuku is the perfect location! #Spring0yenTrip

If you're after fascinating places to drink, this is definitely the place to come! A little rabbit warren of alleys, filled with tiny drinking dens and bars, some reached by narrow steep staircases, it's certainly atmospheric. Very close to the bright neon lights of Shinjuku's main streets and Kabukicho. A great selection of very small bars crammed into a rabbit warren of streets. Some bars have cover charges, others do not. The ones without tend to be packed out pretty quickly. The ones with cover charges are good if you are staying for at least 2 or 3 drinks, as often the drink prices are a little less than those without a cover charge. Definitely worth a visit if you’re staying in Shinjuku, just don’t expect to it to be somewhere you can do a one-drink-in-each-place-bar-crawl. #givethanks #givethanks

#tokyospots Golden Gai isn’t just a place , it’s an experience carved into the underbelly of Tokyo's Shinjuku district. Wander down these narrow alleyways and you’ll discover over 200 tiny bars, most no bigger than a living room, each bursting with character, cigarette smoke, and charm. Some are decked out in punk rock memorabilia, others feel like vintage jazz dens, and a few remain fiercely loyal to their regulars. But smile, be curious, and the night may just welcome you in. Here, bartenders double as storytellers, strangers become drinking buddies, and the walls echo with tales from decades past. It’s loud, raw, human, a slice of Tokyo that refuses to be polished. Whether you're sipping sake with artists or sharing a quiet beer under flickering neon, Golden Gai doesn’t follow trends, it clings to history and dares you to dive in

#TokyoConquest * In an alleyway a little ways from the hustle and bustle of Shinjuku Kabukicho, you'll find the "Koganegai" that still retains the atmosphere of the Showa era. This street, which is only about 80 meters long, is lined with over 50 unique bars and izakayas, and at night it transforms into a quiet but lively space. **Sights & Recommendations** -**Private Bar "Ban"**: Enjoy cocktails and quiet conversation in a warm wooden space -**Showa-style Izakaya "Fukuchan"**: A hidden gem where you can taste homemade dishes and local alcohol -**Night View Spot**: The neon lights of Shinjuku seen from the back alley are fantastic **Access** A 5-minute walk from the east exit of Shinjuku Station. Just turn into a small alley just past Kabukicho. **Tips** The Koganegai way is to enjoy a conversation with the bar owner at the counter seat. If it's your first time visiting, ask a local for their "recommended drink." This town is perfect for adults looking for a hideaway, and has a mysterious charm where time passes slowly until late at night.

#AbsolutelyFreeTrip I've been going to Nagi for over 10 years and I love it!! 🐟 I went there for the first time in a while!! The Golden Gai store has been crowded lately, so I've been going to the Nishi-Shinjuku store, but on this day I went to Golden Gai for the first time in a while☺️ Maybe it was good time, but I was lucky enough to be able to enter without having to wait in line! The interior was really flashy, probably for foreigners lol The ramen is really No. 1 ramen😭🩵 I love the strong dried sardines!! I also love the flat noodles on top😭 It's the best ramen ever! I feel like the prices are getting more and more tourist-oriented, but it's still a favorite store that I want to go to🥰 📍2F Golden Gai (Shinjuku Golden Gai G2 Street), 1-1-10 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 6 minutes walk from the east exit of Shinjuku Station #TokyoGourmet #TokyoRamen #ShinjukuGourmet #ShinjukuRamen

Shinjuku Review – A city that is loud but often makes our hearts quiet Shinjuku is not just the center of Tokyo. But it is another world that never sleeps — Full of skyscrapers, giant LED screens, non-stop advertising Trains running in and out of the world's largest station People rush past each other without turning their heads... But strangely, I feel the most alone here. 🚉 Starting from Shinjuku Station — Big, chaotic, complicated But when walking out, I found a small ramen shop on the side of the road. The sound of slurping ramen and low wooden chairs can easily reset a tiring day. 🛍️ One side of Shinjuku is full of large department stores, clothing stores, bookstores, Don Quijote. But just turn into the alley next to it and you will find Golden Gai – a row of small bars with dim neon lights. Or if you walk a little further, you will find Shinjuku Gyoen, a large park in the middle of the city that is quiet like being in another world. ✨ Shinjuku is like a drama with many scenes in one scene. There is noise, rush, loneliness, warmth and truth It is a place where people come to “walk” but many people end up “stopping” ⸻ 🌸 Shinjuku is not just chaos But there is a rhythm that makes us say to ourselves softly “Thank you… that there is still a place like this in a world that is running too fast”

⛩️🗼Must-Visit Neighborhoods in Tokyo: 1. Shibuya The city’s iconic youth culture hub, famous for the bustling Shibuya Crossing — the world’s busiest pedestrian scramble. Great for shopping, dining, and nightlife. Don’t miss Hachiko statue and trendy stores like Shibuya 109. 2. Shinjuku Tokyo’s vibrant business and entertainment district. Visit the towering Metropolitan Government Building for free panoramic views. Explore Kabukicho’s nightlife, Golden Gai’s tiny bars, and the serene Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. 3. Harajuku The heart of quirky youth fashion and kawaii culture. Takeshita Street is packed with colorful boutiques, crepe stands, and pop culture shops. Nearby is the peaceful Meiji Shrine and the expansive Yoyogi Park. 4. Asakusa Step back in time in this historic area known for Sensō-ji, Tokyo’s oldest temple. Explore Nakamise-dori shopping street for traditional snacks and souvenirs. Great spot for rickshaw rides and river cruises. 5. Akihabara The paradise for electronics, anime, and manga fans. Dive into multi-story arcades, themed cafés (like maid cafés), and shops selling everything from the latest gadgets to rare collectibles. 6. Ginza Tokyo’s upscale shopping district, with luxury boutiques, flagship stores, and fine dining. Perfect for window shopping or splurging on designer goods. Check out the Ginza Six complex and Kabuki-za Theatre. 7. Shimokitazawa A laid-back neighborhood known for vintage shops, indie cafes, and live music venues. Ideal for a chill day exploring Tokyo’s hipster side away from the crowds. 8. Roppongi Famous for its nightlife and art scene. Visit the Mori Art Museum and Tokyo Midtown complex. At night, Roppongi is buzzing with bars, clubs, and restaurants catering to locals and expats. 9. Daikanyama A stylish and quieter area with trendy boutiques, cozy bookstores, and beautiful cafés. Known for a relaxed vibe and excellent brunch spots. 10. Odaiba A futuristic waterfront district with shopping malls, entertainment complexes, and stunning views of the Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo Bay. Popular attractions include teamLab Borderless digital art museum and the giant Gundam statue.

#TokyoItinerary #NewYearDestinations2025 #Shinjuku #Shibuya #Asakusa #Asakusa #Harajuku #trip #foodphotography 🗺️【Itinerary】 Day 1: Arrive in Shinjuku and visit Shin-Okubo Korean Town Day 2: Visit Akihabara, Japan’s anime destination Day 3: Visit Sensoji Temple and the surrounding food and scenery, and finally go to Tokyo Skytree Day 4: Go to Kabukicho Entertainment Street Day 5: Visit Harajuku Shibuya Day 6: In Shinjuku, visit a department store Day 7: Return to Hong Kong 📍【Must-see attractions】 Asakusa, Shinjuku, Shibuya, Akihabara, these places are already intoxicating with Japan's fashion, animation, and traditional historical elements. Because I have more time, I will only stay in one place for one day on this trip. But if time is not too abundant, you can compress the entire trip to four days and three nights and you can still have a complete experience. 🥘【Must-eat food】 Basically, if you go there for the first time, just try some street food and you will have a different experience. 🏠【Accommodation recommendation】 1. Universal Capsule Hotel Tokyo 2. Shinjuku Ward Office Capsule Hotel Recommended Shinjuku Global Capsule Hotel Where many Koreans live Some Koreans look like Korean stars

📍Travel introduction Tokyo trip with my wife after a long time 🚩Travel route Sensoji and Akasaka, Ginza, Daikanyama and Omotesando, Shinjuku Golden Gai, Ueno Park and finally Narita Airport 🏖️Landmarks Sensoji, Ginza building, Blue Bottle Ive Sugar Number in Daikanyama, Golden Gai 🚇Transportation Mostly by train, often by bus between train stations 💡Notes 1. Recommended hotels near Chuo-Shobu Line (JB) Station: Convenient transportation and relatively cheap 2. It is convenient if you can use the bus between trains 3. When using Don Quijote or Narita Duty Free Shop You need to check the price online: It is not as cheap as you think @ Overall - Japan is a trip that is cost-effective and comfortable, rather than a special experience

Tucked away in the heart of Shinjuku, Golden Gai is a slice of old Tokyo nightlife that feels like a secret. This maze of narrow alleyways is packed with over 200 tiny bars, each with its own quirky theme — from jazz and punk rock to horror films and literature. Most bars seat just a handful of people, creating an intimate, welcoming vibe where conversations flow as easily as the drinks. Some spots are regulars-only, but many now embrace tourists with open arms, English menus, and friendly bartenders. Drinks are reasonably priced (¥700–¥1200), though some bars charge a small cover fee. The best way to explore? Wander, peek inside, and follow your curiosity.#travel #thingstodo #tokyo #japan #goldengai

#tokyotravel Drinking whisky and sake in Tokyo offers a delightful fusion of tradition and modernity, showcasing Japan's rich beverage culture. Whisky Experience Tokyo boasts a vibrant whisky scene, with numerous bars dedicated to Japanese and international whiskies. In a stylish whisky bar, you can enjoy a carefully curated selection of premium Japanese brands like Yamazaki and Hibiki. The ambiance often features dim lighting and wooden decor, creating a cozy atmosphere. Bartenders, known for their expertise, may craft exquisite whisky cocktails or serve neat pours, highlighting the whisky's unique flavors. Tasting notes and the distillation process are often shared, enhancing the experience. Sake Experience Sake, Japan’s traditional rice wine, can be enjoyed in a variety of settings, from casual izakayas to upscale sake bars. Sampling different types of sake—such as junmai, ginjo, or daiginjo—provides insight into its diverse flavor profiles. Many establishments offer sake flights, allowing you to taste and compare. The ceremonial pouring of sake, often in beautiful ceramic cups, adds a cultural touch to the experience. Combined Experience In Tokyo, it’s common to find bars that offer both whisky and sake, allowing for a unique tasting journey. Pairing them with local delicacies, like sushi or grilled dishes, enhances the overall enjoyment, creating a memorable evening that celebrates the best of Japanese drinking culture. Whether in a trendy bar or a traditional setting, the experience is both sophisticated and deeply rooted in Japanese heritage.

Golden Gai is a part of Kabukicho, Shinjuku. More than 200 small bars are crowded together in the narrow alleys that still have traces of the postwar period, creating a unique atmosphere. Each bar has a different concept, and you can enjoy unique spaces such as bars for movie lovers, art bars, and bars for rock lovers. When you actually visit, you will feel like you have wandered into another world. Even if it is your first time, you can have a lively conversation with the bar owner and regulars over the counter, and they will kindly ask you, "Where are you from?" When I ordered a recommended cocktail, I was surprised by the authentic taste that was more than I expected. 😮 It may be a little too mature for students, but it is perfect for those looking for a relaxing place to drink or those who want to experience retro bar culture. Many bars are easy to enter even by yourself, so if you want to enjoy a deep night in Shinjuku, be sure to give it a try! #Spring0yenTrip

Go to Japan to eat, drink and have fun, relaxing picnic🇯🇵 Whether it is a family, or a couple Tokyo is definitely a very suitable place believe me😎 In Tokyo, in just a few days you can eat the best food in Japan and feel the stunning scenery of the suburbs of Japan (the key is to see Mount Fuji itself 🏔️) Even if you don't travel by car, it's very convenient to take the rail Flights from Hong Kong can also arrive in just a few hours. If you have a morning flight, you can go to the airport directly after work. Is there any excuse not to go? 🤣🤣 Itinerary Reference: Days 1️⃣, 2️⃣ can plan a tour in the city Tokyo Tower, Shibuya Observation Deck, to Sensoji Temple and more are great for taking pictures and visiting If you want to buy some specialty souvenirs, there are many different kinds of shops along Sensoji Temple I went in October, the next night to Roppongi to see the lighting, JR station out, the trees on both sides of the road are covered with romantic lights, couples must go 👩❤️👨 (In some months, there will be lights at night in Roppongi, remember to collect information before leaving🤙🏻) Then on the 3️⃣4️⃣th day we leave Lake Kawaguchi and take a bus in the Lake Kawaguchi area to various attractions to see Mount Fuji and take pictures There are three ways to get to Lake Kawaguchi, the fastest and most convenient one is to take the Tetsuya train from Shinjuku Station, without fear of traffic jams, and the route is simple After arriving at Lake Kawaguchi, Lake Kawaguchi Station has different buses to different attractions, just queue up and get there The most famous are Oishi Park and Asamajinji Temple You can see the beautiful screen of Mount Fuji🗻 Suggestions about accommodation🏠 For my day out in the city I chose to stay in Ikebukuro (a relatively quiet area). The hotel is cheap and not far from the airport and other attractions Many areas can be reached by taking the JR Yamanote Line, and those who do not have big requirements for accommodation can consider this area About food🍗🍗🍗 Whether sushi, ramen, barbecue and so on There’s really no need for special introduction in Tokyo. Many of the more prestigious and high-quality cuisine are concentrated in Ginza, with a very wide variety It is recommended to plan two to three months in advance ⚠️Notes: ⚠️ Travel in Japan, especially in Tokyo Many restaurants, or specialty accommodation inns require advance booking, the famous ones even have a chance to need to book three months to a half in advance, so remember to process in advance It is also recommended to purchase tickets for limited express trains to Lake Kawaguchi at the station two days in advance!! ️ There are not many restaurants in the evening in Lake Kawaguchi, and they close relatively early It is recommended to have dinner a little earlier Warm reminder 🥰 Wallet on the iPhone can add a watermelon card Suica (similar to Hong Kong's Octopus) after the addition can be directly recharged with a credit card, in the local can use this card to take the railway, eat, shop, etc. Very worth recommending to you in advance on the phone #TokyoItinerary #MountFuji #LakeKawaguchiTravel #Shibuyasky #TokyoTower

#favouriteitinerary Golden Gai in Tokyo is EVERYTHING! 🥂✨ This little gem is filled with tiny, cozy bars that pack a ton of character. The vibe here is super unique, with each bar having its own theme and personality. 😎 Whether you're grabbing a drink with friends or just soaking in the quirky atmosphere, it’s a must-see spot in Tokyo! 🍻💫 Trust me, you’ll never forget your night here. #GoldenGai #TokyoNightlife #HiddenGems #BarVibes #TokyoEats #DrinksWithAView #NightOut #TokyoExploration #InstaWorthy #LocalVibes

Golden Gai feels like a hidden world inside Tokyo! It’s a tiny area in Shinjuku filled with narrow alleys and over 200 tiny bars, each with its own theme and vibe. Walking through the dimly lit streets felt like stepping back into Tokyo’s past. Some bars are super quirky—I found one covered in movie posters, another that only played 80s music, and a tiny jazz bar that felt so cozy. Most bars only fit around 5-10 people, which makes it feel super intimate and unique. I met the friendliest bartender who recommended a yuzu cocktail, and it was amazing! Some places are for regulars only, but many welcome tourists, so don’t be shy to explore! If you love hidden gems, retro vibes, and meeting interesting people, Golden Gai is a must-visit. It’s the perfect place for a fun and memorable night in Tokyo!

This was an interesting experience. Over 300 tiny shanty-style bars, clubs and eateries are squeezed into this area. The vibe you can breath here is really charming, feeling the real Japanese atmosphere and coming back to the old time of which this district was built. Despite I suggest to visit one of these bars to get a beer or other drinks, I strongly recommend to avoid tourist scams as many activities charge unreasonable amount of money in addition to drink cost. Moreover, please make sure to have some cash with you as 90% of places here do not accept any electronic payment. But that is something common in Japan. #solotrip #localfood #thingstodo

My friends in Tokyo took me to an authentic bar.

#Travelingwithme 📍Shinjuku Golden Gai Shinjuku Golden Gai is about a 5-minute walk from JR Shinjuku Station or Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line Shinjuku-sanchome Station. Recently, there have been many foreign tourists, and there are quite a few foreigners when drinking at bars. There are many relatively new shops, and many shops that are easy for beginners to enter! Also, there are many people who come alone, so it's completely fine even if you're alone. My recommendations are the shops marked on the map. Top left: Bar Woods on the 2nd floor and Bar Sono on the street. These are sister shops, and the manager is very friendly, and many regulars come alone, so it's easy for new customers to enter. Also, the concession in the middle is a dark interior, but the entrance is open, so it's easy to enter and many foreigners come! Nagi at the bottom is a very famous ramen shop with a soup based on dried sardines. It features thick noodles like ichiban momen, and there are lines even late at night. Please step into this deep town! ୨୧┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈୨୧ 📝 Spot details 📍 Shinjuku Golden Gai [Access] 5 minutes walk from the East Exit of JR Shinjuku Station [Business hours] Varies by store ୨୧┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈୨୧ #Shinjuku #ShinjukuGourmet #Kabukicho #GoldenGai #Bar

📍Address: 1 Chome-1-6 Kabukicho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0021 Japan 📍Key Points It's a street that you come across a little way behind the bustling area where large buildings are built in Shinjuku. I went there to eat ramen, but there were a lot of pubs, and it becomes more lively after the sun goes down. The street itself isn't that big, but it's packed tightly together 📍Rating: 3/5 #JapanTravel #TokyoTravel

#JapanTravel #Tokyo Shinjuku's Golden Street is a bar-dense street with cute late-night diner-style bars!! It's mostly filled with Westerners and Japanese, so it feels like you're overseas! It's really cozy and has a mysterious feel to it Usually they charge a seat fee, but there are many stores that don't You can also order just alcohol and drink😃 If you come to Japan, it's a good place to drink in an exotic place I recommend visiting Golden Street👍

🇯🇵 Shinjuku Golden March 🇯🇵 I'd like to introduce you to Golden March, the most memorable place during my trip! It was a bit more difficult to enter than Omoide Yokocho It's a place where real Japanese people visit rather than tourists So if you can't speak Japanese, it might be a bit less fun,,! The owner speaks to you in English, so I think it would be good to go with that in mind! First of all, it seems that there are no side dishes It's a place where you can really have a drink while talking to customers! About 6 people can sit in the store, and we chatted for 4 hours and left!!! Golden March was the best spot to talk in Japanese with locals! It has a dangerous image, but I loved it. I got to drink and make close friends! I highly recommend it! #TokyoTravel

#Shinjuku #GoldenGai I only go there occasionally, but every time I go, I spend a lot of money😅 But it's a really interesting place.

Going to Shinjuku golden gai to have an amazing drink and cheap eats is a good choice if you are in the area. I loved the vibe of the little bars with people drinking and eating with their friends. This was an experience you cannot get elsewhere! #wintergetaway #wintergetaway