Shinjuku in Tokyo is a district that never sleeps and is one of the most distinctive places in the capital of Japan. This is where modern skyscrapers meet traditional temples, and neon-lit streets buzz with life both day and night. This part of the city attracts tourists from all over the world, offering countless attractions. You’ll find luxury shopping centers, charming corners filled with tiny eateries and bars, as well as expansive parks and gardens where you can take a break from the urban hustle and bustle.
Shinjuku in Tokyo is also an important business hub, with an impressive complex of skyscrapers surrounding Shinjuku Station, one of the busiest in the world. In the evenings, Shinjuku transforms into a world of neon lights and entertainment. Kabuki, karaoke, izakayas, and nightclubs create a unique atmosphere that cannot be found anywhere else. It is a place where tradition meets modernity, and every corner hides something extraordinary to discover.
Whether you’re looking for culture, cuisine, nightlife, or simply want to feel the pulse of Tokyo, Shinjuku will certainly not disappoint you. In this article, I’ll take you on a journey through this fascinating district, uncovering its most important attractions, hidden gems, and practical tips.
LOCATION OF THE SHINJUKU DISTRICT
Shinjuku is one of Tokyo’s 23 special wards and occupies the central-western part of the metropolis. Its boundaries include both the highly urbanized area around Shinjuku Station and more residential neighborhoods such as Takadanobaba and Waseda. At the very heart of the district lies the famous Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, offering a green oasis amid the urban bustle.
The term „Shinjuku” is also often used colloquially to refer specifically to the area around the station and the entertainment district, sometimes extending to neighboring areas outside the official administrative boundaries of Shinjuku Ward.
KABUKICHO – THE ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT
ON THE STREETS OF KABUKICHO
Kabukichō in the Shinjuku district is Tokyo’s most famous—and at the same time most controversial—entertainment area. It is known for its intense nightlife, neon signs, and numerous clubs and adult venues. It is here, in the very heart of Shinjuku, that you can truly feel the pulse of a city that never sleeps. Kabukichō also offers unusual attractions, such as the famous Robot Restaurant, where you can watch kitschy, futuristic shows inspired by sci-fi and Japanese anime while dining. Live music fans will find concert venues here as well, including Marz and Ashibe Hall, known for performances by rock and alternative bands.
During the day, the district reveals a different face. Visitors can try on a warrior’s armor at the Samurai Museum or explore the secrets of feudal Japan by learning silent combat techniques at the Ninja Trick House.
GODZILLA
One of the most recognizable symbols of this part of Tokyo is the monumental Godzilla. You’ll find it on the roof of the Toho shoppinh center . Towering over the area, it serves as a reminder of the district’s strong ties to Japanese pop culture and science fiction cinema.
GOLDEN GAI
Just next door is the iconic Golden Gai, which we visited with friends from Kilimanjaro. It’s a labyrinth of narrow, lantern-lit alleys lined with dozens of tiny bars, some accommodating only a handful of people. Each bar has its own character, history, and regular patrons, making Golden Gai one of the most authentic and photogenic places in Shinjuku.
NISHISHINJUKU – THE SKYSCRAPER DISTRICT
VIEWS OF THE EASTERN PART OF THE DISTRICT
Nishishinjuku represents the modern, business-oriented side of Shinjuku, primarily known for its impressive skyline of skyscrapers dominating the western part of the district. This area is home to one of Tokyo’s largest clusters of high-rises, housing corporate offices, luxury hotels, and public institutions. The contrast between futuristic architecture and the orderly, almost tranquil atmosphere makes Nishishinjuku stand out compared to the more entertainment-focused parts of Shinjuku.
TOKYO MODE GAKUEN
Tokyo Mode Gakuen is one of the most distinctive and futuristic buildings in Shinjuku, instantly catching the eye with its unusual form. The skyscraper stands out with its organic, spiral shape, resembling a cocoon or a gigantic sculpture.
“LOVE” SCULPTURE
The “LOVE” sculpture by Robert Indiana is one of the most recognizable contemporary artworks in the world. Its distinctive arrangement of four letters, with the tilted “O,” has become an icon of pop art and a symbol of universal values such as love, peace, and unity.
THE SURROUNDINGS
Among the skyscrapers, there are also modern office and commercial centers. The streets of Nishishinjuku feature wide sidewalks and carefully designed greenery, creating a welcoming space for work and relaxation. It’s also worth noticing the smaller cultural venues and galleries that complement the district’s otherwise sleek, corporate landscape.
SHINJUKU SUMITOMO BUILDING
Shinjuku Sumitomo Building is one of the most recognizable skyscrapers in Nishishinjuku. Completed in the 1970s, it was for a long time one of the tallest buildings in Japan. Today, it remains an icon of modernist architecture. The most impressive feature of the building is its enormous atrium, stretching almost to the roof—one of the largest interior spaces of its kind in Tokyo. This space is flooded with natural light and serves as a public plaza, hosting exhibitions, events, and gatherings.
NISHISHINJUKU – TOKYO METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT BUILDING
BUILDING ARCHITECTURE
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building is one of the most iconic architectural landmarks. It was designed by the renowned architect Kenzō Tange. The complex consists of two massive towers, whose form reflects a modern interpretation of a Gothic cathedral.
INTERIORS
The building serves as the headquarters of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, but it is also an important tourist attraction. Visitors can enter the interior, where you can find information about which of the towers is open to the public.
OBSERVATORY DECK
On the upper floors of both towers, there are free observation decks offering spectacular views of the entire city, and, on clear days, even Mount Fuji.
PRACTICAL INFORMATION:
- Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 10:00 PM, last entry around 9:30 PM
- The observatory is closed on the first and third Tuesday of each month (if the Tuesday is a public holiday, the closure may be moved to the following day).
- Tickets: Admission is free for all visitors.
- Access to the 45th floor is by elevator from the ground floor, with a brief security check beforehand.
EVENING MAPPING SHOWS
In the evenings, the building transforms into a massive multimedia screen, hosting spectacular 3D mapping shows. The projection themes often and regularly reflect the seasons, the history of Tokyo, digital art, and a futuristic vision of the city. The mapping shows are free of charge and take place after dark, making them one of the most striking attractions in Shinjuku. The best views are from the open spaces in front of the building as well as nearby plazas, where crowds gather. We visited the area and the observation deck in the morning, while my son went in the evening, so I can show you the building at all times of the day.
OTHER ATTRACTIONS IN THE SHINJUKU DISTRICT
As is usually the case, it’s impossible to see and explore everything in just a few days. Below is a list of other noteworthy places in the Shinjuku district:
- Ana-hachimangu Shrine
- Mount Hakone
- Ichigaya Letterpress Factory
- Shinjuku Historical Museum
- Tokyo Toy Museum
- Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
ACCOMMODATION IN TOKYO
Choosing accommodation in Tokyo mainly depends on how you want to spend your time. The city offers everything, in every district. Public transport in the city is so fantastic that it doesn’t really matter where you book your accommodation. If you decide to book accommodation in Tokyo, we recommend using the portal Booking.com , which we have used and tested dozens of times, or Agoda,, which works great in Asia (it’s worth checking both platforms).
Through any link on this page you can book accommodation with a 15% discount!
Enter the dates you’re interested in and book safely:
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