Exploring the Heart of Tokyo: Shinjuku

The 2019 crime statistics reported by the Metropolitan Police Department of Tokyo highlight Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, and Shibuya as the top three areas with relatively higher crime rates in Tokyo. These areas include well-known districts such as Shinjuku Kabukicho, Ikebukuro’s “West Gate” Park, and Shibuya Center Street.

While Shinjuku is famous for its bustling entertainment hub, Kabukicho, the district boasts a plethora of dining options and bars that are equally worth exploring. In addition, Shinjuku offers a diverse range of cafes, from those with a serene ambiance to others with innovative and unique concepts.

There are several family-friendly attractions and activities to enjoy:
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden: This beautiful garden offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, making it an ideal place for a family picnic and leisurely strolls.
Ghibli Museum: Explore the world of Studio Ghibli, a renowned animation studio. It’s a magical place for both kids and adults, featuring interactive exhibits and a charming atmosphere.
Tokyo Toy Museum: Kids can immerse themselves in a world of toys from different cultures and eras. It’s an educational and entertaining experience.
The Tokyo Fire Museum: Learn about the history of firefighting in Japan through interactive displays and activities. It’s a unique and educational experience for children.
Ichigaya Fishing Center: Kids can enjoy fishing in a peaceful environment. It’s a great opportunity for them to try their hand at fishing.
These attractions offer a mix of entertainment, culture, and outdoor experiences suitable for families with children visiting Shinjuku.

If you’re a foreigner looking for bars in Shinjuku, Tokyo, here are some recommendations:
Kurand Sake Market: This is an izakaya in Shinjuku that’s worth checking out. Izakayas are Japanese pubs with a variety of drinks and dishes. You can enjoy different types of sake here.
Albatross: Located in the Golden Gai area of Shinjuku, Albatross is known for its unique ambiance. It’s a popular spot among foreigners for its cozy atmosphere and creative cocktails.
Two Dogs Taproom: While not in Shinjuku but in Roppongi, Two Dogs Taproom is a foreigner-friendly bar with a great selection of craft beers. It’s a relaxed place to unwind.
Golden Gai: Explore the Golden Gai area, a collection of small, unique bars in the heart of Shinjuku. It’s known for its narrow alleyways and diverse bar options, making it an exciting place for bar-hopping.
Remember, when visiting clubs or bars in Japan, some places might require you to show your passport, so it’s a good idea to carry it with you.

Shinjuku is a popular area to stay in Tokyo, and whether it’s a good place for you depends on your preferences and needs. Here are some considerations:https://airashijapan.com/20-best-budget-hotels-tokyo/https://airashijapan.com/20-best-budget-hotels-tokyo/https://airashijapan.com/20-best-budget-hotels-tokyo/https://airashijapan.com/japanese-temples-senso-ji-nakamise-shopping-street/
Accessibility: Shinjuku is known for its excellent transportation connections, particularly via Shinjuku Station, making it easy to explore Tokyo and beyond.
Affordability: It’s relatively affordable compared to some other areas in Tokyo, making it a practical choice for travelers on a budget.
Diverse Accommodation Options: Shinjuku offers a wide range of hotels, from luxury to budget, giving you choices that suit your budget and style.
Shopping and Entertainment: The area around Shinjuku Station is great for shopping, dining, and entertainment, with an array of restaurants, bars, and shops. Kabukicho and Golden Gai are nearby and offer vibrant nightlife options.
Local Experience: If you’re looking for a more authentic local experience, you might consider other areas in Tokyo like Kagurazaka, which offers a different vibe and charm within Shinjuku.
In summary, Shinjuku is a good place to stay in Tokyo, especially for first-timers. It provides accessibility, affordability, and a wide range of accommodation and entertainment options. However, your specific preferences and interests may influence your decision, so consider your priorities when choosing where to stay in Tokyo.

Shinjuku City in Tokyo offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors to explore. Here are the top things to do in Shinjuku:
Kabukicho : Known as the entertainment and red-light district, Kabukicho is famous for its nightlife, bars, restaurants, and entertainment options. It’s a vibrant and energetic area to explore in the evening.
Robot Restaurant/Samurai Restaurant : Experience the unique and eccentric Robot Restaurant or Samurai Restaurant for an unforgettable dining and entertainment experience.
Tokyu Kabukicho Tower :This skyscraper offers fantastic views of the city from its observation deck. It’s a great spot for panoramic photos of Tokyo.
Golden Gai : A historic area filled with tiny bars, Golden Gai provides a glimpse into the past. You can explore the narrow alleyways and enjoy a drink in one of the cozy bars.
Omoide Yokocho : Also known as “Memory Lane” or “Piss Alley,” it’s a nostalgic area with small eateries serving yakitori and other local dishes.
Izakaya Hopping: Try out the traditional Japanese pub experience by hopping from one Izakaya to another and enjoying a variety of food and drinks.
inSPYre: If you’re into immersive experiences, visit inSPYre, a spy-themed attraction in Kabukicho, offering visitors a chance to play the role of a secret agent.
Explore Parks and Gardens: Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden and Shinjuku Central Park offer peaceful retreats from the bustling city.
Shopping: Visit the large department stores like Isetan and Takashimaya for shopping, and explore the shopping streets in Shinjuku.
Dine on Japanese Cuisine: Shinjuku is known for its diverse culinary scene. Try traditional Japanese dishes at local restaurants and street food in the area.
These are just a few of the many attractions and activities you can enjoy in Shinjuku City. It’s a diverse and exciting district that caters to a wide range of interests.

Yes, the red light district in Tokyo is located in the Shinjuku ward, specifically in an area called Kabukichō. It is often described as the biggest red-light district in Tokyo, known for its vibrant nightlife, entertainment, and adult-oriented businesses. While it may have a reputation as a red-light district, Kabukichō offers various experiences and attractions beyond that, including bars, restaurants, and entertainment options. It’s worth noting that during the daytime, it’s a place that can be visited by anyone, not limited to adult activities.

Ramen.
Tempura.
Tonkatsu.
Horumonyaki.
Yakitori.
Sushi.
Udon.

Shinjuku’s Omoide Yokocho, also known as “Memory Lane” or “Piss Alley,” is indeed a well-loved destination for Japanese businessmen and locals alike. This atmospheric alleyway is nestled in the bustling Shinjuku district of Tokyo and is a perfect place for people to unwind and socialize after a long and exhausting day at work.

There are virtually no “off-limits” areas in Tokyo, including the famous red-light district of Kabukicho in Shinjuku. Nowadays, Kabukicho sees a steady stream of tourists, and the incidence of crime targeting visitors is minimal. The primary factor that might lead to trouble is if an individual actively seeks out trouble themselves.

Shinjuku is generally safe for visitors, but there are some considerations to keep in mind:
Safety in Shinjuku: According to various sources, Shinjuku is considered safe for tourists. Incidents are relatively low, but like any major city, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic safety precautions.
Nighttime Safety: Walking in Shinjuku at night is usually safe. While crime rates are generally low, it’s advisable to stay in well-lit areas and avoid isolated streets, as you would in any urban area.
Kabukicho Area: There is an area within Shinjuku called Kabukicho, known for its nightlife and entertainment. It’s where a majority of the area’s crimes occur, so exercise caution in this specific district.
Yakuza: Reports suggest that you’re unlikely to have trouble with the Yakuza unless you engage in illegal activities like the purchase of sex or drugs without payment.
In summary, Shinjuku is a safe place for tourists, but like in any city, it’s wise to stay vigilant, especially at night, and avoid isolated areas. Kabukicho is a notable district with slightly higher crime rates, so exercise extra caution in this specific area.

In Shinjuku, as well as in all of Japan, tap water is safe to drink. The water quality is high, and it meets potable water standards, so you can confidently consume tap water without any concerns about its safety. However, it’s worth noting that while it is safe, some individuals may find that the taste of tap water in Japan may not be to their liking. For drinking purposes, you might consider using a water filter if you prefer improved taste.

Robot Restaurant: Visit the famous Robot Restaurant for an out-of-this-world experience with flashy robots, neon lights, and an electrifying show. It’s a surreal and entertaining spectacle.
Museum of Parasites: For those with a taste for the bizarre, the Meguro Parasitological Museum, not far from Shinjuku, is a place to explore the world of parasites through various exhibits and displays.