【2025】Carefully Selected! Top 8 Popular Sightseeing & Outing Spots in Shinjuku

The Cutting-Edge Shinjuku! Too Many Attractions to Choose From? If you’re planning a visit to Shinjuku but feel overwhelmed by too many options, we’ve got you covered! We have carefully selected 8 must-visit spots to help you make the most of your trip. We’ve also included admission fees and official website links, so be sure to use this guide to plan your perfect Shinjuku adventure!

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With years of experience, I share in-depth and detailed information about Japan with the world.
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1. Shinjuku Gyoen

Shinjuku Gyoen is a beautiful garden in the heart of Tokyo, offering a vast natural space despite being in the city center. It features a blend of Japanese, French, and English landscape gardens, making it a perfect spot to enjoy seasonal flowers and autumn foliage. The cherry blossom season in spring is particularly popular, attracting many visitors. This tranquil retreat is ideal for escaping the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoying a relaxing time.

Address	11 Naito-machi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Opening Hours	9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last entry at 4:30 PM)
Closed	Mondays (or the following weekday if Monday is a public holiday), New Year holidays (Dec 29 – Jan 3)
Admission Fee	Adults ¥500, Elementary & Junior High School Students ¥250, Free for infants
Phone Number	03-3350-0151
Official Website	https://www.env.go.jp/garden/shinjukugyoen/

2. Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observatory

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observatory offers a free panoramic view of Tokyo, including the Shinjuku skyline and, on clear days, Mount Fuji. There are two observation decks, the South Observatory and the North Observatory, both standing at 202 meters high. It is also a popular night view spot. The observatory features a café and souvenir shop, making it a great place to take a break while sightseeing. This is one of Tokyo’s best free scenic spots!

Address	2-8-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Opening Hours	9:30 AM – 10:00 PM (Last entry at 9:30 PM)
Closed	South Observatory: 1st & 3rd Tuesday North Observatory: 2nd & 4th Monday (Closed the following day if it falls on a public holiday)
Admission Fee	Free
Phone Number	03-5321-1111
Official Website	https://www.yokoso.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/tenbou/index.html

3. Kabukicho

Kabukicho is Tokyo’s largest entertainment district, famous for its neon-lit streets and vibrant nightlife. The area is packed with izakayas, bars, clubs, karaoke spots, and game centers, making it a great place to enjoy the city after dark. Popular attractions include the "Godzilla Head" and the "Robot Restaurant", known for its dazzling performances. However, be cautious of street touts and scams, and it’s best to research in advance to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Address	Around 1-Chome, Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Opening Hours	Varies by establishment (Nightlife spots generally operate from around 6:00 PM to early morning)
Closed	None (Varies by establishment)
Admission Fee	Free (Some venues charge an entry fee)
Phone Number	Not available (Varies by establishment)
Official Website	https://www.kabukicho.or.jp/

4. Golden Gai

Kabukicho is Tokyo’s largest entertainment district, famous for its neon-lit streets and vibrant nightlife. The area is packed with izakayas, bars, clubs, karaoke spots, and game centers, making it a great place to enjoy the city after dark. Popular attractions include the "Godzilla Head" and the "Robot Restaurant", known for its dazzling performances. However, be cautious of street touts and scams, and it’s best to research in advance to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Address	Around 1-Chome, Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Opening Hours	Varies by establishment (Nightlife spots generally operate from around 6:00 PM to early morning)
Closed	None (Varies by establishment)
Admission Fee	Free (Some venues charge an entry fee)
Phone Number	Not available (Varies by establishment)
Official Website	https://www.kabukicho.or.jp/

5. Omoide Yokocho

Omoide Yokocho is a retro-style drinking alley that retains the charm of Showa-era Tokyo. This gourmet hotspot features narrow alleys lined with small stalls serving yakitori, motsuyaki (grilled offal), ramen, and more. It attracts both locals and tourists, offering an affordable way to experience authentic Japanese izakaya culture. The area is particularly famous for yakitori and horumon (offal) dishes, making it the perfect place to enjoy traditional Japanese food with a drink.

Address	Around 1-2 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Opening Hours	Varies by establishment (Most open from 5:00 PM to midnight)
Closed	None (Varies by establishment)
Admission Fee	Free (Food and drinks are charged per establishment)
Phone Number	Not available (Varies by establishment)
Official Website	https://www.shinjuku-omoide.com/

6. Samurai Museum

Samurai Museum Shinjuku is an interactive museum where visitors can deeply explore Japan’s samurai culture. It features authentic samurai armor and swords, some of which can be tried on. The museum also offers samurai armor-wearing experiences and live sword-fighting performances, making it a great place to immerse yourself in samurai traditions. English-guided tours are available, making it an accessible and engaging experience for international visitors.

Address	2-25-6 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Opening Hours	10:30 AM – 9:00 PM (Last entry at 8:30 PM)
Closed	Open daily (subject to temporary closures)
Admission Fee	Adults ¥1,900 / Children (3–12 years) ¥800 / Free for children under 3
Phone Number	03-6457-6411
Official Website	https://www.samuraimuseum.jp/

7. Isetan Shinjuku

Isetan Shinjuku is one of Japan’s most prestigious department stores, renowned for its high-end fashion and gourmet selection. It offers a wide range of luxury brands from both Japan and abroad, making it a prime shopping destination. The basement food hall ("depachika") is particularly popular, featuring Japanese high-end sweets, bento boxes, and traditional wagashi. This department store is highly recommended for travelers seeking a premium shopping experience in Tokyo.

Address	3-14-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Opening Hours	10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Restaurants: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM)
Closed	Irregular holidays (Check official website for updates)
Admission Fee	Free (Charges apply based on purchases)
Phone Number	03-3352-1111
Official Website	https://www.isetan.mistore.jp/shinjuku.html

8. Robot Restaurant

Robot Restaurant is an entertainment venue featuring giant robots, dazzling neon lights, and futuristic performances by dancers. The show combines music, laser lights, and high-energy robot action, making it a favorite among international visitors. This one-of-a-kind experience immerses guests in a sci-fi world, offering a unique spectacle that can only be found in Shinjuku.

⚠️ Currently Temporarily Closed (Please check official sources before visiting)
Address	1-7-1 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Opening Hours	4:00 PM – 11:00 PM (Varies depending on show schedule)
Closed	Irregular holidays (Check official website for updates)
Admission Fee	From ¥8,000 (Show only), meal-inclusive plans available
Phone Number	03-3200-5500
Official Website	https://www.shinjuku-robot.com/

 

How Did You Enjoy the Article? Shinjuku is an incredible city with so much to offer! I hope you have a wonderful trip and make unforgettable memories. If my site has helped you plan your journey, that makes me truly happy. Enjoy your adventure in Shinjuku!