How to Plan a Shinjuku Drinks and Neon Nightlife Tour in Tokyo

If you are looking for a unique experience in Tokyo, then the Shinjuku Drinks and Neon Nightlife Tour might be the perfect choice for you. This tour will take you to some of the most vibrant and exciting areas of the city, where you can enjoy delicious drinks, snacks, and explore the local culture. In this guide, we will tell you how to plan and book this amazing tour.

Choose the Best Time to Book

Firstly, you need to decide when you want to do the tour. The Shinjuku Drinks and Neon Nightlife Tour operates daily, and it starts from 6 PM. The tour lasts for 2.5 hours, and it covers various parts of Shinjuku. It is recommended to book ahead of time, especially if you want to secure your spot on the tour during peak periods such as weekends and holidays.

Find a Reliable Tour Operator

The Shinjuku Drinks and Neon Nightlife Tour is operated by a third-party company, and you can book it on GetYourGuide website using this link: book the tour here. This is a carbon-neutral tour, and it’s led by an eco-certified tour operator. You can rest assured that you are getting a reliable, safe, and sustainable experience.

Pack Accordingly

Before you go on the tour, make sure to pack accordingly. The tour involves a lot of walking, so you need to wear comfortable shoes. The weather in Tokyo can be unpredictable, so bring an umbrella or raincoat if needed. Also, make sure to bring a camera or a smartphone to capture the beautiful neon lights of Shinjuku.

Highlights of the Tour

The Shinjuku Drinks and Neon Nightlife Tour promises to be an unforgettable experience. Here are some of the highlights of the tour:

Enjoy Happy Hour at a Japanese Izakaya-style Eatery

The tour starts at a local izakaya-style eatery, where you can enjoy happy hour specials on drinks and snacks. Izakaya is a type of Japanese bar that serves tapas-style dishes and drinks. This is a great opportunity to taste local flavors and get to know your fellow tour members.

Stroll Through Tokyo’s Most Popular Alleyway Full of Food Snacks and Bars

After the Izakaya, the tour takes you through the famous Omoide Yokocho alleyway, also known as “Memory Lane.” This alleyway is full of small food stalls, bars, and restaurants. You can try various local snacks and drinks here, and get a sense of the local culture.

Learn How Kabukicho Shinjuku’s Red Light District Became Home to Over 3,000 Shops, Bars, and Restaurants

As you walk through Kabukicho, your local guide will tell you about its history and how it became a hub of entertainment in Tokyo. This area is famous for its red-light district, which has over 3,000 shops, bars, and restaurants.

Have Drinks in One of Golden Gai’s Cosy Bars That Seat Only Eight People at a Time

The tour ends at Golden Gai, a small area of Shinjuku that is known for its tiny bars. These bars seat only eight people at a time, which creates an intimate and cozy atmosphere. Here you can enjoy your final drinks and chat with your guide and fellow tour members before heading back to your hotel.

Conclusion

The Shinjuku Drinks and Neon Nightlife Tour is a fantastic way to experience Tokyo’s vibrant nightlife and local culture. By following the tips we have provided in this guide, you can plan and book the tour with ease. Remember to pack accordingly, find a reliable tour operator at GetYourGuide, and take in all of the amazing sights and sounds of Shinjuku. Book your tour now and have the time of your life!

An Insider’s Guide to Tokyo: Beyond the Touristy Spots

Tokyo is a vibrant city that offers endless experiences, from traditional temples to futuristic skyscrapers. As your insightful assistant, I’m here to reveal some lesser-known gems that most tourists don’t get to see. Here’s my guide to Tokyo’s hidden treasures, fascinating history, food culture, and unique experiences.

Hidden Gems: Tokyo’s Secret Spots

Beyond the crowded tourist spots, Tokyo has some hidden gems that are off the radar for most visitors. The Shimokitazawa district, for example, is a hip, artistic neighborhood that is known for its indie music scene, vintage shops, and cozy cafes. If you’re a fashion lover, visit the Omotesando district, known as Tokyo’s Champs-Elysées, for high-end boutiques, and fascinating architecture. You can also visit the Kagurazaka neighborhood, known for its charming streets, its hidden shrines and temples, and the local wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets) shops.

Dining Spots: Discover Tokyo’s Food Culture

Tokyo is a paradise for food lovers, and its dining scene goes far beyond sushi and sashimi. Try some of the unique local specialties, such as tonkatsu (breaded pork cutlet), yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), or okonomiyaki (savory pancakes). For the best ramen in town, head to Ichiran in Shibuya, where you can customize your bowl of noodles and enjoy it in one of the private booths. Another must-try spot is the Tsukiji fish market, where you can taste some of the freshest seafood in the world, from sushi to grilled fish. Don’t forget to sample some traditional street food, such as takoyaki (octopus balls) or taiyaki (fish-shaped cakes filled with sweet bean paste).

Cultural Experiences: Uncover Tokyo’s Traditions and Customs

Tokyo is a city of modern delights, but it also preserves its traditional culture in many ways. You can experience the ancient art of tea ceremony, ikebana (flower arrangement), or calligraphy, or visit a sumo stable and watch the wrestlers in training. If you’re interested in Japanese history, visit the Edo-Tokyo Museum, which showcases Tokyo’s transformation from a humble fishing village to a bustling metropolis. Check out the stunning Meiji Jingu Shrine, a peaceful and serene oasis in the heart of the city, and perhaps catch a glimpse of a traditional wedding procession.

Historical Stories: Tokyo’s Intriguing Past

Tokyo has a rich and fascinating history that is often overlooked. One of the most captivating stories is that of the legendary samurai warrior Miyamoto Musashi, who lived in the 17th century and is still celebrated as a cultural icon. You can visit his memorial, the Musashi Shrine, and see his famous swords. Another historical gem is the Yasukuni Shrine, dedicated to the spirits of Japan’s soldiers who died in wars, and its controversial stance towards Japan’s activities during World War Two and its war criminals. Lastly, the Asakusa district is home to the traditional Senso-ji temple, which has a long history of over 1400 years, and Nakamise-dori, a pedestrian street where you can try some of the best street food in Tokyo.

Off-the-beaten-path Experiences: Discover Tokyo’s Quirky Side

If you want to experience Tokyo in a unique way, here are some quirky suggestions that will give you unforgettable memories. Explore the Akihabara district, a mecca for anime and game lovers, and witness the feverish energy of the otaku culture. Visit the Robot Restaurant in Shinjuku, where you can watch a dazzling robotic show over dinner. Take a stroll in Odaiba, a futuristic island in Tokyo Bay, where you can see a replica of the Statue of Liberty, a life-sized Gundam robot, and some of the most stunning views of the city. Finally, if you’re a karaoke fan, head to one of the many private karaoke rooms in Shinjuku and sing your heart out.

Now, it’s time to embark on your own adventure in Tokyo and explore all its wonders, both hidden and in plain sight. Don’t forget to share this insider’s guide with others, and tell the stories of the city that captured your heart.