Tokyo is incredible. Shinjuku is Tokyo’s craziest parts distilled down to a few blocks. Lights and sounds and crowds and madness. It’s amazing.
It’s quite something to experience, but if you can’t, here are a bunch of photos and a 360-video to give you an idea what it’s like.
Thinking about a long trip? Check out 10 Tips For The Beginner Traveler, 10 Things To Bring On Every International Flight (And 3 Things Not To), The Best Cellular Plan for Travelers, Why You Should Always Pack Light, and What To Pack On An Around-The-World Adventure. If it’s to Tokyo, check out 6 Tips For Navigating Tokyo’s Subway System and The Best Ramen In The World? Japan's Ichiran Ramen.
The Where and The What
The special ward of Shinjuku is on the western side of the city and is comprised of a number of smaller neighborhoods. There are residential and governmental areas, but it’s perhaps best known for the numerous bars and restaurants.
The (in)famous Kabukicho is perhaps the most visually impressive. Night is like day, with searingly bright signs stretching half a dozen stories tall.
Bars and restaurants and more line the streets and extend up into the buildings. Barkers hand out fliers hyping their establishments.
A note about the video above: It's 360, so use your mouse (or movie your
While you’re there, don’t miss the legendary Robot Restaurant.
If that’s a bit too crazy for you, nearby is Golden Gai. Alleyways packed with micro-bars, only able to seat a handful of patrons. Pick one that looks cool and see if you can find a seat.
These are just two examples. Other areas nearby are far tamer. Busy streets of restaurants and shops, quiet streets of apartments.
If the bustle and hustle become too much, the nearby Shinjuku Gyoen is the cure.
144 acres of perfectly manicured gardens and 20,000 trees.
Relax in the grass, stroll on the paths, marvel at the blossoms (depending when you’re there, of course).
Shinjuku is easily one of my favorite parts of one of my favorite cities. So much fun.
