Kabukicho: 15 Things to Do in Tokyo's Bustling Entertainment District

Kabukicho: The City That Never Sleeps

Photo by Pixta
Shinjuku is one of the most popular areas of Tokyo with travelers due to the many places and excellent access to other parts of Tokyo and eastern Japan. Moreover, Shinjuku is also home to Kabukicho, one of Toyo's finest entertainment districts.

There are places to eat, izakaya pubs to drink at, and people from all parts of the world hanging out. You'll have a good time here for sure. Read on to learn how to enjoy your time in Kabukicho.

Things to Do in Kabukicho

1. Tokyu Kabukicho Tower
2. Don Quijote: Shopping at a Discount Paradise
3. Meet Godzilla at the Toho Building and Hotel Gracery Shinjuku
4. Hanazono Shrine
5. Taketora Ramen: Delicious Ramen in Kabukicho
6. Dotombori Kamukura: Addictive Ramen from Osaka
7. Hey Rasshai: A Host Club Sushi Restaurant
8. Shinjuku Ale
9. Ninja Trick House
10. The Samurai Restaurant
11. The Hot Spring and Spa Facility Thermae-yu
12. Hanagata: Revue Theater
13. Tokyo: Easy Ramen Cooking Experience in Kabukicho, Shinjuku
14. Private Kabukicho Tour with Local Guide
15. Shinjuku Golden Gai Bar-Hopping Experience in Tokyo
Kabukicho History and Features

Kabukicho History and Features

Photo by Pixta
Kabukicho is located near JR Shinjuku Station's East Exit, just 5 minutes on foot. It's easy to find due to its bright red sign.

In post-World War II Japan, plans were underway to build a bustling shopping district in Shinjuku in 1948. Many theaters and dining establishments were opened in the area, and it soon came to be known as Kabukicho.

In Kabukicho, visitors can enjoy all kinds of nightlife and entertainment. Since it springs to life in the evening hours, it's also been nicknamed "The City That Never Sleeps."

There are karaoke shops and izakaya pubs, as well as host clubs and cabaret clubs where you can enjoy a few drinks with staff of the opposite sex. Of course, there are also more than a few gay bars if you enjoy the company of the same sex as well.

Since most of Kabukicho's establishments start up at night, it has a completely different atmosphere during the daytime.

With its bustling nightlife, some people who may be concerned about safety in Kabukicho. The local authorities are taking measures to avoid guests being forcefully invited into drinking establishments. If the staff of a bar or club tries to convince you to visit their facility, please simply walk away.

There are several establishments where you can have fun without safety concerns. One of them is the Shinjuku Toho Building, which houses a movie theater, a hotel, and restaurants. If you're out to sample Japanese cuisine, the first floor has 16 eateries including sushi, yakiniku (grilled meat cuisine), and crepes.

Tokyu Kabukicho Tower, which opened in April 2023, is another facility with plenty of dining establishments, amusement, shopping, a wellness center, and a hotel.

Below we introduce places and things that can be enjoyed in Kabukicho.

↑ Return to the top of article.

1. Tokyu Kabukicho Tower

Tokyu Kabukicho Tower is the newest establishements in the district. Filled with neon signs and bursting at the seams with facilities, this massive entertainment complex has it all - shopping, restaurants, bars, gaming arcades, spa facilities, a cinema, and more!

Highlights include the Shinjuku Kabuki Hall, a food court offering a wide range of dining options from traditional Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Okinawan cuisine such as rice bowls with toppings, noodles, yakitori, gyoza, and sake. Delicious Korean cuisine is also on offer!

The Namco Tokyo Amusement Complex, located on the third floor, is an amusement complex offering food, events, and games. You can amuse yourself with crane games and other games created by BANDAI NAMCO such as Pac-man.

The Virtual Dungeon THE TOKYO MATRIX on the fourth floor is an interactive experience that allows participants to explore a dungeon, fight monsters, collect items, and face challenges with friends.

There's even more to enjoy at the Kabukicho Tower, so check our article linked below for details and do stop by when exploring Kabukicho!

The upper floors of Tokyu Kabukicho Tower are a hotel so if you wish to stay overnight in the bustling heart of Tokyo, this is a great choice! The Kabukicho Tower is a fantastic stop for excitement, dining, and great photos.

Tokyu Kabukicho Tower

Tokyo, Shinjuku, Kabukicho 1-29-1

↑ Return to the top of article.

2. Don Quijote: A Discount Paradise

Shinjuku is the home of the discount retail shop Don Quijote's Main Store! The shop is located right at the entrance of Kabukicho.

Don Quijote is one of the best places to find Japanese goods and items that make excellent souvenirs. They offer a wide range of products, including groceries, snacks, electronics, and cosmetics.

You can find just about any daily-life-related item here at affordable prices. It's the perfect place for purchasing souvenirs in bulk, making it ideal for customers looking to buy in larger quantities.

3. Meet Godzilla at Hotel Gracery Shinjuku and the Toho Building

The Shinjuku Toho Building offers a combination of a cinema, accommodation, and dining options. It includes 16 dining establishments on the first floor, including sushi restaurants, barbecue places, and crepe shops, among others. For those who want to indulge in Japanese cuisine, this is the place to be.

On the rooftop near the Toho Building, you'll notice the head of Godzilla, the King of Monsters! This is because "Godzilla" is one of the most popular and successful movies created by the TOHO Studios.

Picture courtesy of TOHO ©TOHO CO., LTD.

The upper floors of the Toho Building are occupied by Hotel Gracery Shinjuku, where you can stay in Godzilla-themed rooms! Hotel Gracery tied up with TOHO to create a life-sized Godzilla head figure, which is 12 meters tall!

The Godzilla head is located on the eighth floor of Hotel Gracery Shinjuku, on the terrace of the Gracery Lounge. Moreover, in the hotel rooms closest to this iconic figure, you can even have a direct view of it from your window, which is truly awe-inspiring!

The Godzilla read can be heard roaring once every hour from 12:00 to 20:00. At 19:00 and 20:00 in the evenings, its eyes become fiery red, offering a great opportunity for memorable photos.

Hotel Gracery Shinjuku

1-19-1 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8466

4. Hanazono Shrine

Photo by Pixta

Tucked away in the vibrant streets of Kabukicho lies Hanazono Shrine, a tranquil oasis steeped in centuries of tradition. This Shinto sanctuary, revered as the most important shrine in Shinjuku, stands as the guardian of the area, fostering prosperity and blessing locals, merchants, craftsmen, and artists.

Founded during the Edo era, Hanazono Shrine pays homage to Inari, the deity of prosperity and fertility, attracting both residents and curious travelers seeking solace amidst the city's hustle. Adorned with iconic vermilion torii gates and surrounded by lush greenery, this sacred site hosts several grand festivals throughout the year, drawing crowds to partake in the rich tapestry of cultural events.

Photo by Pixta

Notably, the Geino Asama Shrine within Hanazono is dedicated to the auspicious fortunes of performers, with many actors and singers visiting to offer prayers before significant performances. Donations from these artists contribute to the shrine's upkeep, with their names commemorated on boards encircling the sub-shrine.

Amidst the electric energy of Shinjuku, Hanazono Shrine beckons visitors on a journey of spiritual introspection and cultural appreciation, offering a serene escape and a mesmerizing setting for cherry blossom viewing.

Hanazono Shrine

5-17-3 Shinjuku, Shinjuku, Tokyo

5. Taketora Ramen: Delicious Ramen in Kabukicho

At the far end of Kabukicho, there is a hidden gem of a ramen restaurant called Taketora, which has only three stores in all of Tokyo.

Its main feature is that you can enjoy your ramen in private booths, free from any disturbances. While they primarily serve ramen, the menu includes a rich variety of alcoholic beverages and small dishes, creating an ambiance akin to a cozy izakaya (Japanese pub).

Apart from the usual soy sauce and miso ramen, they have unique options like coriander ramen and collagen ramen. Be sure not to miss out on these delicious offerings!

Taketora Ramen
Location: Tokyo, Shinjuku, Kabukicho 2-36-3, Shinjuku ACB 1F Map
Access: 3-minute walk from Seibu-Shinjuku Station, 7-minute walk from JR-Shinjuku Station East Exit
Hours: 11:00 - 9:00 the next day
Official website: https://www.menshou-taketora.com/en/

↑ Return to the top of article.

6. Addictive Ramen! Dotombori Kamukura

Dotombori Kamukura is a famous ramen shop originating in Osaka, which is now available in Kabukicho!

Its owner, Mr. Masato Fuse, originally worked as a head chef in French cuisine. Around thirty years ago, he developed the secret broth recipe used at Kamukura. Since then, he has kept this recipe locked in a safe, and very few people in the world know how to cook this broth. This is one of the reasons why there are so few Dotombori Kamukura Ramen branches.

The generous portion of vegetables in their ramen is perfect for replenishing the fiber and nutrients often missing during travel. Their fried chicken and dumplings are also delicious and shouldn't be missed!

Dotombori Kamukura
Location: 1 Chome-14-1 Kabukicho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo Map
Website: https://kamukura.co.jp/shop/211/

7. Hey Rasshai, a Host Club Sushi Restaurant

In this area, you will find many host clubs and cabaret clubs, which are venues where male or female staff members provide entertainment and companionship to patrons of the opposite sex.

Additionally, there are also gay bars where patrons are served by staff who are part of the LGBTQ+ community. Shops with distinctive themes like these are part of what makes Kabukicho special, adding to its vibrant atmosphere.

Hey Rasshai is a sushi restaurant that opened its doors in May 2019 in the lively Kabukicho area. It has gained attention for its unique concept of having active host club hosts prepare sushi for guests.

The main sushi chef, SHUN, is an active host club himself, but due to family influences and a love for sushi from a young age, he also received training as a sushi artisan. The seafood provided in the restaurant is of high quality.

For pricing details, it's recommended to refer to the official website to address any concerns you may have about the cost.

Hey Rasshai
Location: Tokyo, Shinjuku, Kabukicho, 1−12−15 Shinjuku Dai 7 Building B1F Map
Official Website: Hey Rasshai (Japanese)

↑ Return to the top of article.

8. Shinjuku Ale

Photo by PR Times

Just a stone's throw away from the iconic Godzilla head at Toho Cinema in Kabukicho lies the trendy craft beer brewery Shinjuku Ale, which took the neighborhood by storm. Situated on Shinjuku Kabukicho Central Street, the beating heart of Kabukicho, this unique establishment spans an entire building, offering a multi-dimensional experience unlike any other.

With an open standing bar on the ground floor, a sophisticated counter bar on the second floor, a brewing sanctuary on the third floor, and a private rooftop barbecue space, Shinjuku Ale is more than just a brewery—it's a hub of beer-infused entertainment.

Boasting an exterior adorned with radiant neon lights, the interior of Shinjuku Ale is a mesmerizing blend of futuristic aesthetics and retro-modern charm, exuding an ambiance reminiscent of a high-end entertainment venue.

Adding to its allure, Shinjuku Ale welcomes the magic bar Tejinaya on the second floor, enticing guests with captivating magic performances by top-tier artists from Hollywood, Las Vegas, and luxury cruise ships. Amidst the magical ambiance, patrons can savor a cold brew while witnessing spellbinding acts from up-close counter seats.

Official website: Shinjuku Ale

↑ Return to the top of article.

9. Ninja Trick House

Step into the shadowy realm of Japan's iconic ninjas at the captivating Ninja Trick House in Tokyo nestled in the vibrant heart of the Kabukicho district. This immersive venue beckons adventurers to uncover the mystique and historical legacy of ninja culture through interactive experiences.

Picture courtesy of PR Times

Visitors can expect a blend of ninja missions set in a castle backdrop, animations in 17 languages, and educational support through training videos and on-site guidance. After a brief introduction to the history of ninjas, guests are guided to a room full of Japanese weapons!

From throwing shuriken to battling with swords and kunai, this immersive experience teaches you the techniques and tricks to becoming a shadow ninja firsthand.

Boasting an impressive 98% recognition rate among international guests and drawing visitors from 24 countries monthly, the Ninja Trick House fuses traditional Japanese allure with contemporary excitement.

Ninja Trick House
Location: Tokyo, Shinjuku, Kabukicho, 2−28−13 Dai Ichi Wako Building 4F Map
Hours: 10:00 - 17:00
Website: https://ninja-trick-house.com/

10. The Samurai Restaurant

Picture courtesy of GetYourGuide

A captivating electronic realm nestled within the Gira Gira Girls Bar in bustling Shinjuku's Kabukicho district, the Samurai Restaurant emerges as a pulsating spectacle, brought to life by the visionary minds behind the iconic Robot Restaurant.

Neon hues paint a dazzling stage as futuristic samurais and geishas, bedecked in fluorescent brilliance, command attention with their electrifying performances. From colossal art installations such as nebuta floats to whimsical props, this venue seamlessly melds Japan's rich historical tapestry with cutting-edge technology, transporting guests into a realm where tradition meets a neon-infused rave of the future.

For enthusiasts of the renowned Robot Restaurant, the Samurai Restaurant promises a realm of high-octane entertainment where clashes of samurais and rhythmic dances to the thunderous beat of epic taiko drums captivate the senses.

Amidst this dynamic showcase, guests indulge in a culinary journey featuring Japanese delicacies like samurai sushi, hearty ramen bowls, and bento boxes brimming with succulent steak delights. But the Samurai Restaurant in Kabukicho isn't merely a dining experience; it's a portal to an otherworldly realm where the past dances harmoniously with the future, and every moment is an exhilarating fusion of culture, art, and boundless energy.

Official website: Samurai Restaurant Kabukicho

11. The Hot Spring and Spa Facility Thermae-yu

Photo by PR Times

Situated in the vibrant core of Kabukicho, Thermae-yu emerges as a serene sanctuary embodying the essence of a classic Japanese onsen experience. This renowned hot spring destination offers an escape into relaxation and revitalization, harmonizing ancient wellness traditions with contemporary comfort amidst the bustling urban milieu.

Guests are welcomed into a realm of tranquility and rejuvenation, where a diverse array of indoor and outdoor thermal baths, saunas, and massage services await to soothe the senses and renew the spirit.

The rooftop open-air bath, offering panoramic vistas of Tokyo's bustling skyline, encapsulates a moment of serene luxury, blending the therapeutic qualities of natural spring waters with the pulsating energy of the city below.

Drawing a diverse crowd of locals and travelers, Thermae-yu seamlessly marries the timeless allure of Japanese onsen culture with modern amenities, providing a serene refuge from the urban tumult.

Positioned conveniently at the heart of Kabukicho, this oasis of relaxation beckons individuals seeking respite and rejuvenation, inviting them to unwind, recharge, and rediscover the art of wellness amidst the cultural tapestry of Shinjuku's bustling streets.

Official website: Thermae-yu

12. Hanagata: Japanese Revue Theater

Picture courtesy of GetYourGuide

Step into the enchanting realm of Japanese traditional arts with the Japanese Dance Show hosted by Hanagata in the bustling heart of Shinjuku. Delight in the essence of Japan's rich cultural heritage as you witness the grace and beauty of authentic Japanese dance up close.

This one-hour show offers a rare opportunity to experience the artistry of skilled Japanese dancers, their expressions, and the elegance of their kimonos vividly on display.

Guests can relish the grandeur of Japanese dance as talented performers tell stories and emotions through movements that are conveyed through every gesture. This performance is more than just a show—it's an emotional journey!

To respect the performers and the atmosphere, photography is prohibited during the show. However, there will be a designated time at the end for capturing memories.

13. Tokyo: Easy Ramen Cooking Experience in Kabukicho

Picture courtesy of GetYourGuide

Enter into a flavorful odyssey with a hands-on ramen cooking class in the vibrant Kabukicho district. Lasting just one hour, this immersive experience offers a comprehensive exploration of Japan's culinary heritage, delving deep into the cultural significance and artistry behind the revered soul food, ramen.

From selecting the perfect soup base to mastering the art of noodle preparation and topping selection, participants will engage in an interactive session that unravels the secrets of this iconic dish.

Savory aromas and rich flavors converge as attendees craft their personalized bowls of ramen, savoring each mouthful that tells a story of tradition and innovation in the heart of Tokyo's bustling epicenter.

14. Private Kabukicho Tour with Local Guide

Picture courtesy of Viator

Immerse yourself in the captivating tapestry of Tokyo’s Kabukicho district with a private tour conducted by seasoned local guides. This exclusive exploration presents a gateway to the historical depths of Kabukicho, paired with the indulgence of premium sake at a bar nestled within the iconic Golden-Gai area, a revered gem under the tour company's ownership.

Tailor your journey through a myriad of unique experiences, from visits to traditional shrines nestled amidst the pulsating glow of neon lights and bustling billboards to modern art galleries harmoniously coexisting with cozy bars and craft beer pubs.

As the cherry blossoms bloom from late March to early April, revel in the nocturnal beauty that enhances the allure of the surroundings, adding a touch of seasonal magic to your exploration. Engage with knowledgeable guides eager to share the rich cultural tapestry and untold stories of Kabukicho, each unfolding step promising a deeper understanding and immersive insight into this enigmatic district.

Your adventure unfolds with guided tours to key sites like Cine City Square, offering a panoramic glimpse into the heart of the city and serving as a launchpad for a detailed plunge into Kabukicho's rich heritage, the Shinjuku Golden Gai alleys, and Mugi no Oto, a craft beer pub where participants can taste meticulously curated craft beers and savory bites.

15. Shinjuku Golden Gai Bar-Hopping Experience

Picture courtesy of Klook

Join an exhilarating Shinjuku Golden Gai Bar-Hopping Experience, a journey that unveils the dynamic nightlife of the city. This guided adventure invites participants to join a group exploration tour led by an English-speaking guide, spanning 2 hours and 30 minutes of revelry through the famed Golden Gai alleys nestled within Shinjuku's Kabukicho district.

The tour is an intimate and engaging experience for groups of 1-8 participants. Offering a blend of cultural insights and revelry, this tour includes admission to two distinctive bars, guidance from a knowledgeable English-speaking guide, delectable snacks, and the opportunity to savor drinks or alcohol at select bars along your journey.

The Golden Gai alley is a complex of six interwoven pathways within Shinjuku's Kabukicho district, harboring over 200 unique and independent bars. Dive into the realm of two local bars, immersing yourself in the flavors of handpicked drinks and Japanese pub delicacies recommended by your expert bar-hopping guide.

From tasting local delights to discovering the pulse of Tokyo's nightlife, this Shinjuku Golden Gai Bar-Hopping Experience ensures an evening filled with memorable encounters, cultural insights, and the vibrant spirit of Tokyo's after-dark allure.

How to Get Around Safely in Kabukicho

There are many places to eat and drink in Shinjuku. Among them are some that will try to scam you with high prices. One way to avoid creating unpleasant memories with that kind of experience is to not go to places being advertised by people near the station.

Look up the place you're thinking of going to beforehand and check out their ratings. Many establishments have fair prices, but still, it's best to be careful.

Main image by Pixta