Central Road, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan - Image 1

Central Road Shinjuku Tokyo

4.6
·491k reviews·Shinjuku City, Japan

Shinjuku's Central Road is the pulsating heart of Kabukicho, Tokyo's electrifying entertainment district, famed for its neon glow and vibrant nightlif...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Vibrant atmosphere, fewer crowds

CrowdMedium
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Central Road, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan - Image 1

Central Road Shinjuku Tokyo

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Vibrant atmosphere, fewer crowds

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Shinjuku's Central Road is the pulsating heart of Kabukicho, Tokyo's electrifying entertainment district, famed for its neon glow and vibrant nightlife.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"It's basically a cleaner, quieter Times Square lol."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Be Wary of Touts

Politely but firmly decline offers from touts. Stick to main streets and trust your gut.

📸 Capture the Neon Glow

Shinjuku's vibrant nightlife is best experienced and photographed after dark.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Godzilla Head

Godzilla Head

Toho Building, Kabukicho

The iconic Godzilla head looms over Kabukicho, a must-see landmark and a popular photo spot.

Instagram+1
Kabukicho's Neon Streets

Kabukicho's Neon Streets

Central Road, Kabukicho

Immerse yourself in the dazzling spectacle of neon lights and bustling activity that defines Kabukicho at night.

TikTok+2
Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane)

Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane)

Near Shinjuku Station

Step back in time in this atmospheric alleyway filled with tiny yakitori stalls and bars, perfect for a nostalgic evening.

TikTok
Shinjuku Ni-Chome

Shinjuku Ni-Chome

Shinjuku Ni-Chome

Explore Tokyo's vibrant LGBTQ+ district, known for its welcoming atmosphere and diverse nightlife.

TikTokInstagram
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Planning Your Visit

Navigating Kabukicho's Nightlife

Kabukicho is Tokyo's vibrant entertainment district, known for its neon lights and lively atmosphere. While generally safe, be aware of touts and be firm in declining unsolicited offers. Stick to well-lit main streets and trust your instincts. TikTok+1

Best Time to Experience Shinjuku

Shinjuku truly comes alive after dark with its dazzling neon signs and bustling streets. For a less crowded experience, consider visiting on a weekday evening. Avoid major holidays like Golden Week if you prefer fewer crowds. TikTok

Best Times

When
Weekday evenings
Why
Vibrant atmosphere, fewer crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Late night
Why
Full neon spectacle
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

if you’re travelling in shinjuku especially kabukicho area as a female solo traveller you will get creeps come up to you. just walk away 🫡 #fyp #shinjuku #kabukicho #solotravel #japan #creepymen
@cur3.h3ad
627.2K likes • 9M views

🎯 Be Wary of Touts

Politely but firmly decline offers from touts. Stick to main streets and trust your gut. TikTokReddit

📸 Capture the Neon Glow

Shinjuku's vibrant nightlife is best experienced and photographed after dark. TikTok+1

RED LIGHT DISTRICT JAPAN at Night in Kabukichu Shinjuku PART 1 #japanadventures #japan #japanlife #japanese #japantrip #japantravel #viralpost #trend #fypシ゚ #akosinoy
@akosinoy07
393.5K likes • 11.9M views
Save this perfect Night Tour Road Map For Tokyo’s Gay Town 🏳️‍🌈✨🌈 Queen Tokyo 📍Tokyo, Shinjuku City, Shinjuku, 2 Chome−11−7 第33宮庭ビル 108 Dragonmen 📍2 Chome-11-4 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo Ramen Kagetsu Arashi 📍2 Chome-6-5 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo #Gay #GayJapan #japantravel #nightlife #japanlife #Tokyo
japangayguide
1K likes • 41.1K views

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the various streets and alleys. TikTok

🗺️ Use Navigation Apps

Helpful for finding specific spots and navigating the maze-like streets. TikTok

Godzilla high above Kabukicho's Central Road (in Shinjuku)... #godzilla #centralroad #kabukicho #tokyoguidebook #japan #candidtokyo #tokyo #tokyoguide #onlyinjaoan #onlyintokyo
candid_tokyo
62 likes • 2.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Be Wary of Touts

Politely but firmly decline offers from touts. Stick to main streets and trust your gut. TikTokReddit

📸 Capture the Neon Glow

Shinjuku's vibrant nightlife is best experienced and photographed after dark. TikTok+1

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the various streets and alleys. TikTok

🗺️ Use Navigation Apps

Helpful for finding specific spots and navigating the maze-like streets. TikTok

🍜 Try Local Izakayas

Experience authentic Japanese pub food and drinks in the lively alleyways. TikTokInstagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Shinjuku's Central Road and Kabukicho are a dazzling spectacle of neon lights and entertainment, offering a unique urban experience. Visitors praise the vibrant atmosphere and iconic landmarks like the Godzilla head. However, some caution is advised regarding touts and the district's adult entertainment nature, particularly for solo female travelers.

What People Like

Vibrant neon atmosphere
Iconic Godzilla head
Diverse entertainment options

What People Dislike

Touts and unsolicited offers
Adult entertainment focus

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The easiest way to reach Central Road in Shinjuku is by taking the train to Shinjuku Station. From there, it's a short walk. Several lines serve Shinjuku Station, including the JR Yamanote Line, Chuo Line, Saikyo Line, Shonan-Shinjuku Line, and the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi and Toei Oedo lines. TikTok+1

Shinjuku Station is one of the busiest in the world, but it's well-signed. Look for signs indicating the exit for Kabukicho or Central Road. Using a navigation app on your phone can be very helpful. TikTok+1

Yes, taxis are readily available in Tokyo, including to Shinjuku. However, they can be more expensive than public transport, especially during peak hours. TikTok

Shinjuku is best explored on foot. The main attractions are within walking distance of each other, especially around Kabukicho and Omoide Yokocho. TikTok

Exits like B12 or B13 from Shinjuku Station are often recommended for direct access to the heart of Kabukicho and Central Road. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Kabukicho and Central Road are public areas and do not require tickets for entry. You can wander freely. TikTok+1

While the streets are free to explore, individual establishments like bars, clubs, and arcades within Shinjuku will have their own cover charges or costs for services. TikTok

Kabukicho is a 24/7 entertainment district, but its vibrant nightlife truly kicks in from late afternoon through the night. Many shops and restaurants have varying hours. TikTok

Kabukicho is generally safe, but it's wise to be aware of your surroundings. Avoid touts and stick to well-lit areas. Solo female travelers should be particularly vigilant. TikTokReddit+1

Absolutely! Shinjuku Ni-Chome is a welcoming district for everyone. Visitors of all backgrounds are encouraged to explore and enjoy the atmosphere. TikTokInstagram

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed in public areas of Kabukicho, but be respectful and avoid taking intrusive photos of individuals, especially inside establishments. TikTok+1

The neon-drenched streets of Kabukicho, especially Central Road, offer incredible opportunities for night photography. The Godzilla head is also a popular subject. Instagram+1

Some bars and clubs may have policies against photography inside. Always check if you're unsure. TikTok

Use a wider aperture (lower f-number) to capture more light and a higher ISO if needed, but be mindful of noise. A tripod can be helpful for sharper shots, but may be difficult to use in crowded areas. TikTok

Yes, the Godzilla head is a public landmark and a popular photo opportunity. Many people take pictures with it from the street. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍜 Food & Dining

Central Road and the surrounding Kabukicho area offer a wide variety of dining options, from casual izakayas and ramen shops to themed restaurants and sushi bars. TikTokInstagram+1

Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane) is famous for its numerous small yakitori stalls, offering a classic Shinjuku dining experience. TikTok

Yes, Shinjuku boasts unique dining experiences like the science-themed bar INCUBATOR or the entertainment complex with arcades and gachapon. TikTok+1

Look for the many izakayas along Sakura Dori and Kabukicho Ichiban-Gai. Kaiten-sushi (conveyor belt sushi) is also a popular option. Instagram+1

Dining prices in Shinjuku can vary greatly. You can find budget-friendly options at ramen shops and izakayas, while upscale restaurants will be more expensive. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Kabukicho itself might be more adult-oriented, Shinjuku offers family-friendly activities. The Namco arcade within an entertainment complex provides hours of fun with classic and modern games. TikTok Exploring the department store food halls can be an adventure in itself, offering a dazzling array of treats and snacks. Consider visiting during the daytime when the atmosphere is more relaxed. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

Shinjuku can be surprisingly budget-friendly if you know where to look. Opt for ramen shops and izakayas for affordable and delicious meals. TikTok+1 Many of the vibrant street scenes in Kabukicho are free to experience, offering great visual entertainment. TikTok Utilize Tokyo's efficient public transport system to save on travel costs. TikTok

🌈 LGBTQ+ Travelers

Shinjuku Ni-Chome is a renowned and welcoming hub for the LGBTQ+ community. This district offers a vibrant and safe nightlife with numerous bars and clubs catering to diverse preferences. TikTokInstagram It's a place to connect, celebrate, and enjoy Tokyo's inclusive spirit. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding Kabukicho's Atmosphere

Kabukicho is Tokyo's most famous entertainment and red-light district, a place of dazzling neon signs, bustling crowds, and a unique energy. While it has a reputation, many visitors find it to be a fascinating and generally safe area to explore, especially on the main thoroughfares like Central Road. TikTok+2 It's important to be aware of your surroundings and politely decline any unsolicited offers from touts, as advised by many travelers. TikTokReddit+1 The area offers a wide array of entertainment, from arcades and karaoke to themed bars and restaurants, making it a sensory overload in the best way possible for many. TikTok

Despite its reputation, Kabukicho is often described as a cleaner and more organized version of Times Square in New York City. TikTok The iconic Godzilla head atop the Toho Building is a prominent landmark and a popular photo opportunity, adding to the district's distinctive character. Instagram+1 For those interested in exploring Tokyo's vibrant nightlife, Kabukicho offers an unforgettable experience, but it's always recommended to stay aware and trust your instincts. TikTok

Exploring Shinjuku's Diverse Neighborhoods

Beyond the bright lights of Kabukicho, Shinjuku is a vast area with diverse neighborhoods catering to different tastes. Omoide Yokocho, also known as Memory Lane, is a charming network of narrow alleys packed with tiny yakitori restaurants and bars, offering a nostalgic glimpse into Tokyo's past. TikTok It's a stark contrast to the modern bustle of Kabukicho, providing a more intimate and atmospheric dining experience.

For the LGBTQ+ community and allies, Shinjuku Ni-Chome is a must-visit. This district is Tokyo's vibrant gay town, filled with a wide range of bars, clubs, and community spaces. TikTokInstagram It's known for its inclusive and lively atmosphere, offering a safe and fun environment for everyone to enjoy. The area is easily accessible from Shinjuku Station, making it a convenient addition to any Shinjuku itinerary. TikTok

Culinary Adventures in Shinjuku

Shinjuku is a paradise for food lovers, with an incredible density of dining options. From quick and delicious ramen to elaborate multi-course meals, there's something to satisfy every palate and budget. Izakayas (Japanese pubs) are a staple, offering a wide variety of small dishes perfect for sharing, often accompanied by sake or beer. TikTokInstagram Many of these are found in atmospheric alleyways like Omoide Yokocho, where you can savor grilled skewers (yakitori) and other local delicacies. TikTok

For those seeking specific culinary experiences, Shinjuku has it all. You can find excellent sushi, including conveyor belt sushi restaurants for a fun and casual meal. Instagram The area also boasts numerous ramen shops, each with its own unique broth and toppings. TikTok Don't miss the chance to explore the food floors of department stores or the diverse offerings within entertainment complexes, which often feature a wide array of international and Japanese cuisine. TikTok