Kabukicho Tower - Image 1
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Kabukicho Tower

3.8
·2k reviews·Shinjuku City, Japan

Tokyo's dazzling entertainment hub, featuring a massive tower with arcades, dining, and nightlife.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Kabukicho truly comes alive at night.

CrowdHigh
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Kabukicho Tower - Image 1

Kabukicho Tower

Best Time

Evenings

Kabukicho truly comes alive at night.

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Tokyo's dazzling entertainment hub, featuring a massive tower with arcades, dining, and nightlife.

3.8
(2k reviews)

"A must-visit destination for unforgettable experiences in Tokyo's vibrant Shinjuku."

Vertical photo
TIP

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

Kabukicho can be intense. Solo female travelers, be firm if approached by persistent individuals.

Explore Tokyu Kabukicho Tower

This new complex offers dining, arcades, and entertainment. Don't miss the food hall and Namco!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Godzilla Head

Godzilla Head

Shinjuku Toho Building (near Kabukicho Tower)

Stand beneath the iconic Godzilla head for a roaring photo op. A must-see landmark in Shinjuku!

Namco TOKYO Arcade

Namco TOKYO Arcade

3rd Floor, Tokyu Kabukicho Tower

Dive into a massive arcade with over 250 gashapon machines and 100 crane games. Fun for all ages!

Shinjuku Kabuki Hall - Kabuki Yokocho

Shinjuku Kabuki Hall - Kabuki Yokocho

2nd Floor, Tokyu Kabukicho Tower

Experience a traditional Japanese alleyway food court with 10 restaurants offering regional specialties.

The Matrix - Immersive Experience

The Matrix - Immersive Experience

Tokyu Kabukicho Tower

Engage in an immersive, team-based videogame adventure. A unique and thrilling experience for groups.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating Kabukicho's Nightlife

Kabukicho is Tokyo's famous entertainment district, known for its vibrant nightlife. While exciting, solo female travelers should be aware of potential unwanted attention. Stick to well-lit main streets and be firm if approached. TikTok+1

Kabukicho Tower: A Modern Marvel

The newly opened Tokyu Kabukicho Tower is a massive entertainment complex. It houses hotels, a cinema, arcades, restaurants, and more. Plan your visit to explore its diverse offerings, from dining to gaming. TikTokInstagram

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Kabukicho truly comes alive at night.
Crowd
High
When
Weekdays, late afternoon
Why
Fewer crowds before the evening rush.
Crowd
Medium

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
625.9K likes • 9M views

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

Kabukicho can be intense. Solo female travelers, be firm if approached by persistent individuals. TikTok+1

Explore Tokyu Kabukicho Tower

This new complex offers dining, arcades, and entertainment. Don't miss the food hall and Namco! TikTokInstagram

RED LIGHT DISTRICT JAPAN at Night in Kabukichu Shinjuku PART 1 #japanadventures #japan #japanlife #japanese #japantrip #japantravel #viralpost #trend #fypシ゚ #akosinoy
@akosinoy07
393.2K likes • 11.8M views
엄청난 분위기에 압도되는 신주쿠 가부키초의 핫플레이스 Kabukicho Tower, Shinjuku 🇯🇵 . 📍Location 👉도큐 가부키초 타워(Tokyu Kabukicho Tower) 👉1 Chome-29-1 Kabukicho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0021 📸Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max . 가부키초 타워는 도쿄 신주쿠 가부키초의 떠오르는 핫플레이스입니다. 2층 식당가는 네온사인과 조명 등을 활용하여 압도적인 분위기를 연출하며, 중앙의 메인 스테이지에선 DJ 공연이 진행됩니다. 3층의 오락실에서는 다양한 컨텐츠를 즐길 수 있으며 2층과 마찬가지로 네온사인을 활용한 이색적인 분위기를 느끼실 수 있습니다. 도쿄 여행에서 신주쿠에 가신다면 가부키초 타워에 방문하셔서...
damda.4me
24.2K likes • 1.1M views

Godzilla Head Photo Op

Snap a pic with the iconic Godzilla head near the tower for a classic Tokyo memory. TikTok

Gashapon & Crane Games Galore

The 3rd floor of Kabukicho Tower boasts hundreds of gashapon and crane machines. TikTokInstagram

... 📍Kabukicho Tower, Shinjuku Let’s play Marikart!! Follow ➡️ @tokyonightlifebychiefs to see more‼️ And share your friends looking for nightspots🌃 #shinjuku #kabukicho #japan #japanese #japantravel #japantrip #tokyo #tokyonightlife #gamecenter #mariokart #nightspot
otsukare_tokyobychiefs
113 likes • 5.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

Kabukicho can be intense. Solo female travelers, be firm if approached by persistent individuals. TikTok+1

Explore Tokyu Kabukicho Tower

This new complex offers dining, arcades, and entertainment. Don't miss the food hall and Namco! TikTokInstagram

Godzilla Head Photo Op

Snap a pic with the iconic Godzilla head near the tower for a classic Tokyo memory. TikTok

Gashapon & Crane Games Galore

The 3rd floor of Kabukicho Tower boasts hundreds of gashapon and crane machines. TikTokInstagram

Try the Kabuki Yokocho Food

Sample diverse Japanese regional dishes in a lively, alley-themed food court. TikTokInstagram

What Travellers Say

3.8
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Tokyu Kabukicho Tower is praised for its diverse entertainment, from a massive arcade and immersive games to a vibrant food hall offering regional Japanese cuisine. Visitors appreciate the modern facilities and the lively atmosphere, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Some find the surrounding Kabukicho district intense, but the tower itself offers a contained and engaging experience.

"During my recent visit to Tokyu Kabukicho Tower in Shinjuku, I was impressed by the diverse shopping options available within this vibrant complex.

On the first floor, I discovered a variety of shops catering to different needs. There was a Starbucks for a quick coffee fix, a florist offering beautiful arrangements, and even a TKTS booth providing discounted tickets to various shows and events . This made it convenient to plan my evening entertainment while enjoying a leisurely stroll through the area.

The second floor houses the Shinjuku Kabuki Hall – Kabuki Yokocho, a lively food court designed to resemble a traditional Japanese alley. With 10 restaurants offering regional specialties from across Japan, the atmosphere was festive, enhanced by neon lights and music . It was a delightful experience to sample various dishes in such a dynamic setting.

For those interested in entertainment and collectibles, the third floor features namco TOKYO, an expansive arcade boasting over 250 gashapon machines and 100 crane games. Anime enthusiasts will appreciate the Banpresto TOKYO Figure Collection, offering a wide range of figures from popular series .

Overall, the shopping experience at Tokyu Kabukicho Tower is diverse and engaging, catering to both casual shoppers and those seeking unique entertainment options. The combination of retail, dining, and entertainment makes it a must-visit destination in Shinjuku."

cletus dsouza

"My mum and I were so excited to finally come here after watching Gaia series on Japan Hour. The brilliant mind behind the Shinjuku Kabuki Hall Kabuki Yokocho (what a mouthful) as well as Ebisu Yokocho is Yoshinori Hamakura. This charming man is a revolutionary genius figure behind the recent revival of the izakaya industry. Heck, I'm still seeing him on TV these days and he hired an actual ama (woman diver) to showcase their skill in the basement of New Shinbashi Building in one of the latest episode. Just search for him and see how Japanese can a Japanese look like. If I bump into him, I need to get his autograph! 😤

By golly, I'm such a fanboy, but I really love every episode he appears in. If I am ever shocked when I see something in Tokyo, I would think of Hamakura-san first.

Anyway, a surprising or not so surprising fact that my mum first noticed. "How come everyone here is a woman, where are all the men?" "At the ramen place", I joked. True enough, among the hundreds of patrons, I spotted only around 5 men, including myself. This was on a Thursday at 2pm.

This incredible building houses Hotel Groove, a very talked about accommodation for tourists. There is a cinema, live entertainment theatre, arcade and dining. Zepp Shinjuku is a concert hall venue that extends from basement 1 to 4. It is as lively as a building can get."

Alvin Li

"Level 2 is where you can find the food court with many tempting local cuisines. Starbucks is here too. Very colourfully set up. Great spot for lunch or dinner.
You'll find a well laid out arcade games area on the next level.
There's a free matrix experience that was closed when we came in early March but is due to open in March in the spring.
Great views outdoors especially on level 17 where there's fine dining, a stall that sells doughnuts and ice cream."

Maria Ngo

What People Like

Diverse entertainment options
Vibrant food hall
Large arcade and games

What People Dislike

Intense surrounding district

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Kabukicho Tower is easily accessible via Shinjuku Station. Take the East Exit and walk for about 5 minutes. It's a prominent landmark, hard to miss! TikTokInstagram

Kabukicho is generally safe, but it's a busy entertainment district. Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Stick to main streets and avoid overly persistent touts. TikTokReddit

Walking is the best way to experience Kabukicho's vibrant atmosphere. The area is best explored on foot, especially at night when the neon lights are dazzling. TikTokInstagram

Yes, there are several hotels in and around Kabukicho, including the Tokyu Kabukicho Tower itself, offering convenient access to the district's attractions. TikTokInstagram

Shinjuku Station is a major hub with numerous train and subway lines. From here, you can easily reach most parts of Tokyo. Kabukicho is a short walk from the East Exit. TikTokInstagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the general areas of Tokyu Kabukicho Tower, like the food court and shopping areas, is free. However, specific attractions like the arcade, cinema, or immersive experiences may require separate tickets. TikTokInstagram

Opening hours vary by establishment within the tower. The food hall and arcade generally open around 11 AM, while shops and restaurants have their own hours. The tower itself is a hub of activity throughout the day and night. TikTokInstagram

Some attractions, like Joypolis (though not directly in Kabukicho Tower, it's a nearby entertainment option), offer passport discounts. It's always worth checking individual attraction websites for potential deals. TikTok

Zepp Shinjuku is a concert venue within Kabukicho Tower. Tickets for performances are typically sold through official ticketing platforms and should be booked in advance, especially for popular acts. Reddit

The Godzilla Head is a landmark on the Shinjuku Toho Building and is visible from the street. There is no entrance fee to see it from the outside, but there is a cafe nearby. TikTok

🎫 🕹️ Entertainment & Activities

Kabukicho Tower offers a wide range of entertainment, including a massive arcade (Namco TOKYO), a cinema, live music venues (Zepp Shinjuku), immersive experiences like 'The Matrix', and various bars and clubs. TikTokInstagram+1

Yes, Namco TOKYO on the 3rd floor features a Banpresto TOKYO Figure Collection with anime figures, and numerous gashapon machines with anime-related prizes. TikTokInstagram

'The Matrix' is an immersive, team-based videogame experience where players navigate dungeons. It's designed for groups and takes about 40-60 minutes. Instagram

Yes, you can play Marikart (a Mario Kart-style attraction) at Kabukicho Tower, offering a fun racing experience. Instagram

Kabukicho Tower features Japan's largest claw machine on the 3rd floor, offering a challenging and potentially rewarding gaming experience. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The 2nd floor features Shinjuku Kabuki Hall - Kabuki Yokocho, a lively food court with 10 restaurants serving regional Japanese specialties. There are also various other restaurants and bars throughout the tower. TikTokInstagram

While Kabuki Yokocho focuses on Japanese regional cuisine, other establishments within Kabukicho Tower and the surrounding area offer a variety of international options, including Starbucks. TikTokInstagram

Kabuki Yokocho offers a diverse range of Japanese regional dishes, from Hokkaido seafood to other local delicacies, providing a culinary tour of Japan. TikTokInstagram

Yes, Kabukicho Tower and the surrounding district are filled with numerous bars and izakayas, offering a wide selection of drinks, especially lively in the evenings. TikTokInstagram

Reviews suggest that the seafood at Hokkaido Shokusai, located within Tokyu Kabukicho Tower, is fresh. A mandatory drink per person is typically required. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The vibrant neon signs of Kabukicho at night are iconic. The Godzilla Head and the exterior of Tokyu Kabukicho Tower itself offer great photo opportunities. TikTokInstagram

Yes, certain floors, like the 17th floor with fine dining, offer great views of Tokyo. The tower's height provides panoramic cityscapes. Instagram

Be respectful when taking photos. While the area is lively, avoid intrusive photography, especially of individuals working in entertainment establishments. TikTok

Nighttime is when Kabukicho truly shines with its dazzling neon lights, making it ideal for vibrant photography. However, daytime offers a different perspective of the architecture. TikTokInstagram

The Shinjuku Kabuki Hall with its traditional alleyway design and the Namco TOKYO arcade with its colorful games offer visually interesting backdrops for photos. TikTokInstagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Tokyu Kabukicho Tower offers several family-friendly attractions. The Namco TOKYO arcade on the 3rd floor is a huge hit with kids, featuring a vast array of games, gashapon machines, and crane games. TikTokInstagram The Shinjuku Kabuki Hall - Kabuki Yokocho on the 2nd floor provides a fun and visually stimulating environment to try various Japanese foods, making meal times an adventure. TikTokInstagram While the surrounding Kabukicho district is more adult-oriented, the tower itself provides a contained and engaging experience for families looking for entertainment. TikTok

🌃 Nightlife Enthusiasts

Kabukicho is the epicenter of Tokyo's nightlife, and Tokyu Kabukicho Tower adds a modern dimension to it. Explore the Shinjuku Kabuki Hall for a lively izakaya experience, or head to Zepp Shinjuku for live music performances. InstagramReddit The tower also houses various bars and clubs, offering a spectrum of nightlife options. TikTok Beyond the tower, the streets of Kabukicho come alive with neon lights and endless entertainment choices, from themed bars to more traditional nightlife venues. TikTok+1

🎮 Gamers and Anime Fans

For gamers and anime enthusiasts, the 3rd floor of Tokyu Kabukicho Tower is a paradise. Namco TOKYO is packed with hundreds of gashapon machines and crane games, offering endless opportunities to win prizes. TikTokInstagram You'll also find a wide selection of anime figures at the Banpresto TOKYO Figure Collection. TikTok The immersive 'The Matrix' experience also caters to those looking for interactive gaming adventures. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding Kabukicho's Atmosphere

Kabukicho is Tokyo's most famous entertainment and red-light district, buzzing with energy, especially after dark. It's a place of bright neon signs, bustling streets, and a wide array of nightlife options, from restaurants and bars to clubs and hostess establishments. TikTok+1 While it's a popular tourist destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings. Some TikToks highlight potential unwanted attention, particularly for solo female travelers, advising them to be firm and walk away if approached. TikTok+1 The district is a complex mix of entertainment, and understanding its unique vibe is key to a comfortable visit.

Tokyu Kabukicho Tower, a modern addition, stands as a beacon of entertainment within this historic district. It offers a more curated and controlled experience compared to the surrounding streets, housing a variety of attractions that appeal to a broader audience. TikTokInstagram This contrast between the traditional, sometimes gritty, nightlife of Kabukicho and the sleek, modern offerings of the tower is part of what makes the area so fascinating. Visitors can choose to immerse themselves in the full Kabukicho experience or opt for the more contained entertainment within the tower. TikTok

Exploring Tokyu Kabukicho Tower

Tokyu Kabukicho Tower is a colossal entertainment complex that has quickly become a landmark in Shinjuku. Spanning 48 floors above ground and 5 underground, it's a destination in itself, offering a diverse range of activities. TikTokInstagram The tower houses hotels, a cinema, numerous restaurants, bars, clubs, and entertainment facilities, making it a one-stop shop for a night out or even a staycation. TikTokInstagram

On the lower floors, you'll find the Shinjuku Kabuki Hall - Kabuki Yokocho on the second floor, a vibrant food court designed to resemble a traditional Japanese alleyway, offering regional specialties from across Japan. TikTokInstagram The third floor is dedicated to Namco TOKYO, an expansive arcade featuring over 250 gashapon machines and 100 crane games, alongside anime figure collections. TikTokInstagram For a unique experience, 'The Matrix' offers an immersive videogame adventure for groups. Instagram The tower also boasts Zepp Shinjuku, a large concert hall venue, and offers stunning city views from its higher levels. InstagramReddit

While the tower offers a more polished entertainment experience, it's still situated in the heart of Kabukicho, so the surrounding district's energy is palpable. Instagram Visitors can enjoy the modern amenities of the tower and then step out to experience the broader nightlife of Kabukicho. TikTok The combination of diverse entertainment options within the tower makes it a compelling destination for both locals and tourists looking for a dynamic experience in Tokyo. TikTok

Safety and Solo Travel in Kabukicho

Kabukicho's reputation as a red-light district means visitors, especially solo female travelers, should exercise caution. Several TikTok videos highlight the potential for unwanted attention from touts and individuals offering services. TikTok+1 It's advised to stick to well-lit, main streets and be firm in declining any unsolicited approaches. TikTok+1 While the district is a hub of activity, being aware of your surroundings and trusting your instincts is paramount for a safe experience. TikTok

Despite these warnings, many visitors find Kabukicho to be a safe and exciting place to explore, particularly when sticking to established entertainment venues like Tokyu Kabukicho Tower. TikTokReddit The tower itself offers a more controlled environment with various attractions like arcades, restaurants, and cinemas, which can be a comfortable option for those who prefer a less intense experience. TikTokInstagram The key is to be informed and prepared, allowing you to enjoy the unique atmosphere of Kabukicho responsibly. TikTok

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