Tokyo Walking Tour of Kabukicho and Golden Gai with a Ninja Guide

Kabukicho , Japan

Tokyo Walking Tour of Kabukicho and Golden Gai with a Ninja Guide

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About this experience

A 60-minute deep walking adventure through Kabukicho with a ninja guide.Explore neon-lit Ichibangai and the backstreets of Golden Gai in a safe and exciting way.
This tour lets you fully experience Shinjuku’s energy and extraordinary atmosphere in a short time, making it the best choice for couples, families, and groups. Children under 12 years can join for free, accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Enjoy a special adventure with a ninja during a break in your sightseeing schedule.

Available options

Tokyo Walking Tour of Kabukicho and Golden Gai with a Ninja Guide

What's included

English-speaking ninja guide (accompanies and guides the tour)

Walking guide to Kabukicho, Golden Gai, Hanazono Shrine, and a secret shrine

Commemorative photo and video shooting service (data provided)

Detailed itinerary

．Kabukicho Ichibangai & Central Area Walk
Walk through the neon district, also famous as a setting for movies and games.
Take commemorative photos together with the ninja in front of iconic landmarks such as the symbolic arch.

．Secret Shrine Visit & Worship
Visit a little-known “secret shrine” quietly nestled amid the bustle of Shinjuku.
Enjoy a special worship experience at this power spot said to bring good fortune for business prosperity and the performing arts.

Golden Gai Backstreet Exploration
Step inside and feel as if you have time-traveled to old Japan.
Explore this maze-like deep area packed with more than 200 small bars and shops.

Stop 3

．Hanazono Shrine Visit & Worship
The guardian shrine of Shinjuku, located right next to Golden Gai.
Worship while feeling the history in the tranquil shrine grounds that make you forget the hustle and bustle of the city.

． Tour Ends & On-site Dismissal
The tour ends.
As there are many excellent restaurants nearby,
you may continue on to enjoy dinner in Shinjuku at your leisure.

What's not included

Other personal expenses

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

No age restriction. Children aged 12 and under may participate free of charge, but must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Please arrive at the meeting point (in front of Shinjuku Toho Building) at least 5 minutes before departure.

Wear comfortable walking shoes

Clothing suitable for the weather If it rains, please bring an umbrella or a raincoat.

In the Kabukicho area, unauthorized photography of passersby, shop staff, or other customers may cause trouble, so please refrain from doing so. The guide will show you spots where photography is permitted. Entering shops such as those in Golden Gai (for food or drinks) is not included in the tour.

Routes and visited spots may be partially changed without prior notice due to same-day crowd conditions, construction, weather, or shrine events.

Meeting point

【Godzilla Head Landmark! Shinjuku Toho Building 1F (Next to the entrance of Maruhan Pachinko)】
Address: 1F, Shinjuku Toho Building, 1-19-1 Kabukicho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0021
Access: 3 minutes from Seibu-Shinjuku Station, 9 minutes from JR Shinjuku Station

About Kabukicho

Kabukicho is Tokyo's most famous red-light district and entertainment hub, located in Shinjuku. Known for its neon lights, themed cafes, and vibrant nightlife, it's a microcosm of Japan's pop culture and nightlife. By day, it's a more subdued commercial area, but after dark, it transforms into a neon wonderland with endless entertainment options.

Top Attractions

Golden Gai

A maze of narrow alleys packed with tiny bars, each with its own unique theme and atmosphere. Golden Gai is a must-visit for those looking to experience Tokyo's nightlife.

Entertainment 1-3 hours Free to enter bars (drinks cost ¥500-¥1,000 each)

Omoide Yokocho

A narrow alleyway filled with tiny izakayas (Japanese pubs) and yakitori (grilled skewer) stalls. Omoide Yokocho offers a nostalgic glimpse into old Tokyo.

Historical/Cultural 1-2 hours Moderate (dishes cost ¥500-¥1,500 each)

Godzilla Head

A giant Godzilla head perched atop the Toho Cinema building. This iconic landmark is a popular photo spot and a symbol of Kabukicho.

Iconic Landmark 15-30 minutes Free

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

A beautiful and spacious garden featuring traditional Japanese, French, and English landscape designs. It's a peaceful oasis in the heart of bustling Tokyo.

Nature 1-2 hours ¥500

Must-Try Local Dishes

Yakitori

Grilled skewers of chicken, often seasoned with salt or tare (a sweet soy-based sauce). A popular street food and izakaya dish.

Snack Can be made with various meats and vegetables, but traditionally features chicken.

Ramen

A popular Japanese noodle dish consisting of Chinese-style wheat noodles served in a meat or fish-based broth, often flavored with soy sauce or miso, and topped with various ingredients.

Main course Can be made with different types of broth and toppings, including vegetarian options.

Sushi

A dish consisting of prepared vinegared rice, usually with some sugar and salt, accompanied by other ingredients such as raw fish and vegetables.

Main course Can be made with various types of fish and vegetables, including vegetarian options.

Okonomiyaki

A savory pancake containing a variety of ingredients, including cabbage, meat, seafood, and cheese. It is often topped with okonomiyaki sauce, mayo, and bonito flakes.

Main course Can be made with various ingredients, including vegetarian options.

Popular Activities

Hiking in nearby mountains Exploring themed cafes and bars Nightlife experiences Visiting parks and gardens Enjoying a traditional onsen (hot spring) Shopping and dining Visiting temples and shrines Exploring historic sites

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

Spring brings cherry blossoms and pleasant weather, while autumn offers comfortable temperatures and beautiful fall foliage. These seasons are ideal for exploring the area during the day and experiencing the nightlife.

10°C to 25°C 50°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English, Chinese, Korean
English: Moderately spoken (varies by establishment and individual)

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Kabukicho is generally safe, but visitors should be aware of their surroundings, especially at night. The area is well-lit and patrolled by police, but petty crime and scams can occur, particularly in crowded areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with offers or requests
• Use reputable tour operators and ticket vendors

Getting there

By air

Narita International Airport • 60 km (37 miles)
Haneda Airport • 20 km (12 miles)

By train

Shinjuku Station

By bus

Shinjuku Station Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The Tokyo Metro system is efficient, clean, and easy to navigate. Kabukicho is served by several subway lines, including the Shinjuku Line, Yamanote Line, and Saikyo Line.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Golden Gai Omoide Yokocho Kabukicho Central

Day trips

Mount Takao

50 km (31 miles) • Half day to full day

A popular hiking destination near Tokyo, offering scenic trails, beautiful views, and the historic Yoshino Shrine. The mountain is home to a variety of wildlife and is a great place to enjoy nature.

Kamakura

60 km (37 miles) • Full day

A historic coastal town known for its numerous temples, shrines, and the Great Buddha (Daibutsu) statue. Kamakura offers a glimpse into Japan's feudal past and is a popular destination for history and culture lovers.

Nikko

120 km (75 miles) • Full day to overnight

A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning natural beauty, historic temples, and shrines. Nikko is a popular destination for nature lovers, history buffs, and those seeking a peaceful retreat.

Festivals

Shinjuku Ebisukyo Festival • Mid-October Shinjuku Winter Illuminations • Late November to early February Shinjuku Cherry Blossom Festival • Late March to early April

Pro tips

Visit Golden Gai and Omoide Yokocho in the evening to experience the vibrant nightlife and atmosphere
Try themed cafes and bars for a unique and immersive experience
Explore the area on foot to discover hidden gems and narrow alleys
Use IC cards like Suica or Pasmo for convenient and efficient public transportation
Be cautious of scams and overcharging at bars and restaurants, especially in crowded areas