Tokyo is a city full of wonders, but the neighborhood I find myself returning to time and time again is Shinjuku. This vibrant area offers the perfect blend of nature, culture, food, and shopping, making it easy to spend an entire day soaking up its unique energy. From tranquil parks to endless shopping, here’s how to make the most of a day in Shinjuku.
- Want the best 1 day Itinerary for the perfect day in Shinjuku?
- Morning Stroll at Shinjuku Gyoen National Park
- Mid-Morning Snack at Isetan
- Lunch at Ramen Hayashida
- Afternoon Shopping Around Shinjuku
- Robatayaki Dinner Experience at Imperial Garden Roan
- Cocktails and Chocolate at Bar Livet
- Late-Night Snack: Japanese BBQ at Ryu-nosu
Want the best 1 day Itinerary for the perfect day in Shinjuku?
Morning Stroll at Shinjuku Gyoen National Park
Start your day with a peaceful walk at Shinjuku Gyoen National Park, one of Tokyo’s most beloved green spaces. This park is busy and popular during Cherry Blossom season (I’ve spotted Ed Sheeran there!), but otherwise it provides a calming escape with its vast lawns and serene ponds. I love the contrast between the lush gardens and Shinjuku’s towering skyscrapers—it offers a great sense of perspective and tranquility.
Mid-Morning Snack at Isetan
After your walk, head to Isetan, one of Japan’s most famous department stores. The basement level, known as the “Depachika,” is a food lover’s paradise. You’ll find everything from gourmet bento boxes to exquisite desserts. Once you’ve made your selection, take it up to Isetan’s rooftop garden. This hidden oasis amidst the high-rises is the ideal spot to enjoy your food. (I found a blog post here with more details.)
Lunch at Ramen Hayashida
By this time, I’m usually ready to eat some more, and Shinjuku is home to some of Tokyo’s best ramen joints. For lunch, venture down one of Shinjuku’s unassuming alleyways to discover Ramen Hayashida, a shop specializing in traditional Shio and Shoyu ramen. While on the lighter side, the rich flavors of the chicken and duck broth pair perfectly with the chewy noodles, offering an incredibly satisfying meal. Be prepared for a line during peak hours, but it moves quickly and is well worth the wait.
Afternoon Shopping Around Shinjuku
Whether you’re into high-end Japanese brands or local boutiques, Shinjuku offers a wide range of stores to explore. I love the mix of brand-name stores, fast fashion, and secondhand shops, all within walking distance of each other—making it easy to get all my shopping done here. For something more unique, explore the side streets where smaller, independent shops showcase quirky fashion trends and Japanese souvenirs. Stay tuned for a separate post on my favorite shops in Japan!
Robatayaki Dinner Experience at Imperial Garden Roan
After some shopping, relax with some good food and drinks at Imperial Garden Roan. Treat yourself to a traditional Japanese grilling experience at this Robatayaki restaurant, where meats, seafood, and seasonal vegetables are expertly grilled over hot charcoal. Being able to watch the chefs – who have likely been mastering their craft for decades – cook in front of you, stirs a deep appreciation for the meal.
Cocktails and Chocolate at Bar Livet
No day in Shinjuku is complete without experiencing Tokyo’s famous cocktail culture. While Shinjuku has many bar options, one of my favorites is Bar Livet for a refined Japanese cocktail paired with a chocolate accompaniment. Japanese bartenders are known for their precision and craftsmanship, so watching them create your drink is part of the experience. Whether you’re a whiskey lover or prefer something lighter, Bar Livet’s expertly crafted drinks will leave a lasting impression. Note: Bar Livet also specializes in cigars, so if you’re sensitive to smoke, aim to snag one of the few tables or go early when they open.
Late-Night Snack: Japanese BBQ at Ryu-nosu
Before calling it a night, if you’re up for one last bite, swing by Ryu-nosu, one of my favorite Japanese BBQ spots in Shinjuku. There’s nothing better than sharing a late-night meal of grilled meats with friends. The best part about this BBQ place? You can end your feast with a hot bowl of Udon noodle soup—a common way the Japanese like to “close” (shime) their late-night drinking with some carbs.
Did I convince you that Shinjuku is the best neighborhood in Tokyo? Not only is Shinjuku conveniently located near airports and other popular Tokyo districts, but it also truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re exploring Tokyo for the first time or are a frequent visitor, Shinjuku never fails to surprise and delight.