Shinjuku/Okubo Night: Japanese Dinner Sake Tasting & Karaoke

Shinjuku and Okubo come alive at night, offering a vibrant cultural experience for the curious traveler. This immersive tour promises an evening of authentic Japanese delights, from sake tasting to karaoke singing. Guiding participants through the lively streets, the tour unveils the hidden gems of this dynamic district. Whether seeking culinary adventures or cultural insights, this four-hour journey promises an unforgettable exploration of Shinjuku’s captivating nightlife.

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Key Points

This 4-hour experience offers a guided tour of Isetan, a 25-minute sake tasting, a 45-minute sightseeing walk in Kabukicho, and a 40-minute dinner at a local restaurant.
The experience provides insights into the diverse cultural landscape of Shinjuku and Okubo, blending traditional Japanese heritage with modern influences.
Participants can explore the vibrant food culture of Shinjuku, with opportunities to savor authentic Japanese cuisine, including sake, shochu, and sours.
Guests have the option to extend the tour for a deeper nightlife immersion, including exploring karaoke culture and the bar scene.
Versatile clothing is recommended due to potential weather variations, and extending the experience can further enrich cultural and culinary insights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

The experience "Shinjuku/Okubo Night: Japanese Dinner Sake Tasting & Karaoke" is priced from $111.35 per person and lasts for 4 hours.

It’s limited to 8 participants and available in Chinese, English, and Japanese. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they can reserve their spot without paying anything upfront.

The tour starts at Isetan Shinjuku and includes a guided shopping tour, sake tasting, sightseeing, and food and drink tastings before concluding at Shinjuku Station.

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Itinerary Highlights

This experience begins with a 1-hour guided tour and shopping excursion at Isetan, the renowned department store in Shinjuku.

Next, participants enjoy a 25-minute sake tasting at a local bar.

After that, they embark on a 45-minute sightseeing walk through Kabukicho, Tokyo’s largest red-light district.

The tour then visits a local restaurant for a 40-minute meal.

Participants then have 35 minutes to explore Kabukicho further, including photo opportunities and shopping.

The experience concludes with a 30-minute beer, cocktail, and spirits tasting at a bar near Shinjuku Station.

Cultural Exploration

Shinjuku’s diverse districts, from shopping and business to entertainment and LGBTQ+ hubs, offer a captivating cultural exploration.

You’ll learn about the roles of shrines in Shinjuku and visit Kabukicho, the largest red light district in the city.

Venture into Korea Town and Okubo to understand the cultural fusion in these vibrant neighborhoods.

Discover how Shinjuku seamlessly blends its traditional Japanese heritage with modern influences, creating a dynamic and diverse urban landscape.

This immersive experience provides a unique window into the multifaceted cultural tapestry of the Shinjuku and Okubo areas.

Culinary Experience

While sake, shochu, and sours provide a delightful introduction to Japanese cuisine, visitors can also enjoy clean, authentic meals at local restaurants.

The culinary experience on this tour offers a chance to savor the flavors and textures of traditional Japanese dishes. Participants will learn about current foodie trends in department stores, gaining insights into the evolving culinary landscape of Shinjuku.

Whether it’s a hearty noodle dish, delicate sashimi, or a selection of small plates, the dining experiences are designed to immerse guests in the vibrant and diverse food culture of this dynamic Tokyo neighborhood.

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Getting to the Starting Location

Participants can conveniently reach the starting location at Isetan Shinjuku, a renowned department store in the heart of the bustling Shinjuku district.

Isetan is a short 5-minute walk from Shinjuku Station’s east exit, making it easily accessible via public transportation. With its iconic architecture and vibrant atmosphere, Isetan serves as an ideal meeting point for the tour.

Once gathered, the group will begin their immersive journey through Shinjuku’s diverse neighborhoods, diving into the city’s rich cultural heritage and culinary delights.

The tour’s central location ensures participants can seamlessly transition between each activity on the itinerary.

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What to Expect During the Tour

As participants embark on this immersive cultural experience, they’ll begin with a guided tour and shopping at the renowned Isetan department store.

The journey continues with a sake tasting at a local bar, allowing them to explore Japan’s renowned beverage.

Next, they’ll take a sightseeing walk through Kabukicho, the largest red-light district in Shinjuku, gaining insights into the area’s history and cultural significance.

The tour culminates with a visit to a local restaurant, where guests can savor authentic Japanese cuisine, followed by a beer, cocktail, and spirits tasting at another neighborhood bar.

Additional Considerations

Travelers should consider extending their tour to fully enjoy Shinjuku’s vibrant nightlife.

While the 4-hour experience provides a rundown, adding more time allows visitors to delve deeper into the district’s captivating karaoke culture and energetic bar scene.

Guests may also extend the culinary exploration by dining at additional local restaurants or visiting popular izakayas.

Keep in mind that weather conditions can vary, so packing versatile clothing is advisable.

Extending the Experience

Those with more time to devote can further enrich their Shinjuku experience by extending the tour.

Possibilities include:

Immersive cultural activities like a traditional Japanese tea ceremony or a hands-on sushi making class.
In-depth exploration of the district’s history and architecture with a guided walking tour.
Nightlife experiences such as karaoke, izakaya (traditional gastropub) hopping, or a visit to a robot restaurant.
Culinary delights like a multi-course kaiseki (traditional Japanese haute cuisine) dinner or a craft cocktail tasting.

Extending the tour provides a chance to dive deeper into Shinjuku’s vibrant culture and attractions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Karaoke Experience Included in the Tour?

The overview does not mention karaoke as part of the included activities. The tour focuses on a Japanese dinner, sake tasting, and cultural exploration in the Shinjuku and Okubo neighborhoods of Tokyo.

Can Vegetarian or Dietary Restrictions Be Accommodated?

Yes, the tour can accommodate vegetarian and other dietary restrictions. Guests should notify the tour provider in advance so they can make the necessary arrangements for a suitable meal during the culinary experience.

What Is the Dress Code for the Dinner and Activities?

There is no formal dress code, but casual, comfortable attire is recommended. Participants should dress in layers to accommodate changing weather conditions. Smart casual wear, such as jeans and a nice top, would be appropriate for the activities.

Is There an Age Requirement or Minimum Age for Participants?

The tour does not have a specified age requirement. However, guests must be at least 20 years old, as the legal drinking age in Japan is 20. Participants under 20 may attend but cannot partake in the alcohol tastings.

Can I Bring My Own Camera or Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Participants are welcome to bring their own cameras to capture memories during the tour. Photography is generally allowed, though guests should be mindful of others and respect any restrictions in certain locations.

The Sum Up

The "Shinjuku/Okubo Night" tour offers an immersive cultural and culinary experience in the vibrant heart of Tokyo. Guests can explore the iconic nightlife, indulge in authentic Japanese cuisine and sake, and embrace the lively karaoke culture, all while gaining insights into the area’s rich heritage. This tour promises a memorable adventure for those seeking to discover the vibrant essence of Shinjuku and Okubo.

You can check availability for your dates here: