Tokyo: Shinjuku Izakaya Hopping Tour with Guide

Tokyo: Shinjuku Izakaya Hopping Tour with Guide

If you’re craving an authentic taste of Tokyo’s nightlife, a guided Shinjuku izakaya-hopping tour might be just what you need. This experience promises to take you through the city’s bustling nightlife spots, all while easing the common worries of ordering in Japanese or finding spots that locals love.

What makes this tour stand out? We’re talking about local, high-rated venues that most visitors wouldn’t stumble upon on their own, expert guides supporting you every step of the way, and a genuine immersion into Japan’s drinking culture. Plus, the relaxed pace and small group size ensure a personalized experience, perfect for curious travelers eager to explore beyond typical tourist traps.

However, a small consideration is that food and drinks aren’t included in the price, which means you’ll want to budget around ¥7,000–¥10,000 per person. And since it’s a walking tour, comfortable shoes are a must.

This tour is ideal for those who love food, want to learn how to drink like a local, and enjoy a more intimate, authentic glimpse into Tokyo’s vibrant nightlife. It’s especially suited for travelers who value guided expertise and are open to trying a variety of Japanese drinks and small dishes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic venues: Visit two highly-rated, local izakayas that many travelers overlook.
• Expert support: Guides include a language expert and food & beverage professionals.
• Cultural insight: Learn how to enjoy nomihodai (all-you-can-drink) rules and ordering tips.
• Flexible after-party: Optional karaoke or bar visit to extend your night.
• Small group experience: Limited to four participants for a more personal vibe.
• Budget-conscious: Budget around ¥7,000–¥10,000 for food and drinks.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Orientation

The tour kicks off right outside Shinjuku Station East Exit, with precise meeting details shared after booking. Arriving 10 minutes early is recommended, so you can meet your guides and settle in before the walk begins. The meeting spot near the police box (Koban) makes it easy to find, especially if you’re familiar with the busy station environment.

Walking Through Shinjuku’s Nightlife

The tour is designed to be an easy walk, covering about 10–20 minutes between venues. The guides ensure that everyone is comfortable, especially if you’re new to the area or unfamiliar with the layout. We loved the way the guides use this walk to share little tidbits about Shinjuku’s history and nightlife scene, enhancing the experience beyond just food and drinks.

More Great Tours Nearby

Stop 1: The Lively Nomihodai Izakaya

The first stop introduces you to a lively, casual izakaya where locals come to unwind and share drinks. Here, the focus is on value and fun. The venue is known for its all-you-can-drink (nomihodai) option, which is highly praised for its good quality and affordability.

Your guide will walk you through the nomihodai rules—such as last order timings and how to exchange glasses—making you feel confident ordering in Japanese. Expect a selection of draft beers, highballs, and sours, along with shareable dishes that make for perfect pub fare.

One reviewer mentioned, “The atmosphere was energetic, and the staff was friendly, making it easy to relax and enjoy the night.” This stop is ideal if you’re looking to experience a classic Japanese pub atmosphere with the added benefit of insider tips from your guide.

Stop 2: Sake and Intimate Vibes at a Cozy Izakaya

Next, you’ll move to a calmer, more traditional-style izakaya that specializes in Japanese sake. The shift from lively to cozy is designed to give you a different perspective on Japan’s drinking culture. The venue’s small dishes complement its selection of sake, which your guide will help you navigate—explaining the differences and helping you find a bottle you’ll enjoy.

This stop is perfect for those curious about sake or seeking a more relaxed atmosphere after the energetic first bar. The guides are well-versed in sake varieties, making this part of the tour both educational and tasty.

Optional Extended Night Out

If you’re still craving more, the guides often invite the group to keep the night going with karaoke or a visit to a bar nearby. It’s a relaxed way to wind down and socialize further, at your own expense. Many reviewers appreciate this chance to extend the experience and bond with fellow travelers.

Practical Details and Tips

Food and Drink Costs

While the tour itself doesn’t include food or drinks, the budget of ¥7,000–¥10,000 per person covers what you might spend at both venues, depending on your drinking style and appetite. With options like draft beer, sake, and small dishes, you can tailor your experience accordingly. Non-alcoholic drinks are also available if you prefer.

Payment and Identification

You’ll need cash or a credit card to settle your bills at each venue, and bringing a photo ID is recommended in case of age checks. The legal drinking age in Japan is 20+, so make sure to have your ID on hand.

Tour Duration and Group Size

At just 2.5 hours, this is a manageable and relaxed outing. The small group limit of four people ensures personalized attention from guides, who are fluent in multiple languages including English, German, and Korean.

Comfort and Accessibility

Comfortable shoes are essential due to the walking involved, and the tour’s wheelchair accessibility makes it inclusive for a broader range of travelers.

Why We Think This Tour Delivers Great Value

This experience is particularly strong in authenticity and insider access. The guides are seasoned professionals, including a travel host and a food & beverage expert, who make sure you’re pointed towards places that locals love but travelers often miss. Their support in explaining the rules around nomihodai and sake choices adds a layer of confidence that many first-timers appreciate.

The venues themselves are carefully selected for their high ratings and good value, ensuring you get both quality and affordability. The chance to learn about the Japanese drinking culture firsthand, combined with the relaxed pace, makes this tour more than just a bar crawl—it’s an educational glimpse into Tokyo’s vibrant social life.

The Authentic Feeling

Unlike larger, more commercialized tours, this experience’s small size fosters genuine conversations and a more personalized vibe. Many reviewers have noted how guides go out of their way to accommodate individual preferences, whether you’re a sake newbie or a seasoned drinker.

A Perfect Balance

The tour’s mix of lively and intimate venues strikes a perfect balance, giving you a taste of Tokyo’s diverse izakaya scene without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Plus, the option to extend your night with karaoke or bar hopping is a great way to keep the fun going.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour suits adventurous food and drink lovers eager to experience Tokyo like a local. It’s ideal if you prefer small, intimate groups over large crowds and want expert guidance along the way. If you’re curious about Japanese drinking etiquette or want tips on ordering drinks confidently, this experience offers plenty of practical insights.

While not suitable for children or under-20s, it’s perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small groups looking for a relaxed yet authentic night out in Shinjuku. If you’re after a casual, fun, and educational way to explore Tokyo’s nightlife, this tour hits the mark.

FAQs

Is food included in the tour?
No, food and drinks are not included. You’ll pay at each venue, with a typical budget of ¥7,000–¥10,000 per person for both stops.

What drinks can I expect?
The first izakaya offers draft beer, highballs, and sours, while the second specializes in sake. Non-alcoholic options are available.

How long is the walking between venues?
The walk is roughly 10–20 minutes total, making for a relaxed pace.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as it’s a walking tour. Casual attire is fine.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, you must be at least 20 years old with valid ID to participate in drinking activities.

Does the tour operate in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak English, German, and Korean.

Can I join the tour if I don’t speak Japanese?
Absolutely. Guides support non-Japanese speakers, explaining procedures and helping you order.

What happens after the tour?
You can opt to join your guides for karaoke or a bar afterward—at your own expense.

Is wheelchair access available?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What is the maximum group size?
Limited to 4 participants for a more personalized experience.

Final Thoughts

This Shinjuku izakaya-hopping tour is a genuine chance to enjoy Tokyo’s nightlife without the hassle of figuring out where to go or how to order. The combination of well-chosen venues, expert guidance, and small group intimacy creates an engaging, educational, and fun experience.

It’s perfect for travelers who want to explore beyond the tourist spots, learn about Japan’s drinking customs, and taste some of the best local food and drinks in Shinjuku. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Japanophile, this tour delivers a taste of Tokyo’s vibrant social scene in a relaxed and authentic way.

If you’re after an enjoyable, well-organized night out with local flavor and expert support, this experience is definitely worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: