The 11 Top Tours In Kabukicho: Which Is Best?

Kabukicho in Tokyo is famous for its neon-lit streets, buzzing nightlife, and eclectic mix of entertainment options. It’s a district where you can explore everything from authentic Japanese cuisine to secret bars and quirky photo spots. What makes it especially appealing for tours is its unique blend of traditional and modern, offering experiences that range from culinary adventures to cultural walks and nightlife explorations. We particularly enjoy the Night Foodie Tour in Shinjuku for a taste of Tokyo’s best street foods and the Shinjuku Local Eats, Street Food Tour & Culture Walk for an authentic local dining experience, both providing insider access to places most travelers miss (link here, link here). These tours give you a true feel for the neighborhood’s lively atmosphere and culinary delights.

If you’re after something a bit more adventurous, the Tokyo Ninja E Scooter Tour offers a fun way to zip through Shinjuku’s alleys while uncovering hidden spots (link here). For panoramic views, the Mount Fuji Private Tour provides a personalized experience for seeing Japan’s iconic mountain at your own pace (link here). Whether you’re into food, culture, or scenic day trips, Kabukicho offers a variety of tours that cater to different interests and energy levels.

1. Tokyo: Night Foodie Tour in Shinjuku – sushi, wagyu beef

At number 1, the Tokyo Night Foodie Tour in Shinjuku is perfect for those who want to indulge in Japan’s culinary treasures. For around $130, this tour takes you through three iconic venues where you’ll taste sushi crafted by a real sushi chef and enjoy Wagyu beef cooked Japanese BBQ style. A highlight is watching the chef prepare artisanal nigiri right in front of you, which makes this not just a meal but a memorable experience. You’ll also explore Kabukicho and wind down with dessert or drinks in one of the district’s lively bars. The 4.7/5 review score based on 256 reviews speaks to its popularity. Tour guide expertise, authentic food, and the vibrant neighborhood atmosphere make this tour a top choice. It’s ideal for food lovers eager to dive into Tokyo’s famous gastronomic scene.

Bottom Line: If authentic Japanese flavors combined with lively nighttime ambiance sound appealing, this tour offers great value and a chance to experience the best of Shinjuku’s food scene.

2. Mount Fuji Private Tour With English Guide Fully Customizable

This private day tour is a personalized way to see Mount Fuji without the hassle of large groups. For approximately $420 per group, up to three people, you’ll enjoy a flexible itinerary tailored to your interests. The tour includes stops at Chureito Pagoda, Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine, and Oshino Hakkai, all with stunning views of Fuji, especially during cherry blossom season. The guide, who’s also your driver, is known for being both knowledgeable and accommodating, ensuring you see a mix of iconic spots and hidden viewpoints. Guests praise the guide’s politeness, punctuality, and willingness to customize the day (top reviews). The tour is perfect for couples, families, or small groups looking for a relaxed, private experience with plenty of photo ops.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a flexible, private experience of Fuji and surrounding areas, with the added benefit of personalized attention.

3. Tokyo: Shinjuku Local Eats, Street Food Tour & Culture Walk

For a budget-friendly $40, this Shinjuku food and culture walk offers an insider’s look at the neighborhood’s best local eateries. Over about three hours, you’ll explore Omoide Yokocho, “Piss Alley,” famous for yakitori and ramen, and walk around Kabukicho and Shinjuku 3 Chome. Led by a guide who knows the area well, you’ll swap tourist traps for authentic spots preferred by locals. It’s a great way to discover Tokyo’s street food culture, ask questions, and get personalized recommendations. Guests mention the small group size and the guide’s knowledge as big positives, making it a fun, immersive experience.

Bottom Line: Perfect for budget travelers who want a quick, authentic taste of Shinjuku’s local food scene with expert guidance.

4. Tokyo Ninja E Scooter Tour with Local Guide NINJA GO RIDE

Speed up your sightseeing with this e-scooter tour designed for those who want to cover more ground in less time. Costing about $39.41 per person, it’s great for adventurous spirits eager to explore deeper into Shinjuku’s backstreets. Led by a ninja-themed guide, you’ll zip past landmarks like Kabukicho Ichibangai, Golden Gai, and Hanazono Shrine. The tour includes equipment rental and commentary, making it both fun and educational. It’s a fantastic option for travelers who prefer an active, fast-paced experience and want to see offbeat spots that are hard to find on foot.

Guests love the mix of speed and insight, noting that it’s a dynamic way to see a lot in a short time. The tour lasts about 2 hours 25 minutes, making it suitable for those with limited time but big curiosity.

Bottom Line: Best for energetic travelers craving a quick, lively exploration of Shinjuku’s hidden corners.

5. Guided photo tour by Japanese pro photographer Kai Ishida

If capturing Instagram-worthy shots in Tokyo sounds appealing, this private Shinjuku Night Photo Tour is a wonderful choice. For approximately $84.70, up to two people can visit spots like Omoide Yokocho, Namco TOKYO arcades, and Golden Gai—all known for their photo potential. Led by a professional photographer, you’ll learn tips on framing and lighting while creating lasting memories in high-quality photos. It’s especially suited for honeymooners, cosplayers, or anyone who loves photography and wants expert guidance. Reviews highlight how the guide helps maximize each shot, making this a fun and productive experience.

Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting to improve their photography skills while exploring Tokyo’s most colorful nightlife spots.

6. Nikko Private Tour With English Speaking Guide

While slightly outside Kabukicho, this full-day Nikko tour is a stunning exploration of Japan’s UNESCO World Heritage sites and scenic spots. For about $441.30, the private guide takes you to Tōshō-gū Shrine, Kegon Falls, and Lake Chuzenji. The flexibility allows you to skip less interesting stops or linger longer at favorites. Reviewers praise the guide’s in-depth knowledge and the well-organized itinerary. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer a private, relaxed experience and want to see Nikko’s temples and nature without the hassle of independent travel.

Bottom Line: A fantastic, customizable day trip for those keen on Japanese history, architecture, and natural beauty, with the comfort of a private guide.

7. Shinjuku Night tour Include drinks and food w/ Local Guide

This 3-hour night tour costs about $99.10 and offers an easy way to enjoy Tokyo nightlife safely. Led by a local guide, you’ll visit Shinjuku Ale, a retro-style beer bar, and 放牧Bar UMACHAN, a horse-racing themed bar with darts and karaoke. You’ll also explore Hanazono Shrine and Golden Gai, stopping at various spots for food, drinks, and photos. The guide provides historical context and personal recommendations, making it suitable for first-time visitors or those wanting a relaxed evening out. Guest reviews mention the tour’s safety, fun atmosphere, and good value.

Bottom Line: Excellent for those new to Tokyo’s nightlife who want guided access to the district’s best bars and eateries.

8. Shinjuku Tokyo Bar Exploration Tour

For the serious bar enthusiast, the Tokyo Bar Exploration Tour offers an immersive experience in Shinjuku’s underground bar scene. Led by Koichi, a local expert, you’ll visit three carefully selected bars, including Golden Gai and a French-Japanese fusion restaurant, CANARD. The tour lasts about 3 hours and costs $800 per person, reflecting its exclusive, in-depth approach. Guests appreciate Koichi’s knowledge and the opportunity to explore Tokyo’s secretive drinking culture. This tour is best suited for experienced night owls who want a high-end, curated bar-hopping experience.

Bottom Line: For seasoned travelers who want a curated, insider look at Shinjuku’s speakeasy-style bars, this is a memorable way to enjoy Tokyo’s nightlife.

9. Tokyo Walking Tour with Local Guide /Private tour

This 3-hour private walking tour offers a relaxed introduction to Shinjuku’s highlights. For just $33.03 per person, you’ll stop at Shinjuku Ale, Hanazono Shrine, and Golden Gai. The guide shares insights into local culture and history, making it perfect for first-time visitors or those wanting a gentle overview of the area. Visitors mention how the guide’s friendly approach helps them enjoy the experience at their own pace, and the stops are thoughtfully selected to show Tokyo’s contrasting neighborhoods.

Bottom Line: An affordable, friendly introduction to Shinjuku’s main sights, ideal for those who want a flexible, personalized experience.

10. Private Mount Fuji And Hakone Tour with English Guide

This private Mount Fuji and Hakone tour is a full-day outing for about $480, covering scenic spots like Oshino Hakkai, Lake Kawaguchi, and Kegon Falls. The tour offers a customizable itinerary, allowing you to focus on the views, nature, or cultural sites. Guests rave about the guide’s patience and knowledge, especially during clear weather when Fuji is at its best. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a personalized, flexible day with photo opportunities and scenic stops.

Bottom Line: For those who want a private, tailored experience of Fuji and Hakone, this tour balances sightseeing, photo ops, and cultural insights.

11. 1 Day Private Tour of Mt. Fuji and Hakone with English Driver

This full-day private tour offers a comprehensive look at Mount Fuji and Hakone with a professional driver. For about $455.11, up to three travelers can enjoy a relaxed day with stops at Oshino Hakkai, Lake Kawaguchi, and Kamakura Shrine. While reviews are limited, the focus on comfort and flexibility appeals to travelers wanting a low-stress, personalized experience. The tour includes photo stops, refreshments, and transportation, making it ideal for those wanting to see Japan’s most iconic scenery without the hassle of navigating themselves.

Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers prioritizing comfort and flexibility in their scenic day trips around Fuji and Hakone.

How to Choose the Best Tour in Kabukicho

When selecting a tour, consider your budget, interests, and physical activity level. If food is your focus, the Night Foodie Tour and Local Eats & Culture Walk offer authentic flavors with minimal walking. For scenic views and natural beauty, the Mount Fuji private tours provide personalized, high-quality experiences. If you’re into nightlife or photography, explore the bar and photo tours.

Booking early is advisable, especially for private or highly rated experiences, since spots fill quickly. Think about timing—some tours are perfect during cherry blossom season or clear autumn days for optimal scenery.

Final Thoughts

Kabukicho and its surroundings offer a wide array of tours tailored to a variety of interests—from gastronomic adventures and cultural walks to scenic day trips and nightlife explorations. For food lovers, the Tokyo Night Foodie Tour and the Local Eats Street Food Tour are excellent starting points. For those craving scenic views and a more personalized experience, the Mount Fuji private tours shine. Meanwhile, adventurers eager to cover more ground can opt for the e-scooter or bar exploration options.

Whatever your style, booking early and choosing tours aligned with your interests will ensure you get the most out of your time in Tokyo’s lively district of Kabukicho. Enjoy the city’s vibrant energy and make your trip unforgettable.