Shinjuku’s vibrant nightlife beckons with its tantalizing array of izakayas. Dive into this culinary adventure, savoring local dishes and exploring iconic landmarks. With a knowledgeable guide, you’ll uncover the unique flavors that make this district so beloved. From the towering Godzilla Head to the lively Golden Gai, this tour offers an immersive experience that’s not to be missed. Prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable journey through Shinjuku’s after-dark delights.

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Key Points

A 4-hour guided tour exploring Shinjuku’s vibrant nightlife, cuisine, and landmarks, including the iconic Godzilla Head.
Opportunity to visit 3-4 different restaurants and sample a variety of local dishes selected by the knowledgeable guide.
Guided tours of Omoide Yokocho, Kabukicho, Hanazono Shrine, and the eclectic Don Quijote discount store.
Flexible reservation process and free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance, appealing to a wide range of travelers.
Immersive experience in the intimate bar culture of Golden Gai, providing insights into the history and cultural significance of the area.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Flavors After Dark Shinjuku Izakaya Food Friendly Tour is a 4-hour guided experience that takes participants through Shinjuku’s top entertainment district.

The tour is limited to 10 people and is offered in both English and Japanese. It starts at the South-East Gate of Shinjuku Station and explores landmarks like Omoide Yokocho, Kabukicho, Hanazono Shrine, and the iconic Godzilla Head.

Throughout the tour, you will enjoy a curated selection of local dishes from 3-4 different restaurants, accompanied by soft drinks and the option to purchase alcoholic beverages.

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Pricing and Reservation

The Flavors After Dark Shinjuku Izakaya Food Friendly Tour is priced from $176.98 to $168.13 per person, offering a 5% savings.

Reservations can be made with no upfront payment required. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This helps provide flexibility for participants.

The tour’s convenient reservation process and generous cancellation policy make it accessible and appealing to a wide range of travelers seeking to explore Shinjuku’s vibrant nightlife and cuisine.

Itinerary

Guided tours explore key landmarks and attractions throughout the tour’s four-hour duration.

Participants visit the iconic Godzilla Head landmark for a 30-minute guided tour.

They then head to the Don Quijote Shinjuku Tonanguchi store for another 30-minute guided tour.

The tour then moves to the fascinating Golden Gai area for a 30-minute guided exploration.

Next, the group visits the historic Hanazono Shrine for a 30-minute guided tour.

The final stop is the lively Omoide Yokocho, where participants enjoy a 30-minute guided tour before returning to the starting location.

Food and Drink Experience

The tour includes a variety of local dishes selected by the master guide.

Throughout the journey, you will visit 3 to 4 restaurants and savor an array of authentic Japanese cuisine.

This culinary adventure features:

Soft drinks and water included, with alcoholic beverages available for purchase.
A chance to taste the unique flavors and specialties of the Shinjuku district.
Guidance from a knowledgeable host who ensures a memorable dining experience.
An opportunity to take in the vibrant food culture of Shinjuku’s izakaya scene.

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Guided Tour at Godzilla Head

As the tour begins, participants are led to the iconic Godzilla Head, a towering landmark that has become a symbol of Shinjuku’s vibrant entertainment district.

The guide provides fascinating insights into the history and significance of this larger-than-life statue, sharing stories about its creation and the cultural impact of the legendary monster.

Visitors have the opportunity to snap photos and marvel at the sheer scale of the Godzilla Head, gaining a deeper appreciation for this unique feature of the Shinjuku landscape.

The tour then moves on to the next stop, leaving participants with a memorable first impression of the tour’s highlights.

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Guided Tour at Don Quijote Shinjuku Tonanguchi

After exploring the towering Godzilla Head, the tour proceeds to the renowned Don Quijote Shinjuku Tonanguchi, a bustling discount store that has become a must-visit destination for both locals and travelers.

The guide takes the group on a captivating exploration, highlighting:

The store’s eclectic mix of products, from electronics to kitchenware to snacks and souvenirs.
The unique shopping experience, with its maze-like layout and energetic atmosphere.
The opportunity to bargain and negotiate prices, a common practice in this iconic Japanese discount chain.
The store’s status as a cultural icon, representing Japan’s love for quirky, value-driven shopping experiences.

Guided Tour at Golden Gai

Leaving the bustling Don Quijote store behind, the tour now ventures into the captivating alleyways of Golden Gai. This intimate maze of bars and pubs is a time capsule, retaining the atmosphere of bygone eras.

The guide leads the group through the narrow corridors, pointing out the unique characteristics of each hotel. Antique signs, vintage furnishings, and lively chatter create a sense of stepping back in time.

The group stops at a cozy izakaya, where they sample local fare and drinks, seeing the vibrant culture of this iconic Shinjuku neighborhood.

Guided Tour at Hanazono Shrine and Omoide Yokocho

The group now makes its way to the serene Hanazono Shrine, nestled amidst the lively streets of Shinjuku.

The guide provides insights into the shrine’s history and significance, highlighting:

Its origins dating back to the 17th century
The annual Hanazono Matsuri festival held on the shrine grounds
The intricate architectural details of the main shrine building
The opportunity to make a wish and receive a fortune-telling omikuji

Next, the tour continues to the nostalgic Omoide Yokocho, a narrow alley lined with intimate izakayas and yakitori stalls, where the group samples more local delicacies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Type of Cuisine Will Be Served During the Tour?

The tour includes different local dishes selected by the master guide. Participants will get to experience 3 to 4 restaurants serving various Japanese cuisine, including izakaya-style dishes, during the food and drink experience.

Are Any Dietary Restrictions Accommodated on the Tour?

The tour does not specifically mention accommodating dietary restrictions. However, guests should contact the tour operator ahead of time to inquire about any special dietary needs that can be arranged.

How Much Walking Is Involved During the 4-Hour Tour?

The tour involves a moderate amount of walking, with approximately 30 minutes spent at each of the 5 guided tour stops. Participants can expect to walk around 2-3 kilometers during the 4-hour experience.

Can Participants Leave the Tour Group at Any Time?

Participants can’t leave the tour group at any time. The tour is structured as a guided group experience, so attendees are expected to stay with the group for the full 4-hour duration.

Are Photography and Videography Allowed During the Tour?

Yes, photography and videography are allowed during the tour. The tour itinerary states that photos will be captured during the tour and sent to participants after the event.

The Sum Up

The "Flavors After Dark Shinjuku Izakaya Food Friendly Tour" offers an immersive culinary adventure in Shinjuku. Visitors can indulge in local dishes, explore iconic landmarks, and experience the vibrant nightlife of this bustling district. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, this 4-hour tour provides a unique opportunity to savor the flavors and atmosphere of Shinjuku’s izakayas.

You can check availability for your dates here: