Tokyo: Shinjuku Local Bar and Izakaya Guided Walking Tour

Exploring Shinjuku’s vibrant nightlife is a must-do for any Tokyo visitor. This guided walking tour takes you off the beaten path, uncovering hidden bars and izakayas loved by locals. You’ll learn about authentic Japanese drinking culture, enjoying insightful commentary from an expert guide. The tour culminates in a lively karaoke session, ensuring an unforgettable night out. But that’s just the start – there’s more to discover about this exciting experience.

Key Points

• This 3-hour guided walking tour offers an immersive experience into Tokyo’s vibrant nightlife, exploring hidden bars and izakayas in Shinjuku.
• The tour is led by an English-speaking guide and includes admission to 3 local establishments, providing insights into authentic Japanese drinking culture.
• Participants will have the opportunity to visit Omoide Yokocho, Kabukicho, and Golden Gai, known for their unique and secluded nightlife spots.
• The tour concludes with an optional karaoke session, allowing participants to engage in a popular Japanese pastime.
• With an overall rating of 4.9/5 and exceptional feedback on guide expertise, this tour is recognized for offering an exceptional glimpse into Shinjuku’s nightlife.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Shinjuku Local Bar and Izakaya Guided Walking Tour offers a 3-hour immersion into Tokyo’s vibrant nightlife. Priced at $25.57 to $39.35 per person, the tour explores hidden bars and izakayas, letting travelers experience authentic Japanese drinking culture.

Along the way, visitors will navigate Shinjuku’s underground izakaya scene, led by an English-speaking guide. The tour includes admission fees and photos. Participants must be 20 years or older.

With a 4.9/5 overall rating based on 651 reviews, the tour is praised for its engaging guides and value for money.

Experience Highlights

What can travelers expect on this Shinjuku Local Bar and Izakaya Guided Walking Tour?

Explore Tokyo’s hidden nightlife with a local guide. Visit 3 secret bars and izakayas known only to locals. Immerse in authentic Japanese drinking culture as you navigate Shinjuku’s underground izakaya scene.

The tour ends with a popular Japanese pastime – karaoke. Guests will enjoy an engaging experience, with an English-speaking guide providing insights into the venues and customs.

This tour offers an authentic taste of Tokyo’s vibrant nightlife, away from the typical tourist traps.

Tour Details

Though the tour takes place in three distinct locations in Shinjuku – Omoide Yokocho, Kabukicho (Japan’s largest entertainment district), and Golden Gai – the English-speaking guide leads participants on a seamless journey through the hidden nightlife of this vibrant Tokyo neighborhood.

Along the way, the guide provides admission to each of the three authentic local bars and izakayas, allowing guests to enjoy the Japanese drinking culture.

Photos are taken during the tour, and the experience concludes with an optional karaoke session, a beloved Japanese pastime.

Customer Feedback

Overwhelmingly, customers have praised this tour, awarding it an impressive 4.9/5 overall rating based on 651 reviews. Highlighting the tour’s value, guests rated it 4.7/5 for value for money. The guide’s expertise also shone through, earning a perfect 5/5 score. As one reviewer noted, "The guide was incredibly knowledgeable and engaging, making the experience truly memorable." Another praised the "enjoyable and authentic" journey into Japanese drinking culture. With such glowing feedback, it’s clear this tour offers an exceptional glimpse into Shinjuku’s vibrant nightlife.

Metric	Score
Overall Rating	4.9/5
Guide Rating	5/5
Value for Money	4.7/5

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Meeting Information

The meeting point for this tour is in front of Kitakata Ramen Bannai, located in Omoide Yokocho.

This hidden gem in the heart of Shinjuku is the perfect starting point to embark on your culinary and cultural adventure.

To make the most of your experience, keep these tips in mind:

1. Bring cash for any expenses during the tour.
2. Arrive at the meeting point a few minutes early to ensure a prompt departure.
3. Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking.
4. Be prepared to learn about the vibrant izakaya scene.

Navigating Shinjuku’s Nightlife

As you explore the vibrant nightlife of Shinjuku, you’ll be guided through a labyrinth of hidden bars and izakayas, each offering a unique glimpse into the local drinking culture.

Your expert guide will navigate the underground scene, leading you to establishments known only to seasoned locals. From intimate speakeasies to lively izakayas, you’ll experience authentic Japanese hospitality and learn about the convivial atmosphere.

Sip on expertly crafted cocktails or local brews as you mingle with the locals, gaining a deeper understanding of this lively district’s nighttime allure.

Taking in Authentic Japanese Drinking Culture

Stepping into the heart of the izakaya scene, travelers uncover a captivating world of Japanese drinking culture.

From lively banter to ritualistic customs, the experience is both authentically Japanese and warmly inviting.

Highlights include:

1. Sipping on unique Japanese cocktails and local craft beers
2. Indulging in a variety of traditional izakaya dishes, like yakitori and edamame
3. Observing lively exchanges between patrons and observing the intricate social dynamics
4. Participating in the quintessential Japanese pastime of karaoke to cap off the evening

Ending the Tour With Karaoke

After exploring Shinjuku’s hidden bars and izakayas, the tour culminates in a lively karaoke session, a quintessential Japanese pastime.

The group heads to a local karaoke joint, where they’re invited to showcase their vocal talents. Inhibitions lower, participants belt out popular Japanese tunes, laughing and singing along.

The guide encourages everyone to embrace the experience, even those who may be shy at first. By the end, the group is bonded over shared memories of belting out karaoke classics.

It’s a fitting finale to an immersive night exploring authentic Japanese drinking culture.

Things To Know

What Attire Is Appropriate for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but casual, comfortable clothing is recommended. Avoid overly formal or flashy attire, as the focus is on immersing in the local bar and izakaya scene.

Can Participants With Dietary Restrictions Be Accommodated?

The tour can accommodate participants with dietary restrictions. Guests should let the tour provider know about any dietary needs when booking, so the guide can make arrangements at the izakayas.

What Happens if the Tour Is Canceled Due to Weather?

If the tour is canceled due to weather, you will receive a full refund. The tour provider understands the importance of safety and customer satisfaction, so they’ll work with guests to reschedule or issue a refund as needed.

Can I Extend the Tour Beyond the 3-Hour Duration?

The tour typically lasts 3 hours, but you can’t extend it beyond that duration. If you’d like to spend more time exploring Shinjuku’s nightlife, you’ll need to book a separate tour or activity after the guided tour ends.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Karaoke Portion?

The tour states it’s not suitable for participants under 20 years, so the karaoke portion likely has the same age restriction. However, you’d need to confirm this directly with the tour operator.

Sum Up

This Shinjuku bar and izakaya walking tour offers an unforgettable night out in Tokyo. You’ll discover hidden local spots, learn about Japanese drinking culture, and cap off the evening with a fun karaoke session. With an expert guide leading the way, it’s the perfect way to experience the vibrant nightlife of the city.

You can check availability for your dates here: