Shinjuku City in 1 Day for Friends - 14+ tastings across 4 local izakaya
In Collaboration with Ninja Food Tours. Updated on February 13, 2026.
Enjoy classic Japanese izakaya culture with 14+ tastings across four local stops in Shinjuku. Includes three drinks of your choice (sake, beer, soft drinks), a bilingual local guide, and a guided walking route through Kabukicho, Golden Gai and nearby alleyways. Total walking is about 1–2 km. Please inform us of any food restrictions at least one week before the tour date; vegan, vegetarian and GF/
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Ninja Food Tours, inspired by the tour Best of Shinjuku: Izakaya Food Tour (4 Stops, 14+ Tastings). Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- 14+ tastings across 4 local izakaya
- 3 drinks included (beer, sake or soft drinks)
- Guided walking route through Kabukicho, Omoide Yokocho and Golden Gai
Itinerary
Day 1
Evening izakaya crawl through central Shinjuku (Kabukicho, Omoide Yokocho, Golden Gai and Shinjuku East area). Total duration 3 hours 30 minutes.
Meet at Kabukicho (tour briefing)
Meet the guide at the designated point in Kabukicho for a short introduction, menu overview, and safety briefing. Confirm dietary restrictions and drink choices before departure.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive 5–10 minutes early; meeting point is in a busy pedestrian area with neon signs—look for the guide holding a company sign.
- Bring ID if you plan to drink alcohol; many venues check age for alcohol service.
- Carry some cash (small bills/coins); some small izakaya are cash-preferred.
Stop 1 — Omoide Yokocho: grilled skewers & small plates
First izakaya visit in Omoide Yokocho. Expect charcoal-grilled skewers (yakitori), small shared plates and one drink included. Seating may be tight—this stop sets the pace.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a light jacket in cooler months; alleyways can be breezy and seating is often semi-outdoor.
- If you have shellfish or soy allergies, tell the guide at the start—many dishes include soy/sauce-based marinades.
- Be prepared for low ceilings, narrow aisles and some standing or counter seating; not wheelchair accessible.
Stop 2 — Shinjuku Golden Gai: snacks & local drinks
Explore narrow alleys and a cozy bar-style izakaya in Golden Gai. Tasting menu continues with sashimi or local comfort items and a drink choice.
Tips from local experts:
- Golden Gai venues are very small; keep personal bags close and respect seat rotation to keep the group comfortable.
- Some bars in Golden Gai have stairs and tight entrances—this stop is not suitable for mobility aids.
- Photography of patrons should be avoided; ask the guide before taking photos of interiors.
Stop 3 — Kabukicho side-alleys: hot plates & local favorites
Third izakaya visit featuring hot plates, regional comfort dishes and another drink. Short walk through Kabukicho’s neon streets to reach this hidden gem.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect a short 5–10 minute walk from Golden Gai through Kabukicho; wear comfortable shoes for uneven pavements.
- If you prefer non-alcoholic options, confirm your drink choice with the guide when the group orders.
- Menus may change seasonally; the guide will explain dishes and common ingredients to help with choices.
Stop 4 — Shinjuku East area: final hearty dishes & wrap-up
Final stop near Shinjuku Station East Exit for final tastings, dessert-style small plates or late-night izakaya specialties. Guide provides local recommendations and ends the tour here.
Tips from local experts:
- This final stop finishes near Shinjuku Station East Exit for convenient departures by train or taxi.
- If you enjoyed a particular dish, ask the guide for the restaurant name and directions to return independently.
- Keep a small bag for any takeaway items; some guests like to buy a snack to take home but check with staff first.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 3 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | 4 |
| Total Activities | 5 |
| Total Places | 5 |
| Activities Types | Neighborhood, Restaurant |
