Shinjuku City in 1 Day for Couples - Six mini bowls of ramen across three award-winning shops
In Collaboration with Tokyo Ramen Tours. Updated on February 5, 2026.
A 3-hour private evening ramen tasting through Shinjuku (walking ~3 km) finishing in Ebisu for a romantic drink. Taste 6 mini bowls at 3 acclaimed shops while your guide explains ramen history, preparation and local eating etiquette.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Tokyo Ramen Tours, inspired by the tour Private Ultimate Ramen Tasting Tour - SHINJUKU. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Six mini bowls of ramen across three award-winning shops
- Guided stroll through Kabukicho with ramen history & tasting tips
- Finish near Yebisu Garden Place for a cozy drink/dessert
Itinerary
Day 1
Evening private ramen tasting starting in Shinjuku and finishing in Ebisu — ideal for couples seeking a cozy, flavorful night out during Tokyo's pleasant spring evenings.
Meet your guide — 7-Eleven (Yasukuni Ave.)
Quick check-in with your guide at the meeting point. They'll introduce the plan, collect dietary notes, and hand out mini menus so you can choose the six ramen flavors.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive 5 minutes early so you can take a quick photo under the Yasukuni-dori avenue signs — great couple shot.
- If you have lightweight jackets for spring evenings, keep them handy; the meeting is outside briefly before we start walking.
- Confirm any strong fish/pork allergies now — the guide will adapt choices where possible and remind you which bowls contain those broths.
Stroll through Kabukicho — quick orientation & ramen history
A short guided walk across Kabukicho where your guide explains Tokyo ramen's origins and how neighborhood food culture shaped today's shops.
Tips from local experts:
- Walk at a relaxed pace and hold hands — the neon glow makes for romantic candid photos as dusk falls.
- Your guide will point out quieter alleys to avoid busy crowds — follow them for better photos and a calmer experience.
- Watch your step on small curbs; spring evenings can still be wet from earlier showers — sensible footwear is recommended.
Shop 1 — Menya Musashi Shinjuku: Classic Tokyo ramen
Begin with classic Tokyo-style ramen (shoyu/shio/tsukemen variations). You'll taste mini portions while the guide explains broth balance and noodle textures.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask the staff for a quieter seat if available — a corner table suits couples best for a relaxed tasting.
- Order a side of pickled condiments to share; they refresh the palate between mini bowls and make tasting multiple styles more enjoyable.
- For the best photos, tilt the bowl slightly and capture the steam quickly — spring air cools dishes fast, reducing steam visibility.
Walk to Golden Gai — short transfer
A short 15-minute walk from Menya Musashi into the atmospheric Golden Gai alley where the next ramen spot awaits.
Tips from local experts:
- Golden Gai's narrow alleys are atmospheric at night — walk slowly and enjoy the lights together.
- If you prefer quieter routes, tell your guide — they'll take a less crowded path for a more intimate stroll.
- Pocket-sized umbrellas are handy in spring; your guide will pause under small awnings if a light shower starts.
Shop 2 — Ramen Nagi (Golden Gai): Bold niboshi / modern flavours
Taste a modern, fish-forward (niboshi) or other bold broth at Ramen Nagi — a contrast to the first shop that highlights regional ingredients and creative toppings.
Tips from local experts:
- Share one bowl and one side to keep space for the remaining tastings — the broths are rich and meant to be savoured slowly.
- Sit where you can see the chefs if possible; watching them finish bowls makes the experience more intimate and informative.
- If you prefer less intense fish notes, ask your guide to request a milder version — they can help customize orders at smaller shops.
Transfer to Ebisu (train) — relaxed transit
Walk to Shinjuku Station and take the JR train to Ebisu. This transfer is the longest segment and gives you a short rest between tastings.
Tips from local experts:
- Buy an IC card (Suica/Pasmo) in advance or ask your guide to assist — it speeds transfers and is convenient for future trips.
- Choose a carriage near the doors for quicker boarding with minimal rushing; hold each other's hand — Tokyo trains are efficient and comfortable.
- If you'd like a private car upgrade earlier, the tour offers private car extras — book ahead to avoid stairs and standing on platforms.
Shop 3 — AFURI Ebisu: Luxurious tori-paitan / yuzu chicken ramen
Finish the tastings with AFURI's refined, citrus-tinged chicken broth (tori paitan / yuzu shio) — light, elegant, and perfect as a final bowl.
Tips from local experts:
- This bowl is lighter and fragrant; sip slowly together and compare textures with earlier, heavier broths for a romantic tasting conversation.
- Request a seat by the window if available — Ebisu's evening light and street view are lovely for a quiet moment.
- Keep napkins handy — subtle garnishes like yuzu peel make a neat photo without overpowering the bowl.
Short walk to Yebisu Garden Place — stroll hand-in-hand
A five-minute walk to Yebisu Garden Place where the tour ends and the guide will point out nearby spots for drinks or a cozy dessert.
Tips from local experts:
- This short stroll is lovely at dusk in spring — pause at the illuminated plaza for a quick couple photo.
- If you prefer more privacy, your guide can suggest a quieter path through the Garden Place grounds.
- Carry a lightweight layer — evening temperatures can drop quickly in April; the plaza is exposed and breezy.
Special moment — Yebisu Beer Museum or garden terrace (drink & dessert)
Wind down with a tasting flight, dessert or a shared drink at Yebisu Garden Place — a cozy, memorable end to your ramen evening (museum/tasting or nearby lounge depending on availability).
Tips from local experts:
- Ask your guide to reserve a small tasting set at the Yebisu Beer Museum café — sharing a flight is a lovely way to toast the evening.
- If you prefer cocktails, the nearby lounges can prepare a rooftop-style view; request a quiet table for a more intimate vibe.
- Carry a small souvenir budget — there are charming beer and ramen-themed gifts at the museum shop perfect for remembering the night.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 3 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | 3 |
| Restaurants | 3 |
| Total Activities | 6 |
| Total Places | 6 |
| Activities Types | Neighborhood, Restaurant, Transfer, Nightlife |