Viator Rating : 5 (881 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 7.2/10 (Solid Experience)
Tokyo
Shinjuku Bar Crawl: Izakaya & Local Tokyo Hotspots
180
Overview
Explore Tokyo's vibrant nightlife with the "3-Hours Tokyo Local Bar & Izakaya Crawl in Shinjuku Area." This walking tour takes visitors into the heart of Shinjuku, revealing hidden gems and local favorites.
Participants can expect to discover the unique atmosphere of Omoide Yokocho, also known as Memory Lane, with its red lantern-lit izakayas. The tour ventures into Kabukicho, Japan's famous entertainment district, and then into the intriguing alleys of Golden Gai. This tour grants access to bars that typically don't accept walk-ins, offering a special, local experience. Enjoy a taste of authentic Tokyo nightlife, guided by a local expert.
This experience includes a guide who leads the way through the bustling streets. It excludes alcoholic beverages and dinner, allowing participants to choose their own food and drinks along the way. Key stops include Kitakata Ramen Bannai Omoide Yokocho Branch, Omoide Yokocho & Shinjuku Kabuki-cho Izakayas, Kabukicho Red Light District, and Shinjuku Golden Gai. 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Safety (8 - Secure) : Strong feeling of safety and control
Logistics (8 - Seamless) : Smooth and well executed
Guide Quality (9 - Exceptional) : Engaging and memorable
Guide Reliability (9 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
What to Watch Out For
Crowd Density (6 - Standard) : Normal crowd, some waiting or tight spots
Upsell Risk (5 - Optional) : Upsells exist but avoidable
Mobility (6 - Moderate) : Some effort required
Pacing (7 - Uneven) : Inconsistent or mixed pacing
Instagram Factor (7 - Scenic) : Some good photo moments
Highlights
Discover Hidden Izakayas: Explore local bars and izakayas in Shinjuku that are often missed by tourists.
Experience Shinjuku Nightlife: Immerse yourself in the vibrant and unique atmosphere of Tokyo's nightlife.
Visit Iconic Districts: Explore Omoide Yokocho, Kabukicho, and Golden Gai with a local guide.
Gain Exclusive Access: Get access to bars in Golden Gai that usually don't accept regular customers.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers enjoyed visiting local bars and experiencing the authentic atmosphere.
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The tour guide was knowledgeable and friendly.
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Many found it a great way to discover hidden gems and places they wouldn't have found on their own.
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Visitors liked the variety of bars and the chance to try different drinks.
Some found the tour to be crowded.
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A few mentioned that the drinks were expensive.
The Journey
Kitakata Ramen Bannai Omoide Yokocho Branch
Begin your Shinjuku adventure at Kitakata Ramen Bannai, Omoide Yokocho Branch. Conveniently located near Shinjuku Station (Exit B15), this ramen shop offers a delicious introduction to the area. Kitakata ramen is known for its rich, pork-based broth and flat, wavy noodles, providing a satisfying start before immersing yourself in the nightlife. It's a perfect spot to fuel up for the evening's explorations.
Omoide Yokocho & Shinjuku Kabuki-cho Izakayas
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Tokyo's local izakayas in either Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane) or Shinjuku Kabuki-cho. Omoide Yokocho, a narrow alleyway brimming with post-war charm, offers a nostalgic glimpse into old Tokyo with its tiny eateries serving yakitori and beer. Alternatively, Kabuki-cho provides a more bustling and diverse izakaya experience. Both locations allow you to savor authentic Japanese cuisine and drinks, surrounded by locals, for a truly immersive cultural experience.
Kabukicho Red Light District
Venture into Kabukicho, Asia's largest red-light district, for a walk through its dazzling and sometimes surreal streets. This area is known for its entertainment complexes, love hotels, and vibrant nightlife. Explore the area to witness the unique spectacle of modern Tokyo and understand its complex cultural significance. While some areas are off-limits to photography and require caution, the spectacle is a unique facet of Tokyo's urban landscape.
Shinjuku Golden Gai
Conclude your Shinjuku journey at Shinjuku Golden Gai, a network of narrow alleyways packed with over 200 tiny, atmospheric bars. Golden Gai offers a glimpse into Tokyo's past, with its aging wooden buildings and unique character. Each bar has its own theme and personality, offering a chance to mingle with locals and travelers alike. Enjoy a drink, try your hand at karaoke, and soak up the unforgettable atmosphere of this hidden gem.
Know Before You Go
This experience includes a guide to lead the tour. It does not include the cost of alcoholic beverages or dinner, allowing participants to choose and pay for their own drinks and meals. The meeting point is in the Shinjuku area. Please note that the specific bars visited may vary depending on circumstances.
Hot Tip
Many reviewers recommend bringing cash, as some smaller bars may not accept credit cards. It's also a good idea to pace yourself with the drinks to fully enjoy the 3-hour tour!
Review Summary
People usually say the Tokyo Shinjuku Local Bar & Izakaya Crawl Tour offers a unique and authentic nightlife experience with knowledgeable guides who share interesting local stories. Reviewers frequently mention enjoying the exclusive access to hidden bars in Golden Gai and the vibrant atmosphere of Omoide Yokocho. Positive points include the intimate small group setting and cultural insights, while some mention that food and drinks are not included, which travelers should prepare for. Overall, guests appreciate the safety and local feel provided by the guided tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
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