Shinjuku

SuburbTokyo, Tokyo

Shinjuku is a SUB AREA in Tokyo, Tokyo.

Shinjuku is the electric heart of Tokyo, a dazzling district where neon-lit skyscrapers tower over historic alleyways and serene gardens. By day, explore the sprawling Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, a peaceful oasis of Japanese, French, and English landscape styles. At night, the city comes alive in Kabukicho, Tokyo's legendary entertainment district, packed with izakayas, themed bars, and the iconic Godzilla head. Don't miss the free observation deck at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for panoramic views of Mount Fuji on clear days. Shinjuku Station, the world's busiest railway station, is a maze of shops and restaurants in itself. From the narrow, atmospheric lanes of Omoide Yokocho (Piss Alley) to the luxury boutiques of Isetan department store, Shinjuku offers an unforgettable blend of tradition and hyper-modernity.

Best time to visit Shinjuku

Spring (March to May) and autumn (October to November) are ideal. Spring brings cherry blossoms in Shinjuku Gyoen, while autumn offers mild weather and colorful foliage. Summer (June to August) is hot, humid, and rainy, with occasional typhoons. Winter (December to February) is cold but clear, with fewer crowds and lower prices.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather
Mild 15-22°C, autumn colors begin

Travel notes

Crowds
Moderate
Prices
Moderate

Pleasant weather; fewer crowds

Know before you go

Getting there

NRT

Narita International Airport

International

70 km away

HND

Tokyo Haneda Airport

International

20 km away

Getting around

"Shinjuku Station is a major hub for JR lines, Tokyo Metro, and private railways. The JR Yamanote Line loops around central Tokyo. Suica or Pasmo IC cards are essential for seamless travel on trains and buses. Taxis are reliable but expensive. Walking is the best way to explore local streets. Buses cover areas not served by trains. Avoid rush hour (7:30-9:30 AM, 5-7 PM) when trains are extremely crowded."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

30 Mbps

Mobile data

Excellent

WiFi

Widely available in cafes, stations, and hotels; free public Wi-Fi in some areas

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport from $5; pocket Wi-Fi rental popular

Stay safe

Overall

9/10

Very safe overall; exercise caution in Kabukicho at night.

Night safety

8/10

Very safe overall; exercise caution in Kabukicho at night.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Shinjuku is very safe by global standards, even at night. Violent crime is rare, but watch for pickpockets in crowded areas like Shinjuku Station and Kabukicho. Scams targeting tourists include overpriced drinks in hostess bars and fake monk donations. Stick to well-lit streets and avoid following touts. Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in nightlife districts. Emergency services are efficient and English assistance is available."

Entry and health

Health information

"Tokyo has excellent healthcare with English-speaking staff at major hospitals like Tokyo Medical University Hospital in Shinjuku. Travelers should have comprehensive travel insurance. Tap water is safe to drink. Pharmacies are plentiful, but bring any prescription medications with a copy of the prescription. Seasonal flu and colds are common in winter; masks are widely used. No special vaccinations are required, but routine vaccines should be up to date."

Culture

Local customs

"Bowing is a common greeting; a slight bow is fine for tourists. Remove shoes when entering homes, traditional inns, and some restaurants. Tipping is not practiced and can be considered rude. Use both hands to give and receive items like business cards or money. Avoid eating while walking; finish food at the shop. Public displays of affection are minimal. Quiet behavior on public transport is expected."
Japanese (official)AinuRyukyuanEnglishChineseKoreanPortugueseSpanishJapanese

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$8-15 | a cheap local meal costs ~$8-15

Hotels

$80-200 | budget hotels range $80-200/night

Local transport

$2 | local train ride ~$2

Cost notes

Shinjuku is pricier than other Tokyo neighborhoods; street food and convenience stores help save money.

Timezone

Asia/Tokyo
Local time 06:22

More facts

Population

349,385

Type

Suburb

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Shinjuku City, xin su, xin su qu, 新宿, 新宿区, 131041, Šindžuku, Arrondissement de Shinjuku, 신주쿠구, Синдзюку, Шінджюку, しんじゅくく, Shinjuku-ku, 新宿區, शिंजुकू, เขตชินจูกุ, Сіндзюку, 新宿区/新宿區

SuburbUrbanHistoricFamily-FriendlyShoppingNightlifeCultural